Easy Gluten-Free Pumpkin Donuts (Dairy-Free)

Gluten-free pumpkin donuts (dairy-free) are an irresistible treat that captures the essence of fall. These soft, fluffy donuts are perfect for breakfast or as a delightful snack throughout the day. With warm spices and a sweet brown sugar icing, they offer a unique flavor that everyone will love. Plus, they’re simple to make and suitable for various occasions, from cozy mornings at home to festive gatherings with friends.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: This recipe is straightforward, making it perfect for bakers of all levels.
• Delicious Flavor: The combination of pumpkin and spices creates a rich and comforting taste.
• Dairy-Free Option: Enjoy these tasty donuts without dairy, making them suitable for those with dietary restrictions.
• Perfectly Soft Texture: The donuts turn out fluffy and moist, ensuring each bite is satisfying.
• Versatile Treat: Suitable for breakfast, snacks, or dessert; these donuts fit any occasion.
• Kid-Friendly Fun: Involve your kids in the baking process for a fun family activity.

Tools and Preparation

Before you start making your easy gluten-free pumpkin donuts, gather your tools to ensure a smooth baking experience.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Non-stick spray
• Large mixing bowl
• Medium mixing bowl
• Whisk
• Large zipped-top bag
• Donut pans
• Wire rack
• Fine mesh strainer
• Saucepan

Importance of Each Tool

• Non-stick spray: Prevents the donuts from sticking to the pans, making cleanup easier.
• Whisk: Ensures that your dry and wet ingredients are well combined for a uniform batter.
• Donut pans: Create perfectly shaped donuts that rise beautifully in the oven.

Ingredients

Gluten-free pumpkin donuts with brown sugar icing are the perfect treat for fall mornings.

For the Donuts

• 2 cups gluten-free 1-1 flour blend
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 3/4 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/2 teaspoon sea salt
• 2 teaspoons cinnamon
• 1/4 teaspoon ginger
• 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
• 1 cup pumpkin puree
• 1/2 cup avocado oil or melted refined coconut oil
• 1/2 cup brown sugar
• 2 eggs
• 1/2 cup sugar
• 1/2 cup almond milk
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

For the Brown Sugar Icing

• 3/4 cup packed brown sugar
• 1/4 cup almond milk
• 1 tablespoon dairy-free butter
• 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 and 1/2 cups powdered sugar
• pinch of sea salt

How to Make Easy Gluten-Free Pumpkin Donuts (Dairy-Free)

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°. Grease two donut pans with non-stick spray. An oil spritzer with avocado oil works great here!

Step 2: Combine Dry Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, whisk together:
1. gluten-free flour blend
2. baking powder
3. baking soda
4. cinnamon
5. ginger
6. nutmeg
7. sea salt

Set this mixture aside.

Step 3: Mix Wet Ingredients

In a medium bowl, whisk together:
1. pumpkin puree
2. avocado oil or melted refined coconut oil
3. brown sugar
4. sugar
5. eggs
6. almond milk
7. vanilla extract

Step 4: Combine Mixtures

Add the wet ingredients to your dry mixture and whisk until everything is well combined.

Step 5: Prepare for Piping

Take a large zipped-top bag and fold down the top twice. Spoon the batter into the baggie, unfold the top, close it with most of the air pushed out, and cut a small corner off the bottom.

Step 6: Fill Donut Pans

Pipe the batter into your greased donut pans until they are about 3/4 full. Bake in your preheated oven for 11-12 minutes. They’re ready when they bounce back when tapped lightly and have turned golden brown.

Step 7: Cool Down

Allow the donut pans to cool on a wire rack for about 2 minutes before removing them from their pans. Let them cool completely on the wire rack for another 10-15 minutes.

Step 8: Sift Powdered Sugar

Sift powdered sugar through a fine mesh strainer over a large bowl by gently tapping your hand against its side.

Step 9: Make Brown Sugar Icing

In a saucepan over medium heat, combine:
– Brown sugar
– Almond milk
– Dairy-free butter

Stir until smooth and simmer for one minute before removing from heat. Whisk in vanilla extract and sifted powdered sugar until well mixed. Allow cooling for about five minutes.

Step 10: Ice Your Donuts

Place your wire rack with cooled donuts on a large baking sheet underneath to catch drips. Dip each donut’s top into the icing before placing it back on the rack to set. If necessary, add more almond milk to thin out thick icing.

Enjoy your delicious easy gluten-free pumpkin donuts (dairy-free)!

How to Serve Easy Gluten-Free Pumpkin Donuts (Dairy-Free)

These delightful Easy Gluten-Free Pumpkin Donuts are perfect for any occasion. With their warm spices and sweet icing, they make an excellent treat for breakfast or dessert.

With Coffee

• Pair these donuts with a hot cup of coffee for a cozy morning treat.

As a Dessert

• Serve them after dinner for a sweet finish to your meal. They can be enjoyed warm or at room temperature.

For Breakfast

• Add a donut to your breakfast plate alongside some fresh fruit and yogurt for a balanced start to your day.

During Fall Gatherings

• Present these donuts on a festive platter during fall gatherings or Halloween parties. They’re sure to impress your guests!

With Ice Cream

• Top a donut with a scoop of dairy-free vanilla ice cream for an indulgent dessert that combines flavors beautifully.

How to Perfect Easy Gluten-Free Pumpkin Donuts (Dairy-Free)

To achieve the best results with your Easy Gluten-Free Pumpkin Donuts, consider these helpful tips.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Ensure that your baking powder and spices are fresh for optimal flavor and rise.

• Check Flour Blend: Use a high-quality gluten-free flour blend that includes xanthan gum for better texture.

• Don’t Overmix: Mix the batter just until combined to maintain light and fluffy donuts.

• Measure Precisely: Use measuring cups and spoons accurately, especially when it comes to liquids and dry ingredients.

• Cool Properly: Allow the donuts to cool completely before icing; this helps the icing adhere better.

Best Side Dishes for Easy Gluten-Free Pumpkin Donuts (Dairy-Free)

These donuts pair well with various side dishes, enhancing your meal experience. Here are some great options:

1. Fresh Fruit Salad: A mix of seasonal fruits adds freshness and balances the sweetness of the donuts.

2. Yogurt Parfait: Layer dairy-free yogurt with granola and fruits for a nutritious complement.

3. Maple Oatmeal: Serve warm oatmeal drizzled with maple syrup; it makes for a hearty breakfast option.

4. Chia Pudding: A creamy chia pudding provides good nutrition and pairs well with the flavors of pumpkin.

5. Smoothie Bowl: A thick smoothie bowl topped with nuts and seeds offers a refreshing contrast.

6. Spiced Tea: Brew some spiced tea like chai or pumpkin spice to enhance the autumn vibes.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Easy Gluten-Free Pumpkin Donuts (Dairy-Free) can be simple, but there are a few common mistakes to watch out for.

• Using the wrong flour blend: Make sure to use a high-quality gluten-free 1-1 flour blend. Not all blends work the same, and some may not provide the right texture.
• Not measuring ingredients correctly: Accurate measurements are crucial in baking. Use a kitchen scale or proper measuring cups to ensure your ingredients are precise.
• Overmixing the batter: Mixing too much can create dense donuts. Mix until just combined for light and fluffy results.
• Skipping the cooling step: Allowing the donuts to cool properly after baking helps them set. Skipping this step may result in soggy donuts.
• Ignoring icing consistency: If your icing is too thick, it won’t coat well. Adjust with extra almond milk until you reach your desired consistency.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• Keep for up to 3 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Easy Gluten-Free Pumpkin Donuts (Dairy-Free)

• Freeze in a single layer before transferring to a sealed container.
• Best consumed within 2 months for optimal freshness.

Reheating Easy Gluten-Free Pumpkin Donuts (Dairy-Free)

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F and heat for about 5-7 minutes for a warm treat.
• Microwave: Heat one donut at a time for about 10-15 seconds; be careful not to overheat.
• Stovetop: Warm in a non-stick pan over low heat for about 1-2 minutes on each side.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Easy Gluten-Free Pumpkin Donuts (Dairy-Free).

Can I use pumpkin pie spice instead of individual spices?

Yes, you can substitute pumpkin pie spice for cinnamon, ginger, and nutmeg in the recipe. Adjust according to taste.

How do I make these donuts vegan?

Simply replace the eggs with flax eggs or applesauce, and ensure your almond milk is unsweetened and dairy-free.

Can I use another type of milk?

Yes, any dairy-free milk like oat or soy milk will work well in this recipe.

What can I do if my batter is too thick?

If your batter seems thick, add more almond milk gradually until you achieve the desired consistency before piping into the donut pans.

Final Thoughts

These Easy Gluten-Free Pumpkin Donuts (Dairy-Free) are perfect for fall mornings. They’re not only delicious but also versatile. Feel free to customize with different spices or toppings to suit your taste. Enjoy this comforting treat with family and friends!