As the leaves turn crispy and the air fills with the scent of cinnamon and nutmeg, there’s something undeniably magical about fall baking. Enter my Delicious Baked Pumpkin Donut Holes, a cozy treat that embodies all the warmth of the season. These little gems are not only soft and spiced, but they’re also quick to whip up—perfect for busy mornings or spontaneous snack cravings. Light and healthier than their fried counterparts, these donut holes seamlessly blend rich pumpkin flavor with a delightful cinnamon sugar coating. Whether you’re gathering around the table with family or enjoying a solitary moment with coffee, these pumpkin delights promise joy for everyone. Curious about how to bring the essence of fall into your kitchen? Let’s dive into this easy-breezy recipe!
Why You’ll Love These Donut Holes
Comforting Flavor: The delightful combination of warm spices and pumpkin puree creates a treat that’s perfect for cozy mornings or afternoon snacks.
Quick and Easy: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you can whip up these baked donut holes in no time, making them a fantastic choice for busy days.
Healthy Treat: Crafted to be lighter than traditional fried options, these donut holes provide all the flavor with fewer calories—ideal for guilt-free indulgence.
Versatile Enjoyment: Whether enjoyed warm with coffee or as part of a fall dessert spread, they fit seamlessly into any occasion.
Crowd-Pleasing Delight: Kids and adults alike will adore these treats, making them a hit for family gatherings or Halloween parties. Enjoy them alongside some delicious ground sausage for a hearty brunch option!
Delicious Baked Pumpkin Donut Holes
• These treats capture the essence of fall!
For the Batter
- Pumpkin Puree – The star ingredient that adds moisture and rich pumpkin flavor; make sure to use pure pumpkin puree, not pie filling.
- All-Purpose Flour – Provides structure to the donut holes; whole wheat or gluten-free flour can offer a different texture.
- Granulated Sugar – Adds necessary sweetness to balance the spices in the donut holes.
- Brown Sugar – Enhances flavor with caramel notes; consider omitting for a lighter taste.
- Baking Powder – An essential leavening agent for a perfect rise.
- Baking Soda – Works with baking powder to achieve that fluffy texture.
- Salt – Enhances the overall flavor profile of the donuts.
- Ground Cinnamon, Nutmeg, and Ginger – Create the beloved pumpkin spice flavor, bringing warmth and delight.
- Eggs – Provide moisture and structure to the batter.
- Vegetable Oil or Melted Butter – Adds richness and moisture; melted coconut oil can also be a great substitute.
- Milk – Helps combine ingredients smoothly while adding moisture.
For the Coating
- Cinnamon Sugar Mixture – A delightful combination of granulated sugar and cinnamon that gives a sweet, spiced finish to your baked pumpkin donut holes.
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Delicious Baked Pumpkin Donut Holes
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While your oven warms up, lightly grease a donut hole pan with cooking spray or brush it with melted butter to ensure easy release after baking. The inviting heat will set the stage for these cozy Delicious Baked Pumpkin Donut Holes.
Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients
In a mixing bowl, whisk together 1 ½ cups of all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon of baking powder, ½ teaspoon of baking soda, ½ teaspoon of salt, and 1 teaspoon each of ground cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger. Blend these dry ingredients well so that the spices are evenly distributed, which is key for maximizing flavor in your donut holes.
Step 3: Mix Wet Ingredients
In a separate large bowl, combine 1 cup of pumpkin puree, ¼ cup of granulated sugar, ¼ cup of brown sugar, 2 eggs, ⅓ cup of vegetable oil, and ⅓ cup of milk. Use a whisk to mix these ingredients until you achieve a smooth and creamy consistency. The vibrant orange from the pumpkin will give you a glimpse of the deliciousness to come!
Step 4: Combine Mixtures
Pour the wet mixture into the bowl with the dry ingredients, gently folding them together using a spatula. Mix just until combined—don’t worry if there are a few lumps; this will ensure your Delicious Baked Pumpkin Donut Holes remain light and fluffy. Overmixing can make them dense, so be careful.
Step 5: Fill the Pan
Spoon the batter into your greased donut hole pan, filling each cavity about two-thirds full. You can use a small cookie scoop or two spoons for this step to keep the batter neat. As you fill the pan, enjoy the rich aroma of pumpkin spice wafting through your kitchen—such a lovely prelude to the baking magic about to happen!
Step 6: Bake
Place the filled donut hole pan in the preheated oven and bake for 10-12 minutes. Keep an eye on them as they bake; they should rise and spring back when lightly pressed. A toothpick inserted into a donut hole should come out clean when they’re done, signaling a perfectly baked treat ready for their cinnamon sugar coat.
Step 7: Cool & Coat
Once baked, remove the pan from the oven and let the donut holes cool for about 5 minutes. While they’re still warm, roll each one in your cinnamon sugar mixture to coat them evenly. This final touch transforms your Delicious Baked Pumpkin Donut Holes into a delightful, spiced treat, ready to share and savor!
Expert Tips for Delicious Baked Pumpkin Donut Holes
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Use Pure Pumpkin: Always opt for pure pumpkin puree instead of pie filling to achieve the best flavor and texture in your donut holes.
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Gentle Mixing: Avoid overmixing the batter; this keeps your Delicious Baked Pumpkin Donut Holes light and fluffy. A few lumps are okay!
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Watch the Time: Baking times can vary by oven; check for doneness a couple of minutes early to prevent overbaking.
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Cool Before Coating: Allow donut holes to cool slightly before rolling in cinnamon sugar to ensure an even coating that sticks perfectly.
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Substitutions Matter: Experiment with flour types (like whole wheat or gluten-free) or add-ins like chocolate chips for a fun twist on this classic recipe!
Make Ahead Options
Preparing your Delicious Baked Pumpkin Donut Holes ahead of time is a fantastic way to save time during busy mornings! You can mix the batter and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours. Just cover the bowl tightly with plastic wrap to maintain freshness and prevent drying. Alternatively, you can bake the donut holes, let them cool completely, and store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to enjoy them, simply reheat the donut holes in a microwave for about 10-15 seconds, then roll them in cinnamon sugar before serving. This way, you’ll have warm, delightful treats just like fresh out of the oven!
Delicious Baked Pumpkin Donut Holes Variations
Feel free to get creative and tailor these treats to your taste buds, making each batch a unique fall delight!
- Gluten-Free: Substitute all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free blend to keep it delicious for those with dietary restrictions.
- Nutty Crunch: Add ½ cup of chopped walnuts or pecans to the batter for a lovely nutty texture that complements the pumpkin flavor beautifully.
- Chocolate Lovers: Fold in ½ cup of chocolate chips for a sweet surprise inside every donut hole; chocolate and pumpkin are a match made in heaven!
- Spicy Twist: Swap out cinnamon for cardamom or add 1/4 teaspoon of allspice for an exciting flavor variation that’s bold and unique.
- Mini Muffins: Don’t have a donut hole pan? Use a mini muffin tray instead! These will bake in about the same time and still taste fantastic.
- Maple Glaze: Create a maple syrup glaze by whisking together 1 cup powdered sugar with 2 tablespoons maple syrup and drizzle over the cooled donut holes for a sweet finish.
- Festive Sprinkles: Roll your donut holes in a mix of cinnamon sugar and colorful fall-themed sprinkles for a fun and festive touch, perfect for gatherings!
- Chai Spice: Add a chai spice mix to the batter to elevate those warm flavors even further—think cloves, pepper, and ginger mixed in with the pumpkin!
Feel free to mix and match these variations. And if you’re looking for a savory option, pairing these delicious treat with some ground sausage could make for a wonderful breakfast spread that everyone will love!
What to Serve with Delicious Baked Pumpkin Donut Holes
As the sweet aroma of spiced pumpkin fills the air, it’s time to create a cozy spread that complements your delightful treats.
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Coffee or Chai Latte: Warm beverages like coffee or chai latte enhance the flavor of your donut holes, making every bite feel like a hug in a mug. The spices in the drinks harmonize beautifully with the pumpkin spices.
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Fresh Fruit Salad: A refreshing mix of seasonal fruits, such as apples or pears, adds a burst of color and sweetness that contrasts delightfully with the soft, spiced donut holes. The natural freshness brings balance to your plate.
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Maple Syrup Drizzle: A warm drizzle of maple syrup over your donut holes provides an extra layer of sweetness, making them even more indulgent. Think of it as autumn’s version of chocolate sauce!
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Nutty Granola Parfait: Layering your donut holes with yogurt and granola offers a crunchy texture that rounds out the dish. This parfait transforms your cozy snack into a satisfying breakfast or brunch option.
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Cream Cheese Frosting: A light spread of cream cheese frosting gives each donut hole an added richness, creating a delicious contrast. This sweet touch allows for creative variation, turning a simple treat into something extraordinary.
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Spiced Apple Cider: Serve warm spiced apple cider on the side for a comforting drink that perfectly complements your pumpkin delights. The warmth and spices enhance the autumnal theme, making it ideal for gatherings.
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Caramel Sauce: A small bowl of caramel sauce for dipping adds a decadent, buttery sweetness that pairs fabulously with the spiced flavors. Just the right touch of indulgence to elevate your treat experience.
Storage Tips for Delicious Baked Pumpkin Donut Holes
Room Temperature: Store your donut holes in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days to maintain their delightful softness.
Fridge: If you prefer, you can refrigerate the baked pumpkin donut holes for up to 5 days; however, they may lose some of their fresh texture.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the donut holes in a single layer, then transfer them to a resealable freezer bag for up to 3 months.
Reheating: To enjoy frozen donut holes, thaw them overnight in the fridge, then warm them in a microwave for a few seconds or in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for a few minutes before serving.
Delicious Baked Pumpkin Donut Holes Recipe FAQs
How do I choose the right pumpkin puree?
Absolutely! Always look for pure pumpkin puree, as this is crucial for achieving the rich flavor and moisture these Delicious Baked Pumpkin Donut Holes need. Avoid pumpkin pie filling, which contains sugar and spices that can alter your recipe. When selecting a canned option, check for any added ingredients and go for brands that list only pumpkin.
What’s the best way to store leftover donut holes?
To keep your Delicious Baked Pumpkin Donut Holes fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you’d like to keep them longer, refrigerate them for up to 5 days. Just remember, refrigeration may cause them to lose a bit of their delightful softness.
Can I freeze these donut holes?
Yes! For freezing, first let the donut holes cool completely. Place them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze for about an hour until solid. Then, transfer them to a resealable freezer bag or an airtight container, where they can be stored for up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy, simply thaw overnight in the fridge or warm them in an oven at 350°F (175°C) for a few minutes.
What should I do if my batter is too thick or too runny?
The texture of your batter is crucial for the perfect donut hole! If it’s too thick, add a tablespoon of milk at a time until it reaches a smooth but slightly thick consistency. If it’s too runny, mix in a tablespoon of flour at a time until it thickens up. Remember, a few lumps are perfectly fine, so don’t overmix!
Are these donut holes safe for pets?
Very! These Delicious Baked Pumpkin Donut Holes are primarily made of safe ingredients like pumpkin and flour. However, don’t share them with pets, especially if they contain sugar, spices, or if you’re using milk as it may not sit well with some animals. Stick to plain pumpkin for your furry friends instead!
Can I substitute ingredients if I have allergies?
Absolutely! If you have allergies, consider using gluten-free flour or a dairy-free milk alternative like almond or oat milk. For egg substitutions, you can use 1/4 cup of unsweetened applesauce or a flax egg (1 tablespoon of ground flaxseed mixed with 3 tablespoons of water) per egg. These swaps ensure everyone can enjoy the deliciousness of your baked pumpkin donut holes!
Delicious Baked Pumpkin Donut Holes for Cozy Fall Mornings
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a donut hole pan.
- In a bowl, whisk together the dry ingredients: flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and spices.
- In another bowl, combine the wet ingredients: pumpkin puree, granulated sugar, brown sugar, eggs, vegetable oil, and milk, and mix until smooth.
- Pour the wet mixture into the dry ingredients and fold gently until just combined.
- Spoon the batter into the greased donut hole pan, filling each cavity two-thirds full.
- Bake for 10-12 minutes until risen and a toothpick comes out clean.
- Let cool for 5 minutes then roll in cinnamon sugar mixture while still warm.
