PUMPKIN SPICE DOUGHNUTS

Pumpkin Spice Doughnuts are the perfect treat for fall, capturing the warmth of pumpkin, cinnamon, nutmeg, and clove in a soft, fluffy doughnut. These doughnuts are light and airy on the inside with a perfectly golden and slightly crisp exterior, making each bite irresistibly delicious. The addition of pumpkin puree brings moisture and richness to the dough, while the warm spices make them the ultimate cozy autumn indulgence. Whether enjoyed with a hot cup of coffee or as a festive breakfast treat, these pumpkin spice doughnuts are sure to bring comfort and seasonal flavor to your table.

Ingredients:

For the Doughnuts:

• 1 cup pumpkin puree
• 2 large eggs
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 1/4 cup brown sugar, packed
• 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
• 1/4 teaspoon ground ginger
• 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 cup buttermilk (or regular milk)

For the Cinnamon Sugar Coating:

• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted (for brushing)

Instructions:

1. Preheat the Oven and Prepare the Pan: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a doughnut pan with non-stick spray or butter and set aside.
2. Mix the Wet Ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the pumpkin puree, eggs, granulated sugar, brown sugar, melted butter, and vanilla extract until smooth and well combined.
3. Mix the Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, cloves, and salt.
4. Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, alternating with the buttermilk. Start and end with the dry ingredients, mixing until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this could make the doughnuts dense.
5. Fill the Pan: Spoon or pipe the doughnut batter into the prepared doughnut pan, filling each cavity about 3/4 full.
6. Bake the Doughnuts: Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of a doughnut comes out clean. The doughnuts should be golden brown on top.
7. Coat the Doughnuts: While the doughnuts are baking, mix the cinnamon sugar coating by combining the granulated sugar and cinnamon in a shallow bowl. Once the doughnuts are done, allow them to cool for a few minutes before gently brushing each doughnut with melted butter and rolling it in the cinnamon sugar mixture.
8. Serve: Enjoy your pumpkin spice doughnuts warm, or allow them to cool completely before serving. These are perfect for breakfast, an afternoon snack, or as a festive treat for fall gatherings!

These Pumpkin Spice Doughnuts are a delightful way to celebrate the flavors of autumn. With their warm spices and tender texture, they are sure to become a seasonal favorite!