As autumn leaves begin to paint the world in shades of amber and gold,there’s one beloved flavor that signals the start of cozy,crisp days: pumpkin spice. Now, imagine that warm, comforting essence transformed into a delightfully tender, baked cake donut-moist, fluffy, and perfectly spiced. In this article, we’re pulling back the curtain on an irresistible pumpkin spice baked cake donuts recipe that promises to fill your kitchen with the nostalgic aroma of fall and satisfy your sweet tooth without the guilt of frying. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or a curious newbie, get ready to discover a treat that’s as easy to make as it is impossible to resist.
Irresistible Pumpkin Spice Baked Cake Donuts Recipe Reveal invites you into an aromatic world where velvety pumpkin blends harmoniously with warm, cozy spices. This recipe brings to life soft, moist donuts that perfectly capture the essence of fall with every bite. Inspired by traditional cake donuts and infused with a luscious pumpkin spice twist, these baked delights are an absolute game-changer for your autumn baking repertoire.
Prep and Cook Time
- Preparation: 15 minutes
- Baking: 12 minutes
- Total: 27 minutes
Yield
Yields 12 perfectly sized pumpkin spice baked cake donuts.
Difficulty Level
Easy – Perfect for beginner and intermediate bakers looking to elevate their seasonal baking.
Ingredients
- 1 ¾ cups all-purpose flour, sifted
- 1 tsp baking powder
- ½ tsp baking soda
- 1 tsp pumpkin pie spice (blend of cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and cloves)
- ½ tsp ground cinnamon
- ¼ tsp salt
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- ½ cup light brown sugar, packed
- 1 cup pure canned pumpkin puree
- 2 large eggs, at room temperature
- ½ cup buttermilk, at room temperature
- 2 tsp pure vanilla extract
- 4 tbsp unsalted butter, melted and cooled
- ½ cup granulated sugar (for coating)
- 1 tbsp ground cinnamon (for coating)
- 3 tbsp unsalted butter, melted (for coating)
Step by Step Guide to Perfectly Soft and Moist Pumpkin Spice Donuts
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a donut pan thoroughly or use a baking spray to avoid sticking.
- In a large bowl, whisk together sifted flour, baking powder, baking soda, pumpkin pie spice, cinnamon, and salt until evenly combined.This ensures every bite is perfectly spiced.
- In a separate bowl, whisk the granulated sugar, brown sugar, pumpkin puree, eggs, buttermilk, vanilla extract, and melted butter. Mix until the wet ingredients form a smooth, cohesive batter.
- Gently fold the dry ingredients into the wet mix using a spatula,careful not to overmix. The batter shoudl be thick but smooth, maintaining airiness for a soft crumb.
- Fill each donut cavity about ¾ full with batter using a piping bag for precision and minimal mess.
- Bake for 10-12 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean. The donuts will spring back lightly when pressed.
- Allow donuts to cool in the pan for 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack while still warm.
- Prepare your cinnamon sugar coating: Combine granulated sugar and cinnamon in a shallow bowl. Brush each warm donut with melted butter, then evenly coat them in the cinnamon sugar mixture, rolling gently to cover all sides.
Essential Tips for achieving the Ideal Cinnamon Sugar Coating
For a dazzling glaze-like finish without the mess, use warm donuts and warm melted butter to ensure the cinnamon sugar adheres perfectly. Use a shallow dish just wide enough to swirl the donuts for full, even coverage.If you want an extra layer of texture, toast the sugar and cinnamon mixture lightly in a dry skillet before coating-it will impart a nutty, caramelized aroma that deepens your pumpkin spice flavor fusion.
chef’s Notes & Tips for Success
- Ingredient swaps: Substitute buttermilk with whole milk plus 1 tbsp of lemon juice or white vinegar to maintain moisture.
- Spice adjustment: Intensify the pumpkin spice by adding a pinch of freshly grated nutmeg or replacing cinnamon with a smoked cinnamon for a unique twist.
- make-ahead: Prepare batter and refrigerate for up to 24 hours for enhanced flavor development; bring to room temperature before baking.
- Texture tip: Avoid overmixing the batter to keep donuts light and tender.
- Storage: Store in an airtight container at room temperature for 2 days or refrigerate up to 5 days.
Creative Serving Suggestions to Turn Your Pumpkin Spice Donuts Into a Festive Treat
Transform your pumpkin spice baked cake donuts into a seasonal showstopper with these ideas:
- Stack donuts on a rustic wooden board, dust lightly with powdered sugar, and garnish with cinnamon sticks and mini pumpkins for a centerpiece.
- Serve warm alongside a spiced latte or hot apple cider for a perfect morning indulgence.
- drizzle with a maple glaze or warm caramel sauce to upgrade sweetness and texture contrast.
- Top with whipped cream and crushed candied pecans for an autumn-inspired dessert.
- Pair with sharp cheddar cheese slices to balance sweetness with savory richness, a classic pumpkin pairing.
| Nutrient | Per donut |
|---|---|
| Calories | 180 kcal |
| protein | 3g |
| Carbohydrates | 27g |
| Fat | 7g |

Discover fresh seasonal recipes like this best pumpkin dessert collection for more cozy inspiration. For an in-depth guide to baking chemistry behind moist baked donuts, visit King Arthur Baking-a highly trusted authority in baking science.
Q&A
Q&A: irresistible Pumpkin Spice Baked Cake Donuts Recipe Reveal
Q1: what makes these pumpkin spice baked cake donuts so irresistible?
A1: It’s the perfect harmony of warm autumn spices-cinnamon,nutmeg,and cloves-blended into a tender,moist cake donut that’s baked,not fried. This means you get all the comforting flavors of pumpkin spice with a light, fluffy texture and none of the guilt from deep frying. Plus, the subtle sweetness and a hint of vanilla make every bite a cozy celebration of fall.
Q2: Why choose baked donuts over traditional fried ones?
A2: Baked donuts are a health-conscious alternative that still deliver on flavor and texture. They’re easier to make in large batches, less messy, and cook faster. Plus, baking preserves the pumpkin’s natural moisture and infuses the spices evenly, creating a soft, pillowy texture that’s just as scrumptious.
Q3: What ingredients are key to nailing this pumpkin spice flavor?
A3: Fresh pumpkin puree is the star, offering natural sweetness and moisture. The pumpkin pie spice blend-cinnamon, nutmeg, allspice, cloves, and ginger-brings warmth and complexity. don’t forget a pinch of salt to balance the flavors and a splash of vanilla extract to round it all out. Using cake flour instead of all-purpose flour also helps achieve that tender crumb.
Q4: How can I customize this recipe to suit dietary needs?
A4: Great question! For gluten-free, swap the cake flour with a gluten-free flour blend designed for baking. Vegans can substitute eggs with flax eggs (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 3 tablespoons water per egg) and choose plant-based milk. For a sugar tweak, try coconut sugar or maple syrup-but keep in mind the texture might shift slightly.
Q5: What’s the best way to enjoy these pumpkin spice donuts?
A5: Freshly baked, while still slightly warm, is unbeatable-perhaps with a light dusting of powdered sugar or a drizzle of maple glaze. They make the perfect breakfast treat alongside a cup of spiced latte or an afternoon snack with a chai tea. store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days, or freeze for longer freshness.
Q6: Any pro tips for baking the perfect pumpkin spice donuts?
A6: Absolutely! First, don’t overmix your batter; fold gently to keep those donuts tender. Use a non-stick donut pan greased lightly to ensure easy release. Bake just until a toothpick inserted comes out clean-overbaking can dry them out. Lastly, let them cool briefly before glazing or frosting to keep toppings from melting and running off.
Q7: Can I turn these baked cake donuts into a festive dessert?
A7: Definitely! Try topping them with cream cheese frosting infused with a touch of cinnamon or a sprinkle of crushed pecans for crunch. For a decadent twist, dip them in melted white chocolate or caramel sauce. these little delights can easily transform from simple snack to show-stopping dessert centerpiece for any autumn gathering.
Enjoy your baking adventure-these pumpkin spice baked cake donuts aren’t just a recipe, they’re a delicious slice of fall magic!
Final Thoughts
As the sweet aroma of cinnamon and nutmeg fades from your kitchen, the memory of these irresistible pumpkin spice baked cake donuts will linger long after the last crumb is gone. Whether enjoyed with a steaming cup of coffee or shared at a cozy autumn gathering, this recipe brings the essence of fall to life in every bite. Now that you have the secret to this perfectly spiced, tender treat, it’s time to roll up your sleeves, warm your oven, and let the comforting magic of pumpkin spice fill your home. Fall never tasted so delicious!

