Two-Ingredient Pumpkin Donuts – The Easiest Fall Treat Ever

Introduction to Two-Ingredient Pumpkin Donuts

Fall is the season of pumpkin spice everything, and what better way to celebrate than with warm, fluffy pumpkin donuts? The best part—these donuts only require two simple ingredients. Yes, you read that right! With just a box of cake mix and a can of pumpkin puree, you can whip up bakery-style donuts that are moist, flavorful, and perfect for cozy autumn mornings.

This recipe is the ultimate shortcut dessert for busy families, novice bakers, or anyone craving pumpkin spice without spending hours in the kitchen. Plus, since the donuts are baked instead of fried, they’re a slightly lighter treat you can enjoy with your coffee, tea, or even as a sweet snack.

Whether you frost them, glaze them, or dust them with cinnamon sugar, two-ingredient pumpkin donuts are guaranteed to be your new fall favorite.

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Why Two-Ingredient Pumpkin Donuts Are So Popular

These donuts have taken social media by storm, and it’s easy to see why. Their popularity comes down to a few irresistible factors:

1. Simplicity at Its Best

You don’t need a long grocery list—just cake mix and pumpkin puree. No eggs, oil, or milk required.

2. Foolproof Recipe

Even if you’ve never baked before, you can nail this recipe. It’s nearly impossible to mess up.

3. Budget-Friendly

Two ingredients mean low cost. You can bake a whole batch of donuts for just a few dollars.

4. Healthier Twist

Since the recipe skips butter and oil, these donuts are lower in fat compared to traditional fried donuts. Pumpkin also adds fiber and vitamins.

5. Versatility

Change the flavor by swapping cake mixes—spice cake, yellow cake, or even chocolate cake work beautifully.

These reasons make two-ingredient pumpkin donuts not just a fun baking hack, but also a go-to recipe for families, students, and pumpkin lovers everywhere.

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The Origins of Two-Ingredient Pumpkin Donuts

You might be wondering—where did this genius recipe come from?

• Cake Mix Hacks → For decades, home bakers have been using cake mix as a shortcut for cookies, bars, and muffins. Mixing pumpkin puree into cake mix became a viral hack in the early 2000s.
• Pumpkin Season Craze → As pumpkin spice mania grew, recipes combining canned pumpkin with boxed mixes gained popularity, especially in the U.S. during fall.
• TikTok & Pinterest Trend → These donuts became especially famous when food bloggers and TikTok creators showcased how quick and delicious they were to make.

While the exact origin is hard to trace, this recipe reflects the modern love of shortcuts, seasonal flavors, and Instagram-worthy treats.

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Health Benefits of Pumpkin in Donuts

Sure, donuts are a treat, but pumpkin adds surprising nutrition to balance things out.

1. Rich in Vitamin A

Pumpkin puree is packed with beta-carotene, which supports vision and immune health.

2. High in Fiber

Pumpkin keeps you full longer and aids digestion.

3. Low in Calories

Compared to butter and oil, pumpkin adds moisture without piling on fat and calories.

4. Antioxidant Power

The antioxidants in pumpkin help protect your cells from damage.

5. Natural Sweetness

Pumpkin reduces the need for extra sugar in baked goods.

So while these donuts are definitely indulgent, they’re a bit lighter than your typical fried donut—making them an easy guilt-free fall treat.

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Key Ingredients for Two-Ingredient Pumpkin Donuts

The beauty of this recipe is in its simplicity. But choosing the right cake mix and pumpkin makes a big difference in flavor.

1. Boxed Cake Mix

• Spice Cake Mix → The most popular choice because it pairs perfectly with pumpkin.
• Yellow Cake Mix → A neutral base that lets pumpkin shine.
• Chocolate Cake Mix → For a rich, indulgent twist.
• Vanilla or White Cake Mix → Great if you want to customize with extra spices.

2. Pumpkin Puree

• Use 100% pure pumpkin puree (not pumpkin pie filling).
• Canned pumpkin works best, but homemade puree can be used if drained well.

Optional Add-Ins:

• Pumpkin pie spice → Extra warmth and flavor.
• Chocolate chips → A melty surprise inside.
• Nuts or seeds → Adds crunch.

Optional Toppings:

• Cinnamon sugar coating → Classic donut finish.
• Powdered sugar glaze → Sweet and pretty.
• Cream cheese frosting → Bakery-style indulgence.
• Maple glaze → Perfect for fall mornings.

With just two base ingredients and endless topping possibilities, you can make these donuts your own.

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