If you’re looking for a scrumptious and cozy treat that’s perfect for fall, you’re in for a treat –Pumpkin Donuts!

pumpkin donuts and holes glazed and on a cooling rack

These donuts have a rich pumpkin flavor combined with a medley of spices like cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves creates awarm and comforting tastethat’s perfect for the fall season.

I love their soft and moist texture perfect for a breakfast treat or a dessert. Pumpkin donuts are a tasty way to celebrate the flavors of autumn and indulge in a sweet, cozy treat that’s sure to put a smile on your face.

aesthetic view of pumpkin donuts before and after being glazed

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Fall Flavor Explosion: Pumpkin donuts are like a taste of autumn in every bite. They’re made with pumpkin puree, which gives them a warm and comforting flavor, perfect for crisp fall mornings. Theseeasy apple cider donutsare great for fall too.
Sweet and Spicy:Pumpkin donuts are a sweet and spicy combination. They’re sweet because of the sugar, and they have a little spice from cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves, making them the ultimate flavor duo.
Fluffy and Moist: These donuts have a soft, cake-like texture that’s incredibly moist. That’s thanks to the pumpkin, which keeps them from being dry and makes them extra tasty.

Recipe Ingredients

Milk: Milk adds moisture and richness to the donut dough, helping create a soft texture.
Active dry yeast: Yeast is a leavening agent that makes the donuts rise and become fluffy.
Sugar: Sugar feeds the yeast, helping it activate and create carbon dioxide gas for the donuts’ airy texture.
All-purpose flour:Flour is the main ingredient in the dough, providing structure and body to the donuts.
Pumpkin puree: Pumpkin puree adds a delightful pumpkin flavor and moisture to the donuts.
Cinnamon: Cinnamon brings a warm and spicy flavor to the donuts, complementing the pumpkin.
Allspice:Allspice contributes a hint of sweetness and depth to the donuts’ spice profile.
Nutmeg: Nutmeg adds a nutty, aromatic flavor that pairs well with pumpkin.
Ground cloves: Ground cloves provide a subtle, earthy warmth to the donuts.
Oil for frying: Frying in oil gives the donuts a crispy exterior while keeping the inside soft and tender
Cinnamon sugar: Cinnamon sugar is a sweet and flavorful coating that gives the donuts a delicious, aromatic finish.

See the recipe card for full information on ingredients and quantities.

top view of a baking sheet with un coated pumpkin donuts

Popular Substitutions and Variations

You can get creative with toppings! Sprinkle powdered sugar, drizzle with a simple glaze, or dip them in melted chocolate for an extra special treat.

Another fun idea is instead of traditional donuts, you can make cutedonut holesusing the same pumpkin donut batter. Just roll them into small balls and bake until golden.

How To Make Pumpkin Donuts

Step #1.Warm the milk to 110°F and mix with yeast and 1 tsp sugar; let it froth for 5-10 minutes.

Step #2.In a large bowl, combine flour, 2 tbsp sugar, cinnamon, allspice, nutmeg, and cloves. Add pumpkin puree and yeast-milk mixture to dry ingredients; stir until a soft dough forms.

Step #3.Knead the dough for 1-2 minutes on a floured surface until smooth. Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover, and let it double in size (about 1 hour).

Step #4.Roll out the dough to ½ inch thickness and cut out donuts; let them rise for 30 minutes.

Step #5.Heat 3 inches of oil to 350°F in a pan. Fry the donuts for 2-3 minutes on each side until golden brown.

Step #6.Remove and drain on paper towels. Then coat warm donuts with cinnamon-sugar mixture. Enjoy your fresh pumpkin donuts!

Recipe FAQs

Can I bake pumpkin donuts instead of frying them?

Yes, you can! Baked donuts is a healthier alternative to frying. Just place your donuts on a baking sheet and bake in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-18 minutes or until they’re golden brown.

Can I make mini pumpkin donuts?

Of course! You can use mini donut pans to make adorable bite-sized pumpkin donuts. Adjust the baking time to about 8-10 minutes for mini donuts.

What type of oil is best for frying donuts?

The best oil for frying donuts is one with a high smoke point, like vegetable oil, canola oil, or peanut oil. These oils can withstand the high heat required for frying without breaking down or producing a burnt taste.

a baking sheet with un coated pumpkin donuts

Expert Tips

When you’re mixing the donut batter, be gentle.Overmixing can make your donuts tough instead of soft and fluffy.
I love using a paddle thermometer to ensure the oil temperature is where I want it when frying. It really helps to have the proper oil temperature for the best end results.
Let your pumpkin donuts cool completelybefore adding any glaze or toppings. This will help the glaze set properly and prevent it from sliding off.