Pumpkin Old Fashioned Doughnuts with Pumpkin Glaze are a delightful autumn treat that combines the warm spices and flavors of pumpkin into a light and airy doughnut. This recipe is easy to make and results in a deliciously indulgent doughnut perfect for breakfast or dessert.
| Prep Time | 15 minutes |
|---|---|
| Cook Time | 15 minutes |
| Total Time | 30 minutes |
| Servings | 12 doughnuts |
| Difficulty | Easy |
| Cuisine | American |
Why This Recipe Works
This recipe stands out because of its rich flavors and the use of canned pumpkin puree, which makes it both convenient and flavorful. I love how it seamlessly blends spices like cinnamon and nutmeg to create the quintessential fall taste. The doughnuts are tender yet crisp on the outside and pair beautifully with the homemade pumpkin glaze.
Another significant aspect is the frying technique. Frying at the right temperature ensures that these doughnuts develop that golden brown crust while remaining soft and moist inside. The pumpkin glaze adds just the right amount of sweetness to elevate the overall flavor experience. For similar recipes, you can check out this pumpkin cold foam recipe that complements the doughnuts nicely.
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| All-purpose flour | 2 cups | |
| Canned pumpkin puree | 1 cup | Can be replaced with homemade pumpkin puree |
| Granulated sugar | 1 cup | |
| Milk | 1/2 cup | Use almond milk for a dairy-free option |
| Large eggs | 2 | Substitute with flax eggs for vegan option |
| Baking powder | 1 teaspoon | |
| Baking soda | 1 teaspoon | |
| Ground cinnamon | 1 teaspoon | |
| Ground nutmeg | 1/2 teaspoon | |
| Ground ginger | 1/2 teaspoon | |
| Salt | 1/2 teaspoon | |
| Vegetable oil for frying | As needed | |
| Powdered sugar (for glaze) | 1 cup | |
| Milk (for glaze) | 2 tablespoons | Substitute with non-dairy milk |
| Pumpkin puree (for glaze) | 1/4 cup | |
| Vanilla extract (for glaze) | 1 teaspoon |

Step-by-Step Instructions
Mix Dry Ingredients
In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and salt.
Combine Wet Ingredients
In another bowl, mix the pumpkin puree, milk, and eggs until well combined.
Combine Ingredients
Gradually add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients, stirring until just combined.
Heat Oil
Heat vegetable oil in a deep fryer or large pot to 375°F (190°C).
Cut Doughnuts
Use a donut cutter or two round cutters to shape the dough.
Fry Doughnuts
Carefully place the doughnuts into the hot oil and fry until golden brown, about 2-3 minutes per side.
Drain Doughnuts
Remove and let drain on paper towels.
Prepare Glaze
For the glaze, whisk together powdered sugar, milk, 1/4 cup pumpkin puree, and vanilla extract until smooth.
Glaze Doughnuts
Dip the warm doughnuts into the glaze and let set before serving.

Chef Tips for Perfect Results
- Ensure the oil is at the correct temperature for frying; too hot may burn the doughnuts.
- Don’t overcrowd the oil while frying to maintain consistent temperature and even cooking.
- Allow the doughnuts to cool slightly before glazing for better adherence of the glaze.
- Test the glaze consistency; it should be pourable but not too thin.
- Use fresh spices for the best flavor—ground spices can lose potency over time.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Not measuring ingredients accurately can lead to inconsistent dough texture. Use a kitchen scale for precision.
- Frying at a temperature that’s too low will yield soggy doughnuts. Always check the oil temperature with a thermometer.
- Frying for too long or too short can affect the texture; aim for the recommended time and adjust based on your fryer.
- Forgetting to cool the doughnuts before glazing can cause the glaze to slide off. Allow them to cool on a rack.
Variations and Substitutions
| Ingredient | Substitution | Impact on Flavor |
|---|---|---|
| Canned pumpkin puree | Homemade pumpkin puree | Similar flavor, but homemade can be slightly less sweet. |
| Granulated sugar | Brown sugar | Adds a richer, molasses-like flavor. |
| Milk | Nut or oat milk | Offers a slight nutty flavor, very complementary. |
| Vanilla extract | Maple syrup | Adds a hint of maple flavor that pairs beautifully with pumpkin. |
Serving Suggestions and Pairings
These Pumpkin Old Fashioned Doughnuts pair excellently with a hot cup of coffee or a spiced chai tea. They make an ideal treat for holiday gatherings, brunches, or even weekday breakfasts. For a festive twist, consider serving them alongside a delicious pumpkin puree recipe.
Storage and Reheating
| Method | Duration | Instructions |
|---|---|---|
| Room Temperature | 1 day | Store in an airtight container. |
| Refrigerator | 3 days | Slower to become stale, but may dry out slightly. |
| Freezer | 1 month | Wrap individually in plastic wrap before placing in a freezer bag. |
Nutritional Information
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 220 |
| Fat | 10g |
| Carbohydrates | 30g |
| Protein | 3g |
Approximate values.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I substitute the eggs in this recipe?
Yes, you can substitute the eggs with flax eggs. Mix 1 tablespoon of ground flaxseed with 2.5 tablespoons of water to replace one egg.
How do I know when the doughnuts are done frying?
The doughnuts are ready when they’re golden brown on both sides. Use a thermometer to ensure the oil is consistently at 375°F (190°C).
Can I make the doughnut batter in advance?
While it’s best to use the batter fresh, you can prepare it a few hours ahead and keep it in the refrigerator until ready to use.
What if the doughnuts are greasy?
If your doughnuts turn out greasy, it’s likely due to the oil not being hot enough while frying. Always ensure your oil temperature is accurate.
Can I bake these doughnuts instead of frying?
Yes, you can bake the doughnuts at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes, but the texture may differ slightly from fried ones.
Conclusion
In conclusion, making Pumpkin Old Fashioned Doughnuts with Pumpkin Glaze is a rewarding endeavor that showcases the rich flavors of pumpkin and spices. You can enhance your dessert repertoire by trying out variations of these doughnuts. For more delightful pumpkin recipes, check out Pumpkin Old-Fashioned Doughnuts with Glaze – Little Spice Jar, Pumpkin Old Fashioned Doughnuts – Handle the Heat, and Baked Pumpkin Donuts – If You Give a Blonde a Kitchen.


