Name: Delicious Pumpkin Donuts: Fall's Ultimate Comfort Food
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 155 min
Ingredients: ½ cup Milk (warm; almond milk can be used for dairy-free version.); 1½ teaspoons Active Dry Yeast (or substitute with instant yeast.); 3¼ cups All-Purpose Flour (fluff, spoon, and level for accurate measurement.); ⅓ cup Granulated Sugar; ½ teaspoon Salt; ½ teaspoon Pumpkin Spice; ⅔ cup Pumpkin Puree (avoid pumpkin pie filling.); 1 large Egg; 3 tablespoons Unsalted Butter (softened; can swap with coconut oil.); ¾ teaspoon Ground Cinnamon (for sugar.); 4 ounces Cream Cheese (softened; vegan cream cheese is a substitute.); 1 cup Powdered Sugar (consider sugar substitutes for low-sugar.); 1 cup Heavy Cream (cold; coconut cream as a lighter alternative.)

As I stood in my kitchen surrounded by the warm spices of fall, the aroma of cinnamon and pumpkin began to dance in the air. This is the moment I knew it was time to whip up a batch of fluffy Pumpkin Donuts. These delightful treats are not only a quick way to celebrate the season but also an absolute crowd-pleaser at any gathering. Coated in a sweet cinnamon sugar dust, their charming pumpkin shape brings a festive spirit to the table. And for those craving an extra indulgence, I’ve included an irresistible spiced pumpkin cream filling that will take your taste buds on a cozy autumn adventure. Are you ready to roll up your sleeves and treat yourself to these homemade delights?

Why are Pumpkin Donuts a Must-Try?

Irresistible Flavor: The harmonious blend of warm spices and pumpkin makes each bite a taste of autumn bliss.

Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, even beginner bakers can whip these up in no time!

Unique Shape: Their charming pumpkin shape adds a festive touch, perfect for family gatherings or fall parties.

Delightful Filling: The spiced pumpkin cream filling elevates the donuts from ordinary to extraordinary, ensuring they’ll be the star of the dessert table.

Versatile Options: Whether you want to keep them classic or explore variations like filled donuts or healthier baked versions, these pumpkin donuts can cater to any craving!

Indulge with a warm cup of coffee or tea, or consider experimenting with different fillings for a unique twist!

Pumpkin Donut Ingredients

For the Dough

Milk (½ cup, warm) – Activates yeast and provides moisture; almond milk can be used for a dairy-free version.
Active Dry Yeast (1½ teaspoons) – Leavens the donuts, making them light and airy; substitute with instant yeast which doesn’t require activation.
All-Purpose Flour (3¼ cups) – Provides structure to the donuts; be sure to fluff, spoon, and level for accurate measurement.
Granulated Sugar (⅓ cup + ½ cup for cinnamon sugar) – Adds sweetness to the donuts; coconut sugar is a great healthier alternative.
Salt (½ teaspoon) – Enhances flavor and balances sweetness beautifully.
Pumpkin Spice (½ teaspoon + ½ teaspoon for filling) – Infuses that signature autumn flavor; feel free to use homemade spice blends.
Pumpkin Puree (⅔ cup) – Delivers moisture and a rich pumpkin flavor; avoid using pumpkin pie filling, as it contains added sugars and spices.
Egg (1 large) – Adds essential structure and richness to the dough.
Unsalted Butter (3 tablespoons, softened) – Adds richness; you can swap it with coconut oil for a dairy-free option.

For the Topping

Ground Cinnamon (¾ teaspoon for sugar) – Elevates the flavor; adjust according to your taste preference for sweetness.

For the Filling

Cream Cheese (4 ounces, softened) – Forms the creamy filling base; vegan cream cheese is a fantastic dairy-free substitute.
Powdered Sugar (1 cup) – Sweetens the filling; consider using a sugar substitute for a low-sugar version.
Heavy Cream (1 cup, cold) – Used to make the filling fluffier; coconut cream can be a lighter alternative.

Each of these ingredients plays a crucial role in crafting mouthwatering pumpkin donuts that are perfect for celebrating fall!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Pumpkin Donuts

Step 1: Activate the Yeast
Begin by warming ½ cup of milk until it’s just warm to the touch, about 100°F. Sprinkle 1½ teaspoons of active dry yeast over the surface of the milk and let it sit for 3-5 minutes until frothy. This process ensures the yeast is alive and ready to help your pumpkin donuts rise.

Step 2: Prepare Dough
In a large mixing bowl, combine 3¼ cups of all-purpose flour, ⅓ cup of granulated sugar, ½ teaspoon of salt, and ½ teaspoon of pumpkin spice. After the yeast is activated, pour the mixture into the flour blend along with ⅔ cup of pumpkin puree and 1 large egg. Mix until a shaggy dough forms, then knead for about 5 minutes until smooth and elastic.

Step 3: Incorporate Butter
Next, knead in 3 tablespoons of softened unsalted butter until fully absorbed into the dough. This step is crucial for enriching the pumpkin donuts, giving them that fluffy texture. After incorporating the butter, the dough should be soft and slightly sticky, perfect for rising.

Step 4: First Proof
Transfer the dough to a greased bowl, cover it with a clean kitchen towel, and place it in a warm location. Allow the dough to rise until doubled in size, about 45 minutes to 1 hour. You’ll know it’s ready when it lightly springs back when pressed.

Step 5: Shape Donuts
Once risen, punch down the dough to release trapped air. Divide the dough into 12 equal pieces, rolling each into a smooth ball. You can either keep them as balls or craft them into charming pumpkin shapes using twine, which adds a festive flair to your homemade pumpkin donuts.

Step 6: Second Proof
Place the shaped donuts on a parchment-lined baking sheet, spaced apart. Cover them lightly with a towel again and let them rise until nearly doubled, about another 45 minutes to 1 hour. They should feel puffy and airy when done.

Step 7: Prepare Cinnamon Sugar
While the donuts are rising, mix ½ cup of granulated sugar with ¾ teaspoon of ground cinnamon in a shallow dish. This cinnamon sugar coating is what will make your pumpkin donuts irresistibly sweet and aromatic once they are fried.

Step 8: Make Filling
In a mixing bowl, beat together 4 ounces of softened cream cheese, ⅔ cup of pumpkin puree, and ½ teaspoon of pumpkin spice until smooth. Gradually add 1 cup of powdered sugar, mixing well before folding in 1 cup of cold heavy cream until stiff peaks form. This spiced pumpkin cream filling will add a decadent touch to your donuts.

Step 9: Fry Donuts
Heat oil in a deep pot or fryer to 325°F. Carefully drop in the donuts, frying them for about 2-3 minutes per side until they turn a lovely golden brown. Use a slotted spoon to remove them, allowing excess oil to drain away before placing them on a paper towel-lined plate.

Step 10: Coat
Once the donuts are slightly cooled, roll each one in the prepared cinnamon sugar until completely coated. To fill the warm pumpkin donuts, carefully hollow out a small section from the side and pipe in the luscious spiced pumpkin cream filling for the perfect seasonal treat.

How to Store and Freeze Pumpkin Donuts

Room Temperature: Store filled pumpkin donuts in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days to maintain their delightful fluffiness.

Fridge: If you prefer a longer shelf life, you can refrigerate the donuts for up to a week. Just ensure they are wrapped tightly to prevent drying out.

Freezer: Unfilled pumpkin donuts can be frozen for up to 2 months. Place them in a single layer in a freezer-safe bag or container to avoid sticking.

Reheating: To enjoy your frozen donuts, simply thaw them at room temperature for a few hours, then warm in the oven at 350°F for 5-10 minutes before serving for a freshly-baked taste!

What to Serve with Fluffy Pumpkin Spice Donuts?

Warm your heart and home with delightful pairings that elevate the experience of these fluffy pumpkin spice donuts.

Creamy Mashed Potatoes: The buttery richness of creamy mashed potatoes offers a comforting balance to the sweet spices of the donuts. Their smooth texture is the perfect contrast.
Spiced Apple Cider: A warm cup of spiced apple cider complements the pumpkin flavors perfectly, enveloping you in fall’s cozy embrace with every sip.
Harvest Salad: Tossed greens adorned with cranberries and walnuts provide a refreshing crunch that contrasts beautifully with the soft donuts, enhancing your meal with vibrant flavors.
Maple Glazed Carrots: The natural sweetness and earthy flavors of maple glazed carrots bring a delightful harmony to your pumpkin donuts, creating a wholesome autumn meal.
Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream pairs beautifully with the spiced filling, offering a delightful chill that enhances the warm flavors of the donuts.
Chai Tea: The aromatic spices in chai tea mirror the pumpkin spice beautifully, making it a fragrant beverage to sip alongside your indulgent treats.

Enjoy these pairings for a truly cozy and festive experience that celebrates the flavors of fall!

Make Ahead Options

These Pumpkin Donuts are a fantastic choice for meal prep, saving you precious time during busy fall days! You can prep the dough and let it rise up to 24 hours in advance; simply cover it tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate. If you prefer, shape the donuts and let them proof in the fridge for the same time frame. When you’re ready to enjoy, just take them out to come to room temperature, then fry them as usual. For the cream filling, you can prepare that up to 3 days ahead of time; store it in an airtight container in the fridge. This way, you have all the elements ready, and your homemade Pumpkin Donuts will be just as delicious, making your busy mornings feel like a treat!

Expert Tips for Perfect Pumpkin Donuts

Monitor Dough Consistency: Always check the dough texture; if it’s too sticky, add flour gradually until it becomes smooth and manageable.

Fry at Right Temperature: Use a thermometer to maintain oil at 325°F for even cooking; donuts can absorb too much oil if the temperature is too low.

Avoid Over-Whipping: When preparing the spiced pumpkin cream filling, be cautious not to over-whip the heavy cream to prevent it from separating—we want it fluffy but stable.

Double-proof for Fluffiness: Allow both rising stages, as this creates those wonderful, fluffy pumpkin donuts that melt in your mouth.

Experiment with Flavors: Feel free to add extra spices or flavorings to the donuts or filling; a pinch of nutmeg or ginger can enhance your pumpkin donuts experience!

Pumpkin Donuts: Creative Variations

Feel free to explore these tasty twists and substitutions to make your pumpkin donuts uniquely yours!

Dairy-Free: Substitute almond or coconut milk and vegan cream cheese for a completely dairy-free treat.
Baked Version: For a healthier option, bake the donuts at 375°F for about 10-12 minutes instead of frying. They’ll still be delicious!
Flavor Fusion: Try adding chocolate or caramel filling for a delightful surprise within your donuts. Chocoholics will love this sweet twist!
Gluten-Free: Use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend in place of regular flour to make these pumpkin donuts suitable for those with gluten sensitivities.
Nutty Goodness: Incorporate chopped pecans or walnuts into the dough for added crunch and flavor. It adds a lovely texture that complements the spices.
Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the dough for a subtle heat that contrasts nicely with the sweetness of the pumpkin and sugar.
Seasonal Sprinkles: Top your donuts with festive fall-themed sprinkles for a fun and colorful presentation at gatherings. They look as good as they taste!
Caramel Drizzle: Drizzle warm caramel sauce over your donuts before adding the cinnamon sugar for an indulgent finish that elevates the dish to a new level.

Are you ready to shake things up? Enjoy experimenting with your pumpkin donuts, and don’t forget to consider serving them alongside a warm cup of hot apple cider, which pairs beautifully for a quintessential fall experience!

Pumpkin Donuts Recipe FAQs

What type of pumpkin should I use for the recipe?
Absolutely! Use pure pumpkin puree, as it provides the moisture and flavor essential for yummy pumpkin donuts. Avoid canned pumpkin pie filling, which contains sugars and spices not ideal for this recipe. Fresh pumpkin can also be used; just bake and puree it for the best results!

How should I store leftover pumpkin donuts?
Store filled pumpkin donuts in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you want them to last longer, refrigerate them for up to a week. Just make sure they’re tightly wrapped to retain their deliciousness!

Can I freeze pumpkin donuts?
Yes, you can! To freeze unfilled pumpkin donuts, place them in a single layer in a freezer-safe bag or container. They’ll stay fresh for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy them, thaw them at room temperature and warm them in the oven at 350°F for about 5-10 minutes, and they’ll taste like they just came out of the fryer!

What if my dough is too sticky?
No worries! If your dough feels too sticky while mixing, gradually add a little more flour, about a tablespoon at a time, until it’s smooth and manageable. Keep an eye on the texture; we want it soft but not overly tacky!

Are these donuts suitable for people with allergies?
Always check the ingredient labels to ensure safety. For dairy allergies, swap regular milk and butter for almond milk and coconut oil. If you’re using a commercial cream cheese, opt for vegan cream cheese to keep it dairy-free. Additionally, ensure that no other allergens, such as gluten, are present in the ingredients.

Can I bake these pumpkin donuts instead of frying?
Very much! If you’re aiming for a healthier option, you can bake the donuts at 350°F for approximately 15-20 minutes. Just keep an eye on them; they’ll be done when a toothpick inserted comes out clean. Enjoy your lighter pumpkin treats!