Pumpkin Spice Latte Donuts
The Pumpkin Spice Latte Donuts are a delightful treat that perfectly captures the essence of fall. I remember the first time I tried making these donuts; the warm, spicy aroma filled my kitchen, instantly transporting me to a cozy café on a crisp autumn morning. I decided to experiment with a recipe inspired by my love for pumpkin spice lattes, and what better way to enjoy that flavor than in donut form? As the donuts bake, the smell of cinnamon and nutmeg wafts through the air, inviting everyone in the house to come and taste these delicious treats.
These donuts are not just about nostalgia; they’re incredibly easy to whip up and wonderfully satisfying. Topped with a rich espresso glaze, each bite combines the comforting flavors of pumpkin and spices, making them perfect for any fall gathering or a simple weekend breakfast. Whether you enjoy them with a cup of coffee or serve them at a Halloween party, these donuts are sure to impress. You’ll find that they are light, fluffy, and oh-so-delicious, a truly unique spin on the classic donut. Trust me; once you try these, you’ll be hooked!
Recipe Snapshot
28 mins
10 mins
18 mins
Medium
150 kcal
3 g
Gluten-Free, Low FODMAP
6 g
Blender, Frying Pan, Oven, Whisk, Mixing Bowl, Baking Sheet
Why This Pumpkin Spice Latte Donuts Works
Irresistible Flavor Combination
What makes the Pumpkin Spice Latte Donuts so special is the perfect blend of spices. The combination of ground cinnamon, ground ginger, ground nutmeg, and a hint of cloves creates a warming spice profile that is inviting and comforting. This flavor is reminiscent of warm fall beverages that bring back cozy memories.
Guilt-Free Indulgence
With the inclusion of Greek yogurt, these donuts offer a healthier alternative to traditional fried donuts. It adds moisture and a subtle tang without the need for excessive sugar or fat. You can enjoy your favorite flavors without feeling guilty!
Perfect for All Occasions
These donuts are versatile. Whether you’re hosting a Halloween party, enjoying a family brunch, or simply craving something sweet, the Pumpkin Spice Latte Donuts fit right in. They can be dressed up or down, making them a delightful addition to any occasion.
Memorable Glaze
The rich espresso glaze is what takes these donuts to the next level. It adds a touch of sophistication and depth, balancing the sweetness of the donuts perfectly. The glaze can be adjusted to your preference, allowing you to create a texture that suits your taste.
Easy to Make
Don’t worry if you’re not a baking expert. These donuts are straightforward to prepare! With just a few simple steps, you can have a batch of warm, freshly baked donuts that will have your friends and family raving.
Lovely Presentation
Finally, the aesthetic of the Pumpkin Spice Latte Donuts adds to their charm. The golden-brown color and the glossy espresso glaze make them visually appealing and perfect for sharing on social media or serving at gatherings.
Ingredients Required for Pumpkin Spice Latte Donuts

Creating the Pumpkin Spice Latte Donuts requires a thoughtful selection of ingredients that work in harmony. The star ingredient, canned pumpkin, brings moisture and a rich flavor that pairs beautifully with spices. The combination of all-purpose flour, baking powder, and baking soda gives the donuts their fluffy texture. The addition of Greek yogurt not only enhances the taste but also adds a healthful aspect. Together, these ingredients create a deliciously satisfying treat that embodies the essence of fall.
- 1 1/4 cups all-purpose flour – This is the base of our donuts, providing structure and texture.
- 1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder – This helps the donuts to rise, giving them a light and fluffy consistency.
- 1/4 teaspoon baking soda – Aiding in the rising process, it works together with the baking powder.
- 1 pinch salt – A little salt enhances the flavors of the spices and sweetness.
- 1 1/2 teaspoons ground cinnamon – This spice is essential for that warm, cozy flavor we associate with fall.
- 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger – It adds a zesty, warm flavor that complements the cinnamon.
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cardamom (optional) – A hint of this spice can elevate the flavor profile.
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves (optional) – A small amount provides depth and richness to the spice blend.
- 1/2 cup sugar – Sweetens the donuts, balancing out the spices.
- 1 cup canned pumpkin (unsweetened) – The main ingredient that brings the pumpkin flavor and moisture.
- 1/2 cup Greek yogurt (low fat or fat free is ok) – Adds creaminess and tang to the batter.
- 1/4 cup melted butter – For a rich flavor and moisture in the donuts.
- 1 egg – Binds the ingredients together and adds richness.
- 1 cup confectioners sugar – Used for the glaze, giving it a sweet, smooth finish.
- 2 tablespoons strong espresso (more or less adjusted to the thickness of glaze you prefer) – Adds a coffee flavor to the glaze, enhancing the overall taste.
Cooking Instructions for Pumpkin Spice Latte Donuts

Making Pumpkin Spice Latte Donuts is a simple and enjoyable process. Just follow these steps, and you’ll have a batch of delicious, homemade donuts in no time!
- Preheat your oven to 400 degrees F. This step is crucial as it ensures that your donuts will bake evenly and rise properly.
- In a medium bowl, whisk together 1 1/4 cups of all-purpose flour, 1 1/2 teaspoons of baking powder, 1/4 teaspoon of baking soda, 1 pinch of salt, 1 1/2 teaspoons of ground cinnamon, 1/2 teaspoon of ground ginger, and if desired, 1/4 teaspoon of ground cardamom and 1/4 teaspoon of ground cloves. Mixing these dry ingredients together ensures that the leavening agents and spices are evenly distributed.
- In a large bowl, combine the remaining ingredients: 1 cup of canned pumpkin, 1/2 cup of Greek yogurt, 1/4 cup of melted butter, 1 egg, and 1/2 cup of sugar. Whisk everything together until it’s well blended. You want a smooth mixture that will incorporate the dry ingredients easily.
- Using a spatula, gently fold the dry ingredients into the pumpkin mixture. Be careful not to overmix; you want the batter to be just combined. Overmixing can lead to dense donuts.
- Prepare your donut pan by greasing it lightly with non-stick spray or by using butter. Then, place the batter into a piping bag and snip off the tip. This allows you to easily fill the donut pan without making a mess.
- Fill the donut pan about three-quarters of the way full with batter. This will give the donuts room to rise without overflowing.
- Bake the donuts for about 18 to 20 minutes, depending on your oven. They should be lightly browned and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- While the donuts are baking, prepare the glaze. In a bowl, whisk together 1 cup of confectioners sugar and 2 tablespoons of strong espresso until smooth. Adjust the consistency by adding more espresso or confectioners sugar as needed.
- Once the donuts are done, let them cool in the pan for about 5 minutes before carefully removing them. This step is important; if you take them out too early, they might break apart.
- Dip each side of the donut into the glaze and place them on a rack glazed side up, allowing any excess glaze to drip off. Make sure to let them cool a bit so the glaze hardens slightly.
Things Worth Knowing
- Donut Pan Use: If you don’t have a donut pan, don’t worry! You can pipe the batter onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or bake it thinly and cut out shapes afterwards.
- Ingredient Variations: Feel free to experiment! You can add chopped nuts or chocolate chips to the batter for added texture and flavor.
- Glaze Consistency: Adjust the thickness of the glaze to your liking by adding more espresso for a thinner glaze or more sugar for a thicker one.
- Storage: Keep the donuts in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 4 days. They stay fresh and moist!
Pro Tips and Tweaks

While making Pumpkin Spice Latte Donuts, here are some pro tips to elevate your baking experience:
- Testing Doneness: Use a toothpick to check if your donuts are done. Insert it into the center; if it comes out clean, they’re ready!
- Experiment with Flavors: Try adding different spices or even a touch of nutmeg for a unique twist!
- Keep Ingredients at Room Temperature: This helps with even mixing and creates a better texture.
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Always opt for fresh spices and quality pumpkin for the best flavor.
- Cooling the Donuts: Allow the donuts to cool completely after glazing to set the glaze properly.
Serving Options for Pumpkin Spice Latte Donuts
When it comes to serving Pumpkin Spice Latte Donuts, there are so many delightful ways to enjoy them:
- Morning Treat: Serve these donuts with a warm cup of coffee or tea for a cozy breakfast experience.
- Fall Gatherings: Perfect for Halloween parties or Thanksgiving brunch, these donuts will impress your guests.
- Pairing Suggestions: Complement with a side of fresh fruit or creamy yogurt for a balanced snack.
- Storage Tips: Store leftovers in an airtight container to keep them fresh for up to four days.
- Presentation: Arrange the glazed donuts on a decorative platter for a beautiful display at your next event.
FAQ
Conclusion
The Pumpkin Spice Latte Donuts offer a unique blend of flavors that capture the spirit of fall in every bite. Their delightful combination of spices and pumpkin makes them a must-try for any seasonal gathering or cozy morning. I encourage you to whip up a batch and share them with friends and family; they will surely appreciate the effort and flavor!

Pumpkin Spice Latte Donuts
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 400 degrees F. This step is crucial as it ensures that your donuts will bake evenly and rise properly.
- In a medium bowl, whisk together 1 1/4 cups of all-purpose flour, 1 1/2 teaspoons of baking powder, 1/4 teaspoon of baking soda, 1 pinch of salt, 1 1/2 teaspoons of ground cinnamon, 1/2 teaspoon of ground ginger, and if desired, 1/4 teaspoon of ground cardamom and 1/4 teaspoon of ground cloves. Mixing these dry ingredients together ensures that the leavening agents and spices are evenly distributed.
- In a large bowl, combine the remaining ingredients: 1 cup of canned pumpkin, 1/2 cup of Greek yogurt, 1/4 cup of melted butter, 1 egg, and 1/2 cup of sugar. Whisk everything together until it’s well blended. You want a smooth mixture that will incorporate the dry ingredients easily.
- Using a spatula, gently fold the dry ingredients into the pumpkin mixture. Be careful not to overmix; you want the batter to be just combined. Overmixing can lead to dense donuts.
- Prepare your donut pan by greasing it lightly with non-stick spray or by using butter. Then, place the batter into a piping bag and snip off the tip. This allows you to easily fill the donut pan without making a mess.
- Fill the donut pan about three-quarters of the way full with batter. This will give the donuts room to rise without overflowing.
- Bake the donuts for about 18 to 20 minutes, depending on your oven. They should be lightly browned and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- While the donuts are baking, prepare the glaze. In a bowl, whisk together 1 cup of confectioners sugar and 2 tablespoons of strong espresso until smooth. Adjust the consistency by adding more espresso or confectioners sugar as needed.
- Once the donuts are done, let them cool in the pan for about 5 minutes before carefully removing them. This step is important; if you take them out too early, they might break apart.
- Dip each side of the donut into the glaze and place them on a rack glazed side up, allowing any excess glaze to drip off. Make sure to let them cool a bit so the glaze hardens slightly.
Notes
- Use fresh or canned pumpkin: Either works well in this recipe!
- Use a piping bag: This makes it easier to scoop the batter into the donut pan.
- Donut pan alternative: You can pipe onto a baking sheet or cut shapes from baked batter.
- Let cool before glazing: This prevents the glaze from melting off the donuts.
- Adjust glaze consistency: Personalize it by changing the amount of espresso or sugar.


