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To make these delicious donuts, you need a few key ingredients: - 1 cup canned pumpkin puree - 1/2 cup granulated sugar - 1/4 cup brown sugar - 2 large eggs - 1/4 cup unsweetened applesauce - 1/4 cup milk (or non-dairy milk) - 2 cups all-purpose flour - 1 teaspoon baking powder - 1/2 teaspoon baking soda - 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon - 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg - 1/4 teaspoon ground ginger - 1/4 teaspoon salt - 1/4 cup melted butter (or vegan butter) - 1/2 cup granulated sugar (for coating) - 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon (for coating) Each of these ingredients plays a role in creating the perfect donut. The pumpkin puree adds moisture and flavor. The sugars give sweetness and help with browning. The eggs and applesauce act as binders. Some ingredients are essential, while others can be swapped out. If you want a healthier option, try using unsweetened applesauce instead of butter. This will lower the fat content. You can also replace all-purpose flour with gluten-free flour. Just make sure to check the blend for best results. Using fresh spices makes a big difference. Fresh ground cinnamon or nutmeg gives a stronger flavor. Try to avoid old spices that may lose their taste over time. This is key to making your donuts truly special. First, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease your donut pan with cooking spray or oil. This step keeps the donuts from sticking. Next, gather your wet ingredients. In a large bowl, mix 1 cup of pumpkin puree, 1/2 cup of granulated sugar, 1/4 cup of brown sugar, 2 large eggs, 1/4 cup of unsweetened applesauce, and 1/4 cup of milk. Blend until smooth. This mix adds flavor and moisture to your donuts. In another bowl, whisk together your dry ingredients. Use 2 cups of all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon of baking powder, 1/2 teaspoon of baking soda, 1 teaspoon of ground cinnamon, 1/2 teaspoon of ground nutmeg, 1/4 teaspoon of ground ginger, and 1/4 teaspoon of salt. Make sure to mix well to combine the spices with the flour. This ensures even flavor in each bite. Gradually add the dry mix to your wet ingredients. Stir until just combined. Then, pour in 1/4 cup of melted butter and mix until fully incorporated. Be careful not to overmix; this keeps your donuts light and fluffy. Using a piping bag or a ziplock bag, fill your donut pan wells about 2/3 full with batter. This gives the donuts space to rise without overflowing. Bake the donuts for 10 to 12 minutes. To check for doneness, insert a toothpick into the center. If it comes out clean, your donuts are ready. Once baked, let the donuts cool in the pan for about 5 minutes. After that, transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely. To make light and fluffy donuts, avoid overmixing. When you mix the wet and dry ingredients, do it gently. Stop mixing once you see no flour. Overmixing leads to dense donuts, and we want them airy. Mixing methods matter too. Use a spatula or wooden spoon. This helps keep air in the batter. If you use a mixer, go slow. Only mix until combined, not smooth. Want to make your donuts even better? Try adding chocolate chips or nuts! They add great texture and flavor. Mix in half a cup of chocolate chips or chopped nuts after blending the batter. You can also use flavored extracts. A splash of vanilla or almond extract boosts the taste. It adds a nice depth to your donuts. Just a teaspoon is enough for a big flavor change. {{image_2}} You can make these cinnamon sugar pumpkin donuts even more fun with different flavors. Here are two simple ideas: - Maple syrup or caramel drizzle: Drizzle some warm maple syrup or caramel sauce on top of your donuts. This adds a sweet touch and makes them extra special. The flavors blend well with the pumpkin and spices. - Apple pie spice variation: If you love apple pie, try using apple pie spice in your batter. Replace the cinnamon and nutmeg with this mix. It gives a cozy and comforting taste, perfect for fall. You can also tailor these donuts to fit your diet. Here are some easy swaps: - Gluten-free options using alternative flours: Use a gluten-free flour blend instead of all-purpose flour. This way, you can enjoy the donuts without the gluten. Look for blends that contain rice flour or almond flour for best results. - Vegan modifications: For a vegan version, replace the eggs with flax eggs. Use non-dairy milk and vegan butter for a rich flavor. Applesauce is already in the recipe, so you’re good to go! These swaps keep the donuts just as soft and tasty. To keep your cinnamon sugar pumpkin donuts fresh, store them in an airtight container. This helps lock in moisture and flavor. You can also place a slice of bread in the container. The bread will absorb excess moisture and keep the donuts soft. If you want to freeze them, wrap each donut in plastic wrap. Then, place them in a freezer bag. They can stay fresh in the freezer for up to three months. To enjoy them again, just take a donut out and let it thaw at room temperature. You can also reheat them in the oven at 350°F for about 5-7 minutes. Cinnamon sugar pumpkin donuts can last about 3-4 days at room temperature. After that, they may start to lose their flavor and soft texture. Look for signs that your donuts have gone stale. If they feel hard or dry, it’s time to toss them. If they smell off or have mold, do not eat them. Always trust your senses when it comes to food safety. To make these donuts gluten-free, use a gluten-free flour blend. Look for blends with xanthan gum. You can also use almond flour or oat flour. If you try almond flour, you may need to adjust the liquid in your recipe. Yes, you can use fresh pumpkin. Start with a small pumpkin. Cut it in half and remove the seeds. Roast the halves until tender. Then, scoop out the flesh and blend it until smooth. This gives a fresh taste and nice texture. To prevent sticking, grease your pan well. Use cooking spray or a brush with oil. Make sure to coat every well in the pan. You can also dust the pan with a little flour after greasing. This adds extra protection. These donuts pair well with warm drinks. Try coffee, tea, or hot chocolate. For a fun twist, serve with vanilla ice cream. The cold ice cream contrasts nicely with the warm donuts. Yes, you can make these donuts healthier. Use less sugar by cutting the granulated sugar in half. You can replace butter with applesauce for less fat. Try using whole wheat flour for added fiber too. These swaps keep the flavor while making them better for you. Cinnamon sugar pumpkin donuts are tasty treats that anyone can make at home. We explored key ingredients, such as canned pumpkin and sugars, along with essential substitutes. The step-by-step process ensures perfect texture and flavor. Don't forget about variations and dietary adjustments to suit your needs. Proper storage methods keep them fresh longer. Enjoy your delicious donuts with friends or family. Whipping up this recipe is worth the effort! Dive into the joy of baking and make these treats today.

Cinnamon Sugar Pumpkin Donuts

Indulge in the delicious flavors of fall with these Cinnamon Sugar Pumpkin Donuts! This easy recipe combines canned pumpkin puree with warm spices for a delightful treat perfect for any occasion. Follow simple steps to create light and fluffy donuts that are rolled in a sweet cinnamon sugar coating. Ready to impress your taste buds? Click through to explore the full recipe and make your autumn snack extra special!
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Ingredients
  

1 cup canned pumpkin puree

1/2 cup granulated sugar

1/4 cup brown sugar

2 large eggs

1/4 cup unsweetened applesauce

1/4 cup milk (or non-dairy milk)

2 cups all-purpose flour

1 teaspoon baking powder

1/2 teaspoon baking soda

1 teaspoon ground cinnamon

1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg

1/4 teaspoon ground ginger

1/4 teaspoon salt

1/4 cup melted butter (or vegan butter)

1/2 cup granulated sugar (for coating)

2 teaspoons ground cinnamon (for coating)

Instructions
 

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a donut pan with cooking spray or oil.

    In a large mixing bowl, combine the pumpkin puree, granulated sugar, brown sugar, eggs, applesauce, and milk. Mix until smooth.

      In another bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and salt.

        Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring until just combined. Pour in the melted butter and mix until fully incorporated. Be careful not to overmix.

          Using a piping bag or a ziplock bag with the corner cut off, fill the donut pan wells about 2/3 full with the batter.

            Bake the donuts in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

              Allow the donuts to cool in the pan for about 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack.

                In a small bowl, mix together the granulated sugar and 2 teaspoons of cinnamon for coating.

                  While the donuts are still warm, brush them with a little melted butter and toss them in the cinnamon sugar mixture until fully coated.

                    Serve warm or at room temperature, and enjoy the taste of fall in every bite!

                      Prep Time: 15 minutes | Total Time: 30 minutes | Servings: 12 donuts