Gluten and Dairy Free Pumpkin Donuts with Maple Glaze

These Gluten and Dairy Free Pumpkin Donuts with Maple Glaze are a delightful fall treat that everyone can enjoy. Perfect for breakfast, brunch, or dessert, these donuts bring together the warm flavors of pumpkin and spices. The maple glaze adds a sweet touch that complements the donut’s moist texture. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or simply craving something sweet, these gluten-free donuts will surely impress!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: This recipe comes together quickly with simple steps that anyone can follow.
• Delicious Flavor: The combination of pumpkin, cinnamon, and nutmeg creates a comforting and rich flavor profile.
• Versatile Treat: Perfect for breakfast, snacks, or even dessert at gatherings and holidays.
• Healthier Option: Made with gluten-free ingredients, these donuts are suitable for those with dietary restrictions.
• Crowd-Pleaser: Everyone will love these moist and flavorful donuts—no one will guess they’re gluten and dairy free!

Tools and Preparation

Before you start making your Gluten and Dairy Free Pumpkin Donuts with Maple Glaze, gather the necessary tools to ensure a smooth baking process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Donut pan
• Mixing bowls
• Whisk
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Baking spatula

Importance of Each Tool

• Donut pan: Creates the perfect shape for your donuts, ensuring even cooking.
• Mixing bowls: Essential for combining ingredients effectively without spills.
• Whisk: Helps achieve a smooth batter by thoroughly mixing wet ingredients.
• Baking spatula: Useful for scraping down sides of bowls to prevent waste.

Ingredients

These easy gluten free cake donuts are a fun fall treat that everyone will love.

Wet Ingredients

• 2 Eggs
• ¾ Cup Sugar
• 1 tsp. Vanilla
• 1 Cup Brown Sugar
• 1 Cup Pureed Pumpkin
• 1 Cup Dairy Free Milk (I used coconut)

Dry Ingredients

• 3 tsp. Baking Powder
• 2 Cups GF All Purpose Flour
• 1 tsp. Xanthan Gum
• 1 tsp. Pumpkin Pie Spice
• Dash of Salt
• 1 tsp. Cinnamon
• ¼ tsp. Nutmeg

Maple Glaze Ingredients

• 2 Cups Powdered Sugar
• 1 ½ tsp. Vanilla
• ½ tsp. Cinnamon
• ½ tsp. Maple Extract
• ½ TBSP. Coconut Milk (any dairy free milk will do)

How to Make Gluten and Dairy Free Pumpkin Donuts with Maple Glaze

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that your donuts cook evenly.

Step 2: Prepare the Donut Pan

Grease the donut pan lightly to prevent sticking once baked.

Step 3: Mix Wet Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl:
1. Whisk together the eggs, sugar, vanilla, brown sugar, pureed pumpkin, and dairy-free milk until well combined.

Step 4: Combine Dry Ingredients

In another bowl:
1. Mix together the baking powder, GF all-purpose flour, xanthan gum, pumpkin pie spice, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg.

Step 5: Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures

Gradually add the dry mixture to the wet mixture:
1. Stir until just combined; do not overmix.

Step 6: Fill Donut Pan

Spoon the batter into each donut mold until about three-quarters full.

Step 7: Bake Donuts

Bake in preheated oven for about 20 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into a donut comes out clean.

Step 8: Cool Donuts

Remove from the oven and let cool in the pan for about 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.

Step 9: Prepare Maple Glaze

In a medium bowl:
1. Whisk together powdered sugar, vanilla, cinnamon, maple extract, and coconut milk until smooth.

Step 10: Glaze Donuts

Once cooled:
1. Dip each donut into the glaze or drizzle it over top using a spoon.

Enjoy your deliciously moist Gluten and Dairy Free Pumpkin Donuts with Maple Glaze!

How to Serve Gluten and Dairy Free Pumpkin Donuts with Maple Glaze

These delightful gluten and dairy free pumpkin donuts are perfect for any occasion. Their warm flavors make them an ideal treat for breakfast or dessert, and they can be served in various enjoyable ways.

With Coffee or Tea

• Pair these donuts with your favorite coffee or tea for a cozy morning treat. The rich flavors of pumpkin and maple complement the warmth of your drink.

As a Dessert

• Serve the donuts warm with a scoop of dairy-free ice cream on the side. This creates a delicious contrast between the warm cake and cold ice cream.

Dusted with Powdered Sugar

• For a simple yet elegant presentation, dust the tops of the donuts with powdered sugar. This adds extra sweetness and a beautiful finish.

With Fresh Fruits

• Accompany the donuts with sliced apples or pears. The fresh fruits provide a refreshing balance to the rich flavors of the donuts.

At a Fall Gathering

• Place these donuts on a platter at your next fall gathering. They’re sure to be a hit among guests, especially when paired with seasonal beverages.

How to Perfect Gluten and Dairy Free Pumpkin Donuts with Maple Glaze

To make your gluten and dairy free pumpkin donuts truly exceptional, consider these helpful tips.

• Use Fresh Pumpkin – For the best flavor, opt for fresh pumpkin puree instead of canned. It gives your donuts a richer taste.
• Measure Flour Properly – Spoon your gluten-free flour into the measuring cup rather than scooping it directly. This helps prevent dense donuts.
• Don’t Overmix Batter – Mix just until combined. Overmixing can lead to tough donuts; you want them light and fluffy.
• Check Doneness – Use a toothpick to check if the donuts are done baking. It should come out clean when inserted in the center.
• Cool Before Glazing – Allow donuts to cool completely before glazing them. This ensures that the glaze sets properly without melting away.

Best Side Dishes for Gluten and Dairy Free Pumpkin Donuts with Maple Glaze

These pumpkin donuts can be complemented by various side dishes that enhance their delightful flavors. Here’s a list of perfect pairings:

1. Fruit Salad – A mix of seasonal fruits like berries, oranges, and melons adds freshness and color to your plate.
2. Chia Seed Pudding – This creamy pudding made from chia seeds offers a nutritious contrast to your sweet treats.
3. Granola – A handful of crunchy granola provides texture alongside the soft donuts, making for an interesting snack option.
4. Coconut Yogurt – Serve with a dollop of coconut yogurt for creaminess that pairs well with the spices in the donut.
5. Maple Syrup Dipping Sauce – A small bowl of maple syrup allows for an indulgent dipping experience that enhances sweetness.
6. Baked Apples – Warm baked apples sprinkled with cinnamon create a comforting side that complements autumn flavors beautifully.
7. Nut Butter Spread – Offer almond or cashew butter as an optional spread; it adds protein and richness to each bite.
8. Pumpkin Spice Latte – For an extra cozy touch, serve alongside this popular seasonal beverage that echoes similar flavors.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Gluten and Dairy Free Pumpkin Donuts with Maple Glaze can be simple, but a few common mistakes can lead to less-than-perfect results. Here’s what to watch out for:

• Incorrect Measurements: Using too much or too little of an ingredient can ruin the texture. Always measure your ingredients accurately using standard measuring cups and spoons.
• Overmixing the Batter: Mixing too much can create dense donuts instead of light and fluffy ones. Mix until just combined for the best texture.
• Skipping the Baking Powder: This ingredient is essential for making your donuts rise. Make sure it’s fresh and not expired before starting your recipe.
• Not Preheating the Oven: Baking in an unheated oven can affect cooking time and texture. Always preheat your oven for even baking.
• Ignoring Cooling Time: Donuts need time to set after baking. Let them cool in the pan for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• Keep in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.

Freezing Gluten and Dairy Free Pumpkin Donuts with Maple Glaze

• Wrap each donut individually in plastic wrap.
• Place them in a freezer-safe bag or container for up to 3 months.

Reheating Gluten and Dairy Free Pumpkin Donuts with Maple Glaze

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Heat donuts on a baking sheet for about 5-7 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat one donut at a time on medium power for 10-15 seconds until warm.
• Stovetop: Warm in a skillet over low heat, flipping occasionally until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Gluten and Dairy Free Pumpkin Donuts with Maple Glaze:

Can I use different types of gluten-free flour?

Yes, you can experiment with various gluten-free flours like almond or oat flour, but be aware that this may change the texture and flavor slightly.

How do I make these donuts healthier?

You can reduce sugar by using less sweetener or substituting half with applesauce. You might also consider adding nuts or seeds for added nutrition.

What can I substitute for maple extract?

If you don’t have maple extract, vanilla extract works well as an alternative, though it will change the flavor profile slightly.

How do I store leftover donuts?

Store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to five days or freeze them for longer storage.

Final Thoughts

These Gluten and Dairy Free Pumpkin Donuts with Maple Glaze are not only delicious but also versatile! You can customize them by adding nuts, chocolate chips, or even different spices to suit your taste. Perfect for breakfast or a snack, they are sure to impress everyone who tries them. Enjoy making this delightful treat!