As the leaves turn golden and the air becomes crisp, there’s nothing quite like biting into a warm, freshly made donut to celebrate the flavors of fall.
From pumpkin spice classics to unique twists like gingerbread, caramel, and apple cider, donuts can capture the coziness of the season in every bite.
Whether you’re frying up a batch for a family gathering, serving them at a fall festival, or simply indulging in a sweet treat with your morning coffee, these 24 fall donut recipes will keep your kitchen filled with warmth and autumn aromas.
Each recipe highlights seasonal spices, fruits, and comforting flavors that perfectly pair with the magic of fall.
24 Delicious Fall Donut Recipes for the Season

Fall is the perfect season to embrace comfort foods, and donuts are at the top of that list.
With flavors ranging from pumpkin and apple cider to maple, pecan, and caramel, these 24 fall donut recipes offer something for everyone to enjoy.
Whether you’re baking, frying, or adding creative toppings, each donut captures the spirit of autumn in a delicious way.
So grab your apron, heat up the oil, and get ready to fill your kitchen with sweet scents that will make fall even more memorable.
Apple Cider Glazed Donuts
Apple cider is the ultimate fall ingredient, and when turned into a sweet, spiced donut, it becomes the perfect seasonal treat.
These apple cider donuts are moist, fluffy, and coated in a cinnamon sugar mixture before being drizzled with a warm cider glaze.
They carry the comforting essence of apple orchards and crisp fall afternoons.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup apple cider (reduced to ½ cup)
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- ½ teaspoon baking soda
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- ¼ teaspoon nutmeg
- ¼ teaspoon allspice
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
- ½ cup brown sugar
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- ½ cup buttermilk
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
For the Cinnamon Sugar Coating:
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
For the Glaze:
- ½ cup powdered sugar
- 2 tablespoons reduced apple cider
Instructions:
- Pour the apple cider into a small saucepan and simmer over medium heat until reduced to ½ cup. Let it cool completely.
- In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg, allspice, and salt.
- In a large mixing bowl, beat butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar until fluffy. Add eggs one at a time, then stir in cooled apple cider reduction, buttermilk, and vanilla.
- Gradually fold in the dry ingredients until just combined. Do not overmix.
- Spoon the batter into a greased donut pan, filling each cavity about ¾ full.
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 10–12 minutes, or until a toothpick comes out clean.
- Dip warm donuts in melted butter, then roll them in the cinnamon sugar mixture.
- Drizzle the apple cider glaze over the top for extra fall sweetness.
These apple cider glazed donuts are the epitome of fall comfort.
They pair beautifully with a cup of hot cider or coffee and make a perfect addition to autumn gatherings.
Pumpkin Spice Cream Cheese Donuts
Nothing says fall like pumpkin spice. These baked pumpkin donuts are enhanced with warming spices and filled with a luscious cream cheese swirl.
They’re soft, moist, and bursting with fall flavor, making them a favorite for breakfast or dessert.
Ingredients:
- 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- ½ teaspoon baking soda
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- ½ teaspoon ground nutmeg
- ½ teaspoon ground ginger
- ¼ teaspoon ground cloves
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- ½ cup brown sugar
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- ½ cup canned pumpkin puree
- 2 large eggs
- ½ cup vegetable oil
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
For the Cream Cheese Filling:
- 4 oz cream cheese, softened
- 2 tablespoons powdered sugar
- ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
For the Glaze:
- ½ cup powdered sugar
- 2 tablespoons milk
- Pinch of cinnamon
Instructions:
- In a bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, spices, and salt.
- In another bowl, mix pumpkin puree, sugars, eggs, oil, and vanilla until smooth.
- Slowly fold dry ingredients into the wet mixture until just combined.
- In a separate bowl, beat cream cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla until smooth.
- Grease a donut pan and spoon half of the pumpkin batter into each cavity. Pipe a small ring of cream cheese filling on top, then cover with remaining pumpkin batter.
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 12–15 minutes, or until donuts spring back when touched.
- Mix glaze ingredients until smooth and drizzle over cooled donuts.
With their spiced pumpkin base and creamy surprise inside, these donuts are a festive fall indulgence that everyone will love.
They’re especially delightful when served slightly warm.
Maple Pecan Donuts
Maple and pecans are a classic autumn pairing.
These baked maple pecan donuts are nutty, warmly sweet, and topped with a luscious maple glaze and crunchy pecans.
Perfect for cozy mornings or as a seasonal dessert, they capture the flavor of fall in every bite.
Ingredients:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- ½ teaspoon baking soda
- ½ teaspoon cinnamon
- ¼ teaspoon nutmeg
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- ½ cup brown sugar
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- ½ cup sour cream
- ½ cup whole milk
- ½ cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
For the Maple Glaze:
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 3 tablespoons pure maple syrup
- 1 tablespoon milk
- ½ cup chopped toasted pecans
Instructions:
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a donut pan.
- In a medium bowl, whisk flour, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt.
- In another bowl, whisk together sugars, eggs, sour cream, milk, melted butter, and vanilla until smooth.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring until just combined.
- Fill the donut pan cavities about ¾ full and bake for 12–14 minutes, or until golden brown.
- To make the glaze, whisk powdered sugar, maple syrup, and milk until smooth.
- Dip each donut into the glaze, then sprinkle with toasted pecans before it sets.
These maple pecan donuts are rich, nutty, and wonderfully sweet.
They’re perfect for crisp mornings or as a festive addition to fall dessert tables.
Caramel Apple Donuts
Caramel apples are a fall fair classic, and these donuts capture that same spirit in a soft, baked treat.
With diced fresh apples folded into a cinnamon-spiced batter and topped with a silky caramel glaze, these donuts bring together sweetness, tartness, and warm autumn comfort.
Ingredients:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- ½ teaspoon baking soda
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- ¼ teaspoon nutmeg
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
- ½ cup brown sugar
- ¼ cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- ½ cup buttermilk
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 medium apple, peeled and finely diced
For the Caramel Glaze:
- ½ cup caramel sauce (store-bought or homemade)
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 2–3 tablespoons heavy cream
Instructions:
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a donut pan.
- In a bowl, whisk flour, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt.
- In a large bowl, cream butter and sugars until fluffy. Beat in eggs one at a time, then add buttermilk and vanilla.
- Slowly fold in the dry ingredients until just combined, then gently stir in diced apple pieces.
- Fill donut pan cavities about ¾ full and bake 12–14 minutes, until golden brown.
- For glaze, whisk caramel sauce, powdered sugar, and heavy cream until smooth and pourable.
- Dip cooled donuts into caramel glaze, allowing excess to drip off.
These caramel apple donuts combine the essence of orchard-fresh apples with creamy caramel sweetness.
Perfect for a fall festival at home, they’re cozy, fun, and irresistible.
Chai-Spiced Donuts with Vanilla Glaze
Chai tea brings a fragrant mix of spices like cardamom, cloves, ginger, and cinnamon—perfect for cozy autumn mornings.
These chai-spiced donuts are baked for a fluffy, light texture and finished with a smooth vanilla glaze that balances their spice-forward warmth.
Ingredients:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- ½ teaspoon baking soda
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- ½ teaspoon ground cardamom
- ¼ teaspoon ground ginger
- ¼ teaspoon ground cloves
- ¼ teaspoon nutmeg
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- ½ cup brown sugar
- ½ cup vegetable oil
- 2 large eggs
- ½ cup milk
- ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
For the Vanilla Glaze:
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 2–3 tablespoons milk
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a donut pan.
- In a bowl, whisk flour, baking powder, baking soda, spices, and salt.
- In another bowl, mix sugars, oil, eggs, milk, and vanilla until combined.
- Gently fold in dry ingredients until just combined.
- Fill donut pan ¾ full and bake 12–14 minutes until springy to touch.
- For glaze, whisk powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla until smooth.
- Dip cooled donuts into glaze, letting excess drip before setting.
With their warming chai spices and creamy vanilla finish, these donuts taste like autumn in every bite.
They’re a wonderful choice for pairing with a hot cup of tea or coffee on a cool day.
Sweet Potato Donuts with Brown Sugar Glaze
Sweet potatoes aren’t just for casseroles—they make moist, rich, and flavorful donuts that are perfect for fall.
These baked sweet potato donuts are lightly spiced, tender inside, and topped with a buttery brown sugar glaze that enhances their natural sweetness.
Ingredients:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- ½ teaspoon baking soda
- ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon
- ¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- 1 cup mashed roasted sweet potato (about 1 medium)
- ½ cup brown sugar
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- ½ cup sour cream
- ½ cup vegetable oil
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
For the Brown Sugar Glaze:
- ½ cup brown sugar
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 2 tablespoons milk
- ½ cup powdered sugar
Instructions:
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease donut pan.
- In a bowl, whisk flour, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt.
- In another bowl, combine sweet potato puree, sugars, eggs, sour cream, oil, and vanilla until smooth.
- Fold dry ingredients into wet mixture until just combined.
- Fill donut pan cavities ¾ full and bake 13–15 minutes until golden and springy.
- For glaze, melt butter with brown sugar and milk over medium heat. Stir until sugar dissolves, then remove from heat and whisk in powdered sugar.
- Dip warm donuts into glaze and let them set on a rack.
Sweet potato donuts offer a cozy, earthy sweetness that screams fall.
With their caramel-like brown sugar glaze, they make an indulgent yet comforting treat for crisp autumn days.
Fried Cinnamon Sugar Donuts
Few things compare to the smell of freshly fried donuts rolling in cinnamon sugar on a cool fall morning.
These old-fashioned fried donuts are golden and crisp on the outside yet soft and fluffy inside.
Their simple cinnamon sugar coating makes them a timeless fall favorite.
Ingredients:
- 3 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 teaspoons baking powder
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- ¼ teaspoon nutmeg
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
- 2 large eggs
- ¾ cup buttermilk
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Oil, for frying
For Coating:
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
Instructions:
- In a large bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg, salt, and sugar.
- In another bowl, whisk eggs, melted butter, buttermilk, and vanilla.
- Gradually add wet ingredients into dry until a soft dough forms. Chill dough for 30 minutes.
- On a floured surface, roll dough to about ½ inch thick. Cut out donuts with a cutter.
- Heat oil in a deep pan to 350°F (175°C). Fry donuts 1–2 minutes per side until golden.
- Drain on paper towels, then immediately toss in cinnamon sugar mixture.
These fried cinnamon sugar donuts are nostalgic, warm, and perfect for fall breakfasts.
They’re best enjoyed fresh, while still warm and coated in sweet spice.
Pumpkin Spice Glazed Yeast Donuts
Light, airy, and filled with fall spices, these yeast-raised donuts are flavored with pumpkin puree and finished with a glossy pumpkin spice glaze.
They’re a fluffy and festive twist on traditional fried donuts, making them perfect for holiday mornings.
Ingredients:
- 3 cups bread flour
- 2 ¼ teaspoons active dry yeast
- ½ cup warm milk
- ½ cup pumpkin puree
- ¼ cup sugar
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
- ½ teaspoon nutmeg
- ¼ teaspoon ginger
- ¼ teaspoon cloves
- ½ teaspoon salt
- Oil, for frying
For Pumpkin Spice Glaze:
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 2 tablespoons pumpkin puree
- 1 teaspoon pumpkin pie spice
- 2–3 tablespoons milk
Instructions:
- In a bowl, dissolve yeast in warm milk with a pinch of sugar. Let it sit until foamy, about 5 minutes.
- Add pumpkin puree, sugar, butter, egg, spices, and salt. Mix well.
- Gradually stir in flour to form a soft dough. Knead until smooth and elastic, 6–8 minutes.
- Place dough in a greased bowl, cover, and let rise until doubled, about 1 hour.
- Roll dough ½ inch thick and cut out donuts. Let rise again for 30 minutes.
- Heat oil to 350°F (175°C). Fry donuts until golden, about 1 minute per side. Drain on paper towels.
- Whisk glaze ingredients together and dip warm donuts into glaze.
Pumpkin spice glazed yeast donuts are pillowy, fragrant, and irresistibly seasonal.
They’re worth the extra effort and make a showstopping fall treat.
Maple Bacon Donuts
Sweet, salty, and smoky—these maple bacon donuts are a fall breakfast dream.
The donuts are light and fluffy, fried to golden perfection, and dipped in a maple glaze, then topped with crispy bacon crumbles for the ultimate indulgence.
Ingredients:
- 3 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 teaspoons baking powder
- ½ teaspoon baking soda
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon cinnamon
- ½ cup sugar
- 2 large eggs
- ½ cup sour cream
- ½ cup whole milk
- ¼ cup melted butter
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Oil, for frying
For the Maple Glaze:
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 3 tablespoons pure maple syrup
- 1 tablespoon milk
Topping:
- 6 slices cooked crispy bacon, crumbled
Instructions:
- In a bowl, whisk flour, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, salt, and sugar.
- In another bowl, whisk eggs, sour cream, milk, butter, and vanilla.
- Stir wet ingredients into dry until combined, then chill dough for 20 minutes.
- Roll dough on a floured surface to ½ inch thick and cut donuts.
- Heat oil to 350°F (175°C) and fry donuts 1–2 minutes per side until golden brown. Drain.
- Make glaze by whisking powdered sugar, maple syrup, and milk until smooth.
- Dip warm donuts into glaze and sprinkle with crispy bacon pieces.
With their rich glaze and smoky bacon topping, they bring a unique twist to fall donut traditions.
Apple Fritter Donuts
Apple fritters are a beloved autumn classic, with chunks of tart apples folded into a cinnamon-spiced dough, fried until golden, and coated with a sweet glaze.
These rustic donuts are crisp on the outside, tender inside, and bursting with the comforting flavors of fall orchards.
Ingredients:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- ¼ cup granulated sugar
- 2 teaspoons baking powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 2 large eggs
- ½ cup whole milk
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
- 2 cups chopped apples (Granny Smith recommended)
- Oil, for frying
For the Glaze:
- 1 ½ cups powdered sugar
- 2–3 tablespoons milk
- ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
- In a large bowl, whisk flour, sugar, baking powder, salt, and cinnamon.
- In another bowl, whisk eggs, milk, and melted butter. Combine wet and dry ingredients into a thick batter.
- Fold in chopped apples.
- Heat oil to 350°F (175°C). Drop heaping spoonfuls of batter into oil and fry until golden, about 2–3 minutes per side.
- Drain on paper towels.
- Whisk glaze ingredients until smooth, then dip warm fritters in glaze or drizzle generously.
Apple fritter donuts are the ultimate fall indulgence—crisp, fruity, and sweet.
They’re perfect for enjoying with a mug of spiced cider or coffee on a chilly day.
Pecan Praline Donuts
Rich and decadent, these fried pecan praline donuts are coated in a buttery praline glaze and sprinkled with toasted pecans.
They carry the warmth of southern pralines while celebrating fall’s favorite nutty flavors.
Ingredients:
- 3 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 teaspoons baking powder
- ½ teaspoon baking soda
- ½ teaspoon cinnamon
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- ½ cup sour cream
- ½ cup whole milk
- ¼ cup melted butter
- Oil, for frying
For the Praline Glaze:
- ½ cup brown sugar
- ¼ cup heavy cream
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- ½ cup toasted pecans, chopped
Instructions:
- Mix flour, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, salt, and sugar in a bowl.
- In another bowl, whisk eggs, sour cream, milk, and butter. Combine with dry ingredients until a soft dough forms. Chill for 20 minutes.
- Roll out dough ½ inch thick and cut donuts.
- Heat oil to 350°F (175°C). Fry donuts until golden brown on each side. Drain on paper towels.
- For glaze, simmer brown sugar, cream, and butter until smooth. Remove from heat and whisk in vanilla and powdered sugar.
- Dip donuts in praline glaze and sprinkle with toasted pecans.
These pecan praline donuts are buttery, nutty, and sweetly indulgent—like a warm hug in donut form.
A perfect fall treat for special mornings.
Spiced Chocolate Donuts
Chocolate meets fall spices in these indulgent fried donuts.
Rich cocoa dough is deepened with cinnamon and cayenne for a warm kick, then finished with a glossy chocolate glaze.
They’re bold, cozy, and perfect for adventurous chocolate lovers.
Ingredients:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- ½ cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- ½ teaspoon baking soda
- ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon
- ⅛ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ cup sugar
- 2 large eggs
- ½ cup sour cream
- ½ cup whole milk
- ¼ cup melted butter
- Oil, for frying
For the Chocolate Glaze:
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- ¼ cup cocoa powder
- 3 tablespoons milk
- ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
- Whisk flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, cayenne, salt, and sugar in a bowl.
- In another bowl, whisk eggs, sour cream, milk, and butter. Fold wet ingredients into dry until just combined.
- Chill dough for 20 minutes. Roll out and cut donuts.
- Heat oil to 350°F (175°C). Fry donuts 1–2 minutes per side until puffed and cooked through. Drain on paper towels.
- Make glaze by whisking powdered sugar, cocoa, milk, and vanilla until smooth.
- Dip warm donuts into glaze and let set slightly before serving.
Spiced chocolate donuts offer a rich, bold twist on fall flavors.
With their warming spices and velvety glaze, they’re a treat that satisfies both chocolate cravings and seasonal spice lovers.
Gingerbread Donuts with Molasses Glaze
These gingerbread donuts are infused with molasses, cinnamon, ginger, and cloves, making them taste like a cozy holiday cookie in donut form.
Finished with a sticky molasses glaze, they bring warm spice and deep sweetness perfect for fall and early winter mornings.
Ingredients:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- ½ teaspoon baking soda
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- ½ teaspoon ground ginger
- ¼ teaspoon ground cloves
- ¼ teaspoon nutmeg
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ cup brown sugar
- ½ cup unsalted butter, melted
- ½ cup buttermilk
- ⅓ cup molasses
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Oil, for frying
For the Molasses Glaze:
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 2 tablespoons molasses
- 2 tablespoons milk
Instructions:
- In a bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, spices, and salt.
- In another bowl, combine brown sugar, melted butter, buttermilk, molasses, eggs, and vanilla.
- Stir wet ingredients into dry until a soft dough forms. Chill for 30 minutes.
- Roll dough to ½ inch thickness, cut into donuts, and let rest while oil heats to 350°F (175°C).
- Fry donuts 1–2 minutes per side until golden. Drain on paper towels.
- Whisk glaze ingredients together and dip warm donuts into molasses glaze.
These gingerbread donuts are rich, spiced, and festive, carrying the essence of fall and holiday baking traditions in every bite.
Cranberry Orange Donuts
Bright and zesty, these cranberry orange donuts bring a fruity burst to fall baking.
Dried cranberries add tartness while fresh orange zest gives a citrusy kick, and the donuts are topped with a sweet orange glaze for balance.
Ingredients:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- ½ teaspoon baking soda
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- ½ cup brown sugar
- ½ cup sour cream
- ½ cup whole milk
- 2 large eggs
- ½ cup unsalted butter, melted
- Zest of 1 orange
- ½ cup dried cranberries, chopped
- Oil, for frying
For the Orange Glaze:
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 2–3 tablespoons fresh orange juice
- 1 teaspoon orange zest
Instructions:
- In a bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and sugars.
- In another bowl, mix sour cream, milk, eggs, melted butter, and orange zest.
- Combine wet and dry ingredients, then fold in dried cranberries. Chill dough 20 minutes.
- Roll dough, cut into donuts, and heat oil to 350°F (175°C). Fry until golden on both sides.
- Mix glaze ingredients and dip donuts while warm.
Cranberry orange donuts balance tart, sweet, and citrusy flavors—ideal for fall mornings when you want something fresh but still cozy.
Brown Butter Pecan Donuts
Nutty brown butter and toasted pecans make these donuts a decadent autumn treat.
Their rich, caramel-like flavor is deepened by frying, then topped with a smooth brown butter glaze and extra pecans for crunch.
Ingredients:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- ½ teaspoon baking soda
- ½ teaspoon cinnamon
- ¼ teaspoon nutmeg
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- ½ cup brown sugar
- 2 large eggs
- ½ cup sour cream
- ½ cup milk
- ½ cup browned butter (cooled slightly)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- ½ cup toasted pecans, chopped
- Oil, for frying
For the Brown Butter Glaze:
- ½ cup browned butter
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 2–3 tablespoons milk
Instructions:
- In a skillet, brown butter until golden and nutty. Cool slightly.
- Whisk flour, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg, salt, and sugars in a bowl.
- In another bowl, whisk eggs, sour cream, milk, vanilla, and browned butter.
- Stir wet into dry, fold in toasted pecans, then chill dough 20 minutes.
- Roll dough, cut donuts, and fry in 350°F (175°C) oil until golden.
- Whisk browned butter, powdered sugar, and milk into glaze. Dip warm donuts and sprinkle with more pecans.
Brown butter pecan donuts are nutty, rich, and deeply comforting. They taste like fall coziness wrapped in golden fried goodness.
Hot Cocoa Donuts with Marshmallow Glaze
These donuts bring the comfort of a steaming cup of hot cocoa into handheld form.
The chocolatey fried donuts are rich and moist, topped with a fluffy marshmallow glaze and sprinkled with mini marshmallows for the ultimate cozy fall and winter vibe.
Ingredients:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- ½ cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- ½ teaspoon baking soda
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- ½ cup brown sugar
- 2 large eggs
- ½ cup sour cream
- ½ cup milk
- ¼ cup melted butter
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Oil, for frying
For the Marshmallow Glaze:
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- ½ cup marshmallow fluff
- 2–3 tablespoons milk
- ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
- Mini marshmallows, for topping
Instructions:
- Whisk together flour, cocoa, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and sugars.
- In another bowl, whisk eggs, sour cream, milk, butter, and vanilla.
- Mix wet and dry ingredients until just combined, then chill dough 20 minutes.
- Roll dough, cut donuts, and fry in 350°F (175°C) oil for 1–2 minutes per side.
- For glaze, whisk powdered sugar, marshmallow fluff, milk, and vanilla until smooth.
- Dip warm donuts in glaze and top with mini marshmallows.
Hot cocoa donuts are warm, nostalgic, and fun—perfect for enjoying by the fireplace with a hot drink on a chilly evening.
Churro-Style Donuts with Chocolate Dipping Sauce
Inspired by the beloved churro, these donuts are fried to golden perfection, rolled in cinnamon sugar, and served with a rich chocolate dipping sauce.
They’re crunchy, sweet, and make a fun fall party treat.
Ingredients:
- 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- 2 teaspoons baking powder
- ½ teaspoon baking soda
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon cinnamon
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- ½ cup sour cream
- ½ cup milk
- ¼ cup melted butter
- Oil, for frying
For Cinnamon Sugar Coating:
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
For Chocolate Sauce:
- ½ cup heavy cream
- ½ cup dark chocolate chips
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
- In a bowl, whisk flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, and sugar.
- In another bowl, whisk eggs, sour cream, milk, and butter.
- Stir into dry ingredients until combined, chill 20 minutes, then roll and cut donuts.
- Fry donuts at 350°F (175°C) until golden, 1–2 minutes per side.
- Toss immediately in cinnamon sugar.
- For dipping sauce, heat cream until simmering, pour over chocolate chips, whisk until smooth, then stir in vanilla.
Churro-style donuts combine crunchy cinnamon sweetness with indulgent chocolate—making them an irresistible fall carnival-inspired treat.
Spiced Pear Donuts with Honey Glaze
Pears are an underrated fall fruit that shine beautifully in these spiced donuts.
Fresh pear purée adds moisture, while cinnamon and nutmeg bring warmth.
A golden honey glaze finishes them with floral sweetness.
Ingredients:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- ½ teaspoon baking soda
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- ¼ teaspoon nutmeg
- ½ cup sugar
- ½ cup brown sugar
- 2 large eggs
- ½ cup pear purée (from ripe pears)
- ½ cup sour cream
- ½ cup milk
- ¼ cup melted butter
- Oil, for frying
For Honey Glaze:
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 3 tablespoons honey
- 2 tablespoons milk
Instructions:
- In a bowl, whisk flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, nutmeg, and sugars.
- In another bowl, whisk eggs, pear purée, sour cream, milk, and butter.
- Combine wet and dry ingredients into a soft dough, then chill 20 minutes.
- Roll dough, cut donuts, and fry at 350°F (175°C) until golden, about 2 minutes per side.
- For glaze, whisk powdered sugar, honey, and milk until smooth.
- Dip warm donuts into glaze and let them set slightly.
Spiced pear donuts with honey glaze are subtly sweet, moist, and fragrant—an elegant fall twist for those who love fruit-based desserts.
Maple Glazed Sweet Potato Donuts
These donuts bring together the earthy sweetness of roasted sweet potatoes and the rich, caramel-like flavor of maple syrup.
The donuts are soft and moist with a warm spice profile, then dipped in a smooth maple glaze that makes them an irresistible autumn treat.
Ingredients:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- ½ teaspoon baking soda
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
- ¼ teaspoon nutmeg
- ½ cup brown sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 cup mashed roasted sweet potato
- ½ cup sour cream
- ½ cup whole milk
- ¼ cup melted butter
- Oil, for frying
For Maple Glaze:
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 3 tablespoons pure maple syrup
- 1–2 tablespoons milk
Instructions:
- Whisk flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and spices in a bowl.
- In another bowl, whisk brown sugar, eggs, sweet potato, sour cream, milk, and melted butter until smooth.
- Fold wet and dry ingredients together into a thick batter. Chill for 20 minutes.
- Roll out dough, cut into donuts, and fry at 350°F (175°C) for 1–2 minutes per side until golden.
- Make glaze by whisking powdered sugar, maple syrup, and milk.
- Dip donuts while warm, letting glaze set slightly.
Maple glazed sweet potato donuts are rich, cozy, and perfectly seasonal—ideal for chilly mornings or festive gatherings.
Carrot Cake Donuts with Cream Cheese Glaze
Carrot cake gets a fun twist in these spiced donuts filled with shredded carrots, cinnamon, and nutmeg.
Topped with a luscious cream cheese glaze, they taste like a portable slice of carrot cake perfect for fall.
Ingredients:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- ½ teaspoon baking soda
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
- ½ teaspoon nutmeg
- ½ cup sugar
- ½ cup brown sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 cup finely shredded carrots
- ½ cup sour cream
- ½ cup milk
- ¼ cup melted butter
- Oil, for frying
For Cream Cheese Glaze:
- 4 oz cream cheese, softened
- ½ cup powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2–3 tablespoons milk
Instructions:
- In a bowl, whisk flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and spices.
- In another bowl, whisk sugars, eggs, carrots, sour cream, milk, and butter until well mixed.
- Fold dry ingredients into wet mixture until a thick dough forms. Chill 20 minutes.
- Roll out dough, cut donuts, and fry at 350°F (175°C) for about 2 minutes per side.
- Beat cream cheese glaze ingredients until smooth.
- Dip cooled donuts into glaze and let set.
Carrot cake donuts are moist, spiced, and topped with creamy sweetness. They’re a festive fall treat that feels both indulgent and comforting.
Apple Cinnamon Crumb Donuts
These donuts combine tender apple-spiced dough with a buttery cinnamon crumb topping.
Finished with a light glaze drizzle, they deliver both soft and crunchy textures, making them a bakery-worthy fall donut.
Ingredients:
For Donuts:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- ½ teaspoon baking soda
- ½ teaspoon cinnamon
- ¼ teaspoon nutmeg
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ cup sugar
- ½ cup brown sugar
- 2 large eggs
- ½ cup apple sauce
- ½ cup sour cream
- ½ cup milk
- ¼ cup melted butter
- Oil, for frying
For Crumb Topping:
- ½ cup flour
- ½ cup brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
- ¼ cup melted butter
For Glaze:
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 2–3 tablespoons milk
Instructions:
- Whisk flour, baking powder, baking soda, spices, and salt in a bowl.
- In another bowl, whisk sugars, eggs, applesauce, sour cream, milk, and melted butter.
- Fold wet and dry ingredients together into a soft dough. Chill 20 minutes.
- Roll dough, cut donuts, and fry at 350°F (175°C) until golden.
- Mix crumb topping ingredients until crumbly, then press crumbs gently onto warm donuts.
- Drizzle lightly with glaze before serving.
Apple cinnamon crumb donuts are a bakery-style delight, with layers of flavor and texture that make them a fall favorite worth repeating.
Toasted Coconut Maple Donuts
These donuts blend the deep sweetness of maple with the nutty crunch of toasted coconut.
The fried donuts are light and fluffy, dipped in a smooth maple glaze, and rolled in golden toasted coconut flakes for a tropical-meets-autumn treat.
Ingredients:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- ½ teaspoon baking soda
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ cup sugar
- ½ cup brown sugar
- 2 large eggs
- ½ cup sour cream
- ½ cup milk
- ¼ cup melted butter
- Oil, for frying
For Maple Glaze:
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 3 tablespoons maple syrup
- 1–2 tablespoons milk
Topping:
- 1 cup toasted shredded coconut
Instructions:
- Whisk flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and sugars in a bowl.
- In another bowl, whisk eggs, sour cream, milk, and melted butter until smooth.
- Fold wet into dry until a soft dough forms. Chill 20 minutes.
- Roll dough, cut donuts, and fry at 350°F (175°C) until golden.
- Make glaze by whisking powdered sugar, maple syrup, and milk.
- Dip warm donuts into glaze, then roll in toasted coconut.
Toasted coconut maple donuts are sweet, nutty, and crunchy, making them a unique fall donut that stands out from the usual spice flavors.
Brown Sugar Apple Cider Donuts
Apple cider donuts get a richer twist with the addition of caramel-like brown sugar.
These fried donuts are infused with reduced apple cider, coated in a brown sugar glaze, and dusted with cinnamon sugar for an orchard-inspired delight.
Ingredients:
- 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- ½ teaspoon baking soda
- ½ teaspoon cinnamon
- ¼ teaspoon nutmeg
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ cup brown sugar
- 2 large eggs
- ½ cup buttermilk
- ½ cup reduced apple cider (simmer 1 cup down to ½ cup)
- ¼ cup melted butter
- Oil, for frying
For Brown Sugar Glaze:
- ½ cup brown sugar
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 2 tablespoons milk
- 1 cup powdered sugar
For Coating:
- ½ cup sugar + 1 teaspoon cinnamon
Instructions:
- Whisk flour, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg, salt, and brown sugar.
- In another bowl, whisk eggs, buttermilk, reduced cider, and melted butter.
- Combine wet and dry, then chill dough 20 minutes.
- Roll dough, cut donuts, and fry at 350°F (175°C) until golden.
- Make glaze by simmering brown sugar, butter, and milk, then whisk in powdered sugar.
- Dip donuts in glaze, then sprinkle with cinnamon sugar.
Brown sugar apple cider donuts are deeply flavored and perfectly spiced, making them a rich, nostalgic fall treat.
Salted Caramel Donuts
These indulgent donuts are fried until golden, dipped in a glossy salted caramel glaze, and sprinkled with flaky sea salt.
They strike the perfect balance between sweet and salty, making them an irresistible fall indulgence.
Ingredients:
- 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- ½ teaspoon baking soda
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon cinnamon
- ½ cup sugar
- ½ cup brown sugar
- 2 large eggs
- ½ cup sour cream
- ½ cup milk
- ¼ cup melted butter
- Oil, for frying
For Salted Caramel Glaze:
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- 2 tablespoons butter
- ¼ cup heavy cream
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- Pinch of flaky sea salt
Instructions:
- Whisk flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, and sugars in a bowl.
- In another bowl, whisk eggs, sour cream, milk, and melted butter.
- Fold wet into dry to form a soft dough. Chill 20 minutes.
- Roll dough, cut donuts, and fry at 350°F (175°C) until golden.
- For glaze, melt sugar until caramelized, whisk in butter and cream, then stir in powdered sugar until smooth.
- Dip warm donuts into caramel glaze and sprinkle with flaky sea salt.
Salted caramel donuts are decadent, perfectly balanced, and packed with rich autumn flavor—ideal for anyone who loves sweet-salty desserts
Pumpkin Pecan Donuts with Spiced Glaze
These donuts combine the earthy sweetness of pumpkin with the nutty crunch of toasted pecans.
Finished with a spiced glaze, they embody the cozy warmth of autumn and make a perfect seasonal breakfast or dessert.
Ingredients:
- 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- ½ teaspoon baking soda
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
- ½ teaspoon nutmeg
- ½ teaspoon ginger
- ½ cup sugar
- ½ cup brown sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 cup pumpkin purée
- ½ cup sour cream
- ½ cup milk
- ¼ cup melted butter
- ½ cup chopped toasted pecans
- Oil, for frying
For Spiced Glaze:
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- ½ teaspoon cinnamon
- ¼ teaspoon nutmeg
- 2–3 tablespoons milk
Instructions:
- Mix flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and spices in a bowl.
- In another bowl, whisk sugars, eggs, pumpkin, sour cream, milk, and melted butter until smooth.
- Fold dry ingredients into wet, then stir in pecans. Chill dough for 20 minutes.
- Roll dough, cut donuts, and fry at 350°F (175°C) until golden brown.
- Make glaze by whisking powdered sugar, spices, and milk.
- Dip warm donuts into glaze and let set before serving.
Pumpkin pecan donuts are nutty, warmly spiced, and sweetly glazed—everything you could want in a fall-inspired donut.
Gingerbread Molasses Donuts
These donuts are rich, dark, and full of gingerbread flavor, with molasses adding depth and warmth.
Finished with a light vanilla glaze, they’re festive, cozy, and ideal for holiday-inspired fall baking.
Ingredients:
- 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- ½ teaspoon baking soda
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon ground ginger
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
- ¼ teaspoon cloves
- ½ cup sugar
- ½ cup brown sugar
- 2 large eggs
- ½ cup molasses
- ½ cup buttermilk
- ¼ cup melted butter
- Oil, for frying
For Vanilla Glaze:
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2–3 tablespoons milk
Instructions:
- Whisk flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and spices in a bowl.
- In another bowl, whisk sugars, eggs, molasses, buttermilk, and melted butter until combined.
- Fold dry into wet to make a thick dough. Chill 20 minutes.
- Roll dough, cut donuts, and fry at 350°F (175°C) until golden.
- Make glaze by whisking powdered sugar, vanilla, and milk.
- Dip cooled donuts in glaze and let set.
Gingerbread molasses donuts are fragrant, spiced, and deeply flavorful—perfect for capturing the holiday spirit during the fall season.