Baked Pumpkin Donuts with Maple Glaze Recipe

If you’re looking for a cozy treat that captures the essence of fall in every bite, these Baked Pumpkin Donuts with Maple Glaze are exactly what you need. They bring together the warm spices of pumpkin pie with the comforting sweetness of maple syrup, all in a light, fluffy, and baked donut that’s a little less indulgent but just as satisfying as their fried counterparts. These donuts are perfect for sharing over a cup of coffee or impressing guests at your next brunch. Get ready to fall in love with the perfect balance of tender cake and luscious glaze in this irresistible recipe.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering simple, wholesome ingredients is the secret to these donuts’ magic. Each one plays a vital role, whether it’s boosting the flavor, enhancing texture, or bringing that beautiful golden color that makes pumpkin donuts so inviting.

• 2 cups all-purpose flour: The foundation that gives structure and a tender crumb to your donuts.
• 1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder: Helps the donuts rise light and fluffy without heaviness.
• 1 1/2 teaspoons pumpkin pie spice: A perfect blend of cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves that infuses warm, seasonal flavor.
• 3/4 teaspoon kosher salt: Balances sweetness and brightens all the other flavors.
• 1/4 teaspoon baking soda: Works alongside baking powder to keep the donuts airy and light.
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter (melted): Adds richness and moisture while helping to bind ingredients.
• 1 cup light brown sugar (packed): Offers caramel notes that deepen the overall taste and keeps the texture soft.
• 2 large eggs: Bring moisture, structure, and help to incorporate air for softness.
• 1 cup canned pumpkin puree: The star ingredient, supplying that classic pumpkin flavor and natural moistness.
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract: Amplifies the sweetness and rounds out the spices beautifully.
• 3/4 cup maple syrup: Used in the glaze, it contributes a silky sweetness and authentic fall flavor.
• 1 1/2 tablespoons unsalted butter (for glaze): Enriches the maple glaze with a smooth, luscious texture.
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (for glaze): Adds depth and a hint of warmth to the glaze.
• 1/4 teaspoon kosher salt (for glaze): Enhances all the flavors and prevents the glaze from being overwhelmingly sweet.
• 1/4 cup confectioners’ sugar: Helps thicken the glaze and gives it that perfect coating consistency.

How to Make Baked Pumpkin Donuts with Maple Glaze

Step 1: Prep and Mix Dry Ingredients

Start by preheating your oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit and greasing your donut pan with nonstick spray to ensure your donuts come out perfectly formed. Then, in a large bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, pumpkin pie spice, salt, and baking soda. This blend of dry ingredients will infuse every bite with spice and lift the donuts as they bake.

Step 2: Cream Butter and Sugar

Using an electric mixer with a paddle attachment makes this step a breeze. Beat the melted butter and light brown sugar on medium-high speed until they’re well combined and slightly fluffy—about 1 to 2 minutes. This step is key for a tender, moist donut texture that isn’t too dense.

Step 3: Add Eggs, Pumpkin, and Vanilla

Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition to incorporate air and create a smooth batter. Mix in the pumpkin puree and vanilla extract until just combined, being careful not to overmix. This is when the batter starts to come alive with that iconic pumpkin flavor and velvety richness.

Step 4: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients

Gradually add the flour mixture to the wet ingredients on low speed. You want everything just combined to keep the batter light and fluffy. Overmixing at this stage can lead to tougher donuts, so patience pays off.

Step 5: Bake the Donuts

Evenly scoop the batter into your prepared donut pan, filling each cavity about three-quarters full. Pop them into the oven and bake for 10 to 12 minutes or until the donuts are slightly browned on the edges and bounce back when gently pressed. This quick bake results in donuts that are tender and full of pumpkin spice goodness.

Step 6: Make the Maple Glaze

While the donuts cool, it’s time to prepare your decadent glaze. Heat the maple syrup in a small saucepan over medium heat until it reduces by half, concentrating its flavors. Whisk in butter, vanilla, and salt until smooth. Finally, stir in the confectioners’ sugar to create a silky glaze that sets beautifully atop each donut.

Step 7: Glaze and Cool

Once the donuts have cooled for about 10 minutes—just warm enough to soak up flavor but not so hot the glaze slides off—dip the tops into the maple glaze. Let them sit until the glaze sets, which creates that irresistible glossy finish that makes these Baked Pumpkin Donuts with Maple Glaze the star of any table.

How to Serve Baked Pumpkin Donuts with Maple Glaze

Garnishes

For an extra special touch, sprinkle chopped toasted pecans or a light dusting of cinnamon sugar on top of the glaze. The crunch contrasts beautifully with the soft donut, and the spice lift complements the inherent pumpkin flavor. A few pumpkin seeds can also add a fun, nutty twist.

Side Dishes

These donuts pair magically with hot beverages like spiced chai, dark roast coffee, or creamy lattes, making them perfect for cozy mornings or afternoon treats. Fresh fruit such as sliced apples or berries adds a refreshing brightness, balancing the rich sweetness of the donuts.

Creative Ways to Present

If you’re sharing these delights with guests, arrange your Baked Pumpkin Donuts with Maple Glaze on a rustic wooden platter with a drizzle of extra maple syrup and small bowls of toppings like whipped cream or chopped nuts. You could even stack them for a donut tower centerpiece that everyone will rave about.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover donuts keep wonderfully in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. If you want to preserve the glaze’s shine and texture, store the donuts without glazing and glaze them fresh before serving.

Freezing

For longer storage, freeze unglazed donuts individually wrapped in plastic wrap and placed in a freezer-safe bag. They maintain their flavor and texture for up to 3 months. When it’s time for a treat, just thaw overnight and add your fresh maple glaze.

Reheating

To bring your donuts back to life, gently warm them in the microwave for 15 to 20 seconds or in a warm oven at 325 degrees for about 5 minutes. This revives their soft texture without drying them out. Add glaze right after reheating for that fresh-from-the-bakery feel.

FAQs

Can I use fresh pumpkin instead of canned pumpkin puree?

Fresh pumpkin can be used, but be sure to roast, puree, and drain excess moisture before measuring to avoid a watery batter. Canned pumpkin puree provides consistent moisture and texture, making it the easiest choice for this recipe.

Are these donuts gluten-free?

Not as written, since they require all-purpose flour. However, you can try substituting a gluten-free flour blend, but results may vary slightly in texture. Adding a binder like xanthan gum may help achieve the right consistency.

Can I make the glaze without maple syrup?

The maple syrup glaze is a signature part of this recipe, adding unique flavor and sweetness. If needed, you could try a simple powdered sugar glaze with vanilla or honey, but it won’t have the same rich depth.

How can I prevent the glaze from being too runny or too thick?

Heating the maple syrup until reduced helps concentrate flavor and thickness. If the glaze is too runny, add more confectioners’ sugar gradually. If too thick, add a small splash of warm water or maple syrup to loosen it.

Can these donuts be made vegan?

To create vegan versions, substitute eggs with flax eggs or applesauce, replace butter with plant-based margarine, and ensure your sugar is vegan-friendly. The maple glaze can be made vegan by using vegan butter or coconut oil in place of butter.

Final Thoughts

There’s something truly special about the cozy comfort packed into these Baked Pumpkin Donuts with Maple Glaze. Whether you’re baking for yourself, a loved one, or a crowd, their tender crumb, warm spices, and luscious glaze deliver that perfect autumn moment with each bite. I hope this recipe inspires you to bring a little extra joy and sweetness to your day—go ahead, bake a batch, and savor the season!

Print