Baked Pumpkin Donuts with Brown Sugar Icing Recipe

These Baked Pumpkin Donuts with Brown Sugar Icing Recipe are an irresistible treat that combines the warmth of pumpkin and spices with a delightful brown sugar glaze. Perfect for cozy mornings, festive gatherings, or simply as a sweet snack, these donuts are baked instead of fried, making them a healthier indulgence. Enjoy them fresh out of the oven or store them for later, and they are sure to please everyone!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, this recipe is perfect for bakers of all skill levels.
• Flavorful: The combination of pumpkin puree and warm spices like cinnamon creates a deliciously cozy flavor that’s hard to resist.
• Versatile: Great for breakfast, dessert, or a snack; these donuts fit any occasion.
• Healthier Option: Baked instead of fried, these donuts offer a lighter alternative without sacrificing taste.
• Customizable Toppings: Add nuts, sprinkles, or your favorite toppings to personalize each donut.

Tools and Preparation

Before you start baking these delightful donuts, gather your tools to ensure a smooth process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Donut pan
• Mixing bowls
• Whisk
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Baking spray
• Wire rack

Importance of Each Tool

• Donut pan: Essential for shaping your donuts perfectly while baking.
• Mixing bowls: Allows for efficient mixing of dry and wet ingredients separately before combining.
• Whisk: Helps achieve a smooth batter by thoroughly blending wet ingredients.

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Ingredients

For the Donuts

• 1 and 3/4 cups (219g) all-purpose flour (spooned & leveled)
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1 and 1/2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
• 1 teaspoon store-bought or homemade pumpkin pie spice
• 1/2 cup (120ml) vegetable oil (or canola oil or melted coconut oil)
• 3/4 cup (150g) packed light or dark brown sugar
• 2 large eggs, at room temperature
• 1 cup (227g) fresh or canned pumpkin puree
• 1/3 cup (80ml) milk
• 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract

For the Brown Sugar Icing

• 3/4 cup (150g) packed light or dark brown sugar
• 1/4 cup (60ml) milk
• 1 Tablespoon (14g) unsalted butter
• 1/2 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
• 1 and 1/2 cups (175g) sifted confectioners’ sugar
• pinch of salt, to taste
• Optional: toppings such as chopped nuts or sprinkles

How to Make Baked Pumpkin Donuts with Brown Sugar Icing Recipe

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (177°C). Lightly spray a donut pan with non-stick spray to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a large bowl:
1. Whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, and pumpkin pie spice until evenly combined.

Step 3: Combine Wet Ingredients

In a separate medium bowl:
1. Whisk together the vegetable oil, brown sugar, eggs, pumpkin puree, milk, and vanilla extract until smooth.

Step 4: Combine Mixtures

Pour the wet mixture into the dry ingredients.
* Gently fold until just combined; do not overmix.

Step 5: Fill the Donut Pan

Spoon the batter into the donut cavities until each is about halfway full.
* For less mess, use a zip-top bag with one corner snipped off to pipe in the batter.

Step 6: Bake the Donuts

Bake for 10 to 11 minutes until lightly browned.
* Test doneness by poking; they should spring back when done. Cool in the pan for 2 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.

Step 7: Prepare Icing

In a medium saucepan over medium heat:
1. Combine brown sugar, milk, and unsalted butter.
2. Stir continuously until melted and smooth; bring gently to a simmer for about 1 minute.

Step 8: Finish the Icing

Remove from heat:
1. Whisk in vanilla extract and sifted confectioners’ sugar until smooth.
2. Add salt to taste; let it cool slightly before dipping.

Step 9: Ice the Donuts

Dip cooled donuts into warm icing.
* If it thickens too much while using, thin with milk as needed.

Step 10: Let Set & Store

Sprinkle with optional toppings if desired. Allow icing to set for about an hour before storing.
Store leftovers covered at room temperature for up to two days or refrigerate for up to a week.

Enjoy your homemade Baked Pumpkin Donuts with Brown Sugar Icing!

How to Serve Baked Pumpkin Donuts with Brown Sugar Icing Recipe

Baked Pumpkin Donuts with Brown Sugar Icing are a delightful treat that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you’re serving them for breakfast, an afternoon snack, or dessert, here are some fun serving suggestions to enhance your experience.

Breakfast Pairings

• Coffee: A warm cup of coffee complements the cinnamon flavors in the donuts and adds a cozy start to your day.
• Herbal Tea: For a lighter option, herbal teas like chai or vanilla can balance the sweetness of the icing beautifully.

Toppings and Garnishes

• Chopped Nuts: Sprinkle chopped walnuts or pecans on top of the icing for added crunch and flavor.
• Sprinkles: Add colorful sprinkles for a festive touch, perfect for celebrations or special occasions.

Dessert Ideas

• Whipped Cream: Serve donuts with a dollop of whipped cream on the side for an indulgent dessert experience.
• Fruit Compote: Drizzle with a warm fruit compote, like apple or berry, to add a fruity contrast that pairs well with pumpkin.

How to Perfect Baked Pumpkin Donuts with Brown Sugar Icing Recipe

Perfecting your Baked Pumpkin Donuts is all about attention to detail. Here are some tips to ensure your donuts come out perfectly every time.

• Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure eggs and milk are at room temperature for better mixing and fluffier donuts.
• Don’t Overmix the Batter: Gently fold the wet and dry ingredients together until just combined to keep the donuts tender.
• Test Doneness Carefully: Use a toothpick or poke method; if it springs back when touched, it’s ready to come out of the oven.
• Adjust Icing Consistency: If icing thickens too much, thin it with a splash of milk until it reaches a smooth dipping consistency.
• Cool Completely Before Icing: Allow donuts to cool completely before dipping in icing so that it sets properly without sliding off.

Best Side Dishes for Baked Pumpkin Donuts with Brown Sugar Icing Recipe

Pairing side dishes with your Baked Pumpkin Donuts can elevate your meal. Here are some great options that complement their flavors.

1. Fresh Fruit Salad: A mix of seasonal fruits adds freshness and balances the sweetness of the donuts.
2. Yogurt Parfait: Layer yogurt with granola and berries for a nutritious side that contrasts nicely with the donut’s texture.
3. Oatmeal: A warm bowl of oatmeal can be served alongside for a hearty breakfast option packed with fiber.
4. Smoothies: Blend up a pumpkin spice smoothie for a cohesive flavor theme throughout your meal.
5. Cheese Platter: Include mild cheeses like cream cheese or mascarpone for a savory counterpoint to the sweet donuts.
6. Granola Bars: Homemade granola bars offer an easy grab-and-go option that complements the flavors while adding crunch.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Baking can be tricky, especially when trying a new recipe. Here are some common mistakes to watch for when making Baked Pumpkin Donuts with Brown Sugar Icing.

• Using stale ingredients: Always check the freshness of your baking powder and spices. Old ingredients can affect the rise and flavor of your donuts.
• Overmixing the batter: Gently fold the ingredients until just combined. Overmixing can lead to dense and tough donuts rather than light and fluffy ones.
• Not measuring flour correctly: Spoon and level your flour instead of scooping directly from the bag. This ensures you don’t add too much flour, which can make your donuts dry.
• Skipping the cooling step: Letting donuts cool completely before icing is essential. If they’re warm, the icing will melt off instead of setting nicely on top.
• Ignoring oven temperature: Use an oven thermometer to ensure your oven is at the correct temperature. An incorrect temperature can lead to uneven baking.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store baked pumpkin donuts in an airtight container.
• They will stay fresh in the fridge for up to 1 week.

Freezing Baked Pumpkin Donuts with Brown Sugar Icing Recipe

• Wrap individual donuts in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag.
• They can be frozen for up to 3 months without losing flavor.

Reheating Baked Pumpkin Donuts with Brown Sugar Icing Recipe

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (177°C) and heat for about 5-7 minutes until warm.
• Microwave: Heat one donut at a time for about 10-15 seconds on medium power.
• Stovetop: Place in a skillet over low heat, covering with a lid for a few minutes until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some frequently asked questions about making Baked Pumpkin Donuts with Brown Sugar Icing Recipe that may help you enjoy this delightful treat even more!

Can I use fresh pumpkin instead of canned?

Yes, you can use fresh pumpkin puree! Just make sure it’s well-cooked and mashed smoothly before adding it to the recipe.

How can I customize my Baked Pumpkin Donuts?

Feel free to add chocolate chips or nuts into the batter or try different spices like nutmeg or ginger for varied flavors!

What should I do if my donut batter is too thick?

If your batter seems too thick, add a little more milk, one tablespoon at a time, until you reach the desired consistency.

How do I know when my donuts are done baking?

Gently poke the top of a donut; if it springs back, they are ready. You can also check with a toothpick; it should come out clean.

Final Thoughts

These Baked Pumpkin Donuts with Brown Sugar Icing Recipe are not only delicious but also versatile enough for any occasion. You can easily customize them to suit your taste preferences by adding different spices or toppings. Give this recipe a try for your next breakfast or dessert; they are sure to become a seasonal favorite!