Oh, pumpkin spice donuts! These delightful treats are like a warm hug for your taste buds and a brilliant way to celebrate the fall season. Every time autumn rolls around, my kitchen gets flooded with the comforting scents of cinnamon, nutmeg, and of course, pumpkin. I can still remember the first time I made these donuts – it was during a chilly October afternoon, and my friends came over for a cozy gathering. The moment these beauties came out of the oven, the joy in the room was palpable! Everyone’s eyes lit up, and we devoured the entire batch within minutes.
What I love most about pumpkin spice donuts is their delightful combination of flavors and texture – they’re fluffy, soft, and oh-so-satisfying. Plus, they’re baked, not fried, so we can indulge without the guilt (well, sort of). So, whether you’re looking to impress at a fall brunch or simply want to enjoy a cozy snack with your pumpkin spice latte, these donuts are sure to become a favorite!
What’s in Pumpkin Spice Donuts?
Pumpkin Puree: The star of the show! I like to use canned pumpkin puree for its convenience and consistent flavor, but you can also roast and puree your own pumpkin for an extra touch of freshness.
All-Purpose Flour: This is the foundation of the donut batter. I typically go for unbleached all-purpose flour for its superior flavor profile, but any all-purpose flour will do the trick.
Brown Sugar: Adding a deep caramel sweetness, I opt for light brown sugar here to complement the spices without overpowering the pumpkin.
Baking Powder and Baking Soda: These are key for ensuring our donuts rise beautifully and have that fluffy, airy texture.
Cinnamon, Nutmeg, and Cloves: A trio of spices that screams fall! I love to fresh-grate my own nutmeg and use high-quality spices for an aromatic experience that really elevates the donuts.
Eggs: They help bind everything together while adding richness and moisture. I usually go for large eggs.
Milk: I prefer whole milk for its creaminess, but any milk will work – almond milk is a great dairy-free alternative!
Butter: A splash of melted butter adds that rich, indulgent flavor we’re all fond of. If you want to keep things a bit lighter, you can substitute it with coconut oil.
Is Pumpkin Spice Donuts Good for You?
Well, let’s be honest, they’re donuts, so they’re definitely a treat! However, there are some lovely aspects to them:
Pumpkin Puree: It’s packed with vitamins A and C, fiber, and antioxidants. While it won’t turn these donuts into a health food, it does provide some beneficial nutrients!
Spices: The spices used in these donuts have health benefits too. Cinnamon can help regulate blood sugar levels, and nutmeg is known for its digestive aid properties.
On the flip side, they do contain sugar and fats, so I’d recommend enjoying them as an occasional indulgence. After all, everything in moderation, right?
Ingredients List:
– 1 cup canned pumpkin puree (not pumpkin pie filling)
– 1 ½ cups all