Irresistible Baked Pumpkin Donuts with Maple Glaze

Cozy up with these irresistible Baked Pumpkin Donuts with Maple Glaze, a fall favorite that’s perfectly moist, delightfully spiced, and topped with a sweet, shimmering maple glaze. These donuts bring together the rich flavors of pumpkin and warming spices, making them the ultimate treat for breakfast or an afternoon snack. Easy to make and baked instead of fried, they’re a healthier twist on a classic indulgence that everyone will love. Whether you’re sipping your morning coffee or sharing with friends, these Baked Pumpkin Donuts with Maple Glaze will quickly become a seasonal staple in your kitchen.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Moist and Flavorful: The pumpkin puree keeps these donuts tender and packed with natural sweetness and spice.
• Easy to Make: No frying required—just simple mixing and baking for a fuss-free treat.
• Perfectly Spiced: A blend of cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves adds warming depth and autumn vibes.
• Delicious Maple Glaze: The smooth glaze adds that perfect sweet finish without overpowering the pumpkin flavor.
• Great for Sharing: These donuts are easy to double or triple for gatherings and celebrations.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This recipe keeps things simple with pantry staples and fresh pumpkin puree, each ingredient chosen to enhance the flavor, moisture, and texture of these Baked Pumpkin Donuts with Maple Glaze.

• All-purpose flour: Provides structure while allowing tenderness in the donuts.
• Pumpkin puree: Adds moisture, natural sweetness, and that lovely pumpkin taste.
• Sugar: A combination of granulated and brown sugar balances sweetness and adds depth.
• Baking powder and baking soda: These leavening agents help the donuts rise beautifully.
• Spices (cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves): Give the donuts their warm, cozy fall aroma and flavor.
• Eggs: Bind ingredients together and contribute to the donut’s soft crumb.
• Butter or oil: Keeps the donuts moist and tender without making them greasy.
• Vanilla extract: Enhances the overall flavor profile with a subtle sweetness.
• Maple syrup: Used in the glaze for that perfect natural sweetness and glossy finish.
• Powdered sugar: Balances the glaze with a smooth, sweet base.

Variations for Baked Pumpkin Donuts with Maple Glaze

If you love to put your own spin on recipes, these Baked Pumpkin Donuts with Maple Glaze are a fantastic canvas. Swapping ingredients or adding mix-ins is super simple and makes the recipe your own.

• Gluten-free version: Swap all-purpose flour for a gluten-free blend for a tummy-friendly treat.
• Spice it up: Add a pinch of ground ginger or cardamom for extra layers of flavor.
• Nutty twist: Mix in chopped pecans or walnuts for a satisfying crunch.
• Chocolate lovers: Fold in mini chocolate chips or drizzle melted chocolate on top.
• Dairy-free option: Use coconut oil or a plant-based butter substitute instead of regular butter.

How to Make Baked Pumpkin Donuts with Maple Glaze

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare Your Pan

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) and greasing a donut pan thoroughly with butter or non-stick spray. This step ensures your donuts will release easily after baking.

Step 2: Combine Dry Ingredients

In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and spices (cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves). Mixing these ingredients in advance keeps your donuts evenly spiced and allows the leavening agents to distribute well.

Step 3: Mix Wet Ingredients

In a separate bowl, beat the eggs with sugar until smooth and slightly fluffy. Then add in the pumpkin puree, melted butter or oil, and vanilla extract. Mixing wet ingredients first helps to incorporate air, resulting in fluffier donuts.

Step 4: Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures

Slowly add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring gently just until combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can make the donuts dense instead of tender and light.

Step 5: Fill the Donut Pan

Using a spoon or piping bag, fill each cavity of the donut pan about three-quarters full with the batter for perfectly shaped donuts that bake evenly.

Step 6: Bake Until Golden

Bake the donuts for 12-15 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean. Keep an eye on the donuts in the final minutes to avoid overbaking.

Step 7: Prepare the Maple Glaze

While donuts cool slightly, whisk together powdered sugar and maple syrup until smooth. Adjust the thickness by adding more powdered sugar or maple syrup as needed for a dip-ready glaze.

Step 8: Glaze and Enjoy

Dunk the tops of the cooled donuts into the maple glaze or drizzle with a spoon. Let the glaze set briefly before serving to enjoy that irresistible sticky sweetness.

Pro Tips for Making Baked Pumpkin Donuts with Maple Glaze

• Measure carefully: Use a kitchen scale or spoon-and-level method to keep flour amounts accurate for tender donuts.
• Don’t overmix batter: Stir just until combined to avoid tough donuts.
• Grease the pan well: Even a light layer of oil keeps the donuts from sticking.
• Cool before glazing: Warm donuts will cause the glaze to run off rather than stick beautifully.
• Use fresh pumpkin: Whenever possible, use pure pumpkin puree instead of pumpkin pie filling for a natural flavor.

How to Serve Baked Pumpkin Donuts with Maple Glaze

Garnishes

Sprinkle flaky sea salt, chopped toasted nuts, or a dusting of cinnamon powder over the glazed donuts to elevate the presentation and add texture.

Side Dishes

Pair these donuts with a hot cup of pumpkin spice latte, chai tea, or even a rich hot chocolate for an indulgent fall breakfast or snack experience.

Creative Ways to Present

Arrange donuts on a rustic wooden board with autumn leaves and cinnamon sticks for a cozy vibe, or stack them with little skewers for easy serving at brunch or parties.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Keep leftover donuts in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days to maintain freshness while preserving that soft texture.

Freezing

Freeze the unglazed donuts in a single layer on a baking sheet before transferring to a freezer bag. Glaze after thawing for the best texture and flavor.

Reheating

Warm donuts gently in the microwave for 10-15 seconds or in a low oven to regain that just-baked softness before glazing.

FAQs

Can I use canned pumpkin pie filling instead of pumpkin puree?

It’s best to use pure pumpkin puree since pie filling contains added sugars and spices, which can affect the flavor and texture of the donuts.

Are these donuts gluten-free?

This recipe calls for all-purpose flour, but you can substitute a gluten-free flour blend to make gluten-free baked pumpkin donuts with maple glaze.

How long do these donuts stay fresh?

When properly stored, baked pumpkin donuts with maple glaze stay fresh for up to two days at room temperature but are best enjoyed the same day.

Can I make the maple glaze in advance?

Yes! You can prepare the glaze a day ahead and keep it covered in the fridge, just whisk before using.

What can I use instead of maple syrup for the glaze?

Honey or agave nectar are great alternatives that pair well with the pumpkin flavors for a slightly different sweetness.

Final Thoughts

These Baked Pumpkin Donuts with Maple Glaze are the ultimate way to savor the flavors of fall with minimal effort and maximum deliciousness. Soft, spiced, and coated with a luscious maple glaze, they’re sure to become a beloved part of your cozy mornings or special gatherings. Give this recipe a try and enjoy a warm, comforting treat that will bring smiles all season long!

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