Healthy Pumpkin Donuts with Maple Glaze Recipe
Moist, tender, and lightly spiced, these healthy pumpkin donuts with maple glaze capture the essence of fall in every bite. Made with wholesome ingredients, they offer a guilt-free way to enjoy a classic treat without sacrificing taste. The natural sweetness of pumpkin and the warm notes of cinnamon and nutmeg combine perfectly with a delicate maple glaze, creating a dessert that is both comforting and satisfying.
Ideal for breakfast, snacks, or a festive treat, these donuts bring seasonal flavors to your table while staying light and nourishing. They are simple to prepare, bake quickly, and fill your kitchen with the inviting aroma of autumn.
Ingredients Needed
To make healthy pumpkin donuts with maple glaze you will need a mix of wholesome ingredients and a few staples for the glaze. Below is a table with the ingredients and their approximate calorie values.
| Ingredient | Quantity | Calories Approx |
|---|---|---|
| All purpose flour | 1 ½ cups | 540 |
| Whole wheat flour | ½ cup | 200 |
| Baking powder | 2 teaspoons | 5 |
| Baking soda | ½ teaspoon | 0 |
| Ground cinnamon | 2 teaspoons | 12 |
| Ground nutmeg | ½ teaspoon | 3 |
| Salt | ½ teaspoon | 0 |
| Pumpkin puree | ¾ cup | 75 |
| Unsweetened applesauce | ¼ cup | 25 |
| Maple syrup | ¼ cup | 210 |
| Eggs | 2 large | 140 |
| Vanilla extract | 1 teaspoon | 12 |
| Milk (any kind) | ¼ cup | 30 |
| Coconut oil melted | 2 tablespoons | 240 |
| Maple glaze (for topping) | ¼ cup | 210 |
Step by Step Cooking Instructions
Prepare the Dry Ingredients
In a large bowl combine all purpose flour, whole wheat flour, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt. Whisk them together to ensure the spices and leavening agents are evenly distributed.
Mix the Wet Ingredients
In another bowl combine pumpkin puree, applesauce, maple syrup, eggs, vanilla extract, milk, and melted coconut oil. Whisk until smooth and well combined. The mixture should have a uniform consistency with no lumps.
Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture. Stir gently with a spatula until just combined. Avoid over mixing to keep the donuts light and tender.
Fill the Donut Pan
Lightly grease a donut pan or spray with non stick spray. Spoon the batter into the cavities, filling each about three quarters full. Smooth the tops gently with a spoon or spatula.
Bake the Donuts
Preheat the oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. Place the donut pan in the oven and bake for 12 to 15 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Remove from the oven and allow the donuts to cool in the pan for a few minutes.
Prepare the Maple Glaze
While the donuts are cooling, prepare the glaze. In a small bowl mix maple syrup with a little powdered sugar if needed for thicker consistency. Stir until smooth and ready to drizzle.
Glaze and Serve
Once the donuts have cooled slightly, dip the tops into the maple glaze or drizzle it over the donuts. Allow the glaze to set for a few minutes before serving. The donuts are now ready to enjoy fresh, warm, and full of seasonal flavor.
Tips for customizing the Recipe
You can easily adjust these pumpkin donuts to match your taste or dietary preferences. Swap whole wheat flour for almond flour or oat flour for a gluten free option and slightly different texture. Adding a pinch of cloves or ginger to the batter enhances the warmth of the spices.
For a richer flavor, drizzle the donuts with a mixture of maple syrup and a little melted dark chocolate instead of plain glaze. You can also sprinkle chopped nuts or seeds on top before glazing for added crunch and visual appeal.
If you prefer a lower sugar version, reduce the maple syrup slightly or use a natural sweetener alternative. These small changes allow you to make the donuts your own while keeping them moist, tender, and full of autumn inspired taste.
Nutritional Information
Healthy pumpkin donuts with maple glaze are a lighter alternative to traditional fried donuts, yet they remain satisfying and full of flavor. Each donut provides carbohydrates from the flours and natural sweetness from pumpkin, applesauce, and maple syrup, offering a gentle boost of energy. The coconut oil and eggs contribute healthy fats and protein, which help keep the donuts soft and tender.
Pumpkin adds natural vitamins and minerals, including vitamin A, which supports eye health, while the spices like cinnamon and nutmeg bring antioxidants and a warm taste. The maple glaze adds a sweet finishing touch, providing a small amount of additional sugar without overwhelming the natural flavors of the donut.
Enjoying these donuts in moderation makes them a wholesome treat that can fit into a balanced diet. Pairing them with fresh fruit or a cup of tea enhances the overall experience while keeping the serving light and nutritious.
Serving Suggestion
Healthy pumpkin donuts with maple glaze are best served fresh and slightly warm to enjoy their soft texture and aromatic spices. Arrange them on a platter for breakfast, brunch, or an afternoon snack. They pair beautifully with a hot cup of coffee, tea, or warm milk for a comforting seasonal treat.
For a more indulgent presentation, drizzle extra maple glaze over the top or sprinkle lightly with chopped nuts or cinnamon. These donuts also work well as a grab and go snack for busy mornings or a festive addition to holiday gatherings, making them both practical and delicious.
How to Store and Keep Fresh
Allow the pumpkin donuts to cool completely before storing to maintain their soft texture. Place them in an airtight container at room temperature where they will stay fresh for up to two days.
For longer storage, refrigerate the donuts for up to a week or freeze them in a sealed container for up to two months. When ready to enjoy, warm them briefly in the oven or microwave to restore their tender texture and bring out the aroma of the pumpkin and spices.
Conclusion
Healthy pumpkin donuts with maple glaze are a perfect balance of soft, moist texture and warm autumn spices. They offer a lighter, wholesome alternative to traditional donuts while still delivering a rich and satisfying taste. The combination of pumpkin, natural sweeteners, and aromatic spices makes them a comforting treat for any time of the day.
These donuts are versatile, easy to make at home, and can be customized to suit different preferences or dietary needs. Serving them fresh and slightly warm enhances their flavor and texture, making them an ideal choice for family breakfasts, festive gatherings, or simple seasonal indulgence. Baking them at home ensures each bite is full of fresh ingredients and homemade goodness.
FAQs
Q1: Can I make these pumpkin donuts ahead of time
Yes, you can prepare and bake them a day in advance. Store them in an airtight container and add the maple glaze just before serving to keep them fresh and flavorful.
Q2: Can I use a different sweetener instead of maple syrup
Absolutely, you can substitute honey, agave syrup, or a sugar free alternative. Keep in mind that the flavor will vary slightly depending on the choice of sweetener.
Q3: How do I reheat the donuts without drying them out
Warm them in the oven at a low temperature for a few minutes or use the microwave for about 15 to 20 seconds. This restores their soft texture and enhances the aroma of pumpkin and spices.
