Every year when the air turns crisp and leaves start to fall, I find myself reaching for a recipe that feels like a hug in donut form.
These Pumpkin Spice Donuts with Maple Glaze are exactly that — warm, fluffy, spiced just right, and topped with a sweet, buttery maple glaze that melts in your mouth.
The smell alone transports me to cozy autumn mornings, coffee in hand, wrapped in a sweater.
They’re easy to make, mess-free, and no frying required. Just pop them in the oven and get ready for some serious fall magic.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Classic fall flavor – packed with real pumpkin and warm spices
Baked, not fried – healthier and easier to clean up
Incredibly soft and fluffy – thanks to pumpkin puree
Perfect glaze – rich maple flavor that hardens beautifully
Crowd-pleaser – kids and adults both love them
Great for gifting – just wrap in parchment and twine for a sweet fall treat
What You’ll Need (Ingredient Highlights)
Pumpkin puree – brings moisture, natural sweetness, and that deep orange color
Pumpkin pie spice – the heart of the flavor, with cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves
Brown sugar – adds a deep, molasses-like sweetness
Melted butter – gives richness without needing a mixer
Maple syrup – real maple is key for a glaze that shines
Confectioners’ sugar – for that silky-smooth maple topping
Pro Tips Before You Start
Make sure your pumpkin puree is not too watery — blot with a paper towel if needed.
Don’t overmix the batter or your donuts may turn dense.
Bake immediately after filling the pan to get the best rise.
Let the maple glaze cool just a bit — it thickens as it stands and sets better on the donuts.
If you don’t have a donut pan, try using a mini muffin tin for pumpkin donut holes!
How to Make Pumpkin Spice Donuts with Maple Glaze
Step 1: Prepare the Oven & Pan
Preheat your oven to 400°F.
Lightly grease a donut pan with nonstick spray and set aside.
Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients
In a large bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, pumpkin pie spice, salt, and baking soda until evenly combined.
Step 3: Make the Batter
In a stand mixer (or bowl with hand mixer), beat the melted butter and brown sugar until well blended.
Add eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition.
Mix in the pumpkin puree and vanilla extract.
Step 4: Combine
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing on low speed just until no flour remains.
Don’t overmix.
Step 5: Bake
Scoop the batter into the prepared donut pan, filling each cavity about ¾ full.
Bake for 10–12 minutes or until donuts are golden and spring back when gently pressed.
Step 6: Make the Maple Glaze
While the donuts bake, heat maple syrup in a small saucepan over medium heat and simmer until reduced to about ½ cup.
Remove from heat, whisk in butter, vanilla, and salt until smooth.
Stir in powdered sugar until thick and glossy.
Step 7: Glaze the Donuts
Let the baked donuts cool for 10 minutes.
Dip the tops into the warm glaze and place on a rack to set.
What to Serve It With
A cup of hot apple cider
Pumpkin spice latte
Chai tea
Or even a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a fun dessert spin!
Variations / Substitutions
No donut pan? Use a mini muffin tin for pumpkin “donut holes.”
Add-ins: Stir in mini chocolate chips or chopped pecans to the batter.
Dairy-free: Use vegan butter or coconut oil in both the batter and glaze.
Gluten-free: Swap the all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend.
Storage & Leftovers
Room temperature: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Fridge: Store for 5–6 days, though the glaze may soften.
Freezer: Freeze without glaze for up to 2 months. Thaw and glaze fresh.
FAQs
Can I use homemade pumpkin puree instead of canned?
Yes, just make sure it’s thick and not watery. Drain or blot as needed.
Do I have to use pumpkin pie spice?
You can make your own blend using cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves, and a pinch of ginger.
Can I double the recipe?
Absolutely! This recipe doubles well for a larger batch.
Can I make the glaze ahead?
Yes, reheat gently and whisk before dipping donuts.
Why did my donuts turn out dense?
Overmixing or old baking powder could be the culprit. Mix just until combined.
Can I skip the glaze?
Sure! They’re still delicious plain or dusted with powdered sugar.
Can I make these vegan?
Yes — use flax eggs, plant-based butter, and dairy-free milk for the glaze if needed.
Final Thoughts
These Pumpkin Spice Donuts with Maple Glaze are the definition of fall baking bliss.
Whether you’re serving them at brunch, taking them to a fall party, or just cozying up with a good book and coffee — they deliver comfort and warmth in every bite.
They’ve become a yearly tradition in my kitchen, and once you try them, I think they’ll become yours too.
Pumpkin Spice Donuts
Ingredients
Method
- Preheat oven to 400°F and grease a donut pan.
- Whisk together flour, baking powder, pumpkin pie spice, salt, and baking soda.
- Beat melted butter and brown sugar until combined.
- Add eggs, then pumpkin and vanilla.
- Mix in dry ingredients just until combined.
- Spoon batter into donut pan. Bake 10–12 minutes until golden and springy.
- See full steps with tips & photos → https://theboatshedcafe.com/pumpkin-spice-donuts/
Notes
My name is Isabella, and this space was born from years of stirring sauces at sunset, baking cookies while the kids played on the porch, and finding comfort in a homemade meal after long, busy days. Here you’ll find delicious, reliable recipes made with simple ingredients, plus easy step-by-step photos and videos to help you cook confidently at home.