Why You’ll Love This Recipe

These Gluten-Free Pumpkin Donuts are the perfect fall treat, combining the warm, comforting flavors of pumpkin, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Made with gluten-free ingredients, they’re a delicious option for those with dietary restrictions or anyone craving a healthier alternative to traditional donuts. The fluffy texture and natural sweetness of coconut sugar make them irresistible. Whether you’re hosting a fall gathering or just need a cozy snack, these pumpkin donuts are sure to become a favorite!

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

1 cup gluten-free all-purpose flour
1/2 cup pumpkin puree (make sure it’s 100% pumpkin, not pie filling)
1/2 cup sugar (coconut sugar is recommended for a healthier choice)
1/4 cup vegetable oil or melted coconut oil
2 large eggs
1 teaspoon baking powder
1/2 teaspoon baking soda
1 teaspoon cinnamon
1/2 teaspoon nutmeg
1/4 teaspoon salt

Substitutions for Dietary Needs

Ingredient	Substitution
Gluten-free all-purpose flour	Coconut flour (use less as it absorbs more liquid)
White sugar	Maple syrup or honey (reduce liquid slightly)
Eggs	Flaxseed meal (1 tbsp flaxseed + 3 tbsp water = 1 egg)
Vegetable oil	Applesauce for a healthier option

Directions

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a donut pan or spray it with non-stick cooking spray.
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the gluten-free flour, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt.
In a separate bowl, beat the eggs, and then add the pumpkin puree, coconut sugar, and oil (or melted coconut oil). Mix until combined.
Gradually add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients, mixing until just combined. Be careful not to overmix to keep the donuts light.
Spoon the batter into the donut pan, filling each mold about two-thirds full to allow room for rising.
Bake for 15–18 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center of a donut comes out clean.
Allow the donuts to cool in the pan for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Servings and Timing

Servings: 12 donuts
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 15–18 minutes
Total Time: 25–28 minutes

Variations

Frosting or Glaze: Add a drizzle of maple glaze or cream cheese frosting for an extra indulgent treat.
Add-ins: Stir in chocolate chips, chopped nuts, or dried cranberries for added texture and flavor.
Spices: Adjust the spices by adding a pinch of cloves or ginger for a more complex flavor.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Store the cooled donuts in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, keep them in the fridge for up to a week.
Reheating: Gently reheat in the microwave for 10–15 seconds for a warm, freshly-baked feel.

FAQs

Can I make these donuts without eggs?

Yes, you can substitute eggs with a flaxseed meal mixture (1 tbsp flaxseed + 3 tbsp water = 1 egg).

Can I make these donuts vegan?

Yes, use flaxseed meal instead of eggs and replace the vegetable oil with applesauce to make them fully vegan.

Can I freeze these donuts?

Yes, these donuts freeze well. Store them in a freezer-safe bag for up to 2 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.

Can I use regular flour instead of gluten-free flour?

Yes, if you’re not gluten-free, you can use all-purpose flour in place of the gluten-free flour.

Can I make these donuts without a donut pan?

Yes, you can bake the batter in muffin tins instead of a donut pan. The baking time may vary, so check for doneness with a toothpick.

How can I make these donuts fluffier?

Be careful not to overmix the batter, as this can make the donuts dense. Mix just until combined for a lighter texture.

Can I use canned pumpkin pie filling instead of pumpkin puree?

No, canned pumpkin pie filling contains added spices and sugar, which could affect the flavor of your donuts. Use 100% pumpkin puree for the best results.

Can I add chocolate chips to this recipe?

Yes, you can add a handful of mini chocolate chips to the batter for a sweet touch.

Can I use honey instead of coconut sugar?

Yes, you can use honey, but reduce the liquid slightly to maintain the right consistency in the batter.

How do I know when the donuts are done?

Insert a toothpick into the center of a donut. If it comes out clean or with just a few moist crumbs, they are done.

Conclusion

These Gluten-Free Pumpkin Donuts are a delicious and healthier alternative to traditional donuts, perfect for fall. With their warm spices, pumpkin flavor, and light, fluffy texture, they’ll quickly become a favorite in your household. The recipe is versatile, so everyone can enjoy these treats with easy substitutions, making them ideal for different dietary needs. Whether enjoyed with a cup of coffee or as a festive fall snack, these pumpkin donuts are sure to please!

Gluten-Free Pumpkin Donuts Recipe