Gluten and Dairy Free Pumpkin Donuts with Maple Glaze

These Gluten and Dairy Free Pumpkin Donuts with Maple Glaze are a delightful treat perfect for any occasion. With their soft texture and rich pumpkin flavor, they’re not only easy to make but also suitable for gatherings, brunches, or cozy nights in. The sweet maple glaze adds an irresistible touch, making these donuts a standout choice for anyone looking for a delicious gluten-free and dairy-free dessert.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: The straightforward instructions make it simple for bakers of all skill levels to whip up these delicious donuts.
• Rich Flavor: The combination of pumpkin and warm spices creates a comforting taste that embodies the essence of fall.
• Versatile Treat: Perfect as a breakfast item or a sweet snack, these donuts fit seamlessly into various occasions.
• Healthier Option: Made without gluten and dairy, this recipe caters to those with dietary preferences while still being indulgent.

Tools and Preparation

To create these delightful donuts, you’ll need a few essential tools that will simplify your baking experience.

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

• Donut pan: Essential for shaping your donuts perfectly. It helps achieve that classic donut form.
• Mixing bowls: Necessary for combining your wet and dry ingredients effectively, ensuring even distribution of flavors.
• Whisk: This tool is key for incorporating air into your batter, resulting in lighter, fluffier donuts.

Ingredients

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

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) to prepare it for baking the donuts.

Step 2: Prepare the Donut Pan

Grease the donut pan lightly with oil or cooking spray to ensure that the donuts release easily after baking.

Step 3: Mix Wet Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, combine the eggs, sugar, brown sugar, vanilla, pureed pumpkin, and dairy-free milk:
1. Whisk together until smooth.
2. Make sure there are no lumps from the pumpkin puree.

Step 4: Combine Dry Ingredients

In another bowl, mix together the baking powder, GF all-purpose flour, xanthan gum, pumpkin pie spice, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg:
1. Stir well to combine all dry ingredients evenly.

Step 5: Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures

Gradually add the dry mixture into the wet mixture:
1. Fold gently until just combined; avoid over-mixing to keep donuts light.
2. Spoon the batter into each cavity of the donut pan about ¾ full.

Step 6: Bake the Donuts

Place the donut pan in the preheated oven:
– Bake for 15–20 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

Step 7: Prepare Maple Glaze

While the donuts are baking:
1. In a mixing bowl, combine powdered sugar, vanilla, cinnamon, maple extract, and coconut milk.
2. Whisk until smooth; adjust consistency with more milk or sugar if needed.

Step 8: Cool and Glaze Donuts

Once baked:
1. Allow donuts to cool in the pan for about 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack.
2. Once cooled slightly but still warm, dip each donut into the maple glaze for an extra sweet finish.

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

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

Serving gluten and dairy free pumpkin donuts with maple glaze is a delightful way to enjoy a fall treat. These donuts can be enjoyed in various ways to enhance their flavor and presentation.

Pair with Coffee

• Enjoy these donuts alongside a warm cup of coffee for a cozy breakfast experience.

Add Fresh Fruit

• Serve with slices of fresh apples or pears to complement the pumpkin flavor and add natural sweetness.

Top with Whipped Coconut Cream

• For an extra indulgent touch, add whipped coconut cream on top for a creamy texture that complements the glaze.

Create a Dessert Platter

• Arrange the donuts on a platter with other gluten and dairy free treats for a festive dessert spread perfect for gatherings.

Drizzle with Extra Maple Syrup

• Enhance the sweetness by drizzling more maple syrup over the top just before serving.

Garnish with Nuts

• Sprinkle chopped pecans or walnuts on top for added crunch and flavor contrast.

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

To make sure your gluten and dairy free pumpkin donuts turn out perfectly, keep these tips in mind:

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Ensure your pumpkin puree is fresh or canned without added ingredients for the best flavor.
• Measure Accurately: Use proper measuring cups for dry and wet ingredients to maintain the right consistency.
• Avoid Overmixing: Mix until just combined to keep your donuts light and fluffy.
• Check Oven Temperature: Use an oven thermometer to ensure accurate baking temperatures for even cooking.
• Let Cool Before Glazing: Allow the donuts to cool completely before adding glaze; this helps it set properly.
• Experiment with Spices: Feel free to adjust spices like nutmeg and cinnamon according to your taste preferences.

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

These side dishes pair wonderfully with gluten and dairy free pumpkin donuts, creating a balanced meal or snack.

1. Chai Tea
   A warm cup of chai tea adds spicy warmth that complements the flavors of pumpkin perfectly.
2. Fruit Salad
   A refreshing mix of seasonal fruits provides a bright contrast to the rich taste of the donuts.
3. Vegan Yogurt Parfait
   Layer plant-based yogurt with granola and berries for a nutritious side dish that balances sweetness.
4. Apple Cider
   Serve chilled apple cider as a tangy beverage option that enhances the fall theme of your meal.
5. Granola Bars
   Homemade or store-bought granola bars provide an easy grab-and-go option that pairs well with coffee or tea.
6. Roasted Sweet Potatoes
   These tender, slightly sweet potatoes add heartiness to your breakfast spread while keeping it gluten-free.
7. Coconut Chia Pudding
   This creamy pudding offers healthy fats and fiber, making it a great accompaniment filled with flavor.
8. Maple-Glazed Carrots
   Sweet roasted carrots drizzled in maple syrup echo the flavors of your donuts beautifully.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Creating Gluten and Dairy Free Pumpkin Donuts with Maple Glaze can be easy, but there are some common mistakes to watch out for. Here are a few to keep in mind:

• Using the wrong flour: Not all gluten-free flours behave the same way. Make sure to use a high-quality gluten-free all-purpose flour blend that includes xanthan gum.
• Overmixing the batter: Mixing too much can lead to dense donuts. Stir just until combined for a light and fluffy texture.
• Not measuring ingredients accurately: Baking is precise. Use measuring cups and spoons for accurate measurements, especially for dry ingredients.
• Skipping the cooling time: Allow your donuts to cool before glazing. This prevents the glaze from melting and helps it stick better.
• Using regular milk instead of dairy-free options: To keep the recipe dairy-free, stick with coconut milk or any other plant-based milk alternative.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Place parchment paper between layers to avoid sticking.

Freezing Gluten and Dairy Free Pumpkin Donuts with Maple Glaze

• Freeze in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer to an airtight container for up to 2 months.
• Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before serving.

Reheating Gluten and Dairy Free Pumpkin Donuts with Maple Glaze

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Place donuts on a baking sheet for about 5-10 minutes until warm.
• Microwave: Heat one donut at a time for 10-15 seconds. Be careful not to overheat, as they can become chewy.
• Stovetop: Warm in a skillet over low heat for about 2-3 minutes on each side until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

How can I make these donuts healthier?

You can substitute some of the sugar with natural sweeteners like applesauce or reduce the sugar amount without affecting texture.

Can I use pumpkin spice mix instead of individual spices?

Absolutely! Just replace the individual spices with an equal amount of pumpkin spice mix for convenience.

What is the best way to store leftover donuts?

Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days or freeze them for longer storage.

Are these donuts suitable for kids?

Yes! These donuts are a great treat for kids as they are both gluten and dairy-free, making them suitable for various dietary needs.

Final Thoughts

These Gluten and Dairy Free Pumpkin Donuts with Maple Glaze are not only delicious but also easy to make. With their perfect balance of sweetness and spiced flavor, they are ideal for fall gatherings or breakfast. You can customize them by adding nuts or swapping out spices according to your preference. Try this recipe today and enjoy a delightful treat!