If you're searching for a quick, delicious, and festive fall season treat, these Cake Mix Pumpkin Donuts are it. Made with just three ingredients for the donuts and a simple two-ingredient glaze, these donuts are a great way to enjoy the cozy flavors of pumpkin without spending hours in the kitchen. Using a box of cake mix as the base, you’ll find this easy recipe incredibly simple and beginner-friendly.
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Why You’ll Love These Cake Mix Pumpkin Donuts
With pumpkin spice flavor trending every autumn, these Cake Mix Pumpkin Donuts are a delightful way to celebrate pumpkin season. They are the perfect treat to enjoy with your morning coffee, and their donut shape makes them feel like a true indulgence.
Whether you’re making them as a breakfast on the go or a quick snack, these homemade donuts will satisfy your cravings. Plus, baking them in the air fryer basket results in a golden brown exterior and moist, tender inside. No need for hot oil or deep frying—just delicious, fluffy donuts with a fraction of the mess!
Ingredients for Cake Mix Pumpkin Donuts
To make these easy dessert donuts, you'll only need a few simple ingredients:
- White cake mix – serves as the base for the donuts, making this recipe truly a cheater air fryer donuts version.
- Pumpkin pie spice – for that iconic flavors of fall taste, including cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves.
- Pumpkin puree – adds moisture and that beloved pumpkin flavor without the need for any additional fat or eggs.
For the glaze:
- Cream cheese frosting – provides a smooth and creamy base.
- Pumpkin pie spice – for an extra boost of fall flavor in every bite.
For exact amounts and a step-by-step guide, please refer to the printable recipe card below.
How to Make Cake Mix Pumpkin Donuts
Here’s a straightforward guide to making these Cake Mix Pumpkin Donuts at home:
- Preheat your oven and prepare your donut pans
Start by preheating your oven to 425°F (220°C) and greasing two donut pans with nonstick cooking spray. This helps the donuts release easily from the pan, ensuring they maintain their classic donut shape. - Mix the dry ingredients and wet ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cake mix and pumpkin pie spice. Whisk these dry ingredients together until they’re fully incorporated. Then, add the pumpkin puree and mix until smooth. This step is so simple that you won’t need an electric mixer—just a spoon or spatula will do.
- Pipe the donut batter into the pans
Transfer the donut batter to a freezer bag or piping bag and snip off one corner. Pipe the batter into the prepared donut pan cavities, filling each about ⅔ full. This makes it easy to control the batter and keeps your donuts neat and uniform in size.
- Bake the donuts
Place the pans in the preheated oven and bake for 8 to 10 minutes. You’ll know the donuts are done when they spring back lightly when pressed with a finger. For best results, let them cool in the pan for about 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.
- Using the Air Fryer: If you prefer to use an air fryer rather than baking, place the donut pan in your air fryer basket and cook at 350°F for 8-10 minutes. This is a great way to get that golden brown finish without turning on your oven.
- Prepare the glaze
While the donuts cool, it’s time to prepare the glaze. Heat the cream cheese frosting in the microwave in 15-second intervals until melted. Stir in a dash of pumpkin pie spice to infuse the glaze with even more fall flavor.
- Dip and decorate
Dip each donut into the warm glaze, allowing any excess to drip off. Place the glazed donuts back on the wire rack to set. For an extra touch, sprinkle a bit of cinnamon sugar on top for added texture and sweetness.
- Serve and enjoy
Enjoy these air fryer pumpkin donuts with a hot cup of coffee or a cozy pumpkin spice latte. Their golden brown exterior and soft interior make them an irresistible fall treat!
Tips for Making the Best Cake Mix Pumpkin Donuts
- Storage: Keep any leftover donuts in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. If you want to keep them longer, store them in the fridge, then reheat briefly in the microwave or air fryer before serving.
- Add a Touch of Cinnamon Sugar: For a classic twist, sprinkle cinnamon sugar on top of the glaze. This adds a bit of crunch and brings out the warm, spicy notes in the donuts.
- Make Donut Holes: Don’t have a donut pan? You can also use a mini muffin pan or even make air fryer pumpkin donut holes for bite-sized treats.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use other flavors of cake mix?
Absolutely! If you want to experiment, try using a spice cake mix or even a chocolate cake mix to create unique pumpkin spice combinations. Both options provide a tasty twist on this basic chick recipe.
Can I freeze these donuts?
Yes, you can freeze these donuts. Just place them in a single layer on a baking sheet to freeze, then transfer to a freezer bag. When you’re ready to enjoy, let them thaw and warm them up in the microwave or air fryer.
How can I make these donuts gluten-free?
To make gluten-free donuts, substitute the white cake mix with a gluten-free cake mix. Be sure to check the other ingredients to ensure they’re also gluten-free.
Why Cake Mix Pumpkin Donuts Are a Fall Favorite
These Cake Mix Pumpkin Donuts are the perfect fall treat. They’re simple to make with store-bought frosting and just a handful of ingredients, yet they deliver a pumpkin spice flavor that rivals any donut from your local donut shop. Not to mention, they’re a great way to get kids involved in the kitchen, as the recipe is simple enough for little helpers.
And because they’re baked (or air fried) rather than deep-fried in hot oil, they’re a slightly healthier option compared to traditional yeast donuts. The pumpkin puree keeps them moist without needing added butter or oil, so you get that fluffy, moist texture with fewer calories—a win-win!
Additional Fall Recipes You’ll Love
If you’re a fan of all things pumpkin, check out some of our other pumpkin recipes:
- Pumpkin Bundt Cake Recipe – A show-stopping dessert for holiday gatherings.
- Fluffy Pumpkin Spice Pancakes – Perfect for a fun and unique on your favorite pancakes.
- Pumpkin Pie Bites Recipe – Ideal for portion-controlled pumpkin goodness.
- 12 Must Try Pumpkin Recipes – A comprehensive list of all our favorite pumpkin treats!
With their donut shape, delicious pumpkin spice flavor, and easy prep, these Cake Mix Pumpkin Donuts are bound to become one of your favorite things this season. Serve them with a cozy pumpkin spice latte or a refreshing apple cider and enjoy the flavors of fall with every bite.
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