Name: Mini Powdered Sugar Pumpkin Donuts
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 12 min
Total time: 27 min
Ingredients: 1.25 cups all-purpose flour; 0.75 cup granulated sugar; 1.25 teaspoons baking powder; 1 teaspoon pumpkin spice; 0.5 teaspoon salt; 0.5 cup buttermilk; 0.5 cup pumpkin puree ((not pie filling)); 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1.5 tablespoons vegetable or canola oil; 0.5 cup powdered sugar ((for coating))

There’s something undeniably magical about autumn, especially when it comes to the flavors that fill our kitchens. As the leaves turn and the air gets crisp, we find ourselves craving the warm, spicy sweetness of pumpkin. These Mini Powdered Sugar Pumpkin Donuts are just the treat to indulge that craving. They are soft, fluffy, and coated in a delightful layer of powdered sugar, making them the perfect snack for cozy evenings or festive gatherings. Not only are they easy to whip up, but they also capture that quintessential pumpkin flavor that we all adore.

What You’ll Love About This Recipe

These Mini Powdered Sugar Pumpkin Donuts are incredibly simple to make and require minimal ingredients. The combination of pumpkin puree and warm spices creates a deliciously moist donut that is perfect for any occasion. Here’s what makes them special:

Quick and Easy: This recipe comes together in no time, making it perfect for busy mornings or spontaneous baking sessions.
Perfectly Pumpkin-Spiced: Each bite is filled with the warm flavors of pumpkin spice, making these donuts a seasonal favorite.
Fun to Make: Using a donut pan, the kids can get involved in the fun of making these delightful treats.
Great for Sharing: These mini donuts are the perfect size for sharing with friends and family or enjoying all by yourself!

Ingredient Breakdown

To get started on these delightful Mini Powdered Sugar Pumpkin Donuts, you’ll need the following ingredients:

1.25 cups all-purpose flour
0.75 cup granulated sugar
1.25 teaspoons baking powder
1 teaspoon pumpkin spice
0.5 teaspoon salt
0.5 cup buttermilk
0.5 cup pumpkin puree (not pie filling)
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1.5 tablespoons vegetable or canola oil
0.5 cup powdered sugar for coating

Gear Checklist

Before you dive into the baking process, make sure you have these essential tools ready:

Donut Pan: A mini donut pan is ideal for this recipe, giving you perfectly shaped mini donuts.
Mixing Bowls: You’ll need both large and small bowls for mixing wet and dry ingredients.
Whisk: A good whisk helps to combine your ingredients smoothly.
Measuring Cups and Spoons: Precision is key in baking, so have your measuring tools handy.
Cooling Rack: To cool your donuts after baking, a cooling rack will help them stay crispy.

Cook Mini Powdered Sugar Pumpkin Donuts Like This

Now that you have your ingredients and tools ready, let’s get baking! Follow these simple steps:

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that your donuts bake evenly and rise beautifully.

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, baking powder, pumpkin spice, and salt until well combined.

Step 3: Combine Wet Ingredients

In a separate bowl, mix the buttermilk, pumpkin puree, vanilla extract, and vegetable oil until smooth.

Step 4: Combine Mixtures

Pour the wet mixture into the dry ingredients and gently fold until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; a few lumps are perfectly fine.

Step 5: Fill the Donut Pan

Spoon the batter into the mini donut pan, filling each cavity about 2/3 full. This allows them to rise without overflowing.

Step 6: Bake

Bake in the preheated oven for about 10-12 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

Step 7: Cool and Coat

Once baked, allow the donuts to cool for a few minutes in the pan before transferring them to a cooling rack. Once they are cool enough to handle, dip them in powdered sugar to coat.

Step 8: Enjoy!

These Mini Powdered Sugar Pumpkin Donuts are best enjoyed fresh but can be stored for later if you have any left!

Quick Replacement Ideas

If you’re missing an ingredient or want to make a few adjustments, here are some quick replacement ideas:

Flour: You can substitute all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour or a gluten-free blend.
Buttermilk: If you don’t have buttermilk, mix 0.5 cup of milk with 1 teaspoon of vinegar or lemon juice and let it sit for 5 minutes.
Pumpkin Spice: If you don’t have pumpkin spice, you can make your own with a mix of cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger.
Oil: Melted coconut oil can also be used instead of vegetable or canola oil for a subtle coconut flavor.

Mistakes Even Pros Make

Baking can be tricky, and even experienced bakers can make mistakes. Here are some common pitfalls to avoid when making Mini Powdered Sugar Pumpkin Donuts:

Overmixing the batter can lead to dense donuts. Mix just until combined for a light texture.
Not measuring flour correctly can result in dry donuts. Spoon the flour into your measuring cup and level it off.
Not preheating the oven properly can affect how your donuts rise. Always preheat before baking.
Skipping the cooling step before coating in powdered sugar can cause the sugar to dissolve and clump.

Best Ways to Store

To keep your Mini Powdered Sugar Pumpkin Donuts fresh, consider the following storage tips:

Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days.
If you want to keep them longer, refrigerate for up to a week or freeze for up to a month.
When freezing, arrange the donuts in a single layer on a baking sheet until frozen, then transfer to a freezer bag.

Questions People Ask

Can I use pumpkin pie filling instead of pumpkin puree?

It’s best to use pure pumpkin puree for this recipe. Pumpkin pie filling contains added sugars and spices that may alter the flavor and texture of the donuts.

Can I bake these donuts in a regular muffin pan?

Yes! You can use a regular muffin pan, but the baking time may vary. Check for doneness around the 15-minute mark.

What can I do if I don’t have a donut pan?

If you don’t have a donut pan, you can use a muffin pan. Just remember that the shape will be different, but the taste will still be delicious!

Can I add chocolate chips or nuts to the batter?

Absolutely! Feel free to fold in some chocolate chips or chopped nuts for added texture and flavor.

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Next Steps

Now that you have this delightful recipe at your fingertips, it’s time to gather your ingredients and get started! Whether you’re baking for a cozy night in or preparing for a festive gathering, these Mini Powdered Sugar Pumpkin Donuts are sure to impress. The combination of pumpkin and spices is a seasonal delight that will leave everyone wanting more. So, roll up your sleeves and enjoy the process of creating these delicious little treats! Happy baking!

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