Pumpkin Spiced Donuts with Bourbon Caramel Glaze: A Cozy Autumn Treat
Soft, golden treats infused with cozy autumn spices and topped with a buttery finish.
Pumpkin Spiced Donuts with Bourbon Caramel Glaze
As the crisp air settles in and leaves turn golden, there’s nothing cozier than the inviting scent of pumpkin spiced donuts baking in your kitchen. These soft, warmly spiced donuts are baked, not fried, and finished with a decadent, buttery bourbon caramel glaze. This recipe brings together the heart of autumn flavor—pumpkin, cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves—all crowned with the rich complexity of bourbon-spiked caramel. Whether you’re making brunch for friends or simply need a sweet treat to enjoy with hot coffee, these donuts will become a seasonal favorite.
Why This Recipe Shines
- Baked, Not Fried: Easier and lighter than traditional donuts, with no messy deep-frying required.
- Deep Autumn Flavors: Real pumpkin puree, fragrant spices, and a glaze that balances sweetness with a hint of bourbon warmth.
- Perfect for Gatherings: Crowd-pleasing, make-ahead friendly, and easy to transport—ideal for holiday tables or coffee dates.
- Elevated with Bourbon Caramel: An adult twist takes these donuts from everyday to unforgettable. Omit the bourbon for a family-friendly version.
Ingredients & Equipment
Donut Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 teaspoons pumpkin pie spice (or a homemade blend of cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and cloves)
- 1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 3/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted and cooled
- 1 cup packed light brown sugar
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 3/4 cup canned pumpkin puree (not pumpkin pie filling)
- 2/3 cup whole milk (or buttermilk for tang)
- 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
Bourbon Caramel Glaze Ingredients
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 6 tablespoons unsalted butter, cubed
- 1/2 cup heavy cream (room temperature)
- 2 tablespoons bourbon (or more/less to taste; optional—see FAQ for substitutions)
- Pinch of salt
- 1 cup powdered sugar, sifted (for thickening the glaze as needed)
Special Equipment
- Donut baking pans (nonstick, standard size for best results)
- Mixing bowls (one large, one medium)
- Whisk and silicone spatula
- Medium saucepan (for caramel glaze)
- Wire rack (for cooling and glazing)
- Parchment paper (to catch drips beneath the rack)
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prep the Baking Equipment
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease two standard donut pans well with nonstick spray or softened butter.
- Set a wire rack over a sheet of parchment paper for easy glaze cleanup.
2. Mix the Donut Batter
- In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, pumpkin pie spice, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
- In a large bowl, whisk the melted butter with brown sugar and granulated sugar until no lumps remain.
- Beat in eggs, pumpkin puree, milk (or buttermilk), and vanilla until smooth.
- Add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture. Stir gently with a spatula until just combined—do not overmix. The batter will be thick and spoonable.
3. Fill the Donut Pans
- Transfer the batter to a large resealable bag and snip off one corner, or use a piping bag.
- Pipe or spoon the batter into the prepared wells, filling each about 2/3 full.
4. Bake & Cool
- Bake for 12–15 minutes, or until the donuts are puffed, lightly golden, and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out mostly clean.
- Let donuts cool in the pan for 5 minutes, then turn out onto the wire rack to cool completely before glazing.
Making the Bourbon Caramel Glaze
This glaze is what makes these donuts truly special. The bourbon adds a subtle warmth and pairs beautifully with caramelized sugar and rich butter. If you prefer to skip alcohol, see the FAQ section for an easy substitution.
Bourbon Caramel Glaze—Step by Step
- Caramelize the Sugar: In a medium saucepan over medium-high heat, warm 1 cup granulated sugar. Stir and swirl as the sugar melts and turns into a deep amber color. Be patient and vigilant—sugar can go from golden to burnt quickly!
- Add Butter & Cream: When the caramel reaches a rich amber, remove from the heat. Carefully whisk in 6 tablespoons butter (it will bubble vigorously), then slowly add 1/2 cup heavy cream. Whisk until smooth.
- Finish with Bourbon: Return the pan to low heat. Stir in 2 tablespoons bourbon and a pinch of salt, whisking for 1–2 minutes.
- Let the caramel cool slightly, then whisk in powdered sugar until the glaze is pourable yet thick enough to coat the donuts.
- Use the glaze while still warm for best results. If it thickens too much, gently reheat and whisk until runny again.
What others are reading
How to Glaze the Donuts
- Dip each cooled donut upside down into the warm bourbon caramel glaze.
- Twist the donut gently as you lift it to encourage an even coating. Allow excess glaze to drip off.
- Place donuts back on the wire rack to set. Work swiftly, as the caramel glaze will firm up as it cools.
- For extra flair, drizzle with more glaze or sprinkle with flaky sea salt.
Expert Tips & Troubleshooting
- Room Temp Ingredients: Ensure eggs, cream, and butter are at room temperature for a smooth batter and lump-free caramel.
- Don’t Overbake: Baked donuts can become dry if left in the oven too long. Remove as soon as they spring back.
- Smooth Glaze Texture: Sift the powdered sugar before adding to caramel for a glossy, lump-free finish.
- Customize Your Glaze: No bourbon? Substitute with vanilla extract for a classic caramel glaze everyone can enjoy.
- Storage: Best enjoyed the day they’re made. To store, keep unglazed donuts in an airtight container for 2 days; glaze just before serving.
Serving Suggestions & Pairings
These donuts are irresistible with morning coffee, spiced chai, or even a small glass of bourbon for a true adult treat. Double the recipe for a brunch party, or serve alongside other autumn pastries at Thanksgiving.
- Sprinkle with crushed nuts (like toasted pecans or walnuts) for texture.
- For a festive breakfast, offer a spread of glazes: maple, vanilla, or chocolate alongside the bourbon caramel.
- Stack and serve on a beautiful platter for your next autumn celebration.
Nutrition Information (Estimated per Donut)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 290 |
| Fat | 11 g |
| Carbohydrates | 44 g |
| Sugar | 29 g |
| Protein | 3 g |
*Note: Nutrition values will vary depending on the actual size of donuts and the amount of glaze used. These are approximate values for general reference.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Can I make these donuts in advance?
A: Yes! Bake and store unglazed donuts in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days, or freeze for longer. Glaze just before serving for the freshest texture.
Q: Is the bourbon flavor very strong?
A: The bourbon in the glaze adds warmth and complexity, but the alcohol cooks out. For a more pronounced flavor, add an extra half tablespoon; for a mild glaze, use just a splash.
Q: How can I make the glaze alcohol-free?
A: Simply substitute 1–2 teaspoons of pure vanilla extract for the bourbon. You’ll get all the rich caramel flavor without any alcohol.
Q: Can I bake these as muffins?
A: Yes, you can bake the batter in a standard or mini muffin pan; just watch the baking time, as muffins may take slightly longer to bake through.
Q: Can I fry the donuts instead?
A: This batter is specifically designed for baking, resulting in a cake-like crumb. For fried donuts, a yeast-raised dough is recommended.
Recipe Variations
- Maple Caramel Glaze: Add a couple of tablespoons of real maple syrup to the caramel for added autumn sweetness.
- Nutty Topping: Sprinkle warm, glazed donuts with toasted pecans, walnuts, or pepitas.
- Spice it Up: Add a pinch of cayenne or black pepper for a hint of heat in the caramel.
- Vegan Option: Use plant-based butter, non-dairy milk, and skip the eggs with a flaxseed or applesauce substitute.
Troubleshooting & Pro Tips
- If the caramel crystallizes or seizes, add a tablespoon of hot water and stir gently until smooth.
- Caramel burns quickly; keep a close eye and do not walk away from the stovetop.
- For a thinner glaze, increase the cream or reduce powdered sugar as needed.
- If you only have pumpkin pie filling on hand, reduce the sugar in the recipe, as filling is pre-sweetened and spiced.
Final Thoughts: Celebrate Fall With Every Bite
Pumpkin spiced donuts with bourbon caramel glaze are more than just a recipe—they’re a flavor-packed, nostalgic welcome to fall. With just a handful of pantry staples, a donut pan, and a little time, you can serve up bakery-style donuts that are as beautiful as they are delicious. The scent of warm pumpkin and caramel will fill your kitchen and win over guests whenever you bake them—don’t be surprised if they become your new autumn tradition!
References
- https://thiscelebratedlife.com/2019/10/baked-pumpkin-donuts-with-bourbon-glaze.html
- https://honestlyyum.com/11622/baked-pumpkin-donuts-with-caramel-glaze/
- https://fertilitychef.com/mealplanner/recipe/59887/pumpkin-spiced-donuts-with-bourbon-caramel-glaze
- https://www.wellmadebykiley.com/blog/pumpkin-donuts-with-maple-bourbon-glaze
- https://www.thepioneerwoman.com/food-cooking/recipes/a80231/pumpkin-spiced-donuts-with-bourbon-caramel-glaze/
- https://thenoshery.com/pumpkin-spiced-donuts-bourbon-caramel-glaze/
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