Craving the cozy flavor of fall without spending hours in the kitchen? This 2 Ingredient Pumpkin Donuts Recipe is the ultimate shortcut to homemade pumpkin perfection. With just pumpkin puree and cake mix, you can make warm, cakey Pumpkin Old Fashioned Donuts that taste like they came straight from a bakery. No yeast, no complicated steps—just quick prep, easy cleanup, and irresistible flavor. Whether you’re a beginner baker, a busy parent, or simply a pumpkin spice lover, this recipe is for you. Keep reading to discover the story behind it, expert baking tips, creative serving ideas, and helpful FAQs!
A Cozy Fall Morning and the First Bite of Pumpkin Magic
It all started on one of those crisp October mornings when the air smelled faintly of woodsmoke and cinnamon. I had a steaming mug of coffee in hand and a craving for something sweet but simple—something that captured the warmth of fall without hours of baking. That’s when I stumbled upon this 2 Ingredient Pumpkin Donuts Recipe, and my kitchen filled with the scent of pumpkin spice magic.
As the donuts baked, the aroma of spice and vanilla wrapped around me like a favorite blanket. When I took that first bite—soft, tender, and just the right amount of sweet—it instantly transported me to everything I loved about the season. The best part? They were unbelievably easy to make. In less than half an hour, I had a plate of homemade Pumpkin Old Fashioned Donuts that disappeared faster than I expected. Friends couldn’t believe they came from just two ingredients. That’s the beauty of this recipe—it blends simplicity and nostalgia in a single, golden, sugary ring.
There’s a reason this Pumpkin Donuts Recipe has become a fall favorite across kitchens everywhere. It feels like baking magic—two humble ingredients transforming into bakery-style donuts that are perfectly moist, lightly spiced, and ready in minutes. No yeast, no dough resting, and no frying mess. Just mix, bake (or air fry), and enjoy.
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2 Ingredient Pumpkin Donuts Recipe – Make Easy Pumpkin Old Fashioned Donuts
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 12 donuts 1x
Description
These easy homemade pumpkin donuts use just two ingredients—a box of spice cake mix and pure pumpkin puree—to create moist, cakey old fashioned donuts bursting with fall spice. Ready in under 30 minutes, they bake up golden and tender, perfect for busy mornings or cozy gatherings. Customize with a simple glaze, cinnamon sugar, or your favorite toppings to suit any taste. No yeast or frying required, making this recipe ideal for beginners and pumpkin lovers seeking a quick, delicious autumn treat.
Ingredients
Instructions
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a donut pan.
2. In a large bowl, combine pumpkin puree and cake mix until a thick batter forms.
3. Spoon or pipe batter into prepared donut pan, filling each cavity three quarters full.
4. Bake for 13 to 15 minutes or until donuts spring back when lightly touched.
5. Allow donuts to cool in the pan for 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
6. Prepare optional glaze or toppings and dip or dust cooled donuts as desired.
7. Serve immediately or store in an airtight container for up to two days.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: dessert
- Method: baking
- Cuisine: american
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 donut
Keywords: pumpkin donuts, pumpkin spice donuts, easy donuts, old fashioned donuts, two ingredient recipe, fall desserts, homemade donuts, cake mix donuts, baked donuts, pumpkin treats
Compared to traditional donuts that require hours of prep and multiple bowls, these pumpkin spice doughnuts keep things wonderfully simple. They’re soft inside, lightly crisp on the edges, and pair beautifully with your morning coffee or a mug of hot apple cider. For busy families or anyone who wants to enjoy easy homemade desserts without the hassle, this recipe is a total win. It delivers that dreamy pumpkin spice flavor everyone craves—minus the stress.
The 2 Simple Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of this recipe lies in its simplicity—just two everyday ingredients that combine into fluffy, fragrant Pumpkin Old Fashioned Donuts. You won’t need any eggs, oil, or dairy—just the essentials that bring natural sweetness and a soft cake-like texture.
| Ingredient | Quantity | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Pumpkin Puree | 1 cup (not pumpkin pie filling) | Adds natural moisture, color, and rich pumpkin flavor |
| Cake Mix (Spice or Yellow) | 1 box (15.25 oz) | Creates the sweet, structured dough—spice cake gives that cozy fall taste |
Why it matters: Always use pure pumpkin puree, not pumpkin pie filling—the latter already contains added sugar and spices, which can throw off the texture. If you can’t find spice cake mix, yellow or vanilla cake mix works beautifully. You can boost flavor with a pinch of pumpkin pie spice or a sprinkle of cinnamon.
- A handful of chocolate chips or chopped pecans for texture.
- A teaspoon of vanilla extract for added warmth.
- Cinnamon sugar or glaze for that bakery finish.
With just a bowl, spoon, and donut pan (or even a muffin tin in a pinch), you’re already halfway to homemade fall perfection.
Step-by-Step Pumpkin Donut Preparation Guide
Once you’ve gathered your two key ingredients, making these pumpkin spice doughnuts is fast, easy, and nearly foolproof. You can bake, fry, or air fry them based on your preference—each method gives a slightly different texture but the same irresistible flavor.
- Mix the Batter: In a large mixing bowl, combine the pumpkin puree and cake mix. Stir until a thick, smooth dough forms. The batter will be dense but pliable—perfect for shaping into donuts.
- Prepare the Tools: Lightly grease your donut pan, baking sheet, or air fryer tray with cooking spray. If frying, heat oil in a deep pan to about 350°F (175°C). Have a piping bag (or a zip-top bag with the corner snipped) ready to portion the dough neatly.
- Shape the Donuts: Spoon or pipe the batter evenly into the donut pan cavities, filling each about ¾ full. If frying, roll small balls or flatten dough rounds with a hole in the center for that classic old-fashioned look.
- Bake, Fry, or Air Fry: Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 13–15 minutes, air fry at 330°F (165°C) for 8–10 minutes flipping once, or fry for 1–2 minutes on each side at 350°F until golden.
- Cool and Glaze: Let donuts cool on a wire rack before adding glaze or toppings so they adhere perfectly.
- Don’t overmix the batter—gentle stirring keeps the texture tender.
- For an extra-spiced kick, dust the tops with cinnamon sugar right after baking.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to two days or refrigerate for five.
Glazing and Topping Your Pumpkin Old Fashioned Donuts
Once your warm Pumpkin Old Fashioned Donuts are cooled and ready, the fun part begins—decorating them! A good glaze or topping elevates these simple treats into bakery-style indulgences while adding extra texture and flavor.
Classic Vanilla Glaze
Whisk together 1 cup confectioners’ sugar, 2–3 tablespoons milk, and ½ teaspoon vanilla extract. Dip each cooled donut halfway into the glaze, then let excess drip off before setting on a wire rack to harden.
Cinnamon Sugar Coating
Mix ½ cup sugar with 1 tablespoon cinnamon. While donuts are still slightly warm, roll them gently in the mixture for a crisp, fragrant finish—perfect with coffee or cocoa.
Maple Drizzle
Combine powdered sugar, a splash of maple syrup, and a few drops of milk for a smooth glaze. Drizzle over baked or fried pumpkin spice doughnuts for a cozy fall twist.
Powdered Sugar Dusting
A light dusting of powdered sugar instantly makes your donuts photo-ready. Perfect served alongside warm apple cider for a comforting breakfast spread.
Pro tip: Always cool donuts completely before glazing to prevent sogginess and ensure a smooth, glossy finish.
Variations and Creative Twists for the 2 Ingredient Pumpkin Donuts Recipe
- Chocolate Chip Pumpkin Donuts: Fold mini chocolate chips into the batter before baking for pockets of melted richness.
- Cream Cheese Glaze: Combine cream cheese, powdered sugar, and milk for a tangy, sweet topping that complements pumpkin flavor beautifully.
- Nutty Crunch: Sprinkle toasted pecans or walnuts over glazed donuts for added crunch and depth.
- Air Fryer Pumpkin Donuts: Cook at 330°F for 8–10 minutes, flipping halfway, for a light texture with crisp edges.
- Healthy Swaps: Use sugar-free cake mix or almond flour with natural sweeteners, and top with yogurt-honey glaze for a wholesome option.
- Flavor Combos to Try: Mix in white chocolate chips and dried cranberries, or add maple extract to the batter for seasonal flair.
Whether rolled in cinnamon sugar or glazed with maple drizzle, these pumpkin spice doughnuts invite creativity without stress, delivering endless variations that keep fall flavors exciting and fresh.
Frequently Asked Questions about Pumpkin Spice Doughnuts
Can I use canned pumpkin pie filling instead of puree?
Use pure pumpkin puree only. Pie filling contains sugar and spices that can make the batter too sweet and soft.
How do I store leftover Pumpkin Old Fashioned Donuts?
Keep in an airtight container at room temperature for two days or refrigerate up to five. Reheat briefly in a microwave or low oven for best texture.
Can I bake these instead of frying?
Yes, bake in a donut pan at 350°F for 13–15 minutes. You’ll get tender, cakey donuts perfect for glazing or rolling in sugar.
What type of cake mix works best?
Spice cake mix gives the most authentic pumpkin spice donut flavor. Yellow or vanilla mixes also work well—just add cinnamon, nutmeg, or ginger to taste.
How do I make them gluten-free?
Use a gluten-free cake mix with the same ratio (1 cup pumpkin puree to 1 box mix). Check toppings for gluten-free certification to keep them safe for all diets.
Bringing the Flavor of Fall Home
As the aroma of fresh-baked Pumpkin Old Fashioned Donuts fills your kitchen, you’ll discover how wonderfully simple fall baking can be. Two ingredients—pumpkin puree and cake mix—create golden donuts that embody warmth and comfort.
This 2 Ingredient Pumpkin Donuts Recipe proves that bakery-quality treats can happen anytime with minimal effort. Whether you bake them on a crisp morning or whip up a batch for guests, the cozy pumpkin spice flavor never fails to impress.
So grab your mixing bowl, preheat your oven or air fryer, and bring a little fall magic into your home. Share these pumpkin spice doughnuts with loved ones, and make every bite a celebration of the season’s delicious simplicity.
