Baked Pumpkin Donuts with Brown Sugar Icing

I can still remember the excitement of autumn mornings, when the air turned crisp and the warm smell of spices filled the kitchen. We would gather around, eyes wide, waiting for a treat that truly celebrated the season. Baked Pumpkin Donuts with Brown Sugar Icing became a favorite during those cozy times. This recipe is special because it blends the comforting flavors of pumpkin and spices with a sweet, rich icing that makes each bite feel like a warm hug. You’ll find that making these donuts is not only simple but also a joyous way to embrace the spirit of fall.

Why make this recipe

Baked Pumpkin Donuts with Brown Sugar Icing are perfect for anyone looking to enjoy a seasonal treat without the fuss of frying. They are healthier than traditional fried donuts but still pack a hearty punch of flavor and sweetness. These donuts are not just a tasty breakfast option; they also make a delightful snack for any time of day. Plus, sharing them with friends and family brings everyone together, sparking joy in simple moments.

How to make Baked Pumpkin Donuts with Brown Sugar Icing

Ingredients

• 1 cup pumpkin puree
• 1/2 cup sugar
• 1/4 cup brown sugar
• 1/4 cup melted butter
• 2 eggs
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
• 2 teaspoons baking powder
• 1 teaspoon pumpkin pie spice
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 cup brown sugar (for icing)
• 2 tablespoons milk (for icing)
• 1 tablespoon butter (for icing)

Directions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a donut pan.
2. In a large bowl, mix together the pumpkin puree, sugar, brown sugar, melted butter, eggs, and vanilla extract until the mixture is smooth.
3. In another bowl, whisk the flour, baking powder, pumpkin pie spice, and salt together.
4. Gradually combine the dry ingredients with the pumpkin mixture, stirring until just combined.
5. Spoon the batter into the donut pan, filling each cavity about 2/3 of the way full.
6. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
7. Let the donuts cool in the pan for a few minutes, then transfer them to a wire rack.
8. For the icing, melt the butter and mix it with the brown sugar and milk over low heat until smooth.
9. Drizzle the icing over the cooled donuts and let it set before serving.

How to serve Baked Pumpkin Donuts with Brown Sugar Icing

These baked pumpkin donuts are best enjoyed fresh, still slightly warm. They can be served as a delightful breakfast or as a sweet snack later in the day. Pair them with a warm cup of coffee or tea for a cozy experience. You can also sprinkle a little extra pumpkin pie spice on top for added flavor.

How to store Baked Pumpkin Donuts with Brown Sugar Icing

To store your leftover donuts, keep them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you want them to last longer, you can refrigerate them for about a week. For longer storage, consider freezing them. Just make sure they are wrapped well before placing them in the freezer.

Tips to make Baked Pumpkin Donuts with Brown Sugar Icing

• Make sure your pumpkin puree is not too watery. If using fresh pumpkin, drain any excess liquid.
• Gently stir the batter; overmixing can lead to tough donuts.
• If you don’t have a donut pan, you can use a muffin tin to make pumpkin muffins instead.
• Customize the icing! Add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg for an extra hint of spice.

Variation

Feel free to experiment with different spices. Adding a bit of ginger or nutmeg can give these donuts a unique twist. You could also try topping them with chopped nuts or chocolate chips before baking.

FAQs

Can I use canned pumpkin instead of fresh?

Yes, canned pumpkin puree works perfectly and saves time!

How can I make these donuts gluten-free?

Use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend to make these donuts gluten-free.

Can I substitute the brown sugar in the icing?

You can use powdered sugar instead for a sweeter icing, but it will change the flavor slightly.

Baked Pumpkin Donuts with Brown Sugar Icing

Enjoy the comforting flavors of pumpkin and spices in these baked donuts topped with a sweet brown sugar icing. A delightful treat for any time of day!

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 15 minutes mins

Cook Time 12 minutes mins

Total Time 27 minutes mins

Servings: 12 donuts

Course: Breakfast, Snack

Cuisine: American

Calories: 190

Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients

  

For the Donuts

• 1 cup pumpkin puree Make sure it's not too watery.
• 1/2 cup sugar
• 1/4 cup brown sugar
• 1/4 cup melted butter
• 2 pieces eggs
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour Can substitute with gluten-free flour.
• 2 teaspoons baking powder
• 1 teaspoon pumpkin pie spice
• 1/2 teaspoon salt

For the Icing

• 1/2 cup brown sugar For icing
• 2 tablespoons milk For icing
• 1 tablespoon butter For icing

Method

 

Preparation

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a donut pan.
2. In a large bowl, mix together the pumpkin puree, sugar, brown sugar, melted butter, eggs, and vanilla extract until the mixture is smooth.
3. In another bowl, whisk the flour, baking powder, pumpkin pie spice, and salt together.
4. Gradually combine the dry ingredients with the pumpkin mixture, stirring until just combined.
5. Spoon the batter into the donut pan, filling each cavity about 2/3 of the way full.

Baking

1. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
2. Let the donuts cool in the pan for a few minutes, then transfer them to a wire rack.

Making the Icing

1. For the icing, melt the butter and mix it with the brown sugar and milk over low heat until smooth.
2. Drizzle the icing over the cooled donuts and let it set before serving.

Notes

These donuts taste best when enjoyed fresh and slightly warm. You can also sprinkle a little extra pumpkin pie spice on top for added flavor. To store, keep in an airtight container for up to 3 days at room temperature, or refrigerate for about a week.