As the leaves start to turn and the air gets that crisp autumn bite, I find myself craving flavors that celebrate this special season. A recent Saturday morning was no different; I stood in my kitchen with a can of pumpkin puree in one hand and a jar of coconut sugar in the other, wondering what delightful treat I could whip up. That’s when the idea for Pumpkin Collagen Donuts struck me—a perfect blend of cozy spices and nourishing ingredients.
These donuts are not just a sweet indulgence; they’re a wholesome way to enjoy the fall harvest while sneaking in a boost of collagen for skin and joint health. Imagine biting into a fluffy donut, warm from the oven, spiced just right with cinnamon and nutmeg. Most importantly, this recipe is effortless, taking only 28 minutes from start to finish, making it a fabulous choice for busy mornings or cozy weekends. Let’s dive in and make a batch that will have everyone coming back for seconds!
Why You'll Love This Pumpkin Collagen Donuts
- These Pumpkin Collagen Donuts are incredibly easy to make, taking just 28 minutes from start to finish, which makes them perfect for busy mornings or leisurely weekends.
- You’ll be delighted by the warm, cozy flavors of pumpkin and spices that fill your kitchen as they bake, making every bite a comforting experience.
- The versatility of this recipe allows you to enjoy them as a breakfast treat or a delightful snack throughout the day.
- Plus, their charming golden appearance makes them visually enticing, guaranteeing they’ll be a hit with family and friends and keep them coming back for more.
Pumpkin Collagen Donuts Ingredients
• To create these delightful treats, you’ll need a mix of wholesome and nourishing ingredients that highlight the warmth of fall.
For the Donuts
- All-purpose flour – A classic base that gives the donuts their fluffy texture.
- Pumpkin puree – Adds moisture and that wonderful, earthy flavor quintessential to autumn.
- Coconut sugar – A healthier alternative to traditional sugar, providing a subtle caramel sweetness.
- Collagen powder – Boosts your donuts with beneficial protein, supporting skin and joint health.
- Baking powder – Essential for that light and airy rise that makes these treats irresistible.
- Baking soda – Works alongside the baking powder for the perfect lift while enhancing browning.
- Ground cinnamon – Infuses warmth and spiciness, a perfect match for your Pumpkin Collagen Donuts.
- Ground nutmeg – Adds a hint of nutty flavor that complements the pumpkin beautifully.
- Large eggs – Help bind everything together and add richness to each bite.
- Milk (or dairy-free alternative) – Moistens the batter and balances the flavors for a delightful texture.
How to Make Pumpkin Collagen Donuts
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Preheat Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a donut pan with a bit of oil or butter to ensure your delicious donuts pop right out after baking.
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Mix Dry Ingredients: In a mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, coconut sugar, collagen powder, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, and nutmeg. This helps everything blend well and evenly distribute those wonderful spices.
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Combine Wet Ingredients: In another bowl, beat the eggs, then mix in the pumpkin puree and milk. Whisk them together until the mixture is smooth and well combined. You should see a lovely orange hue from the pumpkin!
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Combine Mixtures: Pour the wet mixture into the dry ingredients. Stir gently until just combined—don’t overmix! You want the texture to remain fluffy, which will make your donuts light and airy.
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Fill the Pan: Carefully fill each donut cavity halfway with the batter. This gives them room to rise without overflowing, ensuring they maintain that perfect shape.
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Bake: Place the donut pan in the preheated oven and bake for 15-18 minutes. They’re ready when they’re lightly golden and springy to the touch. Let them cool in the pan for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack.
Optional: Drizzle with a simple glaze for an extra touch of sweetness.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
What to Serve with Pumpkin Collagen Donuts?
As the aroma of freshly baked donuts fills your kitchen, it’s time to think about delightful pairings to create a full autumn-inspired meal.
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Hot Apple Cider: A spiced and warm drink that perfectly complements the cozy flavors of pumpkin and spices in your donuts.
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Chai Tea: The spices in chai harmonize beautifully with the cinnamon and nutmeg, making for a comforting afternoon treat.
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Maple Glaze: Drizzling a sweet maple glaze over your donuts adds a sticky richness that enhances their pumpkin goodness.
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Greek Yogurt: A dollop of tangy Greek yogurt provides a creamy contrast, cutting through the sweetness while adding protein to the mix.
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Fresh Fruit Salad: Bright, fresh fruits like apples and pears add a refreshing crunch that balances the rich texture of the donuts.
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Nutty Granola: Serve alongside a bowl of crunchy granola for a delightful texture contrast and an added nutritious boost.
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Cinnamon Coffee: A warm cup of cinnamon-spiced coffee awakens the spices in the donuts, making every bite a cozy sensation.
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Chocolate Almond Milk: For a sweet, dairy-free option, rich chocolate almond milk pairs wonderfully, complementing the pumpkin’s earthy notes.
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Dark Chocolate Dipping Sauce: Elevate your donuts with a side of melted dark chocolate for a decadent twist that’s simply irresistible.
Pumpkin Collagen Donuts Variations
Feel free to get creative with your Pumpkin Collagen Donuts to match your cravings and dietary needs!
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Gluten-Free: Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend to make these donuts celiac-friendly without sacrificing flavor.
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Vegan: Replace eggs with flax eggs (1 tbsp flaxseed meal mixed with 2.5 tbsp water) and use almond milk for a completely plant-based option.
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Spiced Pumpkin: Add a pinch of ground cloves or allspice to enhance the fall spices and give an extra depth of flavor.
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Chocolate Drizzle: Melt dark chocolate and drizzle over cooled donuts for a decadent touch that pairs beautifully with pumpkin.
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Nutty Texture: Fold in chopped walnuts or pecans for a delightful crunch that complements the soft, fluffy donut.
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Maple Glaze: Whisk powdered sugar with a splash of maple syrup and drizzle over the donuts for a sweet, autumn-inspired topping.
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Coconut Flakes: Toss in some unsweetened shredded coconut into the batter or sprinkle on top for a tropical twist that harmonizes well with pumpkin.
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Chili Flakes: For a daring twist, add a pinch of chili flakes to the batter to contrast the sweet pumpkin and spices, creating a unique flavor experience.
Let your imagination run wild with these fun ideas, and enjoy your cozy kitchen moments!
Make Ahead Options
These Pumpkin Collagen Donuts are a dream for busy home cooks looking to save time without sacrificing flavor! You can prepare the dry ingredients (flour, coconut sugar, collagen powder, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, and nutmeg) up to 3 days in advance. Simply store them in an airtight container to maintain freshness. You can also mix the wet ingredients (pumpkin puree, eggs, and milk) and refrigerate them for up to 24 hours. When you’re ready to bake, just combine the wet and dry mixes, fill the donut pan, and bake as directed. You’ll enjoy delightful, fluffy donuts with minimal morning fuss, making your busy days a bit sweeter!
How to Store and Freeze Pumpkin Collagen Donuts
Room Temperature: Store leftover donuts in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days to keep them fresh and soft.
Fridge: If you prefer a longer shelf life, refrigerate the donuts in an airtight container for up to 1 week. Warm them in the microwave for a few seconds to enjoy them fresh.
Freezer: Freeze Pumpkin Collagen Donuts individually wrapped in plastic wrap and placed in a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature or microwave them briefly when ready to indulge.
Reheating: To bring them back to life, reheat thawed donuts in the oven at 350°F for 5-7 minutes or microwave for about 15-20 seconds for that just-baked taste.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- When making Pumpkin Collagen Donuts, be sure to whisk the dry ingredients thoroughly to evenly distribute the baking powder and spices, as this can significantly improve rise and flavor.
- Avoid overmixing the batter once you combine the wet and dry ingredients; this helps maintain the light, fluffy texture essential for donuts.
- For the best results, fill each donut cavity only halfway to allow for optimal rising without spilling over.
- Remember to check for doneness at the 15-minute mark to prevent over-baking; they should be golden brown and springy to the touch, ensuring the perfect bake.
Pumpkin Collagen Donuts Recipe FAQs
How do I choose the right pumpkin puree?
Absolutely! When selecting pumpkin puree, ensure you pick a brand with no added sugars or spices for the purest flavor. If using fresh pumpkin, choose a small sugar pumpkin, which is sweeter and has a smoother texture. It’s perfect for baking!
How can I store leftover Pumpkin Collagen Donuts?
To store your donuts, place them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days for the best freshness. You can also refrigerate them for up to 1 week. Just warm them in the microwave for a few seconds to enjoy them soft and fluffy again.
Can I freeze my Pumpkin Collagen Donuts?
Yes, you can freeze them! Wrap each donut individually in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. They’ll stay fresh for up to 3 months. To thaw, leave them at room temperature or pop them in the microwave for a quick reheat.
What should I do if my donuts come out dense?
If your donuts turn out dense, a common culprit is overmixing the batter. Ensure you mix just until combined, as this helps maintain a light texture. Also, check that your baking powder and baking soda are fresh, as expired leaveners might not provide adequate rise!
Are these donuts suitable for someone with dietary restrictions?
I often make these donuts with gluten-free flour for a gluten-free option! If you have a dairy allergy, simply substitute the milk with an almond or coconut milk alternative. Always double-check your collagen powder for any potential allergens to cater to your specific dietary needs.
How long do the spices last before losing flavor?
Ground spices generally retain their best flavor for about 6 months. Keep them in a dark, cool place in airtight containers to ensure they maintain their potency. Fresh spices lead to more flavorful Pumpkin Collagen Donuts, making your baking experience delightful every time!
Equipment
- Donut pan
Ingredients
For the Donuts
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup pumpkin puree
- 1/2 cup coconut sugar
- 1/4 cup collagen powder
- 1 tablespoon baking powder
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
- 1 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 2 large eggs
- 1/2 cup milk or dairy-free alternative
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a donut pan with a bit of oil or butter.
- In a mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, coconut sugar, collagen powder, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, and nutmeg.
- In another bowl, beat the eggs, then mix in the pumpkin puree and milk. Whisk until smooth.
- Pour the wet mixture into the dry ingredients. Stir gently until just combined.
- Carefully fill each donut cavity halfway with the batter.
- Place the donut pan in the preheated oven and bake for 15-18 minutes. Let cool for a few minutes.
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