Baked Pumpkin Donuts with Maple Glaze

Have you ever wondered how a simple baked treat can evoke the warm, cozy feelings of autumn? Baked Pumpkin Donuts with Maple Glaze are not just a seasonal delight; they are a delicious way to enjoy the flavors of fall any time of the year. According to recent surveys, 62% of people prefer baked goods that are not only tasty but also healthier. This recipe combines the rich flavors of pumpkin with the sweetness of maple, creating a guilt-free indulgence that is perfect for breakfast or dessert. Let’s dive into the world of these delightful donuts and discover how easy they are to make!

Ingredients List

Creating the perfect Baked Pumpkin Donuts with Maple Glaze requires a blend of simple ingredients that come together to create a mouthwatering treat. Here’s what you’ll need:

Ingredients:

• 1 cup pumpkin puree (canned or homemade)
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 1/4 cup brown sugar (packed)
• 1/4 cup vegetable oil (or melted coconut oil)
• 2 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour (or whole wheat flour for a healthier option)
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
• 1/4 teaspoon ground ginger
• 1/4 teaspoon salt

Maple Glaze:

• 1 cup powdered sugar
• 2-3 tablespoons maple syrup
• 1 tablespoon milk (or almond milk for a dairy-free option)

Substitutions:

• Pumpkin Puree: Substitute with sweet potato puree for a different flavor.
• Sugar: Use coconut sugar or a sugar substitute for a lower-calorie option.
• Flour: Almond flour or a gluten-free blend can be used for gluten-free donuts.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that your donuts bake evenly and achieve that perfect fluffy texture.

Step 2: Prepare the Donut Batter

In a large mixing bowl, combine the pumpkin puree, granulated sugar, brown sugar, vegetable oil, eggs, and vanilla extract. Whisk until smooth and well blended. The vibrant orange color of the pumpkin will brighten your mixture and enhance the flavor.

Step 3: Combine Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and salt. Mixing dry ingredients separately helps ensure even distribution of the leavening agents and spices.

Step 4: Mix Wet and Dry Ingredients

Gradually add the dry mixture to the wet mixture, stirring gently until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; a few lumps are perfectly fine. This step is crucial for maintaining the light texture of your donuts.

Step 5: Fill the Donut Pan

Spray a donut pan with non-stick cooking spray. Using a piping bag or a zip-top bag with the corner snipped off, fill each donut cavity about 2/3 full with the batter. This allows room for rising without overflowing.

Step 6: Bake the Donuts

Bake in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. The donuts should spring back when lightly pressed.

Step 7: Cool and Glaze

Allow the donuts to cool in the pan for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack. While they cool, prepare the maple glaze by whisking together powdered sugar, maple syrup, and milk until smooth. Drizzle or dip the cooled donuts in the glaze for a sweet finish.

Step 8: Serve and Enjoy

Serve your Baked Pumpkin Donuts with Maple Glaze warm or at room temperature. These donuts are perfect for sharing with friends and family or enjoying as a cozy treat on a chilly day.

Nutritional Information

Here’s a comprehensive breakdown of the nutritional content for one donut (based on 12 servings):

Nutrient	Amount per Donut
Calories	150
Total Fat	5g
Saturated Fat	1g
Cholesterol	25mg
Sodium	150mg
Total Carbohydrates	23g
Dietary Fiber	1g
Sugars	8g
Protein	2g

Healthier Alternatives for the Recipe

If you’re looking to make your Baked Pumpkin Donuts with Maple Glaze even healthier, consider these modifications:

• Reduce Sugar: Cut the granulated sugar by half or substitute with a natural sweetener like monk fruit.
• Add Whole Grains: Use whole wheat flour or oat flour for added fiber and nutrients.
• Incorporate Nuts or Seeds: Add chopped walnuts or flaxseeds to the batter for extra crunch and healthy fats.

Serving Suggestions

To elevate your Baked Pumpkin Donuts experience, consider these serving ideas:

• With Coffee or Tea: Pair your donuts with a warm cup of coffee or herbal tea for a delightful breakfast or afternoon snack.
• Topped with Nuts: Sprinkle chopped pecans or walnuts on top of the glaze for added texture and flavor.
• As a Dessert: Serve alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream or whipped cream for a decadent dessert.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

To ensure your Baked Pumpkin Donuts turn out perfectly, here are some common pitfalls to avoid:

1. Overmixing the Batter: This can lead to dense donuts. Mix until just combined for a light texture.
2. Not Preheating the Oven: Baking in an unheated oven can affect the rise and texture of your donuts.
3. Using Old Baking Powder: Ensure your baking powder is fresh for optimal rise. Check the expiration date!

Storing Tips for the Recipe

To keep your Baked Pumpkin Donuts fresh and delicious:

• Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
• Freezing: Freeze donuts individually by wrapping them in plastic wrap and placing them in a freezer bag for up to 2 months. Thaw at room temperature before glazing.
• Reheating: Reheat in the microwave for a few seconds or in a warm oven to restore freshness.

Conclusion

In summary, Baked Pumpkin Donuts with Maple Glaze are an easy, delicious treat that captures the essence of fall in every bite. With simple ingredients and a quick preparation time, these donuts are perfect for any occasion. Try this recipe today, and don’t forget to share your feedback in the comments or subscribe for more delicious updates!

FAQs

1. Can I use fresh pumpkin instead of canned?

Yes, you can use fresh pumpkin puree. Just roast and blend the pumpkin until smooth before using.

2. How can I make these donuts gluten-free?

Use a gluten-free flour blend in place of all-purpose flour for a gluten-free version.

3. Can I make the glaze dairy-free?

Yes, simply substitute regular milk with almond milk or oat milk for a dairy-free glaze.