Baked Pumpkin Donuts Recipe

All-purpose flour: The base ingredient that provides structure to the donuts.

Baking powder: Helps the donuts rise and become fluffy.

Baking soda: Works with the baking powder to give the donuts a light texture.

Salt: Enhances the flavors of the other ingredients.

Pumpkin pie spice: A blend of spices that gives the donuts their signature fall flavor.

Vegetable oil: Adds moisture and richness to the donuts.

Brown sugar: Sweetens the donuts and adds a hint of molasses flavor.

Egg: Binds the ingredients together and adds structure.

Vanilla extract: Adds a warm, sweet flavor to the donuts.

Canned pumpkin: Provides moisture and a rich pumpkin flavor.

Milk: Adds moisture and helps create a smooth batter.

When mixing the wet ingredients with the dry ingredients, be careful not to overmix. Overmixing can lead to dense and tough donuts. Stir until the ingredients are just combined to ensure a light and fluffy texture.

• all-purpose flour - Substitute with whole wheat flour: Whole wheat flour adds more fiber and nutrients, though it may make the donuts denser.

• baking powder - Substitute with baking soda and cream of tartar: Use ¼ teaspoon baking soda and ½ teaspoon cream of tartar for each teaspoon of baking powder needed.

• baking soda - Substitute with baking powder: Use 3 times the amount of baking powder, but this may affect the taste slightly.

• salt - Substitute with sea salt: Sea salt can be used in the same quantity and offers a slightly different mineral content.

• pumpkin pie spice - Substitute with individual spices: Use a mix of cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and cloves in equal parts to make your own pumpkin pie spice.

• vegetable oil - Substitute with coconut oil: Coconut oil provides a similar texture and adds a slight coconut flavor.

• brown sugar - Substitute with coconut sugar: Coconut sugar has a lower glycemic index and adds a caramel-like flavor.

• egg - Substitute with flax egg: Mix 1 tablespoon ground flaxseed with 3 tablespoon water and let it sit for a few minutes to thicken. This is a good vegan alternative.

• vanilla extract - Substitute with almond extract: Almond extract provides a different but pleasant flavor profile.

• canned pumpkin - Substitute with fresh pumpkin puree: Fresh pumpkin puree can be used in the same quantity and offers a fresher taste.

• milk - Substitute with almond milk: Almond milk is a good dairy-free alternative and can be used in the same quantity.

• Allow the donuts to cool completely on a wire rack. This prevents condensation from forming, which can make them soggy.

• For short-term storage, place the baked pumpkin donuts in an airtight container. Line the container with a paper towel, add a single layer of donuts, and then place another paper towel on top before sealing. This helps absorb any excess moisture.

• Store the container at room temperature for up to 2 days. If you need to keep them fresh a bit longer, you can refrigerate them for up to a week. Just be sure to bring them to room temperature or warm them slightly before serving to enjoy their best texture.

• For freezing, first flash-freeze the donuts by placing them on a baking sheet in a single layer. Freeze for about an hour or until they are firm to the touch. This prevents them from sticking together.

• Once frozen, transfer the donuts to a freezer-safe bag or container. If using a bag, remove as much air as possible before sealing. Label the bag with the date to keep track of their freshness.

• Frozen baked pumpkin donuts can be stored for up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw them at room temperature or warm them in the microwave for about 20-30 seconds. For a crispier texture, you can also reheat them in a 350°F (175°C) oven for about 5-10 minutes.

• If you plan to glaze or frost the donuts, do so after thawing to ensure the best consistency and flavor.

• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the baked pumpkin donuts on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Cover them loosely with aluminum foil to prevent them from drying out. Heat for about 5-10 minutes or until they are warmed through. This method helps maintain the donuts' original texture and flavor.

• For a quick and convenient option, use a microwave. Place the donuts on a microwave-safe plate. Heat on medium power for 10-15 seconds. Check the donuts and add additional 5-second intervals if needed. Be cautious not to overheat, as this can make the donuts rubbery.

• If you have an air fryer, preheat it to 300°F (150°C). Place the donuts in the air fryer basket in a single layer. Heat for 3-4 minutes, checking halfway through to ensure they are warming evenly. This method can give the donuts a slightly crispy exterior while keeping the inside moist.

• For a stovetop method, use a non-stick skillet over low heat. Place the donuts in the skillet and cover with a lid. Heat for about 2-3 minutes on each side, or until warmed through. This method can add a slight caramelization to the donuts' surface, enhancing their flavor.

• If you prefer a steam method, place a steaming rack in a pot with a small amount of water. Bring the water to a simmer and place the donuts on the rack. Cover and steam for about 3-5 minutes. This method helps retain moisture, making the donuts soft and tender.

• Oven: Used to bake the donuts at a consistent temperature of 350°F (175°C).

• Donut pan: A specialized pan with donut-shaped molds to shape and bake the batter into donuts.

• Mixing bowl: One for combining the dry ingredients and another for the wet ingredients.

• Whisk: Used to thoroughly mix the wet ingredients together.

• Measuring cups: Essential for accurately measuring the flour, oil, brown sugar, canned pumpkin, and milk.

• Measuring spoons: Used to measure smaller quantities of ingredients like baking powder, baking soda, salt, pumpkin pie spice, and vanilla extract.

• Spatula: Useful for folding the wet and dry ingredients together until just mixed.

• Toothpick: Used to check if the donuts are fully baked by inserting it into the donut and seeing if it comes out clean.

• Cooling rack: Allows the donuts to cool evenly after baking.

• Non-stick spray: Used to grease the donut pan to prevent the batter from sticking.

Pre-measure ingredients: Measure and prepare all ingredients ahead of time to streamline the baking process.

Use a piping bag: Transfer the batter into a piping bag to quickly and neatly fill the donut pan.

One-bowl method: Mix the wet ingredients first, then add the dry ingredients to save on cleanup time.

Preheat the oven: Ensure the oven is preheated before you start mixing to avoid waiting time.

Non-stick spray: Use a non-stick spray on the donut pan for easy release and quick cleanup.