Baked Pumpkin Donuts with Maple Glaze are a perfect fall treat, but honestly, who says they can only be enjoyed in the fall? The warm pumpkin flavor combined with a rich maple glaze is so irresistible that it’s worth enjoying year-round. These donuts are baked, not fried, which makes them a bit lighter but still soft, crumbly, and full of flavor.
Whether you’re a pumpkin spice enthusiast or a donut lover, this recipe is sure to satisfy. The best part? The maple glaze! It’s a sweet, warm topping that elevates these donuts to another level.
Ingredients:
For the Donuts:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour – The base of the donut, creating a soft texture.
- 1 ½ teaspoons baking powder – Helps the donuts rise and stay fluffy.
- 1 ½ teaspoons pumpkin pie spice – This is a blend of cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger, giving the donuts that classic pumpkin spice flavor.
- ¾ teaspoon kosher salt – Balances out the sweetness and enhances the flavors.
- ¼ teaspoon baking soda – Helps with the texture and contributes to the rise.
- ½ cup unsalted butter (melted) – Adds richness and helps with the softness of the donuts.
- 1 cup light brown sugar (packed) – Provides sweetness and a slight molasses flavor.
- 2 large eggs – Helps with binding the ingredients together and adding moisture.
- 1 cup canned pumpkin puree – Adds moisture, flavor, and that beautiful pumpkin color.
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract – Adds depth and sweetness to the donut batter.
For the Maple Glaze:
- ¾ cup maple syrup – The star of the glaze, contributing the rich, deep sweetness.
- 1 ½ tablespoons unsalted butter – Adds creaminess to the glaze and makes it glossy.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract – Enhances the maple flavor.
- ¼ teaspoon kosher salt – Balances the sweetness.
- ¼ cup confectioners’ sugar – Gives the glaze a smooth, glossy texture.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven and Prepare the Pan:
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Lightly grease a donut pan with non-stick spray to ensure the donuts come out easily after baking.
2. Prepare the Dry Ingredients:
- In a large bowl, combine the following dry ingredients:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 ½ teaspoons baking powder
- 1 ½ teaspoons pumpkin pie spice
- ¾ teaspoon kosher salt
- ¼ teaspoon baking soda
- Mix these together until well incorporated. The dry ingredients are now ready for the wet ingredients.
3. Make the Wet Ingredients:
- In a separate mixing bowl, beat together:
- ½ cup melted unsalted butter
- 1 cup light brown sugar
- Using an electric mixer with a paddle attachment, beat the butter and sugar on medium-high speed for about 1-2 minutes until smooth and combined.
- Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Then, mix in 1 cup canned pumpkin puree and 2 teaspoons vanilla extract until fully combined.
4. Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients:
- Gradually add the dry ingredients into the wet mixture, mixing on low speed just until the batter is fully incorporated. Avoid overmixing to keep the donuts light and fluffy.
5. Fill the Donut Pan:
- Spoon or pipe the batter into the prepared donut pan, filling each cavity about 2/3 full.
- Use a spatula to smooth the top of the batter to ensure even baking.
6. Bake the Donuts:
- Place the filled donut pan in the oven and bake for 10-12 minutes.
- Check for doneness by gently pressing the top of a donut; it should spring back when touched. Alternatively, insert a toothpick, and if it comes out clean, the donuts are done.
7. Cool the Donuts:
- Let the donuts cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. This prevents them from being too delicate and helps them maintain their shape.
Maple Glaze Preparation:
1. Heat the Maple Syrup:
- In a small saucepan, pour ¾ cup maple syrup.
- Heat over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the syrup has reduced by half (about 5 minutes).
2. Finish the Glaze:
- Once the syrup has reduced, whisk in:
- 1 ½ tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- ¼ teaspoon kosher salt
- Stir until the butter is melted and the mixture is smooth.
- Finally, whisk in ¼ cup confectioners’ sugar until the glaze is glossy and smooth.
Glazing the Donuts:
1. Dip the Donuts:
- Once the donuts have cooled slightly (but are still warm), dip the tops of each donut into the warm maple glaze.
- Let any excess glaze drip off and allow the glaze to set before serving.
2. Serve:
- Serve the donuts warm or at room temperature. They’re perfect with a hot cup of coffee or tea for a cozy treat!
Tips and Variations:
- Add-ins: You can add chocolate chips, chopped nuts (like pecans or walnuts), or a swirl of cinnamon sugar for added texture and flavor.
- Make Mini Donuts: If you have a mini donut pan, you can adjust the cooking time and make smaller versions of these treats.
- Make Ahead: The donuts can be made a day ahead. Store them in an airtight container, and reheat briefly in the microwave or oven before glazing.
- Substitute the Glaze: If you prefer, you can skip the maple glaze and opt for a simple dusting of powdered sugar or a light cinnamon-sugar coating for a less sweet option.
Serving Suggestions:
- As a Breakfast Treat: Pair with your morning coffee or hot chocolate for a cozy, fall-inspired breakfast.
- For Special Occasions: These donuts are perfect for brunches, gatherings, or even Thanksgiving celebrations.
- Packaged Gifts: Wrap a few donuts in parchment paper and tie with twine for an adorable, homemade gift.
Conclusion:
Baked Pumpkin Donuts with Maple Glaze are an irresistibly soft, flavorful treat that everyone will love. Whether you’re enjoying them as a snack or sharing them with friends and family, they’re sure to become a favorite. The combination of pumpkin spice and maple is a classic, and the baked donut texture makes them light yet satisfying. Make these donuts year-round, because, honestly, why should fall have all the fun?
