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. They are moist, flavorful, and perfect for breakfast or a sweet snack. These donuts are suitable for various occasions, from cozy family gatherings to festive celebrations. Plus, their unique pumpkin flavor combined with a sweet maple glaze makes them stand out in any dessert lineup.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: This recipe comes together quickly, making it perfect for busy mornings or impromptu gatherings.
• Delicious Flavor: The combination of pumpkin and spices creates a warm, comforting taste that is truly irresistible.
• Versatile Treat: Enjoy these donuts as a breakfast item or a dessert; they fit any occasion perfectly.
• Healthier Option: Made without gluten and dairy, these donuts cater to dietary needs while still being indulgent.
• Kid-Friendly Fun: Involve the little ones in the kitchen! They will love helping to mix and decorate these yummy treats.

Tools and Preparation

Before you dive into making these delicious donuts, gather your essential tools to ensure a smooth baking process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Donut pan
• Mixing bowls
• Whisk
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Piping bag (or resealable plastic bag)
• Cooling rack

Importance of Each Tool

• Donut pan: This specialized pan shapes the donuts perfectly, ensuring they bake evenly.
• Mixing bowls: Having multiple sizes allows for easy mixing of ingredients without spills.
• Piping bag: Using this tool helps you fill the donut molds neatly and efficiently.

Ingredients

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

For the Donuts

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

For the Maple Glaze

• 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 bake evenly.

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl:
1. Combine the GF all-purpose flour, baking powder, xanthan gum, pumpkin pie spice, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt.
2. Whisk until well blended.

Step 3: Combine Wet Ingredients

In another bowl:
1. Beat the eggs.
2. Add sugar, brown sugar, vanilla extract, pureed pumpkin, and dairy-free milk.
3. Mix until smooth and fully incorporated.

Step 4: Combine Mixtures

Gradually add the dry mixture to the wet ingredients:
1. Stir gently until just combined; do not overmix.
2. If desired, add more dairy-free milk for a smoother batter.

Step 5: Fill Donut Pan

Using a piping bag or resealable plastic bag:
1. Fill each donut mold about halfway with batter.
2. Smooth out the tops for even baking.

Step 6: Bake Donuts

Place the donut pan in the preheated oven:
1. Bake for about 20 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
2. Allow cooling for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack.

Step 7: Prepare Maple Glaze

While cooling:
1. In a bowl, whisk together powdered sugar, vanilla extract, cinnamon, maple extract, and coconut milk until smooth.
2. Adjust consistency if necessary by adding more powdered sugar or dairy-free milk.

Step 8: Glaze Donuts

Once cooled:
1. Dip each donut in the glaze or drizzle it on top using a spoon.
2. Allow glaze to set before serving.

Enjoy your delightful 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. Whether you are enjoying them at breakfast or serving them at a gathering, there are plenty of ways to make them shine.

With a Cup of Coffee

• Pair your donuts with a warm cup of coffee for a classic combination that enhances the flavors of both.

Drizzled with Extra Maple Syrup

• Add a drizzle of maple syrup on top for an extra layer of sweetness, making each bite even more indulgent.

Accompanied by Fresh Fruit

• Serve alongside slices of fresh fruit like apples or pears for a refreshing complement to the rich pumpkin flavor.

Topped with Whipped Coconut Cream

• For an extra creamy topping, whip up some coconut cream and dollop it on top of your donuts for added richness without dairy.

Sprinkled with Nuts

• Add a sprinkle of chopped walnuts or pecans for some crunch and additional nutrition, enhancing the overall texture.

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

Perfecting these pumpkin donuts can elevate your baking skills. Here are some tips to ensure they turn out amazing every time.

• Use Fresh Pumpkin Puree: Freshly made puree can enhance the flavor compared to canned options, giving your donuts a homemade taste.
• Measure Flour Accurately: Use the spoon-and-level method for gluten-free flour to avoid dense donuts; this ensures precise measurements.
• Don’t Overmix: Mix the batter just until combined. Overmixing can lead to tough donuts instead of light and fluffy ones.
• Check Doneness Carefully: Insert a toothpick into the center; it should come out clean when done. Adjust baking time if necessary based on your oven.
• Cool Before Glazing: Let the donuts cool completely before adding glaze; this helps it set properly without sliding off.
• Experiment with Spices: Feel free to adjust spices according to preference. Adding more cinnamon or nutmeg can create unique flavor profiles.

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

Pairing side dishes with your pumpkin donuts can create a well-rounded meal. Here are some great options that complement their flavors.

1. Fruit Salad: A mix of seasonal fruits provides freshness and balances the sweetness of the donuts.
2. Sweet Potato Hash: This savory side contrasts nicely with the sweet donuts, offering hearty satisfaction.
3. Yogurt Parfait: Layer dairy-free yogurt with granola and berries for a creamy and crunchy addition that works well together.
4. Chia Seed Pudding: A light pudding made from chia seeds offers texture and health benefits while being dairy-free.
5. Oven-Roasted Vegetables: Seasoned veggies add a savory element that pairs beautifully with the sweet treats.
6. Nut Butter Toasts: Spread almond or cashew butter on gluten-free bread; this protein-rich option complements the flavors perfectly.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making gluten and dairy free pumpkin donuts can be easy, but a few common mistakes might ruin your batch.

• Using the wrong flour: Not all gluten-free flours work the same. Make sure to use a high-quality gluten-free all-purpose flour blend for the best texture and flavor.
• Skipping the xanthan gum: This ingredient helps bind the dough together. If you omit it, your donuts may crumble instead of holding their shape.
• Overmixing the batter: Mixing too much can lead to dense donuts. Stir until just combined for a light and fluffy texture.
• Not measuring ingredients properly: Accurate measurements are crucial in baking. Use kitchen scales for precision, especially with flour and sugar.
• Ignoring the cooling time: Allowing your donuts to cool before glazing is essential. Glazing them while hot can cause the glaze to melt away.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• They will last up to 3 days in the fridge.

Freezing Gluten and Dairy Free Pumpkin Donuts with Maple Glaze

• Place them in a freezer-safe bag or container.
• These donuts can be frozen for up to 2 months.

Reheating Gluten and Dairy Free Pumpkin Donuts with Maple Glaze

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and heat for about 5-7 minutes for best results.
• Microwave: Heat each donut for about 15-20 seconds on medium power.
• Stovetop: Warm in a non-stick skillet over low heat for 2-3 minutes, flipping halfway through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making gluten and dairy free pumpkin donuts.

Can I make Gluten and Dairy Free Pumpkin Donuts with Maple Glaze ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the batter in advance and store it in the refrigerator overnight before baking.

What can I substitute instead of eggs in this recipe?

You can use flaxseed meal mixed with water or unsweetened applesauce as an egg replacement for a vegan option.

How do I know when my Gluten and Dairy Free Pumpkin Donuts are done?

Check by inserting a toothpick in the center; it should come out clean when they’re fully baked.

Can I customize the flavor of these Gluten and Dairy Free Pumpkin Donuts?

Yes! Feel free to add chocolate chips, nuts, or other spices like ginger or cloves to give them your unique twist.

Final Thoughts

These gluten and dairy free pumpkin donuts with maple glaze are not only delightful but also versatile. Perfect for any occasion, they can easily be customized with various spices or toppings. Give this recipe a try, and enjoy these delicious treats that everyone will love!