Pumpkin donuts are a delicious treat that brings fall flavors to your kitchen. These donuts are soft, fluffy, and full of warmth. Whether enjoyed with coffee or as a sweet snack, they are perfect for any time of the day. The rich taste of pumpkin, combined with warm spices, makes each bite comforting and satisfying. Making pumpkin donuts at home might sound difficult, but it’s quite easy. You can enjoy the smell of fresh donuts wafting through your home while they fry to golden perfection. With a bit of time and some simple ingredients, you can delight your family and friends with these tasty treats that are not only great for dessert but also perfect for breakfast.

These pumpkin donuts are great for many reasons. First, they are quick to make, so you don’t have to spend all day in the kitchen. The ingredients are simple and easy to find at your local grocery store. You can also make them ahead of time and enjoy them warm with a delicious cream filling. Finally, they are versatile. You can serve them with a sweet glaze, a sprinkle of cinnamon sugar, or even filled with a creamy pumpkin spice filling. They are the perfect way to enjoy a cozy fall day.

How to Make Pumpkin Donuts

Ingredients

• ½ cup milk (warm (between 95-105°F))
• 1½ teaspoons active dry yeast
• 3¼ cup all-purpose flour (fluffed, spooned, and leveled *see notes)
• ⅓ cup granulated sugar
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon pumpkin spice (store-bought or homemade *see notes)
• ⅔ cup pumpkin puree (NOT pumpkin pie mix)
• 1 large egg
• 3 tablespoons unsalted butter (softened)
• ½ cup granulated sugar
• ¾ teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 4 ounces cream cheese (softened)
• ¼ cup pumpkin puree (NOT pumpkin pie mix)
• ½ teaspoon pumpkin spice (*see notes)
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (optional)
• 1 cup powdered sugar
• 1 cup heavy cream (cold)

Directions

For the pumpkin donut dough:

1. Warm the milk and mix it with the yeast in a bowl. Let it sit for about 5 minutes until bubbly.
2. In another bowl, mix the flour, sugar, salt, and pumpkin spice. Then add the pumpkin puree, egg, and butter to the flour mixture.
3. Pour the yeast mixture into the dry ingredients and mix until a dough forms. Knead the dough on a floured surface until it is smooth. Let the dough rise in a warm place for about an hour until it doubles in size.

For the cinnamon sugar:

1. Mix the sugar and cinnamon in a small bowl. Set it aside for later.

(Optional) For the spiced pumpkin cream filling:

1. In a bowl, beat the cream cheese until smooth. Then add the pumpkin puree, pumpkin spice, and vanilla extract. Mix until well combined.

Fry and assemble the donuts:

1. Heat oil in a deep pan until hot. Roll out the dough and cut it into donut shapes.
2. Fry the donuts until golden brown, about 1-2 minutes per side. Place them on paper towels to cool.
3. While warm, roll the donuts in the cinnamon sugar mixture.

If filling with pumpkin cream:

1. Use a piping bag to fill the cooled donuts with the pumpkin cream mixture.

How to Serve Pumpkin Donuts

Serve pumpkin donuts warm or at room temperature. They are delightful on their own or accompanied by coffee or tea. You can also add a drizzle of glaze for an extra special touch. Enjoy them for breakfast, as a snack, or at gatherings with friends and family.

How to Store Pumpkin Donuts

Store any leftover pumpkin donuts in an airtight container at room temperature for 2 to 3 days. If you want them to last longer, place them in the refrigerator for up to a week. Just make sure to warm them slightly before serving to restore their fluffiness.

Tips to Make Pumpkin Donuts

• Make sure your milk is at the right temperature when activating the yeast; too hot or too cold can affect its ability to rise.
• Don’t overwork the dough when kneading. A few minutes is enough.
• For best results, fry the donuts in small batches to maintain oil temperature.
• If you want a glaze, mix powdered sugar with a little milk or cream until smooth, and dip the cooled donuts.

Variations

Try adding chocolate chips or nuts to the donut batter for extra flavor. You can also change the topping by using a maple glaze or a simple sugar glaze instead of cinnamon sugar.

FAQs

1. Can I use canned pumpkin puree?

Yes, make sure to use plain pumpkin puree, not pumpkin pie filling.

2. Can I bake these donuts instead of frying?

Yes, you can bake them at 350°F for about 12-15 minutes, but they will have a different texture.

3. How do I know when the oil is hot enough for frying?

Drop a small piece of dough into the oil; if it sizzles and floats to the top, the oil is ready.

4. Can I freeze pumpkin donuts?

Yes, you can freeze unglazed donuts. Thaw them before frying or baking.

5. How do I make homemade pumpkin spice?

Mix equal parts of cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger, with a little allspice and cloves for a flavorful blend.

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