Name: Cakey Pumpkin Doughnuts: Fall’s Cozy Delight You’ll Love
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 18 min
Total time: 33 min
Ingredients: 1/2 cup oil (can be melted butter for richer flavor); 2 large eggs (can substitute with flax eggs for vegan option); 1 cup sugar (use less for a more subtle sweetness); 1 cup pumpkin puree (canned or freshly pureed); 2 teaspoons pumpkin pie spice (can replace with cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger); 1/2 teaspoon salt (enhances flavor); 2 teaspoons baking powder (do not substitute with baking soda); 2 cups all-purpose flour (can use gluten-free flour if needed)

As the crisp autumn air starts to swirl, the aroma of baked goods escapes from my kitchen and transports me straight back to cozy mornings spent with family. Enter my Cakey Pumpkin Doughnuts—a delightful blend of warm spices and tender pumpkin goodness that perfectly embodies the season. These treats are not only irresistibly moist but also incredibly quick to whip up, making them a fantastic option for those busy fall mornings. They’re the kind of breakfast that pairs well with steaming coffee or fresh apple cider, transforming any rushed day into a cozy celebration. Curious how to create this sweet escape in your own kitchen? Let’s dive in!

Why are Cakey Pumpkin Doughnuts a must-try?

Delightfully Easy: The straightforward recipe makes baking a breeze, perfect even for novice bakers.

Autumn Flavors: Packed with pumpkin and spices, these doughnuts capture the essence of fall in every bite.

Versatile Options: Feel free to add in chocolate chips or nuts to customize your treats while exploring variations like Flourless Pumpkin Muffins for a different spin!

Crowd-Pleaser: These sweet delights are sure to impress friends and family, making them a staple for gatherings or brunch.

Make-Ahead Magic: Prep a batch ahead of time, and enjoy warm, delicious doughnuts fresh out of the oven on busy mornings!

Cakey Pumpkin Doughnuts Ingredients

Get ready to bake your new favorite fall treat with these simple, wholesome ingredients!

For the Doughnuts

Oil – Provides moisture and a tender crumb; swap it for melted butter for an even richer flavor.
Eggs – Bind the doughnuts while adding richness; consider flax eggs for a vegan alternative.
Sugar – Sweetens the doughnuts and contributes to a soft texture; use less if you prefer a more subtle sweetness.
Pumpkin – Adds distinct moisture and flavor; both canned or freshly pureed options work beautifully.
Spices (pumpkin pie spice) – Infuse your doughnuts with warm flavors; you can replace it with your favorite blend of cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger.
Salt – Enhances overall flavor and balances the sweetness perfectly.
Baking Powder – Acts as the leavening agent; avoid substituting it with baking soda for best results.
All-Purpose Flour – The backbone of your doughnuts; feel free to switch to gluten-free flour if necessary.

These Cakey Pumpkin Doughnuts are just waiting to be made, and they’re sure to become a beloved recipe in your home!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Cakey Pumpkin Doughnuts

Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While the oven warms up, lightly grease two standard doughnut pans with oil or non-stick spray, ensuring every crevice is coated for easy release. This simple preparation sets the stage for your delicious Cakey Pumpkin Doughnuts to bake perfectly.

Step 2: Mix Wet Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, combine the oil, eggs, sugar, pumpkin puree, pumpkin pie spice, salt, and baking powder. Whisk these ingredients together until the mixture is smooth and velvety—about 2 minutes. The vibrant orange color from the pumpkin will become even richer as the flavors meld, creating a delightful base for your doughnuts.

Step 3: Combine with Flour
Gradually add the all-purpose flour to the wet ingredients, carefully folding it in until just combined. Be cautious not to overmix, as this will help maintain that tender crumb you desire in your Cakey Pumpkin Doughnuts. The batter will become thick and cohesive, ready to be transformed into delightful treats.

Step 4: Fill the Pans
Using a spoon or piping bag, fill each well of the doughnut pans about three-quarters full, ensuring each one gets around 1/4 cup of batter. This will allow enough space for the doughnuts to rise beautifully without overflowing during the baking process. Your doughnut pans should be lined up, ready for the oven!

Step 5: Bake
Place the filled doughnut pans in the preheated oven and bake for 15 to 18 minutes. To check for doneness, insert a toothpick into the center of a doughnut; it should come out clean or with a few moist crumbs. The doughnuts will turn a lovely golden brown, beckoning you to take them out.

Step 6: Cool the Doughnuts
After baking, allow the doughnuts to cool in the pans for about 5 minutes. This resting period makes them easier to remove without breaking. Carefully invert the pans onto a wire rack, gently releasing each Cakey Pumpkin Doughnut from its mold as you transfer them to cool completely.

Step 7: Coat in Cinnamon Sugar
While the doughnuts are still warm, place a mixture of cinnamon and sugar in a shallow bowl. Gently toss each doughnut in the cinnamon sugar until they are coated evenly. This step adds a delicious crunch and enhances the already mouthwatering pumpkin flavor of your treats, making them even more inviting.

Storage Tips for Cakey Pumpkin Doughnuts

Room Temperature: Keep your Cakey Pumpkin Doughnuts in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days to maintain their delightful texture and flavor.
Fridge: If you prefer a longer shelf life, you can refrigerate them for up to a week, but be mindful that this might affect their moisture.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the cooled doughnuts for up to 3 months. Individually wrap them in plastic wrap and place in a zip-top bag to prevent freezer burn.
Reheating: To enjoy them warm, thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat in the oven at 350°F for about 5-10 minutes or until warmed through, bringing back their fresh-baked taste!

Expert Tips for Cakey Pumpkin Doughnuts

Don’t Overmix: Keep it gentle when combining the ingredients. Overmixing can lead to dense doughnuts instead of the light cakey texture you want.
Cinnamon Sugar Coating: Only coat the doughnuts that you plan to eat right away. This prevents sogginess and keeps them crispy!
Perfect Fill: Ensure you fill the doughnut pans only three-quarters full to allow room for rising without overflowing.
Storage Method: Store leftover Cakey Pumpkin Doughnuts in an airtight container at room temperature. Avoid wrapping them tightly to keep that lovely texture intact.
Mixing for Variations: If you plan to create different versions, like doughnut holes, be aware that baking time will need to be adjusted, usually around 7-8 minutes.
Spice It Up: Feel free to customize your spices! If you don’t have pumpkin pie spice, a mix of cinnamon, ginger, and nutmeg works wonderfully in these Cakey Pumpkin Doughnuts.

Make Ahead Options

These Cakey Pumpkin Doughnuts are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time during hectic mornings! You can prepare the batter up to 24 hours in advance by mixing the wet ingredients and flour together, then refrigerating it in an airtight container. This keeps the batter fresh and flavors meld well overnight. When you’re ready to bake, simply fill the doughnut pans and proceed with the baking instructions. To maintain the doughnuts’ delightful texture, coat only those you plan to enjoy the same day. With this make-ahead strategy, you’ll have warm, homemade treats at your fingertips, making your mornings cozy and stress-free!

What to Serve with Cakey Pumpkin Doughnuts

Warm up your autumn mornings with delightful treats that pair well with each moist and spiced bite of these doughnuts.

Maple Syrup Drizzle: A sweet, nutty drizzle that adds depth and compliments the pumpkin flavor beautifully—perfect for those who love a touch of decadence.
Coffee: A hot cup of coffee enhances the warm spices and balances the sweetness of the doughnuts, creating a cozy breakfast experience.
Apple Cider: Fresh, crisp apple cider brings a fruity contrast to the spices, making it an ideal refreshing companion for your baked pumpkin treats.
Whipped Cream: Light and fluffy, whipped cream brings creaminess that contrasts the cakey texture of the doughnuts, making each bite a little more indulgent.
Candied Pecans: These add a crunchy sweetness, echoing the fall flavors and providing a satisfying textural contrast to each soft bite of the doughnut.
Vanilla Ice Cream: For a fun dessert option, serving warm doughnuts topped with a scoop of vanilla ice cream makes an irresistible treat that’s sure to delight.
Caramel Sauce: Drizzling warm caramel on top creates a rich, gooey layer that pairs wonderfully with the moisture of the doughnuts.
Chai Tea: The spices in aromatic chai tea beautifully complement the flavors of pumpkin and cinnamon, adding a warm touch to your meal.
Pumpkin Spice Latte: For the ultimate fall experience, serve these doughnuts with a pumpkin spice latte for a treat that celebrates the season’s best flavors.

Cakey Pumpkin Doughnuts Variations & Substitutions

Feel free to get creative with these doughnuts and tailor them to your taste buds!

Dairy-Free: Substitute milk with almond or oat milk to keep them vegan-friendly and flavorful.
Gluten-Free: Use a certified gluten-free flour mix for a deliciously safe alternative without sacrificing texture.
Chocolatey Kick: Add a couple of tablespoons of cocoa powder to the batter for a delightful chocolate twist that complements pumpkin beautifully.
Nuts & Crunch: Fold in chopped walnuts or pecans for added flavor and satisfying crunch in every bite.
Mini Treats: Make bite-sized doughnut holes by adjusting the baking time and savoring these adorable snacks for any occasion.
Spice It Up: Swap pumpkin pie spice with a mix of cinnamon, nutmeg, or even cardamom to explore different aromatic flavor profiles.
Sweet Swaps: Consider maple syrup instead of granulated sugar for a unique flavor that pairs wonderfully with the pumpkin base.

With these variations, you can transform your Cakey Pumpkin Doughnuts into a new favorite every time you bake! For more inspired recipes, don’t miss our Vanilla Pudding Pumpkin or delight in the cozy notes of our Chai Pumpkin Scones.

Cakey Pumpkin Doughnuts Recipe FAQs

How do I select the right pumpkin for my doughnuts?
Absolutely! For the best flavor, choose a pumpkin that’s vibrant and firm with a smooth rind. Look for pumpkins without blemishes or dark spots all over. Canned pumpkin can also work well, but choose one that’s 100% pumpkin without added sugars or spices for a better result.

How should I store my leftovers?
Very! After baking, allow your Cakey Pumpkin Doughnuts to cool completely, then store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. Just be careful not to wrap them too tightly, as this can lead to a loss of that lovely cakey texture you want to savor.

Can I freeze Cakey Pumpkin Doughnuts?
Certainly! To freeze, let the doughnuts cool entirely, then individually wrap them in plastic wrap to prevent freezer burn, and place them in a zip-top bag. They can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. Just remember to thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat in the oven for that fresh-baked taste.

What can I do if my doughnuts are too dense?
If you find that your Cakey Pumpkin Doughnuts turned out dense, it may have been due to overmixing the batter. Always fold in the flour just until combined to keep them light and airy. Also, ensure your baking powder is fresh, as expired leavening can affect the rise.

Are there any allergy considerations for this recipe?
Absolutely! For gluten-free needs, simply substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend. If anyone has egg allergies, you can opt for flax eggs (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 2.5 tablespoons water for each egg) as a great vegan alternative! Always check labels on canned ingredients for potential allergens.

What’s the best way to reheat leftover doughnuts?
To reheat, place your doughnuts in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 5-10 minutes until warmed through. This method helps restore their delightful cakey texture, almost making them feel fresh out of the oven! Enjoy your cozy treat!