Irresistible Pumpkin Donuts with Maple Glaze Treats

Discover the rich flavor of Pumpkin Donuts with Maple Glaze, perfect for fall treats that are soft, sweet, and utterly irresistible. This recipe combines the warm spices of pumpkin with a luscious maple glaze to create a bite-sized dessert that tastes like autumn in every mouthful. Whether you’re baking for a cozy morning coffee or a festive gathering, these donuts promise to become a seasonal favorite you’ll want to make again and again.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Seasonal Delight: The perfect way to enjoy the flavors of fall packed into every soft, moist donut.
• Simple Ingredients: Uses everyday pantry staples with a fun twist of pumpkin and spices.
• Easy to Make: No complicated steps—this recipe is straightforward for bakers of all levels.
• Versatile Treat: Great for breakfast, dessert, or a cozy snack anytime you crave something sweet.
• Beautiful Presentation: The shiny maple glaze creates an inviting look that’s almost too pretty to eat.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering simple but flavorful ingredients makes all the difference for creating these tender Pumpkin Donuts with Maple Glaze. Each component plays a key role, from adding richness and moisture to imparting that perfect autumnal color and spice balance.

• All-purpose flour: The base of the donut batter providing structure and a tender crumb.
• Pumpkin puree: Adds moisture, natural sweetness, and that warm pumpkin flavor we’ve all been craving.
• Baking powder and baking soda: Essential leavening agents that create light, fluffy donuts.
• Ground cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves: A classic spice blend to enhance the pumpkin’s cozy warmth.
• Sugar and brown sugar: Combine for sweetness and a slightly caramelized depth of flavor.
• Eggs: Help bind everything together and give the donuts structure.
• Milk: Balances the batter’s texture for softness without heaviness.
• Vegetable oil or melted butter: Adds richness and keeps the donuts moist.
• Pure maple syrup: The star in the glaze, giving a natural sweetness with a hint of earthiness.
• Powdered sugar: Creates the smooth texture of the glaze for drizzling over the donuts.

Variations for Pumpkin Donuts with Maple Glaze

This recipe is a fantastic base that invites customization. Feel free to swap ingredients to suit your dietary needs or enhance the flavor to your liking. Pumpkin Donuts with Maple Glaze are easy to personalize!

• Gluten-free flour blend: Swap the all-purpose flour to make these donuts gluten-free without sacrificing texture.
• Vegan substitute: Use flax eggs and a plant-based milk and butter alternative to make the recipe vegan-friendly.
• Spice boost: Add ground ginger or cardamom to the spice mix for a more complex and fragrant flavor.
• Maple Pecan topping: Sprinkle chopped toasted pecans on the glaze for extra crunch and a nutty twist.
• Chocolate drizzle: For a decadent alternative, add a drizzle of melted dark chocolate alongside the maple glaze.

How to Make Pumpkin Donuts with Maple Glaze

Step 1: Prepare Your Batter

In a large bowl, whisk together the dry ingredients—flour, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves, salt, and sugars. In a separate bowl, combine pumpkin puree, eggs, milk, and oil or melted butter until smooth. Gradually mix the wet ingredients into the dry until just combined for a thick, smooth batter.

Step 2: Fill the Donut Pan

Lightly grease your donut pan to prevent sticking. Spoon or pipe the batter evenly into the donut molds, filling each about three-quarters full to allow room for rising.

Step 3: Bake the Donuts

Place the pan in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) and bake for 12–15 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Remove the pan and let the donuts cool in the pan for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Step 4: Make the Maple Glaze

Whisk together powdered sugar and pure maple syrup until smooth and glossy. Adjust the consistency by adding a little milk if needed to drizzle easily but not run off completely.

Step 5: Glaze the Donuts

Dip the tops of cooled donuts into the maple glaze, allowing excess to drip off. Place them back on the wire rack and let the glaze set for about 15 minutes before serving.

Pro Tips for Making Pumpkin Donuts with Maple Glaze

• Use fresh pumpkin puree: For the best flavor and moisture, avoid canned pumpkin pie filling, which contains added spices and sweeteners.
• Don’t overmix the batter: Stir just until combined to keep the donuts fluffy and tender.
• Grease your pan well: Prevent donuts from sticking by brushing the pan with butter or using a non-stick spray.
• Glaze while donuts are cool: Warm donuts may melt the glaze too much, preventing a nice finish.
• Store properly: Keep donuts in an airtight container to maintain softness and flavor.

How to Serve Pumpkin Donuts with Maple Glaze

Garnishes

Enhance the look and taste by adding toasted pecans, a sprinkle of cinnamon, or a few edible autumn leaves made of fondant for seasonal flair.

Side Dishes

Pair these donuts with warm spiced cider, a cup of chai tea, or your favorite coffee to complement the sweet and spicy notes perfectly.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve stacked on a rustic wooden board or arrange on a pretty platter decorated with fresh pumpkins, gourds, and cinnamon sticks for a festive touch everyone will admire.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Keep leftover Pumpkin Donuts with Maple Glaze fresh by storing them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days or in the fridge for up to 4 days.

Freezing

Freeze cooled donuts individually on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag for up to 2 months. Thaw at room temperature when ready to enjoy.

Reheating

Warm donuts in the microwave for about 15 seconds or in a low-heat oven to bring back that just-baked softness before serving.

FAQs

Can I use canned pumpkin for this recipe?

Yes, plain canned pumpkin puree works well. Just avoid the pumpkin pie filling since it contains added sugar and spices that could alter the flavor balance.

Are these donuts baked or fried?

This recipe is for baked donuts, making them lighter and easier to prepare without oil frying, while still keeping that tender, moist texture.

Can I make the glaze thicker or thinner?

Absolutely! For a thicker glaze, use less liquid or add more powdered sugar. For a thinner consistency, add a tiny bit of milk or maple syrup until you reach the desired drizzle.

How do I prevent the donuts from sticking to the pan?

Generously grease or spray your donut pan before filling. You can also use a silicone donut mold which usually prevents sticking naturally.

Can I add nuts or chocolate chips to the batter?

Yes, folding in chopped nuts or chocolate chips adds great texture and flavor, making these Pumpkin Donuts with Maple Glaze even more indulgent.

Final Thoughts

There’s something truly comforting about biting into soft, spiced Pumpkin Donuts with Maple Glaze that instantly transports you to cooler days and cozy moments. Don’t hesitate to give this recipe a try—it’s a fantastic way to celebrate the season and bring joy, whether you’re baking for yourself or sharing with loved ones.

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