If you are looking for a cozy, flavorful treat that can brighten your morning or satisfy your sweet tooth any time of day, this Pumpkin Spice Donuts with Cinnamon Sugar Coating Recipe is exactly what you need. These donuts are tender, moist, and packed with rich pumpkin flavor and the warming spices of fall, then finished with a perfectly sweet and cinnamon-spiced sugar coating that adds just the right amount of crunch and sparkle. Every bite is comforting and delightful, making this recipe one of my absolute favorites to share when the cravings for something special strike.

A close-up view of three donuts on a black cooling rack over a white marbled surface. The donut in the front is covered in a layer of white sugar crystals giving it a rough texture, with a light golden brown color underneath. Behind it, two other donuts have a smooth light golden brown surface without sugar, showing a soft texture. The donuts have a classic round shape with a large hole in the middle, and the whole scene is softly lit to enhance the warm colors. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients You’ll Need

This Pumpkin Spice Donuts with Cinnamon Sugar Coating Recipe calls for straightforward ingredients that come together to create an irresistible texture and flavor harmony. Each element plays its part—from the pumpkin puree bringing moisture and earthiness to the spices that lend that unmistakable cozy aroma.

2 cups all-purpose flour: The base that gives the donuts their soft, cakey texture.
2 teaspoons pumpkin pie spice: A fragrant blend that adds warmth and fall flavor.
2 teaspoons baking powder: Helps the donuts rise to light perfection without heaviness.
1/2 teaspoon salt: Balances the sweetness and highlights the spices.
1 1/2 cups pumpkin puree: Provides moisture and that rich classic pumpkin taste.
1/3 cup olive oil: Keeps the donuts moist and tender—yes, olive oil works beautifully here!
1/4 cup butter, melted: Adds richness and depth to the dough.
1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Enhances all the flavors with a gentle sweetness.
2 eggs, at room temperature: Binds ingredients and creates structure for light donuts.
2/3 cup brown sugar: Adds moisture and a deep molasses sweetness ideal for pumpkin treats.
1/2 cup granulated sugar (in batter): Supports sweetness and balances flavors.
3/4 cup granulated sugar (for coating): Combines with cinnamon to give the donuts a crisp, sugary finish.
2 teaspoons cinnamon (for coating): Brings that classic cinnamon sugar flavor to the crust.
1/4 cup butter, melted (for coating): Acts as the perfect sticky base to hold the cinnamon sugar coating.

How to Make Pumpkin Spice Donuts with Cinnamon Sugar Coating Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Oven and Pan

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease your large donut pan with cooking spray to make sure your donuts will release easily after baking and maintain their perfect shape.

Step 2: Mix the Wet Ingredients

In a medium bowl, whisk together the pumpkin puree, olive oil, melted butter, vanilla extract, eggs, brown sugar, and granulated sugar until you have a smooth, well-combined mixture. This wet combination forms the flavorful and moist base of your donuts.

Step 3: Combine the Dry Ingredients

In another bowl or sift directly into your wet ingredients, add the all-purpose flour, pumpkin pie spice, baking powder, and salt. Stir gently just until everything is combined. Be careful not to overmix—overworking the batter will make your donuts tough rather than tender.

Step 4: Transfer the Batter to the Donut Pan

Pour the batter into a piping bag or a large plastic bag with one corner snipped off. This makes filling the donut pan much easier and cleaner. Pipe the batter evenly into the greased donut cavities, filling each about three-quarters full. This recipe should fill about 8 large donuts.

Step 5: Bake the Donuts

Bake in the preheated oven for about 25 minutes. Donuts are done when a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Once baked, let the donuts cool in the pan for around 10 minutes, then carefully transfer them to a cooling rack to cool completely before adding the sugar coating.

Step 6: Prepare the Cinnamon Sugar Coating

In a shallow container, combine the 3/4 cup granulated sugar with 2 teaspoons cinnamon. This simple blend is what gives each donut that irresistible sweet and spicy crunch on the outside.

Step 7: Coat the Donuts

Brush each cooled donut all over with the melted butter—the butter acts like glue for the cinnamon sugar coating. Then dip each donut, one at a time, into the cinnamon sugar mixture, turning to coat thoroughly. Make sure every nook and cranny is covered to achieve the best flavor and texture toastiness!

Step 8: Enjoy!

Your Pumpkin Spice Donuts with Cinnamon Sugar Coating Recipe is ready to enjoy! These donuts are delightful fresh and warmed slightly, so dive in with your favorite cup of coffee or tea.

How to Serve Pumpkin Spice Donuts with Cinnamon Sugar Coating Recipe

Pumpkin Spice Donuts with Cinnamon Sugar Coating Recipe - Recipe Image

Garnishes

Adding a little extra flair never hurts! Consider topping your donuts with a light dusting of powdered sugar or a drizzle of maple glaze for an elegant, sweet finish. Toasted pecans or chopped walnuts sprinkled on top add a nice crunch that complements the softness perfectly.

Side Dishes

These donuts pair wonderfully with warm beverages like spiced chai or a creamy latte. For a brunch spread, serve alongside fresh fruit, yogurt parfaits, or even a rich cheddar cheese plate for a fun sweet-savory contrast.

Creative Ways to Present

Make your donut presentation pop by stacking them on a rustic wooden board or tiered cake stand. You can also thread them onto a cinnamon stick for a playful edible skewer effect, perfect for gatherings or fall parties. Nothing says cozy like these donuts arranged with little pumpkins or autumn leaves around.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store your leftover Pumpkin Spice Donuts with Cinnamon Sugar Coating Recipe in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. They stay moist and delicious, but are best enjoyed fresh for the full flavor experience.

Freezing

If you want to keep these donuts longer, freeze them after they have completely cooled. Wrap each donut individually in plastic wrap and place in a freezer-safe bag. They’ll keep well for up to 2 months. When ready to eat, thaw overnight in the fridge and recoat with cinnamon sugar if desired.

Reheating

Warm your donuts gently in the microwave for 15 to 20 seconds or pop them in a toaster oven for a few minutes to freshen up the texture and bring back that delightful cinnamon sugar crunch.

FAQs

Can I use canned pumpkin puree for this recipe?

Absolutely! Canned pumpkin puree works perfectly and is actually what I usually recommend since it provides consistent moisture and flavor. Just be sure to use 100% plain pumpkin without added spices or sugar.

Are these donuts gluten-free?

This Pumpkin Spice Donuts with Cinnamon Sugar Coating Recipe uses all-purpose flour, so it is not gluten-free as written. However, you can experiment with a gluten-free flour blend designed for baking to try making a gluten-free version.

Can I make these donuts vegan?

You can substitute eggs with flax eggs (1 tbsp ground flaxseed + 3 tbsp water per egg) and use a plant-based butter alternative and oil. The texture might vary slightly, but it’s a great way to make these donuts vegan-friendly.

What if I don’t have a donut pan?

If you don’t have a donut pan, you can bake the batter in muffin tins for pumpkin spice muffins and then toss them in the cinnamon sugar coating for a similarly delicious treat.

How do I ensure my donuts are moist and not dry?

Be careful not to overmix the batter, and don’t overbake—check with a toothpick early, starting around 22 minutes. The addition of pumpkin puree and fats like oil and butter also helps keep the donuts moist and tender.

Final Thoughts

I hope you are as excited as I am for you to try this Pumpkin Spice Donuts with Cinnamon Sugar Coating Recipe. It’s a truly special way to enjoy the flavors of fall in a simple, fun, and utterly delicious form. Whether for breakfast, dessert, or a cozy snack, these donuts are guaranteed to bring a smile and a little sweetness to your day. So grab your ingredients, get baking, and enjoy every warm, cinnamon-sugary bite!

Pumpkin Spice Donuts with Cinnamon Sugar Coating Recipe