Name: Thanksgiving Doughnuts Recipe: Easy Baked Holiday Delight
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 12 min
Total time: 32 min
Ingredients: 2 cups All-Purpose Flour (Substitute half with whole wheat flour for a heartier texture.); 3/4 cup Granulated Sugar (No direct substitutes suggested.); 2 teaspoons Baking Powder; 1 teaspoon Cinnamon (Essential for festive spirit.); 1/2 teaspoon Nutmeg (Whisk with cinnamon to avoid clumping.); 2 large Eggs (Can substitute with flaxseed eggs for a vegan option.); 1/4 cup Unsalted Butter (Make sure it's at room temperature for mixing.); 1 cup Milk (Opt for room temperature.); 1 teaspoon Vanilla Extract; 1 cup Powdered Sugar (Scroll down for glaze ratio.); 2 tablespoons Milk (Warm it slightly to mix better.)

As the crispness of autumn settles in, the ever-tempting aroma of cinnamon and nutmeg fills my kitchen, signaling the arrival of holiday baking season. This Thanksgiving, I’m thrilled to share my easy Thanksgiving Doughnuts Recipe, a festive twist on a beloved classic that’s sure to delight your family and friends. The best part? You can whip these spiced doughnuts up in just 30 minutes, all while saying goodbye to the hassle of frying! With a tender, cake-like texture and a delightful glaze, they make a perfect companion for your holiday gatherings—or a cozy treat for a quiet morning at home. Why just settle for pumpkin pie when you can sprinkle a little extra joy into your festivities with these delectable doughnuts? Ready to get your bake on?

Why are these doughnuts a must-bake?

Festive Flavors: Infused with warm spices like cinnamon and nutmeg, these doughnuts are the embodiment of holiday cheer.
Quick and Easy: Ready in just 30 minutes, they fit seamlessly into even the busiest holiday schedules.
Healthier Option: Baked instead of fried, you can enjoy these delightful treats without the guilt.
Versatile Recipe: Feel free to experiment with flavors – swap in pumpkin puree or try different glazes for a unique twist.
Crowd Pleaser: Perfect for holiday gatherings, these doughnuts are sure to impress your guests, making them a wonderful addition to your table alongside dishes like Butter Chicken or Old Fashioned Beef.

Thanksgiving Doughnuts Ingredients

• Explore the delightful components of your Thanksgiving Doughnuts Recipe below!

For the Doughnut Base

All-Purpose Flour – Provides structure; substitute half with whole wheat flour for a heartier texture.
Granulated Sugar – Adds the perfect sweetness to balance the spices; no direct substitutes suggested.
Baking Powder – The leavening agent that ensures your doughnuts are light and fluffy.
Cinnamon – Infuses the doughnuts with warm holiday flavors; essential for that festive spirit!
Nutmeg – Adds a subtle depth of flavor; whisk with cinnamon to avoid clumping.
Eggs – Bind the ingredients and add moisture; can substitute with flaxseed eggs for a vegan option.
Unsalted Butter – Provides richness and flavor; make sure it’s at room temperature for easy mixing.
Milk – Ensures moisture and softness; opt for room temperature to maintain a smooth batter.
Vanilla Extract – Enhances sweetness and aroma, making your doughnuts irresistibly delicious.

For the Glaze

Powdered Sugar – Provides sweetness and a glossy finish; scroll down for a perfect glaze ratio.
Milk – Needed for achieving the right consistency in your glaze; warm it slightly to help mix better.

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Thanksgiving Doughnuts Recipe

Step 1: Preheat Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This crucial step ensures your Thanksgiving doughnuts rise beautifully and develop that perfect golden color. While the oven warms up, gather your equipment: a doughnut pan and mixing bowls to streamline your baking process.

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together 2 cups of all-purpose flour, 3/4 cup of granulated sugar, 2 teaspoons of baking powder, 1 teaspoon of cinnamon, and 1/2 teaspoon of nutmeg. Ensure everything is well combined, without any clumps, creating a fragrant base for your Thanksgiving doughnuts. The spices will bring that warm, festive aroma to your kitchen.

Step 3: Combine Wet Ingredients
In a separate bowl, crack 2 eggs and beat them lightly. Then, add 1/4 cup of melted unsalted butter, 1 cup of room temperature milk, and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract. Mix everything together until smooth, so each Thanksgiving doughnut will be rich and flavorful. It’s important that your liquids are at room temperature for a silky batter.

Step 4: Mix Batter
Gently fold the wet ingredients into the dry mixture. Be cautious not to overmix; stir just until everything is combined to maintain tenderness in your doughnuts. The batter should be slightly thick, fluffy, and fragrant—ready to be transformed into delightful treats.

Step 5: Fill Doughnut Pan
Prepare your doughnut pan by greasing it with cooking spray or butter. Using a spoon or piping bag, carefully fill each cavity with batter, filling them halfway to prevent overflow during baking. This ensures your Thanksgiving doughnuts will rise perfectly and retain their shape.

Step 6: Bake
Place the filled doughnut pan in the preheated oven and bake for 10-12 minutes. To check for doneness, lightly press the tops; they should spring back when ready. Alternatively, insert a toothpick into the center of a doughnut; it should come out clean. Remove the pan when golden brown and let it cool slightly.

Step 7: Cool and Glaze
Once the doughnuts have cooled for about 5 minutes, carefully remove them from the pan and transfer them to a wire rack. Allow them to cool completely before glazing. This step ensures that the glaze adheres nicely, giving your Thanksgiving doughnuts a perfect, shiny finish and enhancing their festive appeal.

Make Ahead Options

These Thanksgiving Doughnuts are absolutely perfect for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy fresh treats with minimal hassle! You can prepare the doughnut batter up to 24 hours in advance. Simply mix the dry ingredients and store them in an airtight container, then whisk together the wet ingredients and refrigerate separately. When you’re ready to bake, just combine everything and fill your doughnut pan. To keep the quality intact, it’s best to avoid mixing the batter until just before baking; this ensures your doughnuts turn out fluffy and tender. Bake and glaze them just before serving for delightful, warm doughnuts that taste like they just came out of the oven!

How to Store and Freeze Thanksgiving Doughnuts

Airtight Container: Store unglazed Thanksgiving doughnuts in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days to maintain their freshness and texture.

Freezer: For longer storage, freeze unglazed doughnuts for up to 2 months. Wrap each doughnut individually in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer bag.

Reheating: To enjoy your frozen doughnuts, simply thaw them overnight in the fridge, then warm them in the microwave or oven before glazing for the best texture.

Glaze Storage: Keep syrupy glaze separate and in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 1 week, and reheat slightly before dipping the doughnuts to ensure a perfect finish.

Thanksgiving Doughnuts Recipe Variations

Feel free to explore different flavors and options to make this doughnut recipe your own.

Vegan Swap: Replace eggs with applesauce (1/4 cup) or flaxseed eggs for a plant-based version. This keeps the doughnuts light while accommodating dietary preferences.
Spiced Up: Add a pinch of ginger or cloves to enhance the warmth of your spiced doughnuts. These extra spices bring a robust holiday flavor that dances on your taste buds.
Pumpkin Magic: Stir in 1/2 cup of pumpkin puree to the batter for a seasonal twist. The pumpkin adds moisture and a delightful flavor that pairs perfectly with the spices.
Coconut Flakes: Sprinkle toasted coconut on top of your glazed doughnuts for a tropical touch. The added texture and flavor make them an extraordinary treat for holiday gatherings.
Citrus Zest: Incorporate the zest of an orange or lemon into the batter for a bright, citrusy note. This unexpected twist elevates your doughnuts and adds a refreshing burst.
Flavored Glazes: Try a vanilla bean glaze or a maple glaze instead of the typical powdered sugar glaze. These options give your doughnuts an exciting flavor boost that pairs wonderfully with coffee.
Nutty Add-Ins: Fold in chopped pecans or walnuts into the batter for a lovely crunch. The nuts not only enhance the texture but also complement the spiced flavors beautifully.
Chocolate Drizzle: For chocoholics, a drizzle of melted dark chocolate on top of the glazed doughnuts is a heavenly finishing touch. It adds richness and an indulgent experience for special occasions.

These variations will make each batch of your Thanksgiving doughnuts uniquely delicious! For another holiday favorite, you might also enjoy pairing them with Slow Cooker Noodles or serving them alongside Pot Beef Stew for a cozy family gathering.

Expert Tips for Thanksgiving Doughnuts Recipe

Room Temperature Ingredients: Make sure all your ingredients, especially eggs and milk, are at room temperature. This helps achieve a smooth, lump-free batter for your Thanksgiving doughnuts.
Gentle Mixing: Avoid overmixing the batter. This can lead to tough doughnuts. Mix just until combined for a tender texture that melts in your mouth.
Avoid Overbaking: Keep a close eye on your doughnuts while baking. They’re ready when they spring back to touch; overbaking can dry them out.
Cool Before Glazing: Let the doughnuts cool completely before dipping in glaze. This helps the glaze set perfectly without sliding off, ensuring a beautiful finish.
Experiment with Flavors: Feel free to add your personal touch! A dash of pumpkin puree or a flavored glaze can elevate your Thanksgiving doughnuts even more.
Storage Tips: To keep your doughnuts fresh, store unglazed ones in an airtight container for up to 2 days. For longer storage, freeze them unglazed for up to 2 months!

What to Serve with Thanksgiving Doughnuts Recipe

Indulging in freshly baked doughnuts warms the heart, but what can take your holiday breakfast or dessert to the next level?

Cider Glazed Apples: These tender apples, lightly sautéed and glazed with warm apple cider, provide a fruity and comforting contrast to the spiced doughnuts.
Chai Latte: The creamy warmth of a chai latte, packed with spices, perfectly complements the cinnamon and nutmeg in your doughnuts, elevating the cozy vibes.
Maple Pecan Granola: Crunchy, nutty, and slightly sweet, this granola adds a delightful texture alongside your soft and spiced doughnuts, making for a balanced breakfast treat.
Classic Whipped Cream: A dollop of freshly whipped cream on the side enhances the sweetness of the doughnuts, creating a rich, decadent experience with each bite.
Fruit Salad: A refreshing mix of seasonal fruits adds a bright, juicy contrast to the dense, sweet flavors of your Thanksgiving doughnuts, keeping the meal light and balanced.
Dark Chocolate Drizzle: A drizzle of melted dark chocolate adds a touch of sophistication and extra indulgence, appealing to chocolate lovers while enhancing the sweet profile.
Warm Peppermint Hot Cocoa: This festive beverage, rich and creamy, pairs beautifully with the doughnuts, creating a delightful holiday treat for cozy evenings.
Caramel Sauce: Serve with a side of warm caramel sauce for dipping, adding a rich, buttery sweetness that is simply irresistible alongside your spiced treats.
Vanilla Ice Cream: The creaminess of vanilla ice cream contrasts with the warm, spiced doughnuts, creating a delightful dessert combination that is sure to satisfy.
Eggnog: A festive holiday drink that pairs perfectly with your festive treats, eggnog’s creaminess and nutmeg flavors enhance the warm spices in your doughnuts.

Thanksgiving Doughnuts Recipe FAQs

How do I choose ripe ingredients for my doughnuts?
Absolutely! For this recipe, ensure your eggs are fresh and not past their sell-by date. When selecting milk, opt for whole or 2% milk for the richest flavor; if using non-dairy, go for almond or oat milk to match the creaminess. For the best spiced flavor, use ground spices that are fresh and aromatic; check the date on the jar.

What’s the best way to store leftover doughnuts?
To maintain their delightful texture, store unglazed Thanksgiving doughnuts in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. This keeps them soft and fluffy! If you want to keep them longer, you can freeze them unglazed for up to 2 months. Just wrap each doughnut individually in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer bag.

Can I freeze my Thanksgiving doughnuts?
Yes, you can! To freeze your unglazed doughnuts, wrap each one in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag, squeezing out as much air as possible. When you’re ready to enjoy them, thaw them overnight in the fridge and warm them in the microwave for about 15-20 seconds. This maintains their soft texture before glazing.

I’m worried about overbaking my doughnuts. How can I avoid that?
Great question! To ensure perfectly baked doughnuts, keep an eye on them starting at 10 minutes. They’re done when they spring back lightly to the touch or when a toothpick inserted comes out clean. If they feel firm and springy, it’s time to take them out! Trust me, overbaking can lead to dry doughnuts, so don’t hesitate!

Are these doughnuts suitable for a vegan diet?
Absolutely! You can easily make these Thanksgiving doughnuts vegan by substituting the eggs with flaxseed eggs (1 tablespoon of flaxseed meal mixed with 3 tablespoons of water for each egg) and using plant-based milk instead of regular milk. For the butter, substitute with coconut oil or vegan butter, and you’ll have a delightful vegan treat that your friends will love!