The aroma of freshly baked goods has a magical way of transforming a space, doesn’t it? As autumn settles in, I can't help but crave the comforting flavors of seasonal delights, which is why I’m excited to share my recipe for Baked Pumpkin Donut Holes. These sweet little treats are not only a breeze to whip up—taking just 22 minutes from start to finish—but they’re also the perfect guilt-free indulgence that can bring a smile to any face. Using pumpkin puree keeps them moist and tender, making them a healthier alternative to traditional fried donuts. Plus, you can freeze them for a future treat; just thaw and enjoy! Ready to make your kitchen the coziest place this fall? Let’s dive into the recipe!
Why Are These Donut Holes Irresistible?
Golden Flavor: Each bite bursts with pumpkin spice goodness, highlighted by cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger—a true fall favorite!
Quick & Easy: From prep to plate in just 22 minutes, they fit perfectly into your busy mornings.
Guilt-Free Treat: With only 100 calories per donut hole, you can indulge without the guilt, making them a fantastic snack or breakfast option.
Versatile Enjoyment: Serve them warm, roll in cinnamon sugar, or store for a cozy future treat—they freeze beautifully!
Crowd-Pleasing: Perfect for gatherings or quiet mornings—these Baked Pumpkin Donut Holes are sure to bring smiles and a touch of autumn to your family table!
Baked Pumpkin Donut Holes Ingredients
For the Batter
• Pumpkin puree – adds moisture and that delightful fall flavor.
• All-purpose flour – provides the structure needed for the perfect donut holes.
• Granulated sugar – brings sweetness to balance the spices.
• Brown sugar – enhances the deeper flavors and adds a hint of caramel.
• Baking powder – ensures a light and fluffy texture.
• Baking soda – works with the acidity of pumpkin for rise.
• Salt – enhances all the flavors, making them pop!
• Ground cinnamon – a key spice that infuses warmth in every bite.
• Ground nutmeg – adds a nutty, aromatic essence to the mix.
• Ground ginger – introduces a little zing that complements the pumpkin.
• Large eggs – binds the ingredients together while providing richness.
• Vegetable oil or melted butter – adds moisture and richness; use melted butter for a deeper flavor.
• Milk – helps achieve the right batter consistency for lightness.
For Coating
• Granulated sugar – for a charming sweet crunch after baking.
• Ground cinnamon – enhances the cozy flavor profile, making everything feel like fall.
These Baked Pumpkin Donut Holes are a delightful way to welcome the season into your home!
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 pan and generously grease each cavity with cooking spray or butter to ensure easy removal of your treats later. This simple step sets the stage for perfectly baked pumpkin donut holes that won’t stick!
Step 2: Combine Dry Ingredients
In a large 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, 1 teaspoon of ground cinnamon, ½ teaspoon of ground nutmeg, and ½ teaspoon of ground ginger. This blend of dry ingredients will create a flavorful base for your batter, so make sure they’re evenly mixed before moving to the next step.
Step 3: Mix the Wet Ingredients
In another bowl, combine 1 cup of pumpkin puree, ½ cup of granulated sugar, ¼ cup of packed brown sugar, 2 large eggs, ⅓ cup of vegetable oil (or melted butter), and ¼ cup of milk. Whisk these ingredients together until the mixture is smooth and well-blended, creating a delightful, creamy consistency that will complement the dry ingredients.
Step 4: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients
Pour the mixture of wet ingredients into the bowl with the dry ingredients. Using a spatula or wooden spoon, gently mix the two together until combined, being careful not to overmix. You want your batter for the baked pumpkin donut holes to be just moistened with a few lumps remaining—this ensures they stay light and fluffy!
Step 5: Fill the Donut Hole Pan
Spoon the batter into the greased donut hole pan, filling each cavity about ⅔ full. This is the perfect amount to allow for rising during baking without overflowing. Use a small cookie scoop or a tablespoon for neat and even portions, ensuring that all your donut holes turn out just right.
Step 6: Bake the Donut Holes
Place the filled donut hole pan in your preheated oven and bake for 10 to 12 minutes. Keep an eye on them, and look for a light golden color on top and a toothpick inserted into the center to come out clean. This is a sign that your baked pumpkin donut holes are perfectly cooked and ready for the next step!
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 they’re slightly cool, gently roll each one in a bowl filled with ¼ cup of granulated sugar mixed with 1 teaspoon of ground cinnamon. This adds a sweet, spiced coating that gives a lovely finish to your delightful treats.
Step 8: Serve or Store
Your delicious baked pumpkin donut holes are now ready to enjoy! You can serve them warm right from the oven or store them in an airtight container. If you choose to store them, these little morsels freeze beautifully, making it easy to savor the flavors of fall at any time.
Make Ahead Options
These Baked Pumpkin Donut Holes are a fantastic choice for busy home cooks looking to save time without sacrificing flavor. You can prepare the batter up to 24 hours in advance; simply store it in the refrigerator in an airtight container to keep it fresh. If you're making these ahead of time, consider baking them in advance as well and then letting them cool completely before storing them in an airtight container. They’ll stay delicious for up to 3 days at room temperature or can be frozen for up to 3 months—just thaw and reheat for convenient, cozy mornings. When you're ready to enjoy, give them a delightful roll in cinnamon-sugar just before serving for that fresh-from-the-oven taste!
Baked Pumpkin Donut Holes Variations
Feel free to let your creativity shine with these delightful twists on the Baked Pumpkin Donut Holes!
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Gluten-Free: Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend for a celiac-friendly version. Just make sure it has a good binding structure!
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Dairy-Free: Use almond milk or coconut milk instead of regular milk, and replace butter with coconut oil. Your donut holes will still be wonderfully moist and delicious!
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Spiced Up: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a bit of ground cardamom to the batter for a warm, spicy kick. This unexpected twist will give your donut holes a unique flavor profile!
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Chocolate Drizzle: Melt dark chocolate and drizzle it over the cooled donut holes for a rich indulgence. The chocolate pairs beautifully with the pumpkin spice!
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Maple Syrup: Replace granulated sugar in the batter with maple syrup for a naturally sweet flavor. It will add a delightful hint of maple goodness!
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Nutty Crunch: Fold in chopped walnuts or pecans into the batter for added texture and a nutty flavor. It elevates the donut holes while providing a tasty crunch!
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Seasonal Add-Ins: Incorporate dried cranberries or raisins for a sweet and chewy burst in each bite. This makes the treat even more festive for the fall season!
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Lemon Glaze: Make a simple glaze with powdered sugar and fresh lemon juice to drizzle over the donut holes. It’s refreshing and adds a zesty contrast to the warm spices!
These variations are perfect for experimenting and adding your personal touch to the recipe. Enjoy making them your own, just like these delectable Baked Pumpkin Donut Holes!
Tips for the Best Baked Pumpkin Donut Holes
Watch the Mixing: Avoid overmixing your batter to ensure a fluffy texture; mix just until combined for the best results.
Grease Generously: To prevent sticking, be sure to grease your donut hole pan well. It can make a world of difference!
Check for Doneness: Use a toothpick to check if they're done; if it comes out clean, they're ready! This prevents undercooking or burning.
Cooling Time: Allow the donut holes to cool for a few minutes before rolling in cinnamon sugar; this helps the coating stick better.
Storage Tips: Store leftover Baked Pumpkin Donut Holes in an airtight container, or freeze them for future cozy mornings!
What to Serve with Baked Pumpkin Donut Holes
Imagine a cozy gathering or a delightful brunch where your sweet treats become the star of the show, enticing everyone with their warm, comforting aroma.
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Creamy Yogurt Parfait: Layer Greek yogurt with honey and fresh berries for a fresh contrast to the sweet donut holes. The tangy yogurt plays off the cinnamon sugar beautifully. Enjoy the creamy texture that complements the softness of the donut holes while adding a refreshing zing.
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Hot Apple Cider: The spices in a warm cup of apple cider create a delightful pairing with pumpkin flavors. Sip this cozy beverage next to your donut holes for an irresistible autumn experience—the warmth will linger long after the last sip!
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Maple Syrup Drizzle: A light drizzle of pure maple syrup takes these dessert-like donut holes to another level. The sweetness and depth of flavor enhance every bite, offering a luxurious touch that feels indulgent in the best way possible.
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Spicy Chai Latte: Match the cozy spices in your donut holes with a hot cup of chai. The warm richness of spiced tea creates a perfect balance, making each bite more enjoyable and comforting with a sip in between.
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Fresh Fruit Salad: A vibrant assortment of seasonal fruits adds a refreshing crunch to your meal. The bright flavors of apples, pears, and berries complement the sweetness of the donut holes while lightening up the treat.
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Cinnamon Cream Cheese Frosting: For an extra special touch, whip up a quick frosting with cream cheese and cinnamon. Use it as a dip for your donut holes, creating a luxurious pairing that brings new flavors to the table.
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Chocolaty Iced Coffee: A glass of chocolaty iced coffee with hints of vanilla or pumpkin spice makes for a fun and delicious pairing. The chocolate complements the pumpkin's flavor profile, making each nibble a delightful experience.
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Vanilla Ice Cream: For a decadent dessert option, serve these donut holes warm alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream. The creamy richness of the ice cream melting over the donut holes creates an indulgent treat that’s simply irresistible.
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Nutty Granola Bars: Serve alongside homemade nutty granola bars for a satisfying crunch. The chewy texture and wholesome ingredients provide a fantastic balance to the fluffy donut holes while offering a nutritious snack option!
How to Store and Freeze Baked Pumpkin Donut Holes
Room Temperature: These donut holes are best enjoyed fresh, but you can store them at room temperature in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Fridge: If you prefer, keep them in the fridge where they'll stay fresh for about 5 days. Just remember to cover them well to avoid drying out.
Freezer: For longer storage, these Baked Pumpkin Donut Holes freeze wonderfully! Place them in a single layer on a baking sheet to freeze individually for up to 3 months before transferring to a freezer-safe bag.
Reheating: When you're ready to savor them again, simply thaw at room temperature or microwave for 10-15 seconds for that just-baked warmth!
Baked Pumpkin Donut Holes Recipe FAQs
How do I select the right pumpkin puree?
Absolutely! For the best flavor, choose 100% pure pumpkin puree without added spices or sugars. Check the label to avoid any fillers—it's the real pumpkin that gives these Baked Pumpkin Donut Holes their authentic taste!
What’s the best way to store leftover donut holes?
You can store these delightful treats at room temperature in an airtight container for up to 3 days. If you want to keep them longer, placing them in the fridge will maintain their freshness for about 5 days. Just be sure to cover them properly to prevent drying out.
Can I freeze Baked Pumpkin Donut Holes?
Very! To freeze, place the donut holes in a single layer on a baking sheet until firm. Then, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container. They can be stored like this for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, just thaw them at room temperature or microwave them for about 10-15 seconds to warm through.
What if my donut holes come out too dense?
If your donut holes turn out too dense, it may be due to overmixing the batter. Remember, just mix until combined! Ensure that your wet and dry ingredients are thoroughly mixed but still leave some lumps in the batter; this helps keep them fluffy.
Can I use gluten-free flour in this recipe?
Absolutely! If you're looking for a gluten-free option, you can substitute all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free baking blend. Make sure to check that all your other ingredients, like baking powder, are also gluten-free. This way, everyone can enjoy these Baked Pumpkin Donut Holes!
Is it safe for pets?
It's best to keep these baked treats away from pets. The sugar and spices (like cinnamon and ginger) can cause digestive upset for dogs and cats. Always stick to their approved snacks and treats to keep them safe and healthy!
Delicious Baked Pumpkin Donut Holes for Cozy Mornings
Equipment
- Donut hole pan
- mixing bowls
- whisk
- spatula
Ingredients
For the Batter
- 1 cup pumpkin puree
- 1.5 cups all-purpose flour
- 0.5 cups granulated sugar
- 0.25 cups packed brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 0.5 teaspoon baking soda
- 0.5 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 0.5 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 0.5 teaspoon ground ginger
- 2 large eggs
- 0.33 cups vegetable oil or melted butter Use melted butter for deeper flavor
- 0.25 cups milk
For Coating
- 0.25 cups granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
Instructions
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease your donut hole pan.
- In a large bowl, whisk together the dry ingredients: flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger.
- In another bowl, mix the wet ingredients: pumpkin puree, granulated sugar, brown sugar, eggs, vegetable oil (or melted butter), and milk until smooth.
- Pour the wet mixture into the dry ingredients and mix gently until just combined.
- Fill the donut hole pan cavities about ⅔ full with batter.
- Bake for 10-12 minutes until golden and a toothpick comes out clean.
- Allow to cool for 5 minutes then roll in cinnamon sugar mixture.
- Serve warm or store in an airtight container, they freeze beautifully!
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