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As the leaves turn vibrant shades of orange and gold and the air becomes crisp, the arrival of fall heralds the much-anticipated pumpkin spice season. This seasonal favorite has become synonymous with autumn, appearing in everything from lattes to baked goods. One of the best ways to celebrate this delightful time of year is by indulging in homemade treats that capture the essence of fall. Enter the Cozy Baked Pumpkin Spice Donuts—a scrumptious, warm, and inviting treat that embodies the flavors of the season.

Baked Pumpkin Spice Donuts

Experience the warmth of fall with these Cozy Baked Pumpkin Spice Donuts! This healthier alternative to fried donuts features pure pumpkin puree and unsweetened applesauce, ensuring a moist, flavorful treat that captures autumn's essence. With a delightful mix of spices and a simple glaze, they are perfect for cozy gatherings or a quiet morning. Indulge in a homemade classic that's not only tasty but also nutritious, making every bite a comforting reminder of the season.
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Ingredients
  

For the Donuts:

1 cup pure pumpkin puree (not pumpkin pie filling)

1/3 cup unsweetened applesauce

1/4 cup maple syrup

1/4 cup brown sugar, packed

2 large eggs

1 tsp vanilla extract

1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour

1 tsp baking powder

1/2 tsp baking soda

1 tsp pumpkin pie spice

1/2 tsp ground cinnamon

1/4 tsp salt

1/4 cup milk (or plant-based milk)

For the Topping:

1/4 cup melted butter (or coconut oil)

1/2 cup granulated sugar

1 tsp pumpkin pie spice

Instructions
 

Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a donut pan with non-stick spray or lightly oil it using a brush.

    Mix Wet Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the pumpkin puree, applesauce, maple syrup, brown sugar, eggs, and vanilla extract. Mix until smooth and well combined.

      Combine Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, pumpkin pie spice, ground cinnamon, and salt.

        Combine Mixtures: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, gently mixing until just combined. Do not overmix. If the mixture seems too thick, gently fold in the milk until you reach a smooth batter.

          Fill the Pan: Spoon the batter into the prepared donut pan, filling each cavity about 2/3 full. This will allow the donuts to rise without overflowing.

            Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 15–18 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. The edges should also be lightly golden.

              Cool: Remove the pan from the oven and let the donuts cool in the pan for about 5 minutes. Then gently turn them out onto a wire rack to cool completely.

                Prepare the Topping: While the donuts are cooling, mix the granulated sugar and pumpkin pie spice in a small bowl for the topping.

                  Coat the Donuts: Dip the tops of the cooled donuts in the melted butter, then in the sugar-spice mixture until fully coated.

                    Serve: Enjoy your delicious baked pumpkin spice donuts warm or at room temperature with a hot cup of coffee or tea!

                      Prep Time, Total Time, Servings: 15 minutes | 35 minutes | 12 donuts