Get ready to dive into the warm, cozy world of Pumpkin Spice Donuts with Glaze Bakery Style! These tasty treats combine the classic flavors of fall with a sweet, creamy glaze that will make your taste buds dance. I’ll guide you through each step, from mixing the ingredients to baking the perfect donut. Whether you’re an experienced baker or a beginner, these donuts are easy to make and sure to impress. Let’s get started!
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
– 1 cup pure pumpkin puree
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup packed brown sugar
– 1/2 cup unsweetened applesauce
– 2 large eggs
– 1/4 cup vegetable oil
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
Dry Ingredients
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
– 1 teaspoon baking soda
– 1 tablespoon pumpkin pie spice
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
Glaze Ingredients
– 1 cup powdered sugar
– 2 tablespoons milk (or non-dairy alternative)
– 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
Gathering your ingredients is the first step to making these pumpkin spice donuts. You want to use pure pumpkin puree for the best taste. Canned pumpkin works well, but check that it’s not pumpkin pie filling. The sugars add sweetness and moisture. Applesauce keeps the donuts soft and adds flavor. Eggs help bind everything together. Vegetable oil gives them a moist texture, and vanilla brings out the flavors.
For the dry mix, you need baking powder and baking soda to help the donuts rise. Pumpkin pie spice gives them that cozy fall flavor, while a pinch of salt balances the sweetness.
Finally, for the glaze, powdered sugar is a must. It makes the glaze sweet and smooth. You can use milk or a non-dairy option to get the right consistency. A touch of vanilla in the glaze adds extra flavor.
Make sure you have everything ready before you start. This way, you can enjoy the process of making these delightful treats!
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparing the Oven and Pan
– Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
– Grease the donut pan with cooking spray.
Start by heating your oven. A hot oven helps the donuts rise well. Greasing the pan keeps the donuts from sticking. Use a light touch with the spray.
Mixing the Wet Ingredients
– Combine pumpkin puree, granulated sugar, brown sugar, applesauce, eggs, oil, and vanilla.
– Whisk until smooth.
In a large bowl, you will mix the pumpkin puree with the sugars. The applesauce adds moisture. Crack in the eggs, then add oil and vanilla. Whisk this all together until it’s nice and smooth. This is key for a rich flavor.
Incorporating Dry Ingredients
– Sift and mix flour, baking powder, baking soda, pumpkin pie spice, and salt.
– Gradually add to the wet mixture without overmixing.
In another bowl, sift the dry ingredients. This step helps to avoid lumps. Slowly add the dry mix to the wet mix. Stir gently until just combined. Some lumps are fine. Overmixing can make your donuts tough.
Filling the Donut Pan
– Transfer batter to a piping bag.
– Fill each donut cavity 2/3 full.
To fill the pan easily, use a piping bag. If you don’t have one, a plastic bag with a snipped corner works too. Fill each cavity about 2/3 full. This gives the donuts room to rise without overflowing.
Baking the Donuts
– Bake for 10-12 minutes.
– Check doneness with a toothpick.
Place the pan in the oven and set a timer for 10 minutes. Check if they’re done by inserting a toothpick. If it comes out clean, they’re ready. If not, give them a couple more minutes.
Cooling the Donuts
– Let them cool in the pan for 5 minutes.
– Transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
Once baked, let the donuts cool in the pan for about 5 minutes. Then, move them to a wire rack. Cooling them completely helps keep their texture nice.
Tips & Tricks
Achieving the Perfect Texture
To get the right texture in your donuts, avoid overmixing the batter. Mix just until you see no dry flour. A few lumps are okay. Next, ensure your oven is properly preheated to 350°F (175°C). A well-heated oven helps the donuts rise nicely and bake evenly.
Glaze Consistency
For the glaze, adjust the milk quantity for your desired thickness. Start with two tablespoons of milk. Whisk until the glaze is smooth and creamy. A thick glaze sticks well, while a thinner glaze will drip off more. Find what works best for you.
Presentation Tips
Presentation matters! Arrange your donuts on a decorative platter for an appealing look. To add charm, dust them with extra pumpkin pie spice or cinnamon. This little touch makes them eye-catching and delicious. Enjoy them with a side of whipped cream for a fun twist!
Variations
Alternate Flavors
You can change up the flavor of your pumpkin spice donuts for fun. Here are two ideas:
– Maple-flavored donuts: Add maple extract to your wet ingredients. This gives the donuts a sweet, earthy taste.
– Chocolate pumpkin spice donuts: Mix in cocoa powder with your dry ingredients. This will create a rich, chocolatey twist on the classic flavor.
Healthy Alternatives
Want a healthier donut? You can make simple swaps:
– Use whole wheat flour: This adds fiber and nutrients. It makes your donuts a bit denser but still tasty.
– Substitute applesauce with mashed bananas: This adds natural sweetness and moisture. It’s a great way to reduce sugar too.
Toppings and Add-Ins
Toppings can elevate your donuts to a new level. Here are some fun ideas:
– Add chocolate chips to the batter: These little bursts of chocolate make every bite special.
– Drizzle caramel sauce over the glazed donuts: This adds a sweet, gooey finish. It pairs perfectly with the pumpkin spice flavor.
Storage Info
Storing Donuts
To keep your pumpkin spice donuts fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature. This helps to maintain their soft texture and flavor. If you want them to last longer, you can refrigerate them. Just remember, refrigeration may change the texture slightly.
Freezing Donuts
If you have extra donuts, freezing is a great option. Wrap each donut in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer bag. This way, they stay fresh and tasty. For the best flavor, eat them within 1-2 months.
Reheating Tips
When you’re ready to enjoy a donut, you can warm it briefly in the microwave. Just a few seconds will do. If you want that fresh glaze taste, re-glaze the donut after reheating. This adds an extra layer of flavor and sweetness.
FAQs
Can I use canned pumpkin for this recipe?
Yes, ensure it’s pure pumpkin puree and not pumpkin pie filling. Canned pumpkin makes this recipe easy. It saves time and gives great flavor. Just check the label before you buy.
How can I make these donuts vegan?
Substitute eggs with flax eggs and use non-dairy milk. To make a flax egg, mix one tablespoon of flaxseed meal with three tablespoons of water. Let it sit for 5 minutes. This will work well in the donuts.
What can I serve with pumpkin spice donuts?
They pair well with whipped cream or a hot beverage like coffee or tea. A warm drink brings out the spice flavors in the donuts. Feel free to get creative with toppings too!
How long do these donuts last?
They can be stored for up to 3 days at room temperature or 1-2 months in the freezer. For the best taste, enjoy them fresh. If storing, keep them in an airtight container.
In this post, we covered the steps to make delicious pumpkin spice donuts, starting from key ingredients to baking tips. I shared how to mix flavors and achieve the right texture. You learned about storage and variations to keep your treats exciting. Remember, a well-baked donut is a joy to savor. Experiment with toppings and flavors to make it your own. Enjoy your baking and share these delightful treats with friends and family!
