I’ve always loved the cozy magic that comes with a batch of freshly baked treats on a crisp autumn morning. There’s something so satisfying about combining pantry staples into a dough that puffs up into ring-shaped clouds of pumpkin goodness. These baked pumpkin donuts offer the perfect balance of sweet and spice, each bite carrying gentle autumn nostalgia. By using simple ingredients like flour, sugar, and a generous helping of pumpkin puree, you’ll transform your kitchen into a haven of warmth and cheer. Whether you’re an experienced baker or this is your first time trying donuts from scratch, this recipe is designed for beginners, so you can get straight to enjoying soft, flavorful treats that feel both classic and indulgent.
Once these donuts emerge from the oven with golden edges and soft centers, you’ll see why they’ve earned their place among fall favorites. The warm blend of cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger dances on your taste buds, while the pumpkin puree adds velvety moisture and a hint of earthiness. After a brief rest, you’ll dip each donut into a luscious maple glaze that sets into a glossy coat. Drizzled or dunked, the glaze adds a sweet finish with notes of pure maple syrup, perfect for those cozy mornings or anytime you need a pick-me-up. With just 15 minutes of prep, 15 minutes of bake time, and a quick 10-minute rest, you’ll have eight delightfully spiced treats—each clocking in at around 180 calories. Let’s get baking!
KEY INGREDIENTS IN BAKED PUMPKIN DONUTS WITH MAPLE GLAZE
Every ingredient in this recipe plays its part in creating tender, flavorful donuts topped with a rich, shiny maple glaze. From the base of all-purpose flour to the finishing touch of pure maple syrup, these components work together to deliver a balanced tasting experience that’s both comforting and festive.
- All-purpose flour
Provides structure and a tender crumb to the donuts. It’s the foundation that holds everything together and ensures a light, airy texture.
- Baking powder
Acts as a leavening agent, helping the donuts rise and become fluffy. This is what gives your rings that perfect spring when you press lightly.
- Salt
Enhances all the other flavors and balances the sweetness. A small pinch makes the spices in the donut sing.
- Ground cinnamon
Infuses warmth and depth, a cornerstone of pumpkin spice that complements the natural sweetness of the pumpkin puree.
- Ground nutmeg
Adds a subtle nutty undertone with a hint of sweetness, rounding out the spice profile beautifully.
- Ground ginger
Brings a gentle bite and fragrant zest, providing complexity to each donut.
- Granulated sugar
Sweetens the batter and assists in achieving a light texture. The fine crystals help dissolve evenly.
- Brown sugar
Contributes moisture and a hint of caramel-like richness, enhancing both flavor and color.
- Pumpkin puree
Delivers that unmistakable pumpkin flavor and adds moisture, keeping each donut tender. Opt for 100% puree—no pie filling needed!
- Large eggs
Bind the ingredients together and add richness, helping the donuts hold their shape and maintain moisture.
- Whole milk
Adds creaminess and helps achieve the right batter consistency, contributing to a soft inside.
- Unsalted butter
Melted and cooled, it lends richness and a smooth mouthfeel. Using unsalted lets you control the overall salt content.
- Vanilla extract
Rounds out the flavors with its sweet, aromatic notes, deepening the overall taste.
- Powdered sugar
Forms the base of the glaze, offering a silky texture and pure sweetness that clings perfectly to each donut.
- Pure maple syrup
Provides authentic, golden sweetness with rich woody notes, elevating the glaze to something special.
- Milk (for glaze)
Helps thin the glaze to your desired consistency, allowing for a smooth, even coating on the donuts.
HOW TO MAKE BAKED PUMPKIN DONUTS WITH MAPLE GLAZE
Before diving into the steps, get ready for a simple yet satisfying process that transforms a handful of basic ingredients into perfectly baked pumpkin donuts crowned with a dreamy maple glaze. Follow the detailed instructions below to ensure every ring bakes up light, tender, and evenly spiced.
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a donut pan with nonstick spray or butter to ensure easy release and maintain the perfect shape of each donut.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, salt, ground cinnamon, ground nutmeg, and ground ginger until well combined. This dry mix is your spice-infused foundation.
3. In a large bowl, whisk together the granulated sugar and brown sugar with the pumpkin puree until smooth. The sugars dissolve into the puree, creating a velvety base.
4. Add the eggs, one at a time, mixing well between each addition to ensure a uniform batter. Then stir in the whole milk, melted butter, and vanilla extract until everything is fully incorporated.
5. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing gently until just combined. Be careful not to overmix—stop when there are no visible lumps to keep the donuts tender.
6. Spoon the batter into the prepared donut pan, filling each mold about ¾ full. This prevents overflow while allowing room for gentle rising in the oven.
7. Bake for 12–15 minutes, or until the donuts spring back when lightly pressed and are starting to turn golden around the edges. Let them cool in the pan for a few minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
8. To make the maple glaze, whisk together the powdered sugar, melted butter, maple syrup, and milk (start with 1 tablespoon and add more if needed) in a small bowl until smooth and pourable. Adjust thickness to suit your dipping or drizzling preference.
9. Dip each cooled donut into the maple glaze, allowing the excess to drip off. Place them back on the wire rack so the glaze can set into a glossy finish.
SERVING SUGGESTIONS FOR BAKED PUMPKIN DONUTS WITH MAPLE GLAZE
Serving these baked pumpkin donuts is all about creating an inviting, autumnal experience that delights every sense. Whether you’re hosting a weekend brunch, cozying up with a warm mug of coffee, or treating the whole family to a homemade dessert, these donuts adapt beautifully to any occasion. The spiced donuts and their glossy maple coating stand out on a platter, inviting guests to grab one (or two) while they’re still slightly warm. To elevate the moment, consider layering them on a wooden board or ceramic tray, accompanied by small bowls of chopped nuts, cinnamon sugar, or extra maple syrup for drizzling.
- Serve on a tiered stand alongside mini pumpkins and autumn leaves for a festive display that heightens the seasonal vibe.
- Pair with steamed milk lattes dusted with cinnamon or nutmeg for a café-inspired treat that complements the donut’s warm spices.
- Create a brunch buffet by setting up a waffle bar, fresh fruit, and these donuts—guests can mix and match sweet bites for a dynamic spread.
- Offer a DIY topping station with chopped pecans, toasted coconut, or seeds so everyone can personalize their maple-glazed goodness.
HOW TO STORE BAKED PUMPKIN DONUTS WITH MAPLE GLAZE
Proper storage is key to maintaining the soft texture and delightful flavors of your pumpkin donuts, especially if you’re preparing them in advance for an event or just want a sweet treat on hand. Once glazed, allow the donuts to sit at room temperature for a few minutes until the coating is fully set. This creates a firm barrier that helps lock in moisture. Then, follow the methods below to keep them tasting fresh for up to two days—or even longer with a bit of extra care.
- Store in an airtight container at room temperature, placing a sheet of parchment paper between layers to prevent sticking. This helps retain their soft crumb and prevents the glaze from becoming tacky.
- For a slight extension, keep the container in the refrigerator; the cooler air slows staling. Bring donuts back to room temperature or gently microwave for 5–10 seconds before serving to revive their tenderness.
- To freeze, wrap each donut individually in plastic wrap, then place in a freezer-safe bag. Thaw at room temperature or warm briefly in the microwave, glaze-side up to preserve the topping’s shine.
- If storing unglazed for longer, seal in an airtight bag. Glaze just before serving to maintain that fresh-out-of-the-kitchen appearance and texture.
CONCLUSION
Bringing these baked pumpkin donuts with maple glaze from the mixing bowl to your kitchen table is a truly rewarding experience. In just 15 minutes of prep, 15 minutes of baking, and a quick 10-minute rest, you’ll have a batch of ring-shaped delights that combine warm fall spices with the rich sweetness of pumpkin. The glossy maple glaze drapes each donut in a smooth, amber-hued coat that cracks ever so slightly with each bite, offering a balance of textures and flavors that feels both homey and indulgent. As a beginner-friendly dessert, this recipe invites you to embrace the joys of baking without complicated techniques or hard-to-find ingredients—just simple steps and a willingness to enjoy the process.
Don’t let these moments of homemade goodness slip away. Feel free to print this article and save it in your recipe binder for those chilly mornings when nothing hits the spot like a spiced pumpkin donut paired with your favorite hot drink. Below, you’ll find a FAQ section to answer any lingering questions about substitutions, troubleshooting, or tips to customize the recipe. I’d love to hear how these donuts turn out for you—please share your comments, questions, or feedback if you try the recipe or need help along the way. Happy baking and may your kitchen be filled with the warm, sweet spirit of fall!
Baked Pumpkin Donuts with Maple Glaze
Description
These baked pumpkin donuts are soft and flavorful, combining warm spices with the sweetness of pumpkin. The maple glaze adds a rich finish that's perfect for fall mornings or any sweet craving.
Ingredients
Instructions
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Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a donut pan with nonstick spray or butter.
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In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, salt, cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger until well combined.
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In a large bowl, whisk together the granulated sugar and brown sugar with the pumpkin puree until smooth.
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Add the eggs, one at a time, mixing well between each addition. Stir in the milk, melted butter, and vanilla extract.
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Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined and there are no lumps.
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Spoon the batter into the prepared donut pan, filling each mold about 3/4 full.
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Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the donuts spring back when lightly pressed. Allow them to cool in the pan for a few minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
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To make the maple glaze, whisk together powdered sugar, melted butter, maple syrup, and milk (start with 1 tablespoon and add more if needed for desired consistency) in a small bowl until smooth.
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Dip each cooled donut into the maple glaze, allowing the excess to drip off. Place back on the wire rack to let the glaze set.
Note
- These pumpkin donuts are best enjoyed the same day, but they can be stored in an airtight container for up to two days.
- Customize the spice level to your preference by adjusting the amount of cinnamon, nutmeg, or ginger.
- If you don't have a donut pan, you can use a muffin tin to create pumpkin donut muffins instead.
- For extra texture, sprinkle chopped nuts or pumpkin seeds over the maple glaze before it sets.
- Maple glaze can be replaced with a classic vanilla glaze for a traditional twist.
