There’s something undeniably cozy about the first bite of a freshly made glazed pumpkin donut. As I stood in my kitchen, the warm scents of cinnamon and nutmeg swirling around me, I could feel the magic of autumn taking hold. The simple act of frying donuts transported me back to childhood days, when the world felt a little more playful, a little more joyful.
These glazed pumpkin donuts are not just a seasonal treat; they boast a rich, moist texture, infused with the comforting flavors of fall. Whether you’re gearing up for a weekend brunch or simply seeking a sweet escape from the mundane, this recipe is a delightful twist that promises to bring smiles to your loved ones’ faces. Best of all, they’re simple to make, satisfying to crunch into, and the perfect way to leave fast food behind. So grab your mixing bowl and let’s create some unforgettable moments filled with golden, gooey goodness!
Why are Glazed Pumpkin Donuts a Must-Try?
Irresistible Flavor: Each bite of these donuts is bursting with pumpkin spice goodness, making them the ultimate comfort food.
Effortless Preparation: With easy-to-follow steps, you don’t need to be a pro to create these delightful treats.
Perfect for All Occasions: Whether it’s a cozy family breakfast or a festive gathering, these donuts fit right in.
A Healthy Twist: Using pumpkin puree not only enhances flavor but adds a nutritious kick to a classic sweet.
Crowd-Pleaser: They’re guaranteed to win over guests and satisfy sweet cravings—everyone will be reaching for seconds!
Glazed Pumpkin Donuts Ingredients
For the Donut Batter
- All-purpose flour – 3 ½ cups (17 ½ oz/497g) provide structure and fluffiness to your donuts.
- Granulated sugar – 1 cup (8oz/225g) adds sweetness and helps achieve that lovely caramelization when frying.
- Baking powder – 4 teaspoons are crucial for creating that fluffy, risen texture that makes these donuts so light.
- Pumpkin pie spice – 2 teaspoons infuse each bite with a warm, aromatic flavor that screams autumn.
- Salt – 1 teaspoon balances the sweetness while enhancing all the delicious flavors.
For the Wet Mix
- Pumpkin puree – 1 cup (8oz/225g) not only flavors these glazed pumpkin donuts but also keeps them moist and delightful.
- Sour cream – ½ cup (4oz/115g) contributes tanginess and richness, perfect for decadent texture.
- Large eggs – 2 eggs bind the ingredients together, ensuring your donuts have the perfect consistency.
- Butter, melted – 2 tablespoons (1oz/28g) adds a rich flavor and enhances the moisture levels in the batter.
- Vanilla extract – 2 teaspoons round out the flavors with a lovely sweetness.
For Frying and Glazing
- Vegetable oil – Enough for frying (canola, safflower, etc.) ensures that your donuts cook evenly and have a perfect crispy exterior.
- Vanilla donut glaze – One recipe—dipping your warm donuts into this glaze makes each bite simply heavenly!
How to Make Glazed Pumpkin Donuts
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Combine dry ingredients: In a large bowl, mix together the flour, sugar, baking powder, pumpkin pie spice, and salt. This creates a flavorful base for your donuts.
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Whisk wet ingredients: In another bowl, combine the pumpkin puree, sour cream, eggs, melted butter, and vanilla extract. Whisk until smooth and creamy, ensuring all flavors blend well.
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Form the dough: Gently mix the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients until thoroughly combined, forming a dough. Cover and chill for 15 minutes in the refrigerator to firm it up—this helps with cutting!
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Heat the oil: Pour oil into a heavy-bottomed pot to a depth of 3 inches and set over medium-high heat. Attach a thermometer if you have one, and place a baking sheet lined with paper towels or a wire rack nearby for draining.
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Roll and cut: On a floured surface, roll out the donut dough to about ½ inch thick. Use a 3-inch round cutter to cut out donuts, and don’t forget to save the scraps for more!
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Cut out holes: With a smaller 1-inch cutter, punch holes in the center of each dough round, creating your classic donut shape.
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Fry donuts: Once your oil reaches approximately 350°F (180°C), drop in 2 or 3 donuts at a time. Fry for 2-3 minutes until you see a lovely golden brown, then flip to cook the other side.
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Glaze the donuts: Using a wire rack, remove the fried donuts and immediately dip both sides into the vanilla glaze. This allows the warm donuts to soak up the glaze perfectly!
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Serve and enjoy: Let your glazed pumpkin donuts cool just enough to enjoy, and dig in! For the freshest taste, consume them the day they’re made.
Optional: Dust with cinnamon sugar for a delightful twist!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Make Ahead Options
These Glazed Pumpkin Donuts are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts looking to save time! You can prepare the donut dough and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours. Just make the dough as instructed, cover it tightly with plastic wrap, and keep it chilled to maintain its freshness. When you’re ready to fry, roll out the chilled dough and cut the donuts as per the recipe. Additionally, the vanilla glaze can be made up to 3 days in advance—just store it in an airtight container in the fridge. This way, you’ll have delicious, homemade donuts ready to finish with minimal effort, ensuring a sweet treat is ready whenever the craving hits!
What to Serve with Glazed Pumpkin Donuts?
There’s something magical about a warm, freshly fried donut paired with delightful sides and sips!
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Spiced Apple Cider: The warm spices in this drink complement the pumpkin’s sweetness, creating a perfect fall pairing. Warm up a pot and let the aromatic scents fill your kitchen.
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Maple Bacon: Crispy, salty bacon drizzled with maple syrup adds an irresistible savory contrast to the sweetness of the donuts. Together, they create a beautifully balanced breakfast feast.
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Creamy Pumpkin Soup: A bowl of silky pumpkin soup brings out the pumpkin flavor of the donuts while enhancing the cozy vibe of your meal. Serve with a sprinkle of nutmeg for extra warmth!
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Coffee or Latte: A rich cup of coffee or flavored latte adds a delightful caffeine kick that pairs perfectly with the sweet glaze, making for a satisfying start to your day.
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Cinnamon Sugar Toast: This simple side combines crispy toast with a sprinkle of cinnamon sugar, echoing the cinnamon in your donuts while providing a crunch that many will love.
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Vanilla Ice Cream: For a delightful dessert twist, serve warm donuts alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream to create a melt-in-your-mouth experience that’s unforgettable.
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Fresh Fruit Salad: A refreshing bowl of mixed fruits brightens the table and adds a burst of freshness, balancing the indulgence of the donuts beautifully.
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Tea Selection: A fragrant herbal or chai tea can enhance the flavors and create a cozy atmosphere, making your dining experience even more enjoyable.
Get creative and enjoy the blend of flavors and textures for an unforgettable meal that will leave everyone smiling!
Glazed Pumpkin Donuts Variations & Substitutions
Feel free to unleash your creativity and make these donuts your own with these delightful variations. Each twist adds a unique flair to your homemade treats!
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Gluten-Free: Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend to cater to those sensitive to gluten.
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Dairy-Free: Use plant-based sour cream and swap butter for coconut oil to create a delicious dairy-free option without sacrificing flavor.
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Sugar-Free: Try substituting granulated sugar with a sugar alternative like monk fruit or erythritol for a lower-calorie treat.
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Spice It Up: Add 1 teaspoon of cayenne or chili powder for a spicy kick that beautifully contrasts the sweet pumpkin.
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Nutty Addition: Fold in ½ cup of chopped pecans or walnuts into the dough for a crunchy texture that complements the soft donuts.
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Pumpkin Spice Swirl: Instead of mixing all spices into the dough, reserve some to sprinkle on top after glazing for added visual appeal and flavor notes.
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Chocolate Glaze: Replace the vanilla glaze with a rich chocolate glaze using melted dark chocolate mixed with a splash of cream for an indulgent treat.
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Extract Variations: Swap vanilla extract for almond extract for a delightful twist that adds a warm, nutty aroma to your donuts.
Storage Tips for Glazed Pumpkin Donuts
Room Temperature: Store your glazed pumpkin donuts in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. This keeps them moist and flavorful.
Fridge: If you need to keep them longer, place the container in the fridge. They can last up to 5 days, but may lose some of their delightful texture.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze unglazed donuts in a single layer on a baking sheet. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months.
Reheating: To enjoy frozen donuts, let them thaw in the fridge overnight, then reheat in a toaster oven until warm, or microwave for about 10-15 seconds. Don’t forget to glaze after reheating for that fresh taste!
Tips for the Best Glazed Pumpkin Donuts
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Chill the Dough: Allowing the dough to chill for 15 minutes helps it firm up, making it easier to cut and fry. Don’t skip this step!
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Correct Oil Temperature: Ensure your oil is around 350°F (180°C) before frying. Too cool and the donuts absorb more oil; too hot and they burn quickly.
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Fry in Batches: Fry only a few donuts at a time to maintain the oil temperature and ensure even cooking. Each batch should take just 2-3 minutes.
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Glaze While Warm: Dip the donuts in the vanilla glaze immediately after frying. The warmth helps the glaze adhere nicely for maximum flavor in your glazed pumpkin donuts.
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Storing Leftovers: For any leftover donuts, store them in an airtight container at room temperature. They’re best enjoyed fresh but will last up to 2 days!
Glazed Pumpkin Donuts Recipe FAQs
What should I look for when selecting pumpkin puree?
Absolutely! When choosing pumpkin puree, opt for 100% pure pumpkin without added sugars or spices. Look for a smooth texture and a deep orange color. Avoid any cans with dents or leaks, as they could indicate spoilage.
How should I store leftover glazed pumpkin donuts?
After indulging in your glazed pumpkin donuts, store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. If you want to keep them longer, move the container to the fridge, where they will last for up to 5 days, although they may lose some of their delightful texture.
Can I freeze my glazed pumpkin donuts?
Yes, you can freeze them! To do this, first, freeze the unglazed donuts in a single layer on a baking sheet until solid. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag and store for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy them, let them thaw in the fridge overnight, then reheat in a toaster oven for that freshly made taste.
What should I do if my donuts turn out cakey instead of fluffy?
Very often, this happens due to overmixing the dough or incorrect measurements of the baking powder. I recommend gently mixing the wet and dry ingredients just until incorporated. Make sure your baking powder is fresh, too. If they seem dense, consider adding a bit more air by beating the eggs separately before mixing them in.
Are there any dietary considerations for making glazed pumpkin donuts?
Absolutely! For allergy concerns, you can substitute eggs with a flaxseed meal (1 tablespoon flaxseed meal + 2.5 tablespoons water, let sit for 5 minutes) for a vegan option. If you have nut allergies, ensure that your vegetable oil and any additional garnishes are nut-free. Always double-check your ingredients to stay safe!
Magical Glazed Pumpkin Donuts You Can’t Resist!
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a large bowl, mix together the flour, sugar, baking powder, pumpkin pie spice, and salt.
- In another bowl, combine the pumpkin puree, sour cream, eggs, melted butter, and vanilla extract. Whisk until smooth.
- Gently mix the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients until thoroughly combined. Cover and chill for 15 minutes.
- Pour oil into a pot to a depth of 3 inches and heat to about 350°F (180°C).
- On a floured surface, roll out the donut dough to about ½ inch thick and cut out donuts.
- Punch holes in the center of each dough round.
- Fry donuts for 2-3 minutes on each side until golden brown.
- Remove and dip both sides into the vanilla glaze.
- Let cool slightly and serve.