Pumpkin Coffee Cake Donuts

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Pumpkin Coffee Cake Donuts

There’s something undeniably comforting about the aroma of pumpkin spice wafting through the kitchen on a cool autumn morning. These Pumpkin Coffee Cake Donuts are the perfect way to welcome the season. Moist, tender, and topped with a buttery spiced crumb and a sweet glaze, they combine the best of two beloved fall treats—pumpkin donuts and coffee cake—into one irresistible bite.

Whether you’re hosting a fall brunch, baking for a cozy weekend breakfast, or simply want to treat yourself to something special with your morning coffee, these donuts are a must-try. Best of all, they come together in under 30 minutes and require no frying.

Why You’ll Love These Donuts

  • Baked, not fried – No messy oil or deep fryer required.
  • Quick and easy – Ready in under 30 minutes from start to finish.
  • Perfect texture – Soft and fluffy with a crunchy crumb topping.
  • Full of fall flavor – Pumpkin, warm spices, and a sweet glaze in every bite.
  • Small batch – Makes six donuts, ideal for a cozy breakfast or dessert.

Ingredients

Let’s break down what you’ll need for each component of this recipe.

For the Crumb Topping

  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
    Helps bind the topping and adds richness.
  • 1/4 cup granulated sugar
    Sweetens the topping and adds crunch.
  • 3 1/2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
    Gives the topping structure.
  • 1/4 teaspoon pumpkin spice
    Adds warmth and seasonal flavor.

For the Pumpkin Donuts

  • 1 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
    Provides the base for the donut batter.
  • 1/2 cup light brown sugar, packed
    Adds sweetness and a hint of molasses.
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
    Balances the sweetness and enhances flavor.
  • 1 teaspoon baking powder
    Helps the donuts rise and stay fluffy.
  • 1 teaspoon pumpkin spice
    A blend of cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and cloves—quintessential fall flavor.
  • 1/4 cup pumpkin puree
    Adds moisture, color, and that signature pumpkin taste.
  • 2 1/2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
    Adds richness and tenderness to the batter.
  • 1/2 cup milk (any type)
    Helps bring the batter together and keeps it moist.

For the Pumpkin Spice Glaze

  • 1/2 cup confectioners’ sugar
    The base of the glaze—smooth and sweet.
  • 1/2 tablespoon whole milk
    Thins the glaze to the perfect drizzling consistency.
  • 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
    Adds depth and warmth.
  • 1/2 teaspoon pumpkin spice
    Ties the glaze into the overall flavor profile.

Equipment You’ll Need

  • 6-mold donut pan
  • Mixing bowls
  • Whisk and fork
  • Rubber spatula
  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • Cooling rack
  • Small spoon or piping bag (for filling the donut molds)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 6-mold donut pan with non-stick spray or butter. Set aside.

Tip: If you don’t have a donut pan, you can use a muffin tin and bake them as donut muffins.

Step 2: Make the Crumb Topping

In a small bowl, stir together:

  • 1/4 cup granulated sugar
  • 3 1/2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
  • 1/4 teaspoon pumpkin spice

Pour in 2 tablespoons melted butter and mix with a fork until the mixture forms coarse crumbs. Place the bowl in the freezer while you prepare the donut batter. This helps the topping stay crumbly and crisp during baking.

Step 3: Mix the Dry Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, whisk together:

  • 1 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1/2 cup packed light brown sugar
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1 teaspoon baking powder
  • 1 teaspoon pumpkin spice

Break up any clumps of brown sugar to ensure an even mix.

Step 4: Blend the Wet Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together:

  • 1/4 cup pumpkin puree
  • 2 1/2 tablespoons melted butter
  • 1/2 cup milk

Mix until smooth and well combined.

Step 5: Combine Wet and Dry

Gently fold the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients using a rubber spatula. Stir just until no dry streaks remain. Be careful not to overmix, as this can make the donuts tough.

Step 6: Fill the Donut Pan

Spoon or pipe the batter evenly into the prepared donut pan, filling each mold about 3/4 full. Remove the crumb topping from the freezer and sprinkle it generously over each donut.

Tip: Press the crumb topping lightly into the batter to help it adhere during baking.

Step 7: Bake and Cool

Bake the donuts for 10–11 minutes, or until they spring back when gently pressed and a toothpick inserted comes out clean.

Let the donuts cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then carefully remove and transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.

Step 8: Glaze and Serve

In a small bowl, whisk together:

  • 1/2 cup confectioners’ sugar
  • 1/2 tablespoon milk
  • 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1/2 teaspoon pumpkin spice

Whisk until smooth. If the glaze is too thick, add a few drops of milk until it reaches a drizzling consistency.

Drizzle the glaze over the cooled donuts using a spoon or piping bag. Serve immediately for the best texture and flavor.

Serving Suggestions

These donuts are perfect for:

  • A cozy fall breakfast
  • Afternoon coffee breaks
  • Brunch with friends
  • Holiday gatherings or bake sales

Pair with:

  • A hot cup of coffee or chai latte
  • Warm apple cider
  • A dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for dessert

Presentation Tip: Serve on a rustic wooden board or cake stand with a dusting of powdered sugar for a festive touch.

Variations to Try

  • Maple Glaze: Swap the vanilla and pumpkin spice in the glaze for 1/2 teaspoon of maple extract.
  • Nutty Crunch: Add chopped pecans or walnuts to the crumb topping.
  • Chocolate Chip: Fold mini chocolate chips into the batter for a sweet surprise.
  • Mini Donuts: Use a mini donut pan and reduce bake time to 7–8 minutes.

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

  • Room Temperature: Store in an airtight container for up to 2 days.
  • Refrigerate: Keeps well for up to 5 days. Bring to room temperature before serving.
  • Freeze: Freeze unglazed donuts for up to 2 months. Thaw and glaze before serving.

Tip: For a fresh-baked feel, warm donuts in the microwave for 10–15 seconds before serving.

Nutrition (Per Donut, Approximate)

  • Calories: 240
  • Fat: 10 g
  • Carbohydrates: 35 g
  • Sugar: 20 g
  • Protein: 3 g
  • Fiber: 1 g
  • Sodium: 180 mg

Note: Nutritional values are estimates and may vary based on specific ingredients used.

Final Thoughts

These Pumpkin Coffee Cake Donuts are everything you want in a fall treat—moist, spiced, and topped with a buttery crumb and sweet glaze. They’re easy to make, beautiful to serve, and guaranteed to bring warmth and joy to your table. Whether you’re baking for a special occasion or just because, these donuts are sure to become a seasonal favorite.

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