Fall Donut Recipes Baked

If you’re looking to embrace the flavors of fall, baked donut recipes can elevate your seasonal baking. You’ll find that using ingredients like pumpkin puree and apple cider not only enhances the taste but also makes these treats a bit healthier than their fried counterparts. Plus, the versatility in glazes and toppings allows you to personalize each batch to fit any occasion. As you explore these recipes, you might be surprised by how easy it is to create a cozy atmosphere with just a few simple ingredients. What’s the best way to get started?

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

When you try these baked donut recipes, you’ll quickly see why they’re a favorite among dessert lovers. First, their fast preparation saves you time, making them perfect for busy mornings. Plus, they’re a healthier choice compared to traditional fried donuts, so you can indulge without the guilt. You’ll love how moist and fluffy they turn out, ensuring every bite is delightful. The versatility of these donuts means you can customize them with various glazes and toppings, making them suitable for any occasion—breakfast, brunch, or dessert. Just remember, they’re easy to make, and a few simple tips, like avoiding overmixing and cooling before glazing, will make a big difference in your results. Additionally, using pumpkin puree in the recipe adds a rich flavor and nutritional benefits, enhancing your homemade treats. Enjoy creating your perfect donut!

History

Baked donuts have a rich history that dates back to early colonial days in the US, where apple cider donuts first emerged. Colonists used leftover apples and combined them with fried dough, creating a primitive version of these treats. They utilized stored animal fats for frying, which contributed to the early recipes.

Over time, apple cider was added to the batter for extra moisture and flavor, influenced by local orchards that developed unique family recipes. By the 1950s, the modern apple cider donut gained popularity, thanks to Downyflake stores. As people sought healthier options, baked donuts evolved, allowing for various fall flavors, like pumpkin and apple cider, making them easier to prepare and enjoy. Baked pumpkin donuts offer a fluffy, moist texture and can be ready in under 30 minutes, showcasing their convenience in today’s busy lifestyles.

Recipe

Fall Donut Recipes

As the leaves change color and the air turns crisp, there’s nothing quite like the comforting aroma of freshly baked donuts to celebrate the season. These fall-inspired donuts, whether they’re made with pumpkin puree, apple cider, or traditional old-fashioned flavors, are perfect for cozy mornings or festive gatherings. Each recipe not only showcases the warm spices and flavors of autumn but also provides a delightful treat that’s easy to make and share. In this collection of fall donut recipes, you’ll find a variety of options to satisfy your sweet tooth. Baked pumpkin donuts are soft, moist, and bursting with the flavors of pumpkin pie spice and their quick preparation and baking time make them a convenient choice for any occasion. For a classic touch, the baked old-fashioned donuts offer a rich and buttery flavor, while the apple cider donuts provide a unique twist with their frying method. Whichever recipe you choose, these donuts are sure to become a seasonal favorite.

Ingredients:

• Baked Pumpkin Donuts:
• 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
• 2 tsp baking powder
• 2 tsp pumpkin pie spice
• ½ tsp salt
• 2 large eggs
• ⅓ cup vegetable oil
• 1 cup sugar
• 1 cup pumpkin puree

• 1 tsp vanilla extract

• Baked Old-Fashioned Donuts:

• ¼ cup melted butter
• ¼ cup vegetable oil
• 1 cup sugar
• 2 large eggs
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• ½ cup whole wheat flour
• 2 tsp baking powder
• ½ tsp baking soda
• ½ tsp salt
• ½ tsp nutmeg

• 1 cup buttermilk

• Apple Cider Donuts:

• 2 cups apple cider
• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 tsp baking powder
• 1 tsp baking soda
• ½ tsp cinnamon
• ¼ tsp nutmeg
• ¼ tsp salt
• 2 large eggs
• ½ cup sugar
• ½ cup vegetable oil
• 1 cup powdered sugar (for glaze)

Cooking Instructions:

1. For Baked Pumpkin Donuts: Preheat your oven to 350°F (177°C). In a mixing bowl, combine the dry ingredients: all-purpose flour, baking powder, pumpkin pie spice, and salt.

2. In another bowl, whisk together the wet ingredients: eggs, vegetable oil, sugar, pumpkin puree, and vanilla extract until well blended.

3. Grease your donut pans lightly and fill each cavity about ¾ full with the batter. Bake in the preheated oven for 15 to 17 minutes until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Allow them to cool slightly before removing from the pans.

4. For Baked Old-Fashioned Donuts: In a large bowl, mix together the melted butter, oil, and sugar until well combined. Add the eggs and vanilla extract, mixing until smooth.

5. In another bowl, combine the dry ingredients: all-purpose flour, whole wheat flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and nutmeg.

6. Gradually add the dry mixture into the wet mixture, alternating with buttermilk, and stir until just combined. Pipe the batter into greased donut pans and bake at 350°F (177°C) for 10 to 12 minutes. Let cool before serving.

7. For Apple Cider Donuts: In a saucepan, boil 2 cups of apple cider until reduced to 1 cup, then set aside to cool.

8. In a mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt. In a separate bowl, mix the eggs, sugar, and vegetable oil, then add the cooled cider.

9. Gradually combine the wet and dry ingredients until just mixed. Heat vegetable oil in a deep fryer or heavy pot, and carefully drop spoonfuls of batter into the hot oil, frying until golden brown on both sides.

10. Remove and drain on paper towels, then glaze with a mixture of powdered sugar and a bit of apple cider.

Extra Tips:

When preparing donuts, it’s essential not to overmix the batter as this can lead to tough donuts. Confirm all your ingredients are at room temperature for better incorporation and consistency.

Lightly greasing your donut pans will help in easy removal after baking. Fill the pans to about ⅔ or ¾ full to confirm even baking and avoid overflow.

Finally, allow the donuts to cool slightly before glazing or coating, as this helps the glaze set better. Enjoy your delicious fall treats!

Final Thoughts

As you embrace the flavors of fall, baked donuts can be a delightful addition to your seasonal treats.

These soft, fluffy, and moist donuts are easy to make, requiring minimal ingredients and no mixer. You can explore various flavor combinations, like pumpkin with maple glaze or cinnamon sugar. Gluten-free options are also available for those with dietary restrictions, making these donuts accessible to everyone.

Don’t forget the fun of customization—add different glazes and toppings to suit your taste. Remember to use room temperature ingredients for the best batter and avoid overmixing to keep them light.

Bake until golden brown, and let them cool completely before glazing. Store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days.

Enjoy your homemade baked donuts with friends, family, or as a cozy treat during chilly autumn days!

FAQ

Wondering about the best ways to make your fall donuts? Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (177°C) and grease your donut pan lightly to prevent sticking.

Mix wet and dry ingredients separately, then combine them without overmixing. Fill the donut pan about 2/3 to 3/4 full using a piping bag or a zip-top bag. Bake for 10-17 minutes, depending on your recipe. Additionally, using sweet apple varieties like Gala or Cortland can enhance the flavor of your baked donuts.

After baking, let the donuts cool for 3-5 minutes before glazing. For flavors, consider using pumpkin puree, apple cider, and spices like cinnamon.

Experiment with toppings, such as cinnamon sugar or maple glaze. And don’t forget to add fruits or chocolate for a tasty twist! Enjoy your delicious fall creations!