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As the leaves turn golden and the air grows crisp, there’s no better way to embrace the cozy vibes of fall than with a batch of Pumpkin Spice Buttermilk Donuts. These delectable treats are the epitome of indulgence, boasting a perfect blend of warm spices and the rich, comforting flavors of pumpkin.

Whether enjoyed as a comforting breakfast, a delightful dessert, or a cozy snack, these homemade donuts are a testament to the magic of autumn and pumpkin spice flavor. This easy recipe is perfect with your favorite PSL latte or chai latte any time of year.

Each bite of these pumpkin buttermilk donuts is like a hug from autumn itself. They strike the perfect balance between sweet and spiced, with the creamy pumpkin puree and aromatic pumpkin pie spice working in harmony to create a symphony of flavors that dance on your taste buds. The buttermilk adds a subtle tang, while the airy texture of the donuts, achieved through frying to golden perfection, makes them utterly irresistible.

What makes these homemade pumpkin donuts even more special is the finishing touch of a luscious buttermilk glaze. It’s a sweet, velvety embrace that envelops each donut, sealing in the freshness and adding that extra layer of indulgence. 

Whether you’re a seasoned baker or a novice in the kitchen, these pumpkin spice buttermilk donuts are a breeze to whip up, making them the perfect recipe to celebrate fall’s arrival with family and friends. Using a few simple ingredients, even beginners can ace this pumpkin donut recipe and make the perfect fall treat.

Pumpkin Spice Buttermilk Donuts

Servings: 24 donuts

Prep time: 30 minutes total with icing the donuts too

Cook time: 2 minutes per donut (you can do up to 3 at a time)

Down time: 5 minutes to cool

Ingredients:

For donuts:

• 3/4 cup buttermilk 
• 1/3 cup canned pumpkin puree
• 1/2 cup white sugar
• 1 large egg, beaten
• 2.5 cups sifted all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon salt 
• 2 tsp pumpkin pie spice
• 1/4 cup (half stick) butter, melted
• 1 cup canola oil for frying donuts (you might need less oil depending on your saucepan)

For icing:

• 3 cups powdered sugar
• ½ cup buttermilk
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Directions:

1. Heat the oil in a large saucepan to 375 degrees F. Use 2-3 inches of oil for best results.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk the buttermilk, pumpkin, white sugar, and eggs. 
3. Mix flour, baking soda, baking powder, salt, and pumpkin pie spice together in another large bowl.
4. Add the buttermilk mixture into the flour mixture, and stir or knead with your hands until combined.
5. Add melted butter and knead until the dough is soft.
6. Roll dough onto a lightly floured surface, to 1/4-inch thick. 
7. Use a donut cutter to cut the donuts.
8. Carefully add donuts to the pan of hot oil, using a slotted metal spoon. Cook until golden brown, about 1 minute, then carefully flip over, and cook for an additional minute on the other side. Transfer to a cooling rack with a baking pan underneath.
9. Stir the powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and buttermilk in a bowl until smooth. 
10. Dip the donuts one by one into the glaze, then set back on the cooling wire rack.

Store any leftovers in an airtight container. This delicious treat can be kept at room temperature for 24 hours to enjoy the next day.

Tip: use the leftover dough after using the donut cookie cutter to make pumpkin donut holes. Fry them until they are golden brown and then toss them in powdered sugar or cinnamon sugar for a sweet finish. You may also glaze them.

What can you serve with Pumpkin Spice Donuts?

These easy pumpkin spice donuts are a delightful treat on their own, but you can elevate the experience by serving them with a variety of accompaniments that complement their flavors and add extra indulgence.

Here are some ideas:

1. Coffee or Hot Chocolate: A piping hot cup of coffee or creamy hot chocolate pairs exceptionally well with the spiced sweetness of Pumpkin Spice Donuts. The warm beverage provides a comforting contrast to the donuts’ texture and flavor.
2. Apple Cider: For a quintessential fall pairing, enjoy your Pumpkin Spice Donuts with a glass of freshly pressed apple cider. The crisp, fruity notes of the cider harmonize with the donuts’ autumnal spices.
3. Whipped Cream: A dollop of freshly whipped cream on top of your donuts adds a luxurious touch. It’s especially delightful when served with a dusting of cinnamon or nutmeg.
4. Cream Cheese Frosting: Instead of or in addition to the powdered sugar glaze, you can offer a bowl of creamy cream cheese frosting for dipping. The tangy sweetness of cream cheese complements the spiciness of the donuts.
5. Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of vanilla ice cream alongside warm Pumpkin Spice Donuts creates a wonderful hot-and-cold contrast. The ice cream slowly melts as you savor the donuts, creating a delightful mix of textures and temperatures.
6. Fruit Compote: A side of fruit compote, such as spiced apples or pears, adds a fruity dimension to your dessert. The sweetness and warm spices of the compote enhance the fall-inspired flavors of the donuts.
7. Nuts: Chopped toasted nuts like pecans or walnuts can be sprinkled on top of the glaze or used as a garnish. They add a delightful crunch and nutty flavor that complements the donuts.
8. Maple Syrup: Drizzling warm maple syrup over Pumpkin Spice Donuts can take them to the next level. The rich, earthy sweetness of maple syrup pairs beautifully with the spices in the donuts.
9. Yogurt or Greek Yogurt: A dollop of yogurt, especially Greek yogurt, can provide a creamy, tangy contrast to the sweetness of the donuts. It’s a lighter option for those who prefer a bit of balance.
10. Fresh Fruit: Sliced fresh fruit, such as apple or pear slices, berries, or even banana, can be served alongside the donuts for a refreshing and healthy element.

Feel free to mix and match. Whether you choose to keep it simple or create a decadent dessert spread, there are plenty of options to enhance your enjoyment of buttermilk pumpkin donuts.

What are your favorite pumpkin recipes?

More cozy fall recipes

• The best pumpkin spice latte copycat recipe
• Homemade Pumpkin Spice Bread
• The Best Copy Cat Starbucks Pumpkin Cream Cheese Muffins
• How to make pumpkin spice latte popcorn at home
• Delicious Skillet Chocolate Chip Banana Bread
• Recipe: Oatmeal With Apple Cinnamon Compote and Pepitas

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