When autumn arrives, pumpkin-flavored treats quickly take over kitchens everywhere. Baked Pumpkin Donuts with Maple Glaze are a seasonal favorite that combine warm spices, soft pumpkin crumb, and the deep sweetness of real maple syrup. Unlike fried donuts, these are baked, making them lighter, less messy, and easy to prepare at home without sacrificing flavor or texture.

These donuts are tender and cake-like, infused with pumpkin purée and classic fall spices like cinnamon and nutmeg. The maple glaze adds a glossy finish and rich sweetness that complements the pumpkin beautifully. Whether served for breakfast, brunch, or dessert, these donuts feel cozy, comforting, and perfectly seasonal.

Why Baked Pumpkin Donuts Are So Popular

Baked donuts offer all the satisfaction of traditional donuts with less oil and simpler preparation. Pumpkin purée naturally keeps the donuts moist, while baking allows the flavors to shine without heaviness.

Maple glaze elevates these donuts beyond basic pumpkin spice. The caramel notes of maple syrup deepen the flavor profile, creating a donut that tastes indulgent yet balanced.

Pumpkin and Maple: A Classic Fall Pairing

Pumpkin and maple syrup are two of fall’s most beloved flavors. Pumpkin provides earthiness and warmth, while maple syrup adds sweetness with subtle complexity. Together, they create a donut that tastes nostalgic, cozy, and refined.

This pairing works especially well in baked goods because both ingredients enhance moisture and richness without overwhelming sweetness.

Ingredients

For the Pumpkin Donuts

1¾ cups all-purpose flour
1 tsp baking powder
½ tsp baking soda
½ tsp salt
1½ tsp cinnamon
½ tsp nutmeg
¼ tsp ground ginger
½ cup brown sugar
¼ cup granulated sugar
½ cup pumpkin purée
2 large eggs
¼ cup melted butter
¼ cup milk
1 tsp vanilla extract

For the Maple Glaze

1 cup powdered sugar
3 tbsp pure maple syrup
1–2 tbsp milk
½ tsp vanilla extract

Instructions

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a donut pan.
Whisk dry ingredients together in a medium bowl: flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger.
Mix wet ingredients in a separate bowl: brown sugar, granulated sugar, pumpkin purée, eggs, melted butter, milk, and vanilla.
Combine wet and dry mixtures gently until just incorporated. Do not overmix.
Pipe or spoon batter evenly into the donut pan, filling each cavity about ¾ full.
Bake for 12–15 minutes until donuts spring back lightly when touched.
Cool donuts in the pan for 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack.
Prepare the glaze by whisking powdered sugar, maple syrup, milk, and vanilla until smooth.
Dip cooled donuts into the maple glaze and allow excess to drip off. Let glaze set before serving.

Texture and Flavor Notes

These donuts are:

Soft and fluffy inside
Lightly crisp on the outside
Warmly spiced
Finished with a smooth, sweet maple glaze

They pair beautifully with coffee, tea, or a glass of milk.

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

Make ahead: Donuts can be baked one day in advance and glazed before serving.
Storage: Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days.
Freezing: Unglazed donuts freeze well for up to 2 months.

Variations to Try

Pumpkin spice glaze: Add cinnamon to the glaze.
Chocolate drizzle: Drizzle melted dark chocolate over the maple glaze.
Gluten-free: Use a 1:1 gluten-free baking flour.
Mini donuts: Use a mini donut pan and reduce baking time.

Serving Suggestions

Serve Baked Pumpkin Donuts with Maple Glaze:

At fall brunch gatherings
As a sweet breakfast treat
With hot cider or coffee
On holiday dessert tables

These donuts also make great edible gifts during autumn.

Seasonal Appeal and Inspiration

Pumpkin donuts have become a fall staple thanks to their comforting flavors and versatility. Baking rather than frying makes them accessible for home bakers, while maple glaze adds a gourmet touch that feels special without extra effort.