These Gluten Free Pumpkin Doughnuts are incredibly soft, bursting with autumnal pumpkin spice, and crowned with a vibrant orange glaze – truly the quintessential fall treat!
As November unfolds its cozy embrace, ushering in crisp air and falling leaves, it’s a time for warm beverages, crackling fires, and, of course, all things pumpkin! While some might still be clinging to the remnants of spooky season, I find immense joy in the full swing of autumn and the promise of comforting flavors it brings. For me, the end of Halloween signifies the official kick-off to a season filled with delicious baking, heartfelt gatherings, and the comforting aroma of pumpkin spice wafting through the home. It’s a moment to shift focus from costumes and candy to delectable homemade treats that truly capture the spirit of fall.
Just last night, my husband and I embraced a wonderfully quiet evening, choosing to enjoy the serene ambiance of our home rather than the doorbell’s constant ring. There’s a certain simple pleasure in those undisturbed moments, perhaps with a good movie and no obligations. It was a perfect reminder that sometimes, the best way to celebrate is with simplicity and the comfort of your own space. This relaxed atmosphere set the ideal scene for contemplating the kind of treats that truly make fall special – something warm, flavorful, and utterly comforting. And what better way to enhance such an evening, or any autumn morning, than with a batch of freshly baked, perfectly spiced pumpkin doughnuts?
Regardless of my feelings about specific holidays, my love affair with pumpkin knows no bounds, and these delectable baked gluten-free pumpkin orange glazed doughnuts are a testament to that passion! I’ve refined this recipe over countless batches, each disappearing within a day or two, confirming their undeniable appeal. For years, deep-fried glazed doughnuts were a cherished guilty pleasure. However, as I embarked on a journey towards healthier eating and embraced a gluten-free lifestyle, I realized my craving for that soft, sweet dough didn’t diminish. The solution? Crafting a baked version that not only satisfied my doughnut desires but also aligned with my dietary choices, proving that you don’t have to sacrifice flavor or texture for a healthier alternative.
The inspiration for these extraordinary doughnuts comes from a beloved cookie recipe I’ve cherished since high school. Those cookies, renowned for their incredible softness, fluffiness, and irresistible blend of pumpkin and orange, have always been a seasonal favorite. It was only natural to translate those magical flavors into a doughnut form. The result is nothing short of spectacular: a doughnut that embodies all the comforting warmth of pumpkin pie spice beautifully complemented by the bright, zesty notes of fresh orange. And since doughnuts traditionally grace our breakfast tables, I see no reason why these delightful treats can’t be enjoyed any time of day – a morning indulgence, an afternoon pick-me-up, or a sweet dessert. They’re simply too good to limit to one meal!
Why You’ll Love These Gluten-Free Pumpkin Doughnuts:
- **Baked, Not Fried:** Enjoy all the deliciousness of a doughnut without the guilt of frying. Baking keeps them wonderfully light and moist.
- **Perfectly Gluten-Free:** Made with a reliable 1:1 gluten-free baking flour, these doughnuts offer an excellent texture that’s indistinguishable from their gluten-containing counterparts.
- **Irresistible Flavor Combination:** The classic warmth of pumpkin and spices meets the refreshing brightness of orange in both the doughnut and the glaze, creating a harmonious and addictive taste.
- **Soft and Fluffy Texture:** Every bite reveals a tender, cake-like crumb that melts in your mouth, making them incredibly satisfying.
- **Quick and Easy:** With minimal prep and baking time, you can whip up a batch of these homemade treats in under an hour, perfect for a spontaneous craving or a last-minute gathering.
- **Versatile Treat:** Ideal for breakfast, brunch, dessert, or a cozy snack with your favorite coffee or tea.
Tips for Perfect Baked Doughnuts:
Creating bakery-quality baked doughnuts at home is simpler than you might think, especially with a few helpful tips:
- **Donut Pan is Key:** Invest in a good quality non-stick doughnut pan. Greasing it well, even if it’s non-stick, will ensure easy release and perfectly shaped doughnuts every time.
- **Don’t Overmix:** Just like with muffins or quick breads, overmixing the batter can lead to tough doughnuts. Mix until just combined; a few lumps are perfectly fine.
- **Proper Filling:** For consistent and neat doughnuts, use a pastry bag or a zip-top bag with a corner snipped off to pipe the batter into the doughnut cavities. Fill them about two-thirds full to prevent overflowing while baking, which ensures a perfect ring shape.
- **Check for Doneness:** Doughnuts bake relatively quickly. A toothpick inserted into the thickest part should come out clean when they are ready, typically around 12-15 minutes, depending on your oven.
- **Cooling is Crucial:** Allow the doughnuts to cool in the pan for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. Glazing warm doughnuts will result in a runny, absorbed glaze rather than a smooth, set coating.
- **Glaze Consistency:** The glaze should be thick enough to coat the back of a spoon but still pourable. If it’s too thick, add a tiny splash more almond milk; if too thin, sift in a little more confectioners’ sugar.
- **Even Glazing:** Dip the cooled doughnuts into the glaze or spoon it over them. Place them back on the wire rack over parchment paper to catch any drips, allowing the glaze to set beautifully.
These simple steps will help you achieve wonderfully soft, flavorful, and beautifully glazed gluten-free pumpkin doughnuts that will impress everyone!
Looking For More Delicious Pumpkin Recipes?
If you’re as devoted to pumpkin as I am, you’ll love exploring these other incredible pumpkin-infused recipes perfect for the fall season. From savory to sweet, there’s something here for every pumpkin craving!
Pumpkin Queso Dip
Pumpkin Mac N Cheese
Pumpkin Chili with Black Beans
Easy Pumpkin Curry
Healthy Pumpkin Bread
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Gluten Free Pumpkin Donuts with Orange Glaze
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Author: She Likes Food
Total Time: 45 minutes
Yield: 12 1x
Diet: Vegetarian
Description
These Gluten Free Pumpkin Doughnuts are a celebration of autumn! Baked to a tender, cake-like perfection, they’re infused with warming pumpkin spice and crowned with a bright, zesty orange glaze, making them an utterly delicious and healthier alternative to traditional fried doughnuts. Perfect for any fall occasion, from cozy breakfasts to festive desserts.
Ingredients
Scale
- 2 cups gluten free 1:1 baking flour (I use Bob’s Red Mill)
- 2 teaspoons baking powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cloves
- 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 2/3 cup pumpkin puree
- 2/3 cup plus 2 tablespoons light brown sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1/2 cup plain, unsweetened almond milk
- 4 tablespoons melted butter, cooled (I used non-dairy Earth Balance)
- 1 teaspoon orange juice
- 1/2 teaspoon orange zest
Glaze:
- 2 cups confectioners sugar, sifted
- 3 tablespoons plain, unsweetened almond milk
- 1 tablespoon orange juice
- 1 teaspoon orange zest
Instructions
- Pre-heat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. Lightly grease a doughnut pan to ensure easy release and set it aside. In a medium-sized mixing bowl, whisk together the gluten-free flour, baking powder, salt, ground cloves, ground nutmeg, and ground cinnamon until well combined. In a separate, larger bowl, beat together the pumpkin puree, light brown sugar, and eggs until smooth and creamy. Gradually incorporate the almond milk, cooled melted butter, orange juice, and fresh orange zest into the wet mixture, mixing until all ingredients are thoroughly combined.
- Transfer the doughnut batter into the prepared doughnut pan. You can either carefully spoon the batter into each cavity or, for a cleaner and more precise method, use a pastry bag fitted with a large round tip to pipe the batter. Ensure that each cavity is filled approximately two-thirds full to prevent overflowing during baking. Bake the doughnuts for about 12-15 minutes, or until a wooden toothpick inserted into the center of a doughnut comes out clean. Once baked, carefully remove the doughnuts from the pan and allow them to cool completely on a wire rack before glazing. Repeat the process with any remaining batter. This recipe typically yields 12 perfectly sized doughnuts.
- Prepare the luscious orange glaze: In a small bowl, combine the sifted confectioners’ sugar, plain unsweetened almond milk, orange juice, and orange zest. Whisk vigorously until you achieve a smooth, lump-free glaze with a pourable yet thick consistency. Once the doughnuts are completely cool, spoon the desired amount of glaze over each one. For best results, place the wire rack over a sheet of parchment paper to catch any excess glaze. Allow the glaze to set for a few minutes before serving and enjoying these delightful gluten-free pumpkin orange glazed doughnuts!
- Prep Time: 20 mins
- Cook Time: 25 mins
- Category: Dessert, Breakfast, Gluten Free
- Method: Oven
- Cuisine: American
These gluten-free pumpkin doughnuts with orange glaze are more than just a recipe; they are an invitation to embrace the comfort and joy of autumn. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or just starting your culinary journey, these easy-to-make, healthier doughnuts are guaranteed to become a new favorite. The delightful combination of soft pumpkin goodness and a zesty citrus kick creates a truly memorable treat that’s perfect for sharing with loved ones or savoring by yourself with a warm cup of coffee. Enjoy the simple pleasures of fall baking!