Spiced Pumpkin Bourbon Caramel Donuts: The Fall Doughnut You’ll Want to Make Every Weekend
Every fall, we eagerly welcome back cozy sweaters, changing leaves, and warm flavors—and nothing captures the season quite like a homemade pumpkin donut. But these Spiced Pumpkin Bourbon Caramel Donuts take that comfort to the next level. Imagine a tender, warmly spiced, oven-baked pumpkin donut dipped generously in a silky bourbon-infused caramel glaze. It’s the kind of comforting indulgence that makes even an ordinary morning feel special.
This recipe blends the best of autumn baking: rich pumpkin purée, nostalgic spices, brown sugar warmth, and a luscious glaze that tastes like a grown-up version of caramel sauce. Whether you’re making them for a cozy brunch, a holiday dessert board, or a fall party, these donuts stand out as a show-stopping treat that’s surprisingly easy to prepare.
In this long-form, SEO-optimized guide, you’ll learn everything you need to create perfect baked pumpkin donuts with an unforgettable bourbon caramel topping. We’ll walk through the ingredients, step-by-step instructions, baking tips, variations, and serving ideas—so even if you’ve never made donuts before, you’ll feel like a pro by the end.
Why You’ll Love These Spiced Pumpkin Bourbon Caramel Donuts
Fall desserts often rely on the same classic flavors, but this recipe elevates them with a unique twist. Here’s what makes these donuts irresistible:
1. Baked, Not Fried
They’re lighter than traditional fried donuts, but every bit as flavorful.
2. Soft and Moist Texture
Pumpkin keeps these donuts tender, while spices add depth and warmth.
3. A Grown-Up Caramel Glaze
The bourbon caramel glaze adds sophistication without being overpowering. You can also omit bourbon if making for kids.
4. Perfect for Any Fall Occasion
Breakfast, dessert, party treat, or edible gift—these donuts fit every moment.
Ingredients for Spiced Pumpkin Bourbon Caramel Donuts
Below are the core components you will need. Feel free to adjust the spices to match your favorite fall blends.
For the Donuts
- 1 ¾ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 ½ tsp baking powder
- ½ tsp baking soda
- 1 tsp cinnamon
- ½ tsp nutmeg
- ½ tsp ginger
- ¼ tsp cloves (optional for extra spice)
- ½ tsp salt
- ¾ cup pumpkin purée
- ½ cup brown sugar
- 2 large eggs
- ½ cup whole milk
- ⅓ cup melted butter
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
For the Bourbon Caramel Glaze
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- 2 tbsp butter
- ¼ cup heavy cream
- 1–2 tbsp bourbon (to taste)
- Pinch of sea salt
- Powdered sugar (as needed for thickening)
Instructions
Follow these steps for flawless homemade pumpkin donuts:
1. Preheat and Prep
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease two donut pans or spray them with nonstick baking spray.
2. Mix Dry Ingredients
In a medium bowl, whisk together:
- Flour
- Baking powder
- Baking soda
- Cinnamon
- Nutmeg
- Ginger
- Cloves
- Salt
This keeps the donut texture airy and prevents clumping.
3. Combine Wet Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together:
- Pumpkin purée
- Brown sugar
- Eggs
- Milk
- Melted butter
- Vanilla extract
Whisk until smooth and fully combined.
4. Fold Wet and Dry Together
Pour the dry mixture into the wet mixture and fold gently using a spatula. Avoid overmixing; it’s okay if the batter looks slightly thick—this is what gives the donuts a perfect cake-like texture.
5. Fill Donut Pans
Transfer the batter into a piping bag (or a zip-top bag with the corner cut off). Pipe evenly into each donut cavity, filling them roughly ¾ full.
6. Bake
Bake for 12–14 minutes until the donuts spring back when lightly pressed. Let them cool in the pan for 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
Make the Bourbon Caramel Glaze
This glaze is the star of the show. Here’s how to make it:
1. Melt Sugar
Place sugar in a heavy-bottom saucepan over medium heat. Let it melt gradually, swirling occasionally—don’t stir. When it reaches a golden amber color, move to the next step quickly.
2. Add Butter
Add butter and whisk until melted and smooth.
3. Pour in Cream
Slowly pour in heavy cream, whisking constantly. The mixture may bubble aggressively—this is normal.
4. Add Bourbon
Remove from heat, then whisk in bourbon and a pinch of sea salt.
5. Thicken
Add powdered sugar as needed to reach a glaze consistency that clings to donuts without running off.
6. Dip Donuts
Dip the tops of the cooled donuts into the warm glaze, letting excess drip off. Place on a wire rack until set.
Tips for Perfect Pumpkin Donuts
1. Don’t Overmix
A gentle folding motion keeps the donuts tender.
2. Use Pumpkin Purée, Not Pie Filling
Pie filling contains spices and sweeteners that will change the flavor and texture.
3. Fresh Spices Make a Difference
If possible, use fresh ground spices—they brighten the flavor dramatically.
4. For Thicker Glaze
Add more powdered sugar.
For thinner glaze, add a splash of milk.
Variations
1. Maple Version
Replace bourbon with 2 tbsp maple syrup for a kid-friendly glaze.
2. Chocolate Drizzle
Add a dark chocolate drizzle on top of the caramel for a “turtle donut” vibe.
3. Cinnamon-Sugar Coating
Skip the glaze and toss warm donuts in cinnamon sugar.
4. Cream Cheese Glaze
If you prefer something tangy, use cream cheese icing instead of caramel.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve warm with coffee, chai, or hot cider
- Add to a fall brunch board
- Gift in a bakery-style box tied with twine
- Plate with vanilla ice cream for an elevated dessert
Fun Facts
- Pumpkin has been used in American baking since the early 1700s.
- The first donut machines appeared in the 1920s.
- Caramel + bourbon is a classic Southern pairing rooted in heritage desserts.
Spiced Pumpkin Bourbon Caramel Donuts
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line baking sheets with parchment paper.
- In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves.
- In another bowl, cream butter and brown sugar until light and fluffy. Add egg and vanilla extract, mixing well.
- Gradually mix in dry ingredients, alternating with apple cider, until a soft batter forms.
- Drop batter onto baking sheets using a scoop, spacing 2 inches apart. Flatten slightly.
- Bake 12–15 minutes until set and lightly golden. Cool completely on wire racks.
- Beat softened butter with powdered sugar and vanilla. Add cream to reach desired filling consistency.
- Sandwich cookies with filling, serve immediately or store in airtight container.
