The scent of warm pumpkin donut holes wafts through the air, a delightful blend of spices that screams cozy autumn afternoons. Imagine sinking your teeth into a soft, pillowy bite, dusted with cinnamon sugar, while the flavors dance on your tongue like a festive party.
Every time I make these pumpkin donut holes, I’m taken back to my childhood kitchen, where flour dust floated like confetti and laughter filled the air. These little treats are perfect for chilly mornings or Halloween gatherings—just the right amount of sweetness to brighten anyone’s day. Get ready for an adventure in flavor that will leave your taste buds singing!
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- These pumpkin donut holes are incredibly easy to prepare and require minimal ingredients
- Their warm spices create a cozy flavor profile perfect for fall
- Visually appealing and adorable, they brighten up any dessert table
- Versatile enough to be served at breakfast or as a sweet afternoon snack!
Ingredients for Pumpkin Donut Holes
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- Canned Pumpkin Puree: Opt for 100% pure pumpkin puree—not pie filling—for the best flavor and texture in your donut holes.
- All-Purpose Flour: Regular all-purpose flour provides structure; sift it for lighter donut holes.
- Granulated Sugar: Sweeten up your batter; it also helps create a lovely crust when rolled in cinnamon sugar.
- Baking Powder: A must-have leavening agent that gives the donut holes their fluffy texture.
- Cinnamon: Adds warmth and spice; feel free to add more if you love that cozy flavor!
- Nutmeg: Just a pinch enhances the autumnal taste—think of it as fall in spice form.
- Salt: Balances sweetness and elevates overall flavor; don’t skip this step!
- Egg: Acts as a binding agent for the ingredients, ensuring everything sticks together beautifully.
- Milk: Adds moisture; whole milk works best but use whatever you have on hand.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
How to Make Pumpkin Donut Holes
Mixing the Dry Ingredients
Start by whisking together the flour, baking powder, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt in a large bowl. This helps evenly distribute all those warm spices that will make your kitchen smell divine.
Combining Wet Ingredients
In another bowl, mix together the pumpkin puree, sugar, egg, and milk until smooth. The vibrant orange color should brighten your day while blending those flavors perfectly.
Bringing It All Together
Gently fold the wet mixture into the dry ingredients until just combined. Be careful not to overmix—this keeps your donut holes light and fluffy!
Shaping Your Donut Holes
Using a small ice cream scoop or two spoons, drop spoonfuls of batter onto a parchment-lined baking sheet. Aim for golf ball-sized portions; they’ll puff up beautifully as they bake.
Baking Time
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake for about 12-15 minutes until they turn golden brown and spring back when touched lightly. Your entire kitchen will smell like an autumn festival!
Rolling in Cinnamon Sugar
As soon as they come out of the oven, let them cool slightly before rolling them in a mixture of granulated sugar and cinnamon. This adds that irresistible sweet crunch we all crave.
Serving Suggestions
Serve these delightful pumpkin donut holes warm with coffee or hot apple cider for an unforgettable experience. They’ll disappear faster than you can say “pumpkin spice!”
Now that you know how to make these delectable pumpkin donut holes, it’s time to roll up those sleeves and get cooking! Enjoy each bite as you revel in their soft texture and warming flavors—your future self will thank you!
You Must Know
- These delightful pumpkin donut holes are not just a fall treat; they bring comfort and joy year-round
- Their warm, spiced aroma will fill your kitchen, making everyone feel like they’re wrapped in a cozy blanket
- Perfect for breakfast or a sweet snack!
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by mixing your wet ingredients first, then combine them with the dry ones. While the oven preheats, scoop the batter into donut molds. Bake until golden brown for a perfect texture and flavor.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap out spices or add chocolate chips for a twist on these pumpkin donut holes. You can use maple syrup instead of sugar for a rich, unique sweetness. Don’t shy away from experimenting!
Storing & Reheating
Store your pumpkin donut holes in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. To reheat, pop them in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds or warm them in the oven for a few minutes.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- Use fresh pumpkin puree for deeper flavor; canned puree works too but may lack that homemade touch
- Ensure your baking powder is fresh to achieve optimal rise and fluffiness
- Always let them cool slightly before glazing to prevent melting
Nothing beats the feeling of biting into a warm pumpkin donut hole while reminiscing about family gatherings in autumn. Those moments are what truly make this treat special!
FAQs :
What are Pumpkin Donut Holes made of?
Pumpkin donut holes are delightful treats made primarily from pumpkin puree, flour, sugar, eggs, and spices such as cinnamon and nutmeg. These ingredients come together to create a moist and flavorful base that captures the essence of fall. The mixture is typically rolled into small balls and then fried or baked until golden brown. Topped with a dusting of powdered sugar or a glaze, pumpkin donut holes make for a perfect snack or dessert.
How do I store Pumpkin Donut Holes?
To maintain the freshness of your pumpkin donut holes, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you want them to last longer, consider refrigerating them for up to a week. For even longer storage, you can freeze your donut holes in a sealed freezer bag for up to 3 months. Just remember to let them thaw at room temperature before enjoying them!
Can I make Pumpkin Donut Holes gluten-free?
Absolutely! You can easily adapt this recipe for pumpkin donut holes to be gluten-free by using a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend instead of regular flour. Ensure the baking powder is also gluten-free. The flavors will remain just as delicious, allowing those with dietary restrictions to enjoy these seasonal treats without compromising on taste.
What can I serve with Pumpkin Donut Holes?
Pumpkin donut holes pair wonderfully with various accompaniments. You can serve them alongside coffee or tea for a cozy afternoon treat. For an added touch, consider drizzling them with caramel sauce or serving with cream cheese frosting for dipping. A sprinkle of cinnamon sugar on top enhances their autumnal flavor and makes them even more irresistible!
Conclusion for Pumpkin Donut Holes :
In summary, pumpkin donut holes are a delightful treat that embodies the flavors of fall. With simple ingredients like pumpkin puree and spices, these bite-sized snacks are easy to prepare and fun to enjoy. Whether you choose to fry or bake them, the result is always a soft and flavorful delight. Perfect for sharing during gatherings or savoring alone, these treats offer versatility and comfort in every bite. Enjoy making and sharing your pumpkin donut holes today!
Delicious Pumpkin Donut Holes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 12 servings 1x
Description
Indulge in the cozy flavors of fall with these soft and fluffy pumpkin donut holes, perfectly spiced and dusted with cinnamon sugar. Ideal for chilly mornings or festive gatherings, they are a delightful treat that will warm your heart and satisfy your sweet tooth. Enjoy the nostalgic aroma of freshly baked pumpkin goodness as you take a bite into these mouthwatering morsels.
Ingredients
- 1 cup canned pumpkin puree
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- 1 tsp baking powder
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon
- ¼ tsp ground nutmeg
- ¼ tsp salt
- 1 large egg
- ½ cup whole milk
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a large bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt.
- In another bowl, combine pumpkin puree, sugar, egg, and milk until smooth.
- Gently fold the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients until just combined; avoid overmixing.
- Using a small scoop or spoon, drop golf ball-sized portions onto the prepared baking sheet.
- Bake for 12-15 minutes until golden brown and springy to touch.
- Roll warm donut holes in a mixture of granulated sugar and cinnamon before serving.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 98
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 72mg
- Fat: 2g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 1g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 18g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 27mg
Keywords: Experiment by mixing in chocolate chips or swapping spices for personalized flavor. Store leftover donut holes in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days or freeze for longer storage.
