As the crisp autumn air starts to weave its way through our homes, the comforting scent of spice and sweetness beckons me into the kitchen. There’s something magical about my Baked Pumpkin Donut Holes that captures those warm, nostalgic moments we often crave. This easy recipe brings the flavors of fall into your life with just 22 minutes of prep and bake time! Not only are they a healthier alternative to fried donuts, but they’re also a fantastic crowd-pleaser, perfect for cozy gatherings or a sweet treat enjoyed solo. With a delightful cinnamon-sugar coating that engulfs each bite, these donut holes will surely ignite your passion for homemade delights. Ready to dive into this autumnal dream?
Why are these donut holes irresistible?
Melt-in-your-mouth texture: Each bite delivers an amazing softness that melts away, making you crave more.
Seasonal flavor boost: Infused with pumpkin and warm spices, these Baked Pumpkin Donut Holes capture the essence of fall.
Quick preparation: With only 10 minutes to prep and 12 minutes to bake, you’ll have these treats ready in no time!
Healthy indulgence: A lighter twist compared to traditional fried donuts, these are guilt-free and satisfying.
Versatile treat: Perfect for breakfast, snacks, or even dessert, they’ll fit into any occasion smoothly. If you want more cozy recipes, check out my delicious Spiced Apple Muffins too!
Baked Pumpkin Donut Holes Ingredients
For the Donut Holes
– 1 cup pumpkin puree – Adds rich flavor and moisture to your donuts.
– 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour – The base of the batter, providing structure.
– ½ cup granulated sugar – Sweetens the donut holes perfectly.
– ¼ cup packed brown sugar – Introduces a wonderful depth of flavor.
– 1 teaspoon baking powder – Helps them rise to the perfect fluffiness.
– ½ teaspoon baking soda – Enhances leavening for a light texture.
– ½ teaspoon salt – Balances and enhances the sweetness.
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon – Brings warm, cozy notes reminiscent of fall.
– ½ teaspoon ground nutmeg – Adds a nutty spice that complements the pumpkin.
– ½ teaspoon ground ginger – Introduces a touch of zing and warmth.
– 2 large eggs – Binds the ingredients for a cohesive donut.
– ⅓ cup vegetable oil or melted butter – Keeps them moist and flavorful.
– ¼ cup milk – Adds creaminess, making the batter smooth.
For the Coating
– ¼ cup granulated sugar (for coating) – Provides a sweet crunch on the outside.
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon (for coating) – Enhances the cozy flavor with each bite of these baked pumpkin donut holes.
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Baked Pumpkin Donut Holes
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While the oven warms up, grab your donut hole baking pan and lightly grease each cavity with cooking spray or butter. This will ensure your Baked Pumpkin Donut Holes pop out easily after baking, without sticking to the pan.
Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, ground cinnamon, ground nutmeg, and ground ginger. This combination of dry ingredients creates the flavorful base of your donuts. Make sure to blend well until there are no lumps, as this will ensure an even texture in your delicious baked pumpkin donut holes.
Step 3: Combine Wet Ingredients
In another bowl, combine the pumpkin puree, granulated sugar, brown sugar, eggs, vegetable oil (or melted butter), and milk. Mix these ingredients until the mixture is smooth and well-combined, creating a rich, creamy batter that embodies the essence of autumn. This wet mixture is what brings moisture and flavor to your Baked Pumpkin Donut Holes.
Step 4: Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures
Pour the wet ingredients into the bowl containing the dry ingredients. Gently mix with a spatula or wooden spoon until just combined; avoid overmixing to keep your donut holes light and fluffy. You should not see any dry flour remaining, but it’s okay if a few lumps remain in your batter — it’ll bake beautifully.
Step 5: Fill the Pan
Using a spoon or a small ice cream scoop, carefully fill each cavity of the donut hole pan about two-thirds full with the batter. This is an ideal amount to ensure that they rise perfectly without overflowing during baking. Make sure to create a smooth top on each donut hole for an appealing finish.
Step 6: Bake the Donut Holes
Place the filled pan in the preheated oven and bake for 10-12 minutes. Keep an eye on them and use a toothpick inserted into the center of a donut hole — it should come out clean when they’re done. You’ll know they’re ready when they puff up and turn a lovely golden color.
Step 7: Cool and Coat
Once baked, remove the pan from the oven and let the donut holes cool in the pan for about 5 minutes. After cooling slightly, gently roll each donut hole in a mixture of granulated sugar and ground cinnamon to coat them evenly. This step adds a delightful sweetness that perfectly complements the spice of your homemade Baked Pumpkin Donut Holes.
Make Ahead Options
These Baked Pumpkin Donut Holes are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the dry ingredients up to 24 hours in advance; simply whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and spices, then store them in an airtight container at room temperature to maintain freshness. Additionally, you can mix the wet ingredients (pumpkin puree, sugars, eggs, oil, and milk) and refrigerate them for up to 3 days. When you're ready to bake, combine the wet and dry mixtures, fill your donut hole pan, and bake as instructed. Just remember to roll in the cinnamon-sugar coating right before serving for that extra touch of sweetness!
What to Serve with Baked Pumpkin Donut Holes
Nothing complements the warmth of these delightful treats like a selection of cozy pairings that enhance your sweet indulgence.
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Creamy Hot Chocolate: This rich beverage provides a comforting contrast to the donut holes' fluffy texture, making it a perfect companion. Snuggle up with a mug of hot chocolate, topped with marshmallows, for a truly delightful experience.
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Spiced Chai Latte: The aromatic spices in chai echo the flavors of the pumpkin donut holes, creating a harmonious blend that's both invigorating and soothing. Sip on this spiced delight as you enjoy each bite of your treat.
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Cinnamon Applesauce: The smooth and softly spiced applesauce acts as a fruity counterpart that balances the sweetness of the donut holes. It adds a lovely, fresh element to your snack time.
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Vanilla Ice Cream: The creamy richness of ice cream melts beautifully against the cinnamon-sugar coating, adding a cool and creamy contrast. Serve it alongside for a dreamy dessert.
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Maple Syrup Drizzle: A light drizzle of warm maple syrup brings a lovely sweetness that complements the pumpkin flavor. It adds a special touch for those who enjoy a more decadent treat.
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Fresh Fruit Platter: Bright, juicy fruits like pears or berries provide a refreshing contrast to the warm donut holes. Their natural sweetness will lift the flavors of this cozy dish even more.
Expert Tips for Baked Pumpkin Donut Holes
Avoid Overmixing: Mixing the batter too much can lead to dense donut holes. Stir just until combined for a light and fluffy texture.
Perfect Donut Sizes: Fill each cavity about two-thirds full to allow the donut holes to rise without overflowing. This ensures a nice dome shape.
Check for Doneness: Use a toothpick to test if they're baked through; it should come out clean. Avoid opening the oven door too early, as this can affect rising.
Flavor Variations: Feel free to add chocolate chips or nuts for a fun twist. Just make sure not to overload the batter, keeping the focus on those Baked Pumpkin Donut Holes!
Cooling Tips: Let them cool in the pan for a bit before rolling in sugar and cinnamon to avoid melting the coating. Enjoy every bite!
Baked Pumpkin Donut Holes Variations
Feel free to experiment with these delightful twists to make this recipe truly yours.
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Gluten-Free: Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend for a deliciously inclusive treat.
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Vegan: Swap eggs for ½ cup unsweetened applesauce and use almond milk instead of regular milk to keep it plant-based.
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Spicy Kick: Add ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper or a few dashes of crushed red pepper flakes to the batter for a surprising heat.
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Maple Flavor: Replace granulated sugar with maple syrup, adjusting the liquid slightly; this gives an aromatic sweetness.
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Chocolate Chips: Fold in ½ cup of chocolate chips for a delightful twist that adds a rich, melty texture.
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Nutty Crunch: Incorporate ½ cup chopped walnuts or pecans into the batter for a crunchy contrast to the soft donut holes. The nuts add both flavor and texture that you’ll love.
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Cinnamon-Sugar Swirl: Mix some cinnamon-sugar into the batter itself to create a lovely sweet swirl throughout; this elevates the traditional coating.
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Pumpkin Spice Latte Influence: Stir in a teaspoon of instant coffee granules for a hint of mocha flavor that pairs beautifully with pumpkin. It’s like your favorite fall beverage in donut form!
Explore these variations and make your Baked Pumpkin Donut Holes even more memorable. If you’re looking for more delicious ideas, try my Cozy Autumn Spice Cake for a sweet treat that celebrates the season!
Storage Tips for Baked Pumpkin Donut Holes
Room Temperature: Store leftover baked pumpkin donut holes in an airtight container for up to 3 days to maintain their delightful texture and flavor.
Fridge: If you prefer a colder treat, you can refrigerate them for up to a week. Just ensure they are well-sealed to prevent drying out.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the donut holes in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer them to an airtight container or freezer bag. They can be frozen for up to 3 months.
Reheating: To enjoy them warm, thaw at room temperature or microwave for 10-15 seconds before savoring your delicious baked pumpkin donut holes.
Baked Pumpkin Donut Holes Recipe FAQs
How do I choose the right pumpkin puree?
When selecting pumpkin puree, aim for 100% pure pumpkin, not the spiced pumpkin pie filling. Look for a brand that has a rich, deep color and a smooth consistency. Fresh, homemade puree can also be a fantastic option if you have the time. Just bake a small pumpkin, scoop out the flesh, and blend until smooth for a fresher flavor!
How should I store leftover baked pumpkin donut holes?
Absolutely! Store leftover baked pumpkin donut holes in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you’d like to keep them longer, pop them in the fridge for up to a week. Just ensure they’re sealed properly to avoid drying out!
Can I freeze baked pumpkin donut holes?
Yes, you can! For freezing, first, arrange the donut holes in a single layer on a baking sheet, ensuring they don’t touch each other. Freeze for about 2 hours, then transfer them to an airtight container or freezer bag. They can stay fresh for up to 3 months. To thaw, either leave them at room temperature for a bit or warm them in the microwave for 10-15 seconds.
What if my donut holes turn out dense?
Very useful question! If your baked pumpkin donut holes are dense, it could be due to overmixing the batter. To avoid this, mix the wet and dry ingredients just until there are no dry patches. Additionally, make sure your leavening agents (baking powder and baking soda) are fresh, as expired ones won’t rise effectively.
Are baked pumpkin donut holes safe for pets?
It's best to keep these sweet treats away from pets. The ingredients like sugar and certain spices may not be good for them. If you want to share something with your furry friends, consider making a separate dog-friendly version without sugar and spices.
Can I adjust the spices in this recipe?
Certainly! Feel free to customize the spices to suit your taste. If you prefer a bolder flavor, increase the ground cinnamon and nutmeg. Alternatively, you can add a pinch of cloves or cardamom for a unique twist. The more the merrier when it comes to creating your perfect blend!
Delicious Baked Pumpkin Donut Holes That Melt in Your Mouth
Equipment
- donut hole baking pan
Ingredients
For the Donut Holes
- 1 cup pumpkin puree Adds rich flavor and moisture to your donuts.
- 1.5 cups all-purpose flour The base of the batter, providing structure.
- 0.5 cup granulated sugar Sweetens the donut holes perfectly.
- 0.25 cup packed brown sugar Introduces a wonderful depth of flavor.
- 1 teaspoon baking powder Helps them rise to the perfect fluffiness.
- 0.5 teaspoon baking soda Enhances leavening for a light texture.
- 0.5 teaspoon salt Balances and enhances the sweetness.
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon Brings warm, cozy notes reminiscent of fall.
- 0.5 teaspoon ground nutmeg Adds a nutty spice that complements the pumpkin.
- 0.5 teaspoon ground ginger Introduces a touch of zing and warmth.
- 2 large eggs Binds the ingredients for a cohesive donut.
- 0.33 cup vegetable oil or melted butter Keeps them moist and flavorful.
- 0.25 cup milk Adds creaminess, making the batter smooth.
For the Coating
- 0.25 cup granulated sugar Provides a sweet crunch on the outside.
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon Enhances the cozy flavor with each bite.
Instructions
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease each cavity of your donut hole baking pan with cooking spray or butter.
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, ground cinnamon, ground nutmeg, and ground ginger until there are no lumps.
- In another bowl, combine the pumpkin puree, granulated sugar, brown sugar, eggs, vegetable oil (or melted butter), and milk. Mix until smooth and well-combined.
- Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients. Gently mix until just combined; avoid overmixing.
- Fill each cavity of the donut hole pan about two-thirds full with the batter.
- Bake for 10-12 minutes. Use a toothpick inserted into the center of a donut hole — it should come out clean when they're done.
- Let the donut holes cool in the pan for about 5 minutes, then roll in a mixture of granulated sugar and ground cinnamon.
