Glazed Pumpkin Spice Doughnuts

Cook Time: 15 minutes

Ingredients

This recipe was developed at its original yield. Ingredient amounts are automatically adjusted, but cooking times and steps remain unchanged. Note that not all recipes scale perfectly.

Original recipe (1X) yields 12 servings

Doughnuts:

• Nonstick cooking spray
• 2 large eggs, at room temperature
• cup pumpkin puree
• cup brown sugar
• cup white sugar
• cup unsalted butter, melted
• cup canola oil
• teaspoon pumpkin pie spice extract
• 1 cups all-purpose flour
• 2 teaspoons pumpkin pie spice
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• teaspoon baking soda
• teaspoon salt

Glaze:

• 2 cups powdered sugar
• cup milk, or more to taste
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• teaspoon salt

Directions

1. Preheat the oven to 350F (175C). Lightly spray a doughnut pan with non-stick cooking spray.
2. In a large bowl, combine the eggs, pumpkin puree, brown sugar, white sugar, melted butter, canola oil, and pumpkin pie spice extract. Mix until smooth and fully combined.
3. In a separate bowl, sift together the all-purpose flour, pumpkin pie spice, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
4. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and stir until the mixture is smooth and well combined.
5. Evenly distribute the doughnut batter among the 12 cavities of the doughnut pan. Use a wet finger to smooth out the tops of the doughnuts.
6. Bake in the preheated oven for 12 to 16 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
7. Remove the doughnuts from the pan and allow them to cool completely on a wire rack for at least 30 minutes.
8. While the doughnuts are cooling, prepare the glaze. In a bowl, combine the powdered sugar, milk, vanilla extract, and salt. Stir until smooth. If the glaze is too thick, add more milk, one tablespoon at a time, until you reach the desired consistency.
9. Once the doughnuts are cool, dip one side of each doughnut into the glaze. Place the glazed doughnuts on a rack over a cookie sheet to allow the glaze to set.

Nutrition Facts (per serving)

• Calories: 279
• Total Fat: 10g (12% Daily Value)
• Saturated Fat: 3g (16% Daily Value)
• Cholesterol: 42mg (14% Daily Value)
• Sodium: 257mg (11% Daily Value)
• Total Carbohydrate: 46g (17% Daily Value)
• Dietary Fiber: 1g (4% Daily Value)
• Total Sugars: 34g
• Protein: 3g (6% Daily Value)
• Vitamin C: 0mg (0% Daily Value)
• Calcium: 48mg (4% Daily Value)
• Iron: 1mg (6% Daily Value)
• Potassium: 50mg (1% Daily Value)

* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily values may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.

Note: Nutrient information is not available for all ingredients. Amounts are based on available nutrient data. If you are following a medically restrictive diet, please consult your doctor or registered dietitian before preparing this recipe for personal consumption.

These delicious glazed pumpkin spice doughnuts are the perfect treat for fall, combining the warmth of pumpkin and spices with a sweet, smooth glaze. Baked rather than fried, these doughnuts are a lighter alternative to traditional ones without sacrificing flavor.

History of Origin

The pumpkin spice doughnut has become a popular autumn treat, especially in North America, as part of the seasonal trend of incorporating pumpkin flavors into a wide variety of dishes. Pumpkin itself has been used in cooking for centuries, especially in Native American cuisines, but the fusion of pumpkin and spice became particularly popular during the 20th century. The combination of cinnamon, nutmeg, and other spices, often referred to as "pumpkin pie spice," gained mass popularity in the 1950s when it was introduced as a flavor in commercial products such as coffee and baked goods. The doughnut, a beloved American snack, was quickly adapted to include pumpkin spice, becoming a seasonal favorite as pumpkin-flavored food items surged in popularity each fall.

Regional Variations

While pumpkin spice doughnuts are primarily associated with the fall season in North America, different regions have put their own spin on this treat. In New England, where pumpkins are a major agricultural product, pumpkin spice doughnuts are a staple in autumn bakeries and local farm stands. In the Midwest, they are often served alongside apple cider during harvest festivals, creating a perfect seasonal pairing. On the West Coast, the trend has grown into an even broader range of pumpkin-inspired desserts, often featuring more contemporary twists like vegan or gluten-free versions.

Differences from Similar Dishes

Although pumpkin spice doughnuts share some similarities with other spiced cakes or doughnuts, what sets them apart is the distinct use of pumpkin puree in the batter, which adds moisture and a rich, earthy flavor. Unlike regular cinnamon or apple cider doughnuts, which are often deep-fried, these pumpkin spice doughnuts are baked, making them a slightly healthier alternative. Additionally, the glaze is flavored with pumpkin pie spice extract, enhancing the flavor with an extra layer of autumn warmth that typical doughnuts do not offer.

Where They Are Typically Served

Glazed pumpkin spice doughnuts are most commonly served at breakfast or as a snack during the fall months. They are a popular item at coffee shops, especially Starbucks, which introduced its famous pumpkin spice latte to complement pumpkin-flavored pastries. Additionally, they are often featured at local farmers' markets, fall fairs, and seasonal pop-up bakeries. These doughnuts are also frequently enjoyed at home during autumn gatherings or Halloween parties, where they add a festive touch to the occasion.

Interesting Facts

• The pumpkin spice trend has reached global heights, with people around the world enjoying this seasonal flavor in everything from candles to ice cream.
• While pumpkin spice itself is a mix of cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and cloves, the term "pumpkin spice" became popular after the success of flavored products like the pumpkin spice latte.
• Pumpkin doughnuts, unlike traditional fried doughnuts, are baked, which means they are lighter in texture and lower in calories, but still packed with flavor.
• The tradition of baking pumpkin-flavored goods dates back to the early days of American colonization when pumpkins were a staple ingredient for desserts due to their abundance and versatility.

FAQ about Glazed Pumpkin Spice Doughnuts