As the autumn leaves begin to fall, there’s nothing quite like the aroma of spiced treats wafting through the kitchen. That’s exactly what you’ll experience with these delicious baked pumpkin donut holes! They’re not just a sweet addition to your breakfast table or afternoon snack; these soft and fluffy donuts are an effortless way to bring a touch of holiday magic into your home. With a quick prep time and a warm coating of cinnamon sugar, they’re perfect for cozy gatherings or a little self-indulgence. Plus, they carry the rich flavors of fall that can turn any ordinary day into a celebration. Curious how to make these delightful bites of comfort? Let’s dive in!
Why You’ll Love These Donut Holes?
Irresistible Flavors: The combination of pumpkin, spices, and sweet cinnamon sugar will sweep you into fall bliss.
Quick and Easy: With just a few simple steps, you’ll have warm, fresh donut holes ready in no time!
Perfect for Sharing: Whether at brunch or cozy gatherings, these bite-sized treats are sure to please family and friends.
Healthy Twist: Using baked instead of fried keeps these treats lighter, allowing you to indulge without the guilt.
Versatile Varieties: Feel free to personalize them by adding chocolate chips or substituting with gluten-free flour for dietary needs.
Delicious Baked Pumpkin Donut Holes Ingredients
For the Batter
- Pumpkin Puree – Use pure pumpkin puree instead of pie filling for optimal taste.
- All-Purpose Flour – Substitute with whole wheat flour or a gluten-free flour blend if desired.
- Granulated Sugar – Adds sweetness to balance spices; coconut sugar is a great alternative.
- Brown Sugar – Packed tightly for rich caramel notes in flavor.
- Baking Powder – Acts as the leavening agent; don’t substitute without ensuring rise.
- Baking Soda – Essential for a perfect lift and texture.
- Salt – Enhances the overall flavor; table or sea salt works well.
- Ground Cinnamon – Provides classic pumpkin spice warmth; adjust for a stronger flavor.
- Ground Nutmeg – Freshly grated adds depth to the spice profile.
- Ground Ginger – A warm, spicy kick; increase for a bolder flavor.
- Eggs – Provide structure; flax eggs can substitute for a vegan option.
- Vegetable Oil or Melted Butter – Adds richness; use melted coconut oil for different flavor.
- Milk – Any milk or non-dairy milk keeps the batter moist.
For the Coating
- Cinnamon Sugar Mixture – A delicious blend of sugar and cinnamon for finishing touches; adjust the ratio based on preference.
Dive into this recipe for delicious baked pumpkin donut holes, offering the perfect fall flavors in each bite!
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 the oven warms up, take a moment to grease a donut hole pan generously with cooking spray or melted butter to prevent sticking. This step is essential for ensuring your delicious baked pumpkin donut holes pop out easily after baking.
Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients
In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, ground cinnamon, ground nutmeg, and ground ginger. Mix thoroughly until well combined, ensuring there are no lumps, as this will help your donut holes rise evenly in the oven. Set this dry mixture aside while you prepare the wet ingredients.
Step 3: Mix Wet Ingredients
In a separate large bowl, combine the pure pumpkin puree, granulated sugar, brown sugar, eggs, vegetable oil, and milk. Using a whisk or a handheld mixer, blend the mixture until it’s completely smooth and well incorporated. This creamy consistency is what gives the baked pumpkin donut holes their delightful texture and rich flavor.
Step 4: Combine Mixtures
Gently pour the wet ingredients into the bowl with the dry ingredient mixture. Using a spatula, fold the ingredients together carefully until just combined—it’s okay if small lumps remain. Overmixing can lead to denser donut holes, so handle the batter with care to maintain its fluffy quality.
Step 5: Fill the Pan
Use a spoon or a piping bag to fill the donut hole pan cavities with the batter, aiming to fill each one about two-thirds full. This allows enough space for the batter to rise without overflowing. Ensure the batter is evenly distributed, as this helps the donut holes bake uniformly.
Step 6: Bake
Place the filled donut hole pan into the preheated oven and bake for 10-12 minutes. Keep an eye on them as they bake; you’ll know they’re done when a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. The tops should look slightly golden and spring back when touched lightly.
Step 7: Cool and Coat
Once baked, remove the donut holes from the oven and let them cool in the pan for about 5 minutes. Afterward, gently transfer them to a wire rack. While they’re still warm, roll each donut hole in a mixture of cinnamon and sugar to coat them liberally. This step adds a sweet crunch that complements the soft, spiced pumpkin flavor beautifully.
Delicious Baked Pumpkin Donut Holes Variations
Customize your donut holes and elevate their deliciousness with these tasty variations!
- Chocolate Chip: Add in ½ cup of chocolate chips to the batter for a sweet, gooey surprise. A delightful twist for chocolate lovers!
- Nutty Crunch: Fold in ½ cup of chopped nuts like walnuts or pecans for an added crunch and rich flavor. They’ll lend a wonderful texture and earthiness.
- Gluten-Free: Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend for a safe alternative. This way, everyone can enjoy them!
- Spicy Kick: Increase the ground ginger to 1 teaspoon for those who crave a bolder spice experience. This little boost can amplify the fall flavors beautifully!
- Maple Infusion: Replace granulated sugar with rich maple syrup, adjusting the wet ingredients accordingly. It will lend a luscious maple flavor to your donut holes.
- Cinnamon Swirl: Swirl in some cinnamon sugar into the batter before baking for a delightful flavor burst in every bite. It adds a touch of sweet surprise!
- Pumpkin Spice Latte Duo: Serve alongside homemade pumpkin spice lattes for a cozy treat combination that warms the soul. You can find a great recipe for Comforting All Ages!
- Extra Frosting: Drizzle with cream cheese icing after coating in cinnamon sugar for a decadent finish. It’s an indulgent touch that takes these treats to the next level!
These variations ensure that your delicious baked pumpkin donut holes are personalized just the way you like them, making every bite as unique and comforting as your favorite fall traditions!
Make Ahead Options
These delicious baked pumpkin donut holes are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the donut batter up to 24 hours in advance. Simply mix the wet and dry ingredients, combine them, and store the batter in an airtight container in the refrigerator. This will keep it fresh and help the flavors meld beautifully. Additionally, you can roll the cooled donut holes in cinnamon sugar and store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to serve, just reheat them briefly in the oven for a warm, irresistibly spiced treat that’s just as delightful as when they were freshly baked!
How to Store and Freeze Delicious Baked Pumpkin Donut Holes
Room Temperature: Store baked pumpkin donut holes in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days to maintain their soft texture and delicious flavor.
Fridge: If you prefer, you can store them in the fridge for up to a week. Make sure they are well wrapped to prevent them from drying out.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the donut holes in a single layer on a baking sheet. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container, where they can be kept for up to 3 months.
Reheating: To enjoy later, reheat the frozen donut holes in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes or until warmed through. This will help retain their fluffy texture and delightful flavors.
What to Serve with Baked Pumpkin Donut Holes?
Warm, spiced, and delightful, these treats are perfect for creating a cozy autumn breakfast spread.
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Pumpkin Spice Latte: A creamy, warm coffee drink that complements the pumpkin flavor and adds a cozy kick to your morning.
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Apple Cider: Its sweet and tart notes contrast beautifully with the sweetness of the donut holes, making for a refreshing beverage pairing.
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Cinnamon Roll Casserole: This warm, gooey brunch dish enhances the fall theme while providing a delightful texture contrast to the light donut holes.
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Maple Syrup Drizzle: A touch of this classic syrup adds rich sweetness that pairs perfectly with the spiced notes of the pumpkin—an indulgent treat!
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Greek Yogurt with Honey: The creamy texture and mild flavor of yogurt balances the sweetness of the donut holes while adding a refreshing touch.
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Caramel Sauce: Drizzling warm caramel enhances the flavors and adds an indulgent, gooey element—an absolute crowd-pleaser for gatherings.
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Roasted Nuts: A mix of spiced pecans or walnuts adds crunch and complements the soft texture of the donut holes for a satisfying contrast.
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Mini Pumpkin Muffins: Set the scene with a platter of these delightful fall treats, making for a festive and cozy gathering with diverse flavors.
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Chai Tea: The aromatic spices of chai tea echo the warm spices in the donuts, creating a harmonious, soul-soothing pairing to enjoy together.
Expert Tips for Delicious Baked Pumpkin Donut Holes
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Use Pure Pumpkin: Ensure you use pure pumpkin puree for the best flavor and texture. Avoid pumpkin pie filling as it contains added sugars and spices.
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Don’t Overmix: Gently fold the wet and dry ingredients together. Overmixing can lead to dense donut holes instead of the light and fluffy texture you want.
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Check Doneness Early: Oven temperatures can vary, so start checking for doneness around 10 minutes. Use a toothpick to ensure they are baked through.
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Cool Before Coating: Allow donut holes to cool slightly after baking. This way, the cinnamon sugar coating adheres better and doesn’t melt away.
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Experiment with Spices: Feel free to adjust the spices based on your taste. Adding more ground ginger or cinnamon can enhance the fall flavors of these delicious baked pumpkin donut holes.
Delicious Baked Pumpkin Donut Holes Recipe FAQs
What type of pumpkin puree should I use?
Absolutely! For the best flavor in your delicious baked pumpkin donut holes, use pure pumpkin puree rather than pumpkin pie filling. The pie filling contains added sugars and spices that can interfere with the desired balance in your recipe.
How should I store these donut holes?
You can keep your baked pumpkin donut holes stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you want to extend their shelf life, refrigerate them for up to a week while ensuring they’re well-wrapped to avoid drying out.
Can I freeze baked pumpkin donut holes?
Certainly! To freeze your donut holes, first let them cool completely. Next, arrange them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid (about 1-2 hours). Afterward, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container, where they can be stored for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply reheat them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes until warmed through.
What should I do if my donut holes turn out dense?
If your donut holes come out dense, it’s likely due to overmixing the batter. Remember to gently fold the wet and dry ingredients together until just combined—it’s okay if small lumps remain! Additionally, ensuring your baking powder and baking soda are fresh will help maintain proper rise and texture.
Are these donut holes safe for pets or people with allergies?
It’s important to be cautious! Baked pumpkin donut holes contain ingredients like eggs and sugar, which are not suitable for pets. If you’re serving them to individuals with food allergies, check for any specific allergens such as gluten or dairy based on your ingredient choices. For vegan alternatives, consider substituting eggs with flax eggs and using plant-based milk.
Can I modify the recipe for dietary preferences?
Very much so! You can easily modify this recipe to fit different dietary needs. Substitute all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour or a gluten-free blend, use coconut sugar in place of granulated sugar, or even add mix-ins like chocolate chips or nuts if desired. Embrace experimentation for delicious variations!

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 generously with cooking spray or melted butter.
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger.
- In a separate large bowl, combine the pumpkin puree, granulated sugar, brown sugar, eggs, vegetable oil, and milk. Blend until smooth.
- Gently pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and fold carefully until just combined.
- Fill the donut hole pan cavities about two-thirds full with batter.
- Bake for 10-12 minutes, checking for doneness with a toothpick.
- Let the donut holes cool in the pan for 5 minutes, then roll in cinnamon sugar while warm.