Pumpkin Spice Biscuit Donuts

Last October, my roommate burst through the door with two cans of biscuit dough and announced we were making donuts right now. The kitchen smelled incredible within minutes, and we ended up eating most of them standing by the stove while they were still too hot to touch.

I made these for a Sunday brunch with friends and everyone kept asking what bakery I visited. Watching people's faces light up when they realized these were just dressed up biscuit dough was honestly the highlight of my week.

Ingredients

• Refrigerated biscuit dough: The base of these donuts, and using two cans gives you plenty to work with plus donut holes
• Ground cinnamon: The backbone of your pumpkin spice blend and what gives that classic warm flavor
• Ground nutmeg: Adds a deep, slightly sweet warmth that pairs beautifully with the cinnamon
• Ground ginger: Brings a gentle kick that cuts through the sweetness of the coating
• Ground cloves and allspice: These two work together to give that authentic pumpkin pie spice depth
• Granulated sugar: Mixed with some of your spice blend for the perfect crunchy coating
• Vegetable oil: You need enough for deep frying so the donuts cook evenly and get that golden brown exterior
• Powdered sugar: For an optional glaze if you want to double down on sweetness
• Milk and vanilla: These thin out the powdered sugar into a smooth drizzle

Instructions

Mix your spice blend:

Combine cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, cloves, and allspice in a small bowl, then whisk sugar with two teaspoons of this mixture in a separate wide bowl for coating

Shape the donuts:

Separate biscuits and use a 1-inch cutter or bottle cap to punch out the center, saving those precious holes for frying too

Heat the oil:

Get your vegetable oil to 350°F in a heavy pot, and if you do not have a thermometer, test with a wooden chopstick bubbles should form around it

Fry to golden:

Cook 3 or 4 donuts at a time for 1 to 2 minutes per side until they are beautifully browned, then fry the holes for about 1 minute total

Coat while warm:

Let them drain briefly on paper towels, then immediately toss them in the spiced sugar while they are still warm so it sticks perfectly

Add the glaze:

Whisk powdered sugar, milk, vanilla, and a half teaspoon of spice blend until smooth, then drizzle over cooled donuts or dip them for extra indulgence

Pin it

These became my go-to contribution for fall potlucks after I brought them to a book club meeting and suddenly everyone was requesting the recipe. There is something about warm donuts that makes people instantly happy and relaxed.

Making Them Your Own

I have found that adding a couple tablespoons of pumpkin puree to the glaze gives it an extra autumn kick. You can also play with the spice ratios if you prefer more cinnamon or less clove in your blend.

The Air Fryer Shortcut

When I am not up for dealing with hot oil, the air fryer works surprisingly well at 350°F for about 5 to 6 minutes per side. They will not get quite the same crunch but they are still delicious and way less messy.

Serving Suggestions

These shine brightest when served immediately alongside hot coffee or chai tea. The warmth of the drink pairs perfectly with the spiced sugar coating.

• Set up a DIY coating bar with different sugars or spices for guests to customize
• Keep the donut holes separate for easy snacking while the larger ones cool
• Store any leftovers in an airtight container and rewarm briefly in the microwave

Pin it

Hope these bring as much warmth to your kitchen as they have to mine over the years.

Recipe FAQs

→ Can I bake these donuts instead of frying?

Yes, bake at 375°F for 10-12 minutes until golden, though they won't achieve the same crispy exterior as fried versions.

→ How do I store leftover donuts?

Keep in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. Reheat briefly in the microwave for warm, fresh-from-the-fryer taste.

→ Can I make the pumpkin spice mix ahead of time?

Absolutely. Prepare the spice blend in bulk and store in a sealed jar for up to 6 months. Use in coffee, oatmeal, or other baked goods.

→ What type of biscuit dough works best?

Standard refrigerated flaky biscuits work perfectly. Avoid buttery layers that separate during frying—plain buttermilk or original style yields the fluffiest results.

→ Can I air fry these donuts?

Yes, air fry at 350°F for 5-6 minutes per side. Brush lightly with oil before cooking to help the coating stick.

→ Why is my oil temperature important?

Maintaining 350°F ensures even cooking without excess grease absorption. Too cool absorbs oil, too hot burns outside before inside cooks through.