Name: Pumpkin Donut Holes That Make Fall Mornings Extra Cozy
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 12 min
Total time: 32 min
Ingredients: 1.5 cups All-Purpose Flour (or gluten-free blend); 1 teaspoon Baking Powder (ensure it's fresh); 1 teaspoon Ground Cinnamon (pumpkin pie spice works); 0.5 teaspoon Ground Nutmeg (replace with more cinnamon if necessary); 0.5 teaspoon Ground Allspice (can omit if unavailable); 0.5 teaspoon Ground Cloves (substitute with additional cinnamon); 1 pinch Salt (balances sweetness); 1 cup Pumpkin Puree (100% pure, not pie filling); 0.33 cup Milk (almond or oat milk for dairy-free); 0.75 cup Brown Sugar (can swap with granulated sugar); 0.33 cup Canola Oil (or melted coconut oil); 1 large Egg (flax egg for vegan option); 1 teaspoon Vanilla Extract (optional, but recommended); 0.25 cup Unsalted Butter (or margarine for dairy-free); 0.5 cup Granulated Sugar (for the cinnamon mixture)

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As the leaves turn vibrant shades of amber and crimson, it’s time to bring the cozy feelings of fall into our kitchens. These Fluffy Pumpkin Donut Holes are a delightful way to embrace the season, offering a soft, cake-like texture that’s simply irresistible. Not only are they quick and easy to whip up, making them perfect for busy mornings, but they also serve as a family-friendly treat that invites everyone to gather around. With these little bites, you can enjoy a taste of autumn without the commitment of larger desserts. So, what seasonal flavors will you explore as you take your first bite into these delicious donut holes?

Why Are Pumpkin Donut Holes a Must-Try?

Cozy Fall Flavor: These pumpkin donut holes embody the essence of autumn, bursting with warm spices that instantly elevate your mornings.

Quick & Easy: With straightforward instructions, you can enjoy these scrumptious treats in no time, allowing you to indulge your cravings without hassle.

Family-Friendly Fun: Perfect for both kids and adults, these bite-sized delights bring everyone together for a tasty treat any time of day.

Versatile Options: Feel free to personalize your donut holes by adding chocolate chips or experimenting with your favorite spices – the possibilities are endless! Explore more fun variations like my delicious Baked Maple Donut Bars for even more seasonal inspiration.

Perfect for Sharing: Whether it’s with coffee, cider, or breakfast dishes, these donut holes are meant to be enjoyed with loved ones, making every gathering special.

Pumpkin Donut Holes Ingredients

For the Donut Holes

• All-Purpose Flour – Provides structure for the donuts; for a gluten-free version, substitute with a gluten-free flour blend.
• Ground Cinnamon – Adds warm spice flavor; you can use pumpkin pie spice if you don’t have it on hand.
• Ground Nutmeg – Enhances warmth and aroma; can be replaced with additional cinnamon if necessary.
• Ground Allspice – Complements the pumpkin flavor beautifully; feel free to omit if not available.
• Ground Cloves – Offers a subtle spiced note; use equal parts additional cinnamon as a substitute.
• Baking Powder – Acts as a leavening agent to achieve fluffiness; ensure it’s fresh for best results.
• Salt – Balances sweetness and enriches flavor.
• Pumpkin Puree – The star ingredient, providing the main flavor; use 100% pure pumpkin, not pie filling, and drain excess moisture.
• Milk – Adds moisture to the batter; almond or oat milk can be used for a dairy-free alternative.
• Brown Sugar – Filled with sweetness and moisture; can be swapped with granulated sugar, but flavor will vary.
• Canola Oil – Contributes moisture and richness; for a twist, try using melted coconut oil instead.
• Egg – Binds the ingredients and gives the dough structure; for a vegan option, a flax egg works well.
• Vanilla Extract – Enhances the overall flavor; while optional, I highly recommend it for depth.

For the Coating

• Unsalted Butter – Adds richness to the cinnamon sugar coating; use margarine for dairy-free needs.
• Granulated Sugar – Sweetens the cinnamon mixture, creating that irresistible coating.

Whip up these Pumpkin Donut Holes and let the enchanting aroma fill your kitchen, inviting everyone to taste the warmth of the season!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Pumpkin Donut Holes

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) to create the perfect baking environment. While the oven warms up, lightly grease a mini muffin pan with non-stick spray or butter, ensuring each cavity is well-coated for easy removal of your pumpkin donut holes later.

Step 2: Whisk the Dry Ingredients
In a medium bowl, whisk together 1 ½ cups of all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon of baking powder, 1 teaspoon of ground cinnamon, ½ teaspoon of ground nutmeg, ½ teaspoon of ground allspice, ½ teaspoon of ground cloves, and a pinch of salt. This mixture will provide the foundation of flavor for your pumpkin donut holes, so take your time to ensure everything is evenly combined.

Step 3: Mix the Wet Ingredients
In another large bowl, blend together 1 cup of pumpkin puree, ⅓ cup of milk, ¾ cup of brown sugar, ⅓ cup of canola oil, 1 large egg, and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract. Use a whisk or an electric mixer on low speed to create a smooth, creamy batter that combines all these tasty ingredients into a harmonious mixture.

Step 4: Combine the Mixtures
Carefully pour the dry ingredients into the bowl with the wet ingredients, using a spatula to gently fold them together. Mix until just combined; a few lumps are okay, as overmixing can result in tough donut holes. The batter should be thick yet smooth, ready to be transformed into delightful pumpkin donut holes.

Step 5: Fill the Muffin Pan
Using a small cookie scoop or spoon, evenly fill each cavity of the prepared muffin pan with the pumpkin batter, filling them about ¾ full. This allows room for the donut holes to rise while baking, creating that fluffy texture we all love in these fall treats.

Step 6: Bake for Donut Perfection
Place the muffin pan in the preheated oven and bake for 10 to 12 minutes. Keep an eye on them; they’re ready when a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs. This magical rise results in soft, fluffy pumpkin donut holes that are hard to resist!

Step 7: Prepare the Coating
As the pumpkin donut holes bake, melt ¼ cup of unsalted butter in a small bowl and combine ½ cup of granulated sugar with 1 tablespoon of ground cinnamon in another shallow bowl. This delicious cinnamon sugar mixture will provide an irresistible coating that enriches the flavors of your warm donut holes.

Step 8: Cool and Coat
Once the donut holes are baked, remove them from the oven and let them cool in the pan for about 5 minutes. Afterward, gently tip them out onto a wire rack. While they are still warm, dip each one into the melted butter, then roll it in the cinnamon sugar mixture until fully coated.

Step 9: Serve and Enjoy
Allow your coated pumpkin donut holes to sit on the wire rack to cool completely, which helps the coating set. These delightful treats are best enjoyed warm, so gather your loved ones around and savor the cozy taste of fall with your homemade pumpkin donut holes!

Pumpkin Donut Holes Variations & Substitutions

Feel free to play around with these delightful pumpkin donut holes and make them your own!

Gluten-Free: Use a gluten-free flour blend instead of all-purpose flour for a safe treat.
Dairy-Free: Substitute almond or oat milk for regular milk, and use dairy-free margarine for the coating.
Sweet Spice: For a different flavor twist, mix in a teaspoon of ginger or cardamom to the batter.
Nutty Delight: Add ½ cup of chopped walnuts or pecans for a crunchy texture and nutty flavor to your donut holes.
Chocolatey Goodness: Incorporate chocolate chips into the batter for a sweet surprise in every bite.
Autumn Fruits: Mix in ½ cup of finely chopped apples or pears to complement the pumpkin flavor beautifully.
Extra Sweetness: Drizzle a simple glaze over the cooled donut holes made from powdered sugar and milk for added sweetness.
Savory Twist: For a unique take, try adding crumbled bacon to the batter, creating a delightful sweet-savory experience.

Don’t forget to explore even more seasonal treats, like my scrumptious Baked Maple Donut Bars, perfect for those cozy autumn gatherings. Your homemade creations just got a whole lot more exciting!

Tips for the Best Pumpkin Donut Holes

• Mix Gently: Avoid overmixing the batter to ensure your donut holes remain fluffy and soft. Just stir until combined for the best texture.

• Check Oven Temperature: Make sure your oven is preheated accurately. An oven thermometer can help ensure consistent baking, resulting in perfect pumpkin donut holes.

• Cool Briefly Before Coating: Allow the donut holes to cool for a few minutes before dipping them in butter and rolling in cinnamon sugar; this helps the coating adhere better.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Ensure your baking powder and spices are fresh for optimal rise and flavor; old or stale ingredients can lead to disappointing results.

• Experiment with Spices: Feel free to play around with different spices, like ginger or cardamom, to give your pumpkin donut holes a unique twist!

Make Ahead Options

These delightful Pumpkin Donut Holes are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can mix the batter and refrigerate it up to 24 hours in advance, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully. Additionally, scoop the batter into the mini muffin pan and cover it tightly with plastic wrap if you prefer, which also keeps the batter fresh. When you’re ready to bake, simply pop the pan in the oven and follow the baking instructions. For longer storage, freeze uncoated donut holes for up to 3 months. Just thaw them in the refrigerator overnight, then coat with melted butter and roll in cinnamon sugar before serving for a treat that’s just as delicious as freshly made!

What to Serve with Pumpkin Donut Holes

Indulging in these dreamy bites of spiced pumpkin delight calls for equally comforting accompaniments to complete your cozy fall meal.

Hot Apple Cider: The warm, sweet notes of apple cider enhance the spices in the donut holes, creating an inviting drink for chilly days.
Creamy Chai Tea: The spiced flavor of chai harmonizes beautifully with the pumpkin donuts, adding a soothing, aromatic element to your treat time.
Scrambled Eggs: A savory side of fluffy scrambled eggs balances the sweetness, offering a hearty touch for a delicious breakfast spread.
Maple Syrup Drizzle: A light drizzle of maple syrup brings out the pumpkin’s flavors, enhancing each bite with a natural sweetness that’s simply divine.
Nutty Granola: Serving a small bowl of crunchy granola alongside adds texture and complements the donut holes’ soft interior, making for an exciting contrast.
Chocolate Milkshake: Treat yourself to a rich chocolate shake; pairing the chocolate with the spiced pumpkin donuts is a fun, nostalgic combination.
Mixed Berries: A side of fresh berries brightens the savory experience while adding a refreshing and vibrant color to your fall-themed breakfast.
Pumpkin Spice Latte: Keep the pumpkin theme alive with a hot latte; the warmth and creaminess feel like a cozy hug and perfectly match the donut holes.
Whipped Cream: A dollop of vanilla whipped cream on the side allows for a creamy contrast, making each bite feel indulgent and special.

How to Store and Freeze Pumpkin Donut Holes

Room Temperature: Store the pumpkin donut holes in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days to maintain their fluffy texture.

Fridge: If you want to extend their freshness, you can refrigerate them for up to 5 days in an airtight container, though they may be less moist.

Freezer: For longer storage, freeze uncoated pumpkin donut holes in a single layer on a baking sheet before transferring to a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months.

Reheating: To enjoy, simply thaw overnight in the fridge, then reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-7 minutes to restore warmth and softness.

Pumpkin Donut Holes Recipe FAQs

How do I select the best pumpkin for my donut holes?
Absolutely! When choosing pumpkin puree, look for 100% pure pumpkin without added sugar or spices, as these can alter the flavor. I recommend using canned pumpkin for convenience, but if you opt for fresh, select a small sugar pumpkin, which is naturally sweeter, and roast it until tender before pureeing.

What is the best way to store pumpkin donut holes?
For maximum freshness, store your pumpkin donut holes in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. You can refrigerate them for up to 5 days, but they may lose some moisture, making them less soft. If you prefer to prolong their lifespan, freezing is the way to go!

Can I freeze pumpkin donut holes? If so, how?
Yes, you can freeze them! Start by cooling the uncoated donut holes completely. Lay them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze for about 2 hours. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5-7 minutes for that fresh-baked flavor.

What should I do if my donut holes turn out too dense?
Very! The key to soft, fluffy pumpkin donut holes is to avoid overmixing the batter. Mix just until combined; a few lumps are okay! Additionally, ensure your baking powder is fresh and active, as expired leavening agents can lead to dense results.

Are pumpkin donut holes suitable for someone with nut allergies?
Definitely! As long as you use the right substitutions, these pumpkin donut holes can fit into a nut-free diet. Use almond milk or any non-nut milk alternative and ensure that your canola oil is pure. Always double-check each ingredient’s label to confirm that there are no hidden nut traces.

Can I adjust the spices in the recipe to suit my taste?
Absolutely! Feel free to experiment! If you prefer a bolder flavor, you can add more ground cinnamon or nutmeg. Alternatively, you can even try incorporating spices like ginger or cardamom to create your own unique pumpkin donut hole recipe. The more the merrier when it comes to flavor exploration!