Easy Gluten-Free Pumpkin Donuts Recipe

The Quick & Tasty Gluten-Free Pumpkin Donuts Recipe for Fall

Gluten-free pumpkin donuts bring warmth and comfort to any autumn morning, reinventing simple ingredients into a delightful treat that sparks joy.

Seasonal baking doesn’t require complex techniques or hard-to-find components when you understand the magic of alternative flours.

These soft, pillowy delights capture the essence of fall with their rich, spiced profile and tender crumb.

Bakers of all skill levels can master this straightforward recipe that promises delectable results without traditional wheat flour.

Nutrition-conscious food lovers appreciate how these donuts balance indulgence with mindful ingredient choices, making them a smart breakfast or snack option.

The blend of aromatic spices creates a sensory experience that feels both nostalgic and innovative, celebrating classic flavors with a contemporary twist.

Crisp mornings and cozy moments call for a plate of these irresistible donuts that will have everyone asking for seconds.

Tips to Keep Pumpkin Donuts Light and Fluffy

  • Measure Precisely: Use exact measurements for gluten-free flour and spices to ensure consistent texture and flavor in your donuts.
  • Smooth Batter Technique: Whisk wet and dry ingredients separately before combining to prevent lumps and create a silky-smooth donut mixture.
  • Piping Pro Tip: Use a zip-top bag with a small corner cut for neat, even donut filling without messy spills or uneven shapes.
  • Doneness Check: Gently press donut tops- they should spring back when fully baked, indicating perfect moisture and texture.
  • Icing Application Trick: Allow donuts to cool completely before dipping in icing to prevent melting and ensure a clean, professional-looking glaze.

How to Store and Reheat Pumpkin Donuts Easily

  • Refrigeration: Store leftover donuts in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, keeping them fresh and preventing moisture loss.
  • Freezing: Wrap individual donuts in plastic wrap, place in a freezer-safe bag, and freeze for maximum 2 weeks. Thaw at room temperature for best texture.
  • Reheating: Warm refrigerated or thawed donuts in the microwave for 10-15 seconds or in a preheated oven at 300°F for 3-4 minutes until slightly crisp and warm.

Toppings and Drinks to Pair with Pumpkin Donuts

  • Brew Warm Autumn Spice Tea: Complement the pumpkin donuts with a chai or cinnamon-based tea that echoes the warm spices in the pastry, creating a cozy flavor harmony.
  • Pair with Creamy Caramel Latte: The rich, smooth caramel notes will beautifully balance the subtle sweetness of the gluten-free donuts, enhancing their seasonal warmth.
  • Match with Vanilla Bean Ice Cream: A scoop of cold, creamy vanilla ice cream provides a delightful temperature and texture contrast to the soft, spiced donuts.
  • Serve alongside Maple Pecan Coffee: The nutty, maple undertones in the coffee will amplify the pumpkin's earthy sweetness and create a comforting autumn-inspired experience.

Flavor Variations for Gluten-Free Pumpkin Donuts

  • Maple Pecan Crunch: Sprinkle chopped pecans over the icing and drizzle with pure maple syrup for a nutty, autumn-inspired flavor profile.
  • Chocolate Spice: Mix cocoa powder into the glaze and add a pinch of cayenne pepper for a rich, warm chocolate variation with a subtle kick.
  • Coconut Cream Topping: Replace almond milk with coconut milk in the recipe and top donuts with toasted coconut flakes for a tropical texture and taste.
  • Chai Spice Glaze: Incorporate ground cardamom, cloves, and black tea powder into the icing for a warming, aromatic chai-inspired coating.

Easy Gluten-Free Pumpkin Donuts That Bake Up Soft

  • Bake Hassle-Free Treats: These gluten-free pumpkin donuts eliminate complicated baking steps, making them perfect for anyone wanting a simple, delicious dessert without complex techniques.
  • Enjoy Seasonal Comfort: Packed with warm spices like cinnamon, ginger, and nutmeg, these donuts capture the cozy essence of autumn in every single bite, delivering nostalgic flavors that comfort and delight.
  • Customize Without Stress: The recipe offers flexibility with dairy-free and gluten-free ingredients, allowing people with dietary restrictions to indulge without compromising taste or texture, making these donuts universally appealing and inclusive.
  • Quick Breakfast or Snack Solution: With just 11-12 minutes of baking time, these donuts provide a speedy, nutritious option for busy mornings or afternoon snack cravings, transforming pumpkin into a delectable, easy-to-prepare treat.

Ingredients to Make Gluten-Free Pumpkin Donuts

Dry Ingredients:
  • Gluten-Free Flour: A special flour blend that ensures a soft, tender donut texture without gluten.
  • Baking Powder, Baking Soda: Essential leavening agents that help the donuts rise and become fluffy.
  • Cinnamon, Ginger, Nutmeg: Warm spices that create a classic fall flavor profile.
  • Sea Salt: Enhances and balances the sweet flavors in the donuts.
Wet Ingredients:
  • Pumpkin Puree: Provides moisture, rich autumn flavor, and natural sweetness.
  • Avocado Oil: A heart-healthy oil that keeps donuts moist and adds a subtle richness.
  • Eggs: Bind the ingredients and contribute to the donut's structure.
  • Almond Milk: A dairy-free liquid that adds moisture and lightness.
  • Vanilla Extract: Adds depth and warmth to the overall flavor.
Sweeteners and Icing Ingredients:
  • Brown Sugar, Sugar: Natural sweeteners that add depth and caramel-like notes.
  • Dairy-Free Butter: Creates a smooth, rich icing base.
  • Powdered Sugar: Provides sweetness and helps create a glossy icing texture.

Instructions for Baking Your Own Pumpkin Donuts

Step 1: Prepare Oven And Pan

Warm up the oven to 350°F. Lightly coat donut pan with cooking spray or butter.

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients

Grab a large mixing bowl and combine:
  • Gluten-free flour
  • Baking powder
  • Baking soda
  • Cinnamon
  • Ginger
  • Nutmeg
  • Sea salt

Gently whisk all ingredients together and set aside.

Step 3: Blend Wet Ingredients

In a separate medium bowl, whisk together:
  • Pumpkin puree
  • Avocado oil
  • Brown sugar
  • Eggs
  • White sugar
  • Almond milk
  • Vanilla extract

Blend until smooth and creamy.

Step 4: Combine Wet And Dry Mixtures

Slowly pour wet ingredients into dry ingredients. Stir carefully until completely combined with no lumps.

Step 5: Fill Donut Pan

Transfer batter into a large zip-top bag. Snip a small corner to create a piping bag. Carefully pipe batter into donut pan, filling each mold about three-quarters full.

Step 6: Bake Donuts

Slide pan into preheated oven. Bake for 11-12 minutes until tops turn golden and spring back when touched.

Step 7: Cool Donuts

Let donuts rest in pan for 2 minutes. Gently transfer to wire cooling rack.

Step 8: Create Glaze

In a small saucepan, combine:
  • Brown sugar
  • Almond milk
  • Dairy-free butter

Heat over medium, stirring until smooth. Simmer for 1 minute.

Step 9: Finish Glaze

Remove from heat. Whisk in vanilla extract and powdered sugar. Allow to cool for 5 minutes.

Step 10: Decorate Donuts

Dip cooled donuts into glaze. Let excess drip off. Place back on wire rack to set glaze.

Enjoy your delicious gluten-free pumpkin donuts!

Print
clock clock iconcutlery cutlery iconflag flag iconfolder folder iconinstagram instagram iconpinterest pinterest iconfacebook facebook iconprint print iconsquares squares iconheart heart iconheart solid heart solid icon
Easy Gluten-Free Pumpkin Donuts Recipe

Easy Gluten-Free Pumpkin Donuts Recipe


5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

4.8 from 25 reviews

  • Total Time: 27 minutes
  • Yield: 12 1x

Description

Warm autumn spices dance through these gluten-free pumpkin donuts, creating a comforting seasonal treat. Topped with a sweet cinnamon glaze, you’ll savor each delightful bite of this irresistible homemade pastry.


Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients:

  • 1 cup pumpkin puree
  • 2 eggs
  • 2 cups gluten-free 1-1 flour blend
  • ½ cup brown sugar
  • ½ cup sugar

Liquid and Oil Ingredients:

  • ½ cup avocado oil or melted refined coconut oil
  • ½ cup almond milk
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Spices and Leavening Agents:

  • 1 teaspoon baking powder
  • ¾ teaspoon baking soda
  • ½ teaspoon sea salt
  • 2 teaspoons cinnamon
  • ¼ teaspoon ginger
  • ¼ teaspoon nutmeg

Brown Sugar Icing Ingredients:

  • ¾ cup packed brown sugar
  • ¼ cup almond milk
  • 1 tablespoon dairy-free butter
  • ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1 ½ cups powdered sugar
  • 1 pinch of sea salt

Instructions

  1. Prepare the oven by warming it to 350°F and lightly coating a donut pan with cooking spray to prevent sticking.
  2. Create the dry ingredient mixture by thoroughly blending gluten-free flour, baking powder, baking soda, warming spices like cinnamon, ginger, nutmeg, and sea salt in a large mixing bowl.
  3. In a separate bowl, whisk together pumpkin puree, avocado oil, brown sugar, eggs, additional sugar, almond milk, and vanilla extract until the mixture becomes smooth and homogeneous.
  4. Gently fold the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients, stirring carefully to ensure complete integration without overmixing.
  5. Transfer the batter into a piping bag or large zip-top bag, snipping a small corner to create a precise opening for filling the donut molds.
  6. Carefully pipe the batter into each donut cavity, filling approximately three-quarters full to allow room for rising during baking.
  7. Place the donut pan in the preheated oven and bake for 11-12 minutes, watching for a golden-brown surface that springs back when lightly touched.
  8. Remove from the oven and allow donuts to rest in the pan for two minutes before transferring to a wire cooling rack.
  9. Prepare the glaze by combining brown sugar, almond milk, and dairy-free butter in a small saucepan over medium heat, stirring until a smooth consistency develops.
  10. Simmer the mixture briefly, then remove from heat and incorporate vanilla extract and powdered sugar, whisking until the glaze becomes glossy.
  11. Once the donuts have cooled completely, dip each one into the glaze, allowing excess to drip off naturally.
  12. Return the glazed donuts to the wire rack, permitting the icing to set and solidify before serving.

Notes

  • Gluten-free baking requires precise measurements and quality alternative flour to ensure soft, tender texture.
  • Prepare all ingredients at room temperature for smoother mixing and better overall donut consistency.
  • Piping batter into donut pan helps create uniform shapes and prevents messy, uneven filling.
  • Cool donuts completely before icing to prevent melting and ensure a smooth, professional-looking glaze.
  • Check donuts at 11 minutes to avoid overcooking, as gluten-free baked goods can dry out quickly.
  • Store donuts in an airtight container at room temperature for maximum freshness, consuming within 2-3 days.
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 12 minutes
  • Category: Breakfast, Snacks, Desserts
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 12
  • Calories: 300
  • Sugar: 30 g
  • Sodium: 200 mg
  • Fat: 15 g
  • Saturated Fat: 2 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 12 g
  • Trans Fat: 0 g
  • Carbohydrates: 40 g
  • Fiber: 2 g
  • Protein: 3 g
  • Cholesterol: 50 mg
David Bennett

David Bennett

Founder & Head Recipe Developer

Expertise

Culinary Nutrition​, Recipe Development​, Nutritional Counseling​, Food Science​

Education

Johnson & Wales University

  • Degree: Bachelor of Science in Culinary Nutrition
  • Focus: Blending culinary arts with nutritional science to create health-focused cuisine.

Certified Nutrition Specialist® (CNS®)

  • Credential: Advanced certification in personalized nutrition therapy. ​

David Bennett is the lead recipe creator and nutrition expert at HealthyChoices.org, your friendly space for tasty meals that nourish body and mind. 

With a Culinary Nutrition degree from Johnson & Wales University and a Certified Nutrition Specialist® credential, David pairs practical nutrition with delicious cooking, creating recipes you’ll crave daily. 

At Healthy Choices, David shares easy, nutritious dishes and smart cooking tips to make healthy eating something everyone can enjoy, with no complicated diets needed.

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Recipe rating 5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star