Name: Pumpkin Glazed Donuts with Crumb Topping
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 12 min
Total time: 32 min
Ingredients: 1 box Spice Cake Mix; 1 cup Canned Pumpkin Puree (Pure pumpkin, not pie filling); 2 large Eggs (At room temperature); 1/4 cup Melted Butter (Can substitute with vegetable oil); 1/2 cup Brown Sugar; 1/2 cup Flour (Whole wheat is a healthier option); 1 teaspoon Pumpkin Pie Spice (Cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger can substitute); 1/2 cup Quick Oats (Omit for a finer crumb); 1 cup Powdered Sugar (Can use sugar-free version); 2 tablespoons Milk (Almond or oat milk for dairy-free); 1 teaspoon Vanilla Extract (Optional)

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As the leaves begin to turn and the sweet scent of cinnamon fills the air, I can’t help but think of cozy mornings with a warm cup of coffee and a plate of homemade treats. That’s exactly where these Baked Pumpkin Glazed Donuts with Crumb Topping come into play. They’re a delightful union of moist pumpkin and a crispy, buttery crumb topping, making them the perfect remedy to the fast-food rush. Quick to whip up using just a spice cake mix, these donuts are also a wonderfully indulgent breakfast option or afternoon snack. Who can resist a treat that captures the essence of fall in every bite? Are you ready to savor these scrumptious delights?

Why Are Pumpkin Glazed Donuts Irresistible?

Warm, Spiced Aroma: The delightful scent of pumpkin and spices fills your kitchen, creating a cozy atmosphere that beckons everyone to come enjoy.
Easy to Make: With just a spice cake mix and canned pumpkin, these donuts simplify your baking experience without compromising on flavor.
Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a breakfast treat or a sweet snack during brunch, these donuts cater to any craving. Pair them with a cup of coffee or check out my Cajun Pasta with Sausage for a balanced meal!
Customizable Flavors: Feel free to play around with variations or different toppings to find your personal favorite.
Crowd-Pleasing Treat: Everyone loves donuts, and these are sure to put smiles on the faces of friends and family alike!

Pumpkin Glazed Donuts Ingredients

For the Donuts
• Spice Cake Mix – The base flavor and structure perfect for quick baking; feel free to use a vanilla mix with spice additions if needed.
• Canned Pumpkin Puree – Provides moisture and a subtle pumpkin flavor; remember, it should be pure pumpkin, not pie filling!
• Eggs – Needed for binding the ingredients; ensure they’re at room temperature for smooth incorporation.
• Melted Butter – Adds richness and flavor; swap with vegetable oil for a lighter donut.

For the Crumb Topping
• Brown Sugar – Delivers sweetness and a rich flavor; granulated sugar can be used, but you’ll lose some depth.
• Flour – Essential for that crumbly texture; try whole wheat for a healthier twist.
• Pumpkin Pie Spice – Infuses warm flavors that enhance our pumpkin donuts; cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger work as substitutes in a pinch.
• Quick Oats – Adds lovely texture to the topping; omit them if a finer crumb is desired.

For the Glaze
• Powdered Sugar – Sweetens the glaze beautifully; consider a sugar-free version for a lighter option.
• Milk – Helps achieve a smooth glaze; almond or oat milk can make it dairy-free.
• Vanilla Extract – Enhances the overall taste; you can skip it in a hurry.

Ready to bake these delightful Pumpkin Glazed Donuts with Crumb Topping? Let’s dive into the steps!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Pumpkin Glazed Donuts with Crumb Topping

Step 1: Prepare the Crumb Topping
In a medium bowl, combine brown sugar, flour, pumpkin pie spice, and quick oats. Pour in melted butter and mix with a fork until crumbly and well-combined. This crumb topping should have a sandy texture and clump together slightly. Set this bowl aside while you prepare the donut batter, as it will add a delightful crunch to the Pumpkin Glazed Donuts.

Step 2: Make the Donut Batter
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the spice cake mix, canned pumpkin puree, eggs, and melted butter until you achieve a smooth and homogenous batter. Take care to break up any lumps and ensure everything is fully incorporated, which should take about 2-3 minutes. The mixture will be thick and fragrant, perfect for creating fluffy Pumpkin Glazed Donuts.

Step 3: Fill the Donut Pan
Prepare a donut pan by greasing it lightly with cooking spray or butter. Transfer your donut batter into a piping bag, cutting the tip to create an opening about an inch wide, for easy filling. Fill each donut cavity about two-thirds full with the batter, then sprinkle the crumb topping generously over each donut. Ensure the batter is slightly visible beneath the topping.

Step 4: Bake the Donuts
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Once preheated, place the filled donut pan in the oven and bake for 10-12 minutes. Keep an eye on them; they’re done when they spring back slightly when touched and a toothpick inserted into a donut comes out clean. Remove the pan from the oven and allow the donuts to cool for about 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack.

Step 5: Create the Glaze
While the donuts are cooling, prepare your glaze by whisking together powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract in a medium bowl. Mix until the mixture is smooth and free of lumps, adjusting the milk slightly if needed to achieve a pourable consistency. The glaze should be thick yet smooth, ready to top your delicious Pumpkin Glazed Donuts without running off.

Step 6: Glaze the Donuts
Once the baked donuts have cooled sufficiently, place them on a wire rack set over a baking sheet to catch any drips. Drizzle the glaze over each donut with a spoon, allowing it to coat the top while letting it drip slightly down the sides. Let the glaze set for about 5 minutes before serving, adding the perfect sweet finish to your Pumpkin Glazed Donuts with Crumb Topping.

What to Serve with Pumpkin Glazed Donuts with Crumb Topping

Enjoying these delicious donuts is just the beginning of a delightful experience; let’s build a full meal around them!

Fresh Brewed Coffee: The rich, warm flavors of coffee enhance the spices in the donuts, creating a comforting pairing to start your day.
Crispy Bacon: Salty and savory bacon contrasts beautifully with the sweet, soft donuts, making for a well-rounded breakfast that satisfies all cravings.
Spiced Apple Cider: A warm cup of spiced apple cider evokes fall vibes and complements the pumpkin flavors perfectly, adding a cozy touch to your meal.
Greek Yogurt with Honey: The creamy tang of Greek yogurt balanced with drizzled honey brings freshness and lightness, beautifully offsetting the sweetness of the donuts.
Mixed Green Salad: A refreshing salad with a light vinaigrette introduces a crunch and balances the indulgent sweetness of the pumpkin glazed donuts.
Maple Pecan Ice Cream: For dessert lovers, pairing these donuts with a scoop of maple pecan ice cream brings a sweet creaminess that’s heavenly.
Pumpkin Spice Latte: Create a fall feast by sipping on a pumpkin spice latte, echoing the flavors of your treats while keeping you warm and cozy.
Chai Tea: The aromatic spices in chai provide an excellent contrast to the donuts’ sweetness, offering a soothing beverage that warms the soul.
Cream Cheese Spread: A dollop of cream cheese spread adds a tangy richness that pairs nicely with the pumpkin, making each bite even more satisfying.

Variations & Substitutions for Pumpkin Glazed Donuts

Customize your baked pumpkin glazed donuts to suit your taste or dietary needs, creating a warm and inviting treat everyone will love.

Cake Mix Swap: Use a vanilla or white cake mix and add cinnamon and nutmeg to mimic the spice flavor.
Dairy-Free Delight: Substitute traditional milk with almond or oat milk in the glaze for a creamy, dairy-free option.
Sweetener Switch: Try using coconut sugar instead of brown sugar for a more caramel-like sweetness.
Fruit Enhancement: Replace some pumpkin puree with unsweetened applesauce for a fruity twist and extra moisture.
This alternative keeps the texture light and fluffy while adding a hint of apple flavor that pairs beautifully with pumpkin.
Glaze Variety: Drizzle chocolate or maple glaze on top for a rich, decadent finish that elevates your donuts.
Nutty Crunch: Add chopped pecans or walnuts to the crumb topping for a delightful crunch that complements the softness of the donut.
Spice it Up: For a kick, mix in finely shredded fresh ginger or a pinch of cayenne pepper to the batter for added warmth.
Citrus Zest: Incorporate some orange or lemon zest into your donut batter for a refreshing citrus note that brightens the overall flavor profile.

Not only can you enjoy these delicious treats on their own, but why not pair them with a cup of coffee or check out my scrumptious Balsamic Steak Gorgonzola Salad for a perfectly balanced meal?

Make Ahead Options

These Pumpkin Glazed Donuts with Crumb Topping are perfect for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy fresh-baked treats even on the busiest mornings! You can prepare the donut batter up to 24 hours in advance by mixing the spice cake mix, pumpkin puree, eggs, and melted butter, and then refrigerate it in an airtight container. Additionally, you can make the crumb topping up to 3 days ahead; simply store it in the fridge to maintain its texture. When you’re ready to bake, transfer the chilled batter into the donut pan, sprinkle with the topping, and bake as directed. This ensures your donuts remain just as delicious and fluffy while saving you precious time during busy weeknights!

How to Store and Freeze Pumpkin Glazed Donuts

Room Temperature: Keep your baked pumpkin glazed donuts in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days for the best freshness.

Fridge: If you want to extend their shelf life, refrigerate the donuts in an airtight container for up to 4 days. They may lose some moisture, so a quick reheat in the microwave will help.

Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the pumpkin glazed donuts without glaze for up to 2 months. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and then place in a freezer bag to prevent freezer burn.

Reheating: When ready to enjoy, let them thaw in the fridge overnight and warm them in the microwave for 10-15 seconds for a deliciously soft treat!

Expert Tips for Pumpkin Glazed Donuts

Donut Baking Tip: Don’t overbake! Check for doneness with a toothpick at the 10-minute mark to ensure they stay moist inside.
Filling Technique: Using a piping bag to fill your donut pan makes the process mess-free and ensures even distribution of the batter for perfect Pumpkin Glazed Donuts.
Crumb Topping Texture: Don’t over-mix the crumb topping. You want a sandy consistency that clumps together nicely, giving a delightful crunch to your donuts.
Storage Solutions: Keep your baked donuts in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. For longer storage, stick them in the freezer without the glaze for up to 2 months.
Customize Wisely: Feel free to adjust the spice levels according to your taste or try different toppings, like chocolate or maple, to give your Pumpkin Glazed Donuts a unique twist!

Pumpkin Glazed Donuts with Crumb Topping Recipe FAQs

How do I choose the right canned pumpkin puree?
Absolutely! Look for pure pumpkin puree without added sugars or spices, as this ensures the richest flavor. Check the label to avoid pumpkin pie filling, which contains additional sugars and spices that can alter your donut’s taste.

How should I store my pumpkin glazed donuts?
You can keep your baked donuts in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. If you want to extend their freshness, refrigerate them for up to 4 days. Just remember, a quick zap in the microwave for about 10 seconds will help revive their softness!

Can I freeze my pumpkin glazed donuts?
The more the merrier! For freezing, wrap the donuts tightly in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer bag to prevent freezer burn. They can be stored like this for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply thaw them overnight in the fridge and warm them in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds.

What should I do if my donuts come out dry?
If your donuts turn out dry, next time make sure not to overbake them! A toothpick test is key; if it comes out clean before the 12-minute mark, take them out. Also, incorporating a bit more pumpkin puree or melted butter into your batter can help keep them moist and flavorful.

Are pumpkin donuts safe for pets?
Very good question! While plain pumpkin is often safe for dogs in moderation, the added sugars and spices in these donuts make them unsuitable for pets. Always keep treats like these away from your furry friends to ensure their safety.

Can I substitute the spice cake mix with something else?
Of course! If you can’t find a spice cake mix, a vanilla or white cake mix works well too—just add your own spices, like cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger, to bring back that wonderful pumpkin spice flavor you love. It’s all about tweaking based on your pantry!