As the crisp autumn air begins to embrace us, my thoughts turn to delightful treats that perfectly capture the season, like these Baked Pumpkin Donut Holes. Each bite is a cozy hug of pumpkin goodness, combining warm spices that whisk me back to childhood memories of fall festivities. This easy recipe offers a quick prep time of just 10 minutes and yields a deliciously satisfying snack that’s not only airy and fluffy but also a nourishing alternative to typical fried options. With their delightful sugar and cinnamon coating, they make for an irresistible crowd-pleaser that’s sure to have your family asking for seconds. What's your favorite pumpkin-inspired dish? Let’s dive into this heartwarming recipe together!
Why Are These Donut Holes a Must-Try?
Irresistible flavor: Each bite of these Baked Pumpkin Donut Holes is infused with warm spices like cinnamon and nutmeg, creating a delightful fall treat that’s impossible to resist.
Quick and easy: With only 10 minutes of prep time, you can whip up these delicious bites without a fuss. Perfect for busy mornings or surprise guests!
Healthier alternative: Unlike traditional fried donuts, these baked goodies offer a lighter, healthier option that still satisfies your sweet tooth.
Versatile snack: Enjoy them warm, or pack them for on-the-go snacks or lunchboxes—they're perfect for any occasion!
Family favorite: This recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser, making it a wonderful addition to any festive gathering. Want more delicious ideas? Check out my favorite pumpkin recipes for even more seasonal inspiration!
Baked Pumpkin Donut Holes Ingredients
For the Batter
• Pumpkin puree – a key ingredient that brings moisture and rich flavor to the baked pumpkin donut holes.
• All-purpose flour – provides structure; feel free to substitute with whole wheat for a healthier twist.
• Granulated sugar – sweetens the dough; you can adjust to taste if you prefer less sweetness.
• Brown sugar – adds a deeper, caramel-like flavor; it’s essential for that cozy fall vibe.
• Baking powder – helps the donut holes rise and become fluffy.
• Baking soda – gives an extra lift alongside the baking powder.
• Salt – enhances the overall flavor, making everything pop!
• Ground cinnamon – infuses that classic pumpkin spice flavor; a must for any pumpkin recipe.
• Ground nutmeg – complements the cinnamon beautifully and adds warmth.
• Ground ginger – lends a zesty kick to these delightful treats.
• Large eggs – act as a binder, ensuring your donuts are tender and light.
• Vegetable oil or melted butter – keeps your donuts moist and adds richness; choose based on your preference.
• Milk – provides the right consistency for the batter.
For the Coating
• Granulated sugar – creates a sweet, delightful crust that contrasts beautifully with the soft inside.
• Ground cinnamon – enhances your sugar coating for an extra layer of spicy goodness.
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 you prepare the batter. This ensures that your Baked Pumpkin Donut Holes will bake evenly and become perfectly fluffy. Grease a donut hole pan with cooking spray or a light coating of oil to prevent sticking, making cleanup a breeze later on.
Step 2: Combine Dry Ingredients
In a mixing bowl, whisk together 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon baking powder, ½ teaspoon baking soda, ½ teaspoon salt, 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon, ½ teaspoon ground nutmeg, and ½ teaspoon ground ginger. This blend of spices and leavening agents will create a delightful flavor and texture in your donut holes. Set the dry ingredients aside while you mix the wet components.
Step 3: Mix Wet Ingredients
In a separate large bowl, combine 1 cup pumpkin puree, ½ cup granulated sugar, ¼ cup packed brown sugar, 2 large eggs, ⅓ cup vegetable oil, and ¼ cup milk. Use a whisk to mix until the ingredients are smooth and well blended. The creamy consistency will ensure a moist and flavorful batter for your Baked Pumpkin Donut Holes.
Step 4: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients
Gently pour the wet mixture into the bowl with the dry ingredients. Stir until just combined—it's perfectly fine if there are a few lumps in the batter, as overmixing could make the donut holes dense. This method helps maintain a light and airy texture that everyone loves in a baked treat.
Step 5: Fill the Pan
Spoon the batter into the greased donut hole pan, filling each cavity about ⅔ full. This allows space for the dough to rise while baking without overflowing. Aim for a smooth top on each donut hole as you fill the pan, ensuring an even bake and lovely shape.
Step 6: Bake the Donut Holes
Place the filled donut hole pan in the preheated oven and bake for 10-12 minutes. Keep an eye on them, and check for doneness by inserting a toothpick in the center—if it comes out clean, they are ready to be taken out. The donut holes should be lightly golden and spring back when gently pressed.
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. While they cool, prepare a coating of ¼ cup granulated sugar mixed with 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon in a shallow bowl. After cooling slightly, roll each donut hole in the mixture to create a sweet, flavorful crust.
Step 8: Serve or Store
Your delightful Baked Pumpkin Donut Holes are now ready! Enjoy them warm, when they are soft and fluffy, or store them in an airtight container. They’ll stay fresh for a few days, allowing you to savor this delicious treat throughout the week.
How to Store and Freeze Baked Pumpkin Donut Holes
Room Temperature: Store your Baked Pumpkin Donut Holes in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days for optimal freshness.
Fridge: For longer storage, keep them in the fridge for up to 5 days. Just make sure they're tightly sealed to prevent drying out.
Freezer: Freeze the donut holes individually on a baking sheet before transferring them to a freezer-safe bag. They can be stored for up to 3 months.
Reheating: To enjoy them warm, simply pop the frozen donut holes in the microwave for about 20-30 seconds or reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5-7 minutes.
Baked Pumpkin Donut Holes Variations
Feel free to get creative and make these Baked Pumpkin Donut Holes your own with these fun variations!
- Gluten-Free: Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend for a delicious gluten-free version that everyone can enjoy.
- Dairy-Free: Use almond milk or coconut milk instead of regular milk, and replace butter with coconut oil for a dairy-free delight.
- Add Nuts: Incorporate ½ cup of chopped walnuts or pecans into the batter for added crunch and flavor. The nutty notes will complement the pumpkin beautifully!
- Spiced Delight: Boost the flavor by adding a pinch of cayenne pepper or a splash of vanilla extract to the batter for a warm, spicy twist.
- Sweet Glaze: Drizzle a simple glaze made of powdered sugar and milk over each donut hole for an extra sweet finishing touch. It adds a delightful sugary layer!
- Chocolate Chips: Fold in ½ cup of mini chocolate chips for a sweet surprise in every bite. The chocolate pairs wonderfully with the pumpkin spices.
- Pumpkin Spice Swap: Try switching out some of the spices with pumpkin pie spice for an even more intense fall flavor in these delightful bites.
- Air Fryer Version: If you have an air fryer, try making these in it! Just reduce the temperature to 325°F and check for doneness around the 8-minute mark.
These variations offer exciting ways to enjoy your Baked Pumpkin Donut Holes – you might just find a new favorite! If you’re in the mood for more baking inspiration, check out my favorite pumpkin recipes for ideas that will fill your home with delicious aromas!
Make Ahead Options
These Baked Pumpkin Donut Holes are perfect for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy this cozy treat anytime! You can prepare the batter up to 24 hours in advance by mixing the wet and dry ingredients separately and storing each in airtight containers in the refrigerator. This keeps the flavors fresh and prevents the baking powder from losing its potency. When you're ready to bake, simply combine the mixtures and fill your pan, then bake as directed. For even more convenience, baked donut holes can be stored in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Just remember to coat them in sugar and cinnamon right before serving to keep that delightful sweetness intact. Enjoy homemade goodness without the last-minute rush!
What to Serve with Baked Pumpkin Donut Holes
Indulging in warm, spiced pumpkin donut holes is just the beginning of a delightful fall feast.
- Coffee or Chai Latte: The rich, warm flavors of coffee or a spiced chai complement the sweet cinnamon coating perfectly, enhancing the cozy vibes.
- Apple Cider: A sweet, tangy sip of apple cider brings a refreshing contrast to the warm donut holes, celebrating all things fall!
- Cream Cheese Frosting: Elevate your donut holes by dipping them into a creamy frosting, adding a deliciously rich touch that balances the spices.
- Maple Glaze: Drizzling a sweet maple glaze turns these donut holes into an extravagant treat that pairs beautifully with the pumpkin flavor.
- Vanilla Ice Cream: This is a perfect pairing for a dessert twist! The creamy coldness of ice cream juxtaposed with warm donut holes creates magic.
- Savory Bacon: For a balance of sweet and savory, crispy bacon can add an unexpected delightful crunch next to your treat—perfect for brunch!
- Whipped Cream: Light and airy, a dollop of whipped cream enhances your donut holes when served as a decadent dessert.
- Seasonal Fruit Salad: Fresh slices of pear, apple, or pomegranate add a burst of refreshing flavor and a lovely crunch that complements the soft texture of the donut holes.
Expert Tips for Baked Pumpkin Donut Holes
Mix Wisely: Avoid overmixing the batter; stir until just combined to keep your donut holes fluffy and light.
Perfect Timing: Check for doneness at the 10-minute mark to prevent drying them out; toothpicks should come out clean but not baked too long.
Easier Coating: For a stickier coating, roll the warm donut holes in sugar and cinnamon immediately after cooling slightly to achieve a perfect crust.
Experiment with Flavors: Feel free to add chopped nuts or chocolate chips for an extra twist in your Baked Pumpkin Donut Holes.
Cool Before Coating: Let the donut holes cool slightly but not completely before rolling them in sugar; this helps the coating adhere better.
Baked Pumpkin Donut Holes Recipe FAQs
How do I choose the best pumpkin puree?
Absolutely! For the best results, use 100% pure pumpkin puree, which can often be found in a can. Look for brands that list only “pumpkin” in the ingredients, avoiding those with added sugars or spices for this recipe. If you're feeling adventurous, you can also roast a fresh sugar pumpkin, blend it, and use that as your puree for a homemade touch!
How should I store my leftover donut holes?
After making your Baked Pumpkin Donut Holes, keep them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days to maintain their optimal softness. If you need them to last longer, refrigerate them for up to 5 days. Just ensure they are properly sealed so they don’t dry out!
Can I freeze the donut holes, and if so, how?
Certainly! To freeze your Baked Pumpkin Donut Holes, first, let them cool completely. Then, place them in a single layer on a baking sheet and put them in the freezer until firm, about 2 hours. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag and label with the date. They’ll be good for up to 3 months! When you're ready to enjoy them again, simply reheat in the oven or microwave.
What can I do if my donut holes turn out too dense?
Very! A dense texture may result from overmixing the batter or using too much flour. To fix this next time, stir the wet and dry ingredients together until just combined, and be mindful of your flour measurements. Spoon the flour into the measuring cup and level it off with a knife instead of packing it in, ensuring precision.
Are these donut holes safe for kids and those with allergies?
Definitely! However, keep an eye out for potential allergies—ensure none of your guests are allergic to eggs, dairy, or gluten. If you're accommodating allergies, feel free to use egg substitutes like flax eggs or even a dairy-free milk alternative. Always check the labels of your ingredients to be safe!
What can I add to make the flavors pop even more?
The more the merrier! Consider adding add-ins like mini chocolate chips, chopped pecans, or walnuts to your batter for added flavor and texture. You can also try a splash of vanilla extract to enhance the sweetness and spice of your Baked Pumpkin Donut Holes.
Irresistibly Soft Baked Pumpkin Donut Holes for Fall Bliss
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a donut hole pan.
- In a mixing bowl, whisk together the dry ingredients: flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, ground cinnamon, ground nutmeg, and ground ginger.
- In another bowl, combine the wet ingredients: pumpkin puree, granulated sugar, brown sugar, eggs, vegetable oil, and milk. Whisk until smooth.
- Gently pour the wet mixture into the bowl with the dry ingredients and stir until just combined.
- Spoon the batter into the greased donut hole pan, filling each cavity about ⅔ full.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes. Check for doneness with a toothpick.
- Let donut holes cool in the pan for about 5 minutes, then mix granulated sugar and cinnamon for the coating.
- Roll each donut hole in the sugar and cinnamon mixture after cooling slightly.
- Serve warm or store in an airtight container for later enjoyment.
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