Pumpkin Spice Frosted Donuts

Name: Pumpkin Spice Frosted Donuts
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 3/4 cups all-purpose flour; 1 teaspoon baking powder; 1/2 teaspoon baking soda; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon; 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg; 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves; 1/4 teaspoon ground ginger; 1/2 cup granulated sugar; 1/2 cup brown sugar, packed; 1 cup pumpkin puree; 2 large eggs; 1/2 cup vegetable oil; 1/4 cup milk; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; For the Cinnamon-Sugar Coating: 1/2 cup granulated sugar; 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon

Author: Clara Hastings

Published: August 29, 2025

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Introduction to Pumpkin Spice Frosted Donuts

Ah, the crisp air of fall! As the leaves turn golden and the days get shorter, it’s the perfect time to indulge in something sweet and spiced. That’s where my favorite recipe for Pumpkin Spice Frosted Donuts comes in. These donuts are an absolute delight—soft, fluffy, and bursting with seasonal flavors. If you’re a busy mom or a professional juggling a hundred tasks, this recipe is your golden ticket to a quick yet impressive treat. Trust me, your loved ones will flock to the kitchen, and you’ll be basking in the warm glow of happy faces!

Why You’ll Love This Pumpkin Spice Frosted Donuts

These Pumpkin Spice Frosted Donuts are the ultimate treat, combining ease and incredible flavor. In just thirty minutes, you’ll create a batch that rivals any bakery. The warm spices wrap around your senses, transforming a regular day into a cozy fall celebration. Plus, the cinnamon-sugar coating brings a delightful crunch that makes each bite irresistible. Perfect for busy mornings or an afternoon snack, you’ll want to make these year after year!

Ingredients for Pumpkin Spice Frosted Donuts

When it comes to making these Pumpkin Spice Frosted Donuts, the right ingredients make all the difference. Each element plays a role in creating those warm, autumn flavors that we all crave. Here’s what you’ll need:

All-purpose flour: This serves as the foundation of your donuts, providing the structure needed for that lovely, fluffy texture.
Baking powder: A must-have leavening agent, it helps the donuts rise beautifully, giving them that light and airy quality.
Baking soda: Often used alongside baking powder, it adds a little extra lift and balances acidity in baked goods.
Salt: Just a pinch enhances all the flavors, especially the sweetness of the sugars and the warmth of the spices.
Ground cinnamon: This is the star of the show, infusing that classic pumpkin spice flavor that wraps you in a cozy hug.
Ground nutmeg: Adds depth and warmth, enhancing the spiced flavors that we associate with fall.
Ground cloves: A little goes a long way; cloves bring a delightful aromatic quality to the mix.
Ground ginger: Offers a warming spice that complements the other flavors and adds complexity.
Granulated sugar: This sweetener helps to balance the spices and provides moisture for a tender donut.
Brown sugar: Adds a deeper sweetness and a hint of molasses flavor that makes these donuts extra rich.
Pumpkin puree: The heart of our recipe; not only does it give the donuts their signature flavor, but it also keeps them moist.
Large eggs: Essential for binding the ingredients and contributing to the structure and richness of the donuts.
Vegetable oil: Ensures the donuts remain moist and tender, preventing them from drying out.
Milk: Adds moisture and richness, creating a perfect consistency for the batter.
Vanilla extract: A splash of vanilla boosts the flavor, adding a touch of sweetness to the overall profile.

For the delicious cinnamon-sugar coating:

Granulated sugar: Provides a sweet, crunchy exterior that’s simply irresistible.
Ground cinnamon: Enhances the flavors, making each bite a celebration of fall!

For exact measurements, you can check the end of the article. Enjoy the process of gathering these ingredients; I promise they’ll sing together beautifully in your kitchen!

How to Make Pumpkin Spice Frosted Donuts

Now that we have our ingredients ready, let’s jump into the delightful process of making these Pumpkin Spice Frosted Donuts. Each step is simple, making it a great project for those days when you want to create something special without spending hours in the kitchen.

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

First things first—preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This step is crucial because it ensures your Pumpkin Spice Frosted Donuts rise perfectly from the get-go. While the oven warms up, grease your donut pan thoroughly with non-stick spray or butter. This will help your donuts slide out effortlessly once they’re baked. Trust me; nobody wants a donut that sticks to the pan!

Step 2: Whisk Dry Ingredients Together

In a large bowl, whisk together your dry ingredients: flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, ground cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves, and ginger. Measure carefully for the best results! Each spice plays a significant role in blending the warm flavors we cherish in fall. The smell will inspire your kitchen, whisking you away into a world of cozy autumn vibes.

Step 3: Combine Wet Ingredients

In another bowl, it’s time to mix your wet ingredients. Combine the granulated sugar, brown sugar, pumpkin puree, eggs, vegetable oil, milk, and vanilla extract. Whisk everything until smooth. This step is essential; a well-mixed batter leads to a fluffy donut. Nothing beats the silky texture you achieve with a little love in the mixing bowl!

Step 4: Mix Wet and Dry Ingredients

Now, gradually add your wet mixture to the dry ingredients. Gently fold everything together until just combined. Avoid overmixing, as this can lead to dense donuts. We want them light and fluffy, so be tender in your approach. Picture the ideal donut—soft, airy, and full of deliciousness!

Step 5: Pipe the Batter

Next, it’s time to fill the donut pan. Transfer the batter into a piping bag, or use a ziplock bag with the corner snipped off for easier pouring. Pipe the batter into each cavity, filling them about 3/4 full. This method ensures uniform shaping and perfect size for each donut. Your excitement will grow as you see them taking shape!

Step 6: Bake the Donuts

Once your pan is filled, place it in the preheated oven. Bake for 12-15 minutes, and don’t forget to check doneness with a toothpick. It should come out clean when the donuts are ready! Keep an eye on them, as overbaking can lead to dry donuts, and we want that perfect moist texture.

Step 7: Coat in Cinnamon-Sugar

Finally, while the donuts are still warm, it’s time for the sweet finishing touch. In a shallow bowl, mix together the granulated sugar and ground cinnamon. Roll each warm donut in this mixture until fully coated. This step is where the magic happens—the cinnamon-sugar creates a delightful crunch that pairs beautifully with the soft, spiced donut!

Tips for Success

Measure your ingredients accurately for the best results—it’s the key to success!
Don’t overmix your batter; less is more for that fluffy texture you crave.
Use a piping bag or ziplock for easy filling of the donut pan.
Let the donuts cool slightly before rolling in cinnamon-sugar for an even coating.
Experiment with flavors—add a pinch of nutmeg or a splash of maple syrup!

Equipment Needed

Donut pan: Essential for shaping your donuts. If you don’t have one, a muffin tin works in a pinch!
Whisk: A must-have for mixing ingredients smoothly. A fork can do the job too!
Baking sheet: Useful for cooling your donuts on a wire rack after baking.
Piping bag or ziplock bag: Makes filling the donut pan easy, but a spoon can work as well.

Variations for Pumpkin Spice Frosted Donuts

Gluten-free version: Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend to make these donuts suitable for gluten-sensitive friends.
Healthier swap: Use applesauce in place of half the oil for a healthier donut without sacrificing moisture!
Add chocolate: Mix in a handful of chocolate chips or swirl melted chocolate into the batter for a decadent twist.
Nuts galore: Fold in chopped walnuts or pecans to add crunch and nutty flavor that complements the spices beautifully.
Maple glaze: Drizzle with a maple glaze instead of cinnamon-sugar for a sweetly sticky finish.
Vegan option: Replace eggs with flax eggs and coconut milk for a delightful plant-based alternative.

Serving Suggestions for Pumpkin Spice Frosted Donuts

Pair with coffee: Enjoy these delightful donuts with a warm cup of coffee or chai tea for a cozy experience.
Ideal for brunch: Serve alongside a seasonal fruit salad for a charming fall brunch spread.
Presentation: Dust with powdered sugar or drizzle a chocolate glaze for an elegant touch at gatherings.

FAQs about Pumpkin Spice Frosted Donuts

Can I make these pumpkin spice donuts ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can bake the Pumpkin Spice Frosted Donuts a day in advance. Simply store them in an airtight container at room temperature. When ready to serve, re-roll them in the cinnamon-sugar mixture for that fresh taste!

What can I substitute for pumpkin puree?

If you don’t have pumpkin puree, you can use mashed sweet potatoes or butternut squash. Both will give a similar texture and flavor, making them great substitutes!

Can I freeze the donuts?

You sure can! After baking, let the donuts cool completely. Freeze them in a single layer on a baking sheet, then store in an airtight container. They can last up to 2 months. Just thaw and coat with cinnamon-sugar when you’re ready to enjoy!

How should I store leftover donuts?

Store any leftover Pumpkin Spice Frosted Donuts in an airtight container at room temperature. They’ll stay delicious for about 2 days. After that, they might start to lose their delightful softness!

Can I use a different type of sugar for the coating?

Sure! While granulated sugar is traditional, you can experiment with brown sugar or even coconut sugar for a different flavor. Just remember, the texture might be a bit different. It’s all about finding what suits your palate!

Final Thoughts

Baking these Pumpkin Spice Frosted Donuts brings a sense of tranquility and joy that is hard to replicate. The warm spices and cozy flavors wrap around you like a favorite sweater. Knowing that you can whip these up in just thirty minutes makes them the perfect addition to busy days or special moments. Picture enjoying them over coffee with your loved ones, sharing laughter and stories. Each bite is a celebration of fall, reminding us to slow down and savor life’s simplest pleasures. So, gather your ingredients, and let the delightful aroma of autumn fill your home!