The aroma of pumpkin spice wafting through the air can instantly transport you to a cozy autumn day. As the leaves change and the nights grow crisp, I crave sweeter comforts—like my Delicious Baked Pumpkin Donut Holes. These delightful little bites are not only quick to whip up, but they’re also a healthier alternative to their fried counterparts, making them perfect for any time of day. With their soft texture and cinnamon-sugar coating, they offer just the right balance of warmth and sweetness. Imagine surprising family and friends at brunch or enjoying a cozy snack while wrapped in a blanket. Ready to discover how to make this easy fall treat? Let’s dive in!
Why Are These Donut Holes a Must-Try?
Cozy Comfort: These Delicious Baked Pumpkin Donut Holes wrap you in the warmth of fall flavors, perfect for cozy mornings or afternoon snacks.
Quick & Easy: Preparing these treats is a breeze, requiring just a few simple ingredients and minimal time—ideal for busy chefs looking for effortless fall delights.
Healthier Option: Baked, not fried, these donut holes are a guilt-free indulgence that satisfies sweet cravings without the heaviness.
Versatile Pairing: Serve them warm alongside a pumpkin spice latte or coffee for an irresistible autumn experience. Would you also like to try something with a twist? Check out our Baked Creme Brulee for another delicious dessert adventure.
Crowd-Pleasing: With their inviting aroma and delightful taste, these donut holes are sure to impress family and friends at any gathering. Get ready for compliments!
Delicious Baked Pumpkin Donut Holes Ingredients
For the Batter:
- Pumpkin Puree – Adds moisture and rich flavor; use pure pumpkin puree for best results.
- All-Purpose Flour – This is the base for structure, giving your donut holes that soft, fluffy interior.
- Granulated Sugar – Sweetens the donut holes perfectly; you can switch to coconut sugar for a unique flavor twist.
- Brown Sugar – Its caramel notes deepen the flavor; you don’t want to skip this!
- Baking Powder – Essential for the perfect rise in these baked treats.
- Baking Soda – Works in tandem with baking powder for optimal fluffiness.
- Salt – Enhances your overall flavor profile.
- Ground Cinnamon – Provides that classic pumpkin spice taste; feel free to adjust to your preference.
- Ground Nutmeg – Adds warmth and depth; can be substituted with allspice if desired.
- Ground Ginger – Contributes a zesty kick; optional based on your spice love.
- Eggs – Important for structure and moisture in the batter.
- Vegetable Oil or Melted Butter – Ensures moist donut holes; melted coconut oil is a great healthier alternative.
- Milk – Combines everything and adds moisture; almond milk works wonderfully for a dairy-free version.
For the Coating:
- Cinnamon Sugar Mixture – This delightful blend of equal parts granulated sugar and cinnamon gives your donut holes that inviting sweetness and texture.
These Delicious Baked Pumpkin Donut Holes are ready to be your new favorite fall treat!
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 heats up, grab a donut hole pan and lightly grease it with cooking spray or butter. This will ensure that your delicious baked pumpkin donut holes release easily once they’re done baking. Prepping this pan ahead of time sets the stage for perfect treats.
Step 2: Whisk the Dry Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, ground cinnamon, ground nutmeg, and ground ginger. Use a whisk to blend these dry ingredients thoroughly for about 1-2 minutes until they are well incorporated. This step not only combines the flavors but also ensures an even rise in your donut holes as they bake.
Step 3: Mix the Wet Ingredients
In a separate bowl, mix together the pumpkin puree, granulated sugar, brown sugar, eggs, vegetable oil (or melted butter), and milk. Stir these ingredients vigorously for about 2-3 minutes until you achieve a smooth mixture. This step is crucial because it melds the rich flavors of your Delicious Baked Pumpkin Donut Holes and adds moisture to the batter.
Step 4: Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures
Gently pour the wet mixture into the bowl of dry ingredients. Using a spatula, carefully fold them together until just combined. Be cautious not to overmix, as this could result in dense donut holes. The batter should be slightly lumpy, indicating your delicious treats are ready to head into the pan.
Step 5: Fill the Donut Hole Pan
Using a spoon or a piping bag, fill each cavity of your greased donut hole pan about two-thirds full with the pumpkin batter. This ensures that there’s ample room for rising while baking. Take your time here to avoid any spillage and to make sure each donut hole is evenly filled for a consistent bake.
Step 6: Bake Until Done
Place the filled donut hole pan in the preheated oven and bake for 10-12 minutes. Keep a close eye on them; they are ready when a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean and the tops look lightly golden. You’ll catch the delightful aroma of autumn spices filling your kitchen—an early indication of your delicious baked pumpkin donut holes approaching.
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, carefully transfer them to a wire rack. While they’re still warm, roll each donut hole in a cinnamon sugar mixture to create a sweet, crispy coating that complements their soft interior.
Step 8: Serve Warm or Store
Your Delicious Baked Pumpkin Donut Holes are now ready to be enjoyed! They can be served warm as a delightful breakfast option or a cozy afternoon snack. If you have any leftovers, store them in an airtight container; they will maintain their lovely texture for a few days, or you can freeze them for later enjoyment.
Make Ahead Options
These Delicious Baked Pumpkin Donut Holes are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can mix the dry ingredients and store them in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Additionally, you can prepare the wet mixture of pumpkin puree, sugars, eggs, oil (or melted butter), and milk up to 24 hours ahead; just refrigerate it in a covered bowl. To keep them fresh, ensure to allow the wet mixture to warm slightly at room temperature before combining it with the dry ingredients. When you’re ready to bake, simply follow the remaining steps, and you’ll have warm, flavorful donut holes in no time—ideal for those busy mornings or cozy snack times!
Storage Tips for Delicious Baked Pumpkin Donut Holes
Room Temperature: Store leftover donut holes in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days to keep them fresh and tasty.
Fridge: If you prefer to extend their freshness, you can store them in the fridge for about a week; just remember to bring them to room temperature before enjoying for the best texture.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the donut holes in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months. Thaw and reheat in the microwave or oven before serving.
Reheating: To enjoy your Delicious Baked Pumpkin Donut Holes warm, pop them in the microwave for 10-15 seconds or reheat in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5 minutes.
Delicious Baked Pumpkin Donut Holes Variations
Feel free to explore these delightful twists, adding your own personal flair to these cozy fall treats!
- Dairy-Free: Substitute milk with almond milk for a creamy, dairy-free option that doesn’t skimp on flavor.
- Gluten-Free: Use a gluten-free flour blend with xanthan gum for those with gluten sensitivities while maintaining that soft texture.
- Spice It Up: Add a pinch of cardamom or a splash of maple extract for an unexpected flavor boost that dances on your taste buds.
- Nutty Goodness: Fold in ½ cup of crushed walnuts or pecans into the batter for a lovely crunch that complements the softness of the donut holes.
- Chocolate Lovers: Mix in a handful of mini chocolate chips for a rich twist! You won’t be able to resist the sweet chocolate delight against the spice of the pumpkin.
- Zesty Citrus: Add zest from one orange or lemon to the batter for a refreshing brightness that enhances the autumn flavors beautifully.
- Decadent Toppings: Instead of simple cinnamon sugar, try drizzling with a maple glaze for a sweet finishing touch. This addition brings a luxurious twist to the experience.
- Savory Spin: Swap out some of the sugar for savory herbs like rosemary or thyme for a unique flavor adventure; a surprising treat that pairs perfectly with a warm drink.
Want to explore more delightful treats? You can’t go wrong with the classic Pumpkin Roll Cream or a cozy Jellycat Birthday Treat as a change of pace.
Expert Tips for Delicious Baked Pumpkin Donut Holes
Use Pure Pumpkin: Always opt for pure pumpkin puree rather than pumpkin pie filling to avoid added sugars and spices that can alter the flavor.
Avoid Overmixing: Be careful not to overmix the batter, as this can lead to tough and dense donut holes. Gently fold the wet and dry ingredients until just combined.
Check Oven Temperature: Ovens can vary; always check for doneness a couple of minutes early to prevent overbaking your delicious baked pumpkin donut holes.
Cool Before Coating: Allow the donut holes to cool slightly before rolling them in cinnamon sugar, as rolling warm donut holes may cause the sugar to dissolve.
Experiment with Spices: Don’t hesitate to adjust the spice levels according to your personal taste or try adding unique spices like cardamom for an interesting variation.
What to Serve with Delicious Baked Pumpkin Donut Holes
Warm up your cozy gatherings with delightful pairings that enhance the flavors of your treasured fall treat.
Pumpkin Spice Latte: The classic coffee drink complements the spices in the donut holes, creating a warm and comforting experience.
Maple Glaze: Drizzling a sweet maple glaze adds an extra layer of flavor that beautifully harmonizes with the pumpkin.
Whipped Cream: A dollop of lightly sweetened whipped cream can elevate your donut holes, making each bite more indulgent and creamy.
Chai Tea: The rich spices of chai tea offer a perfect balance to the cozy notes of the pumpkin, making for a delightful afternoon treat.
Cranberry Sauce: A tangy cranberry sauce provides a refreshing contrast to the sweetness, adding a burst of fruity flavor that brightens up the palate.
Sliced Apples: Crisp, fresh apple slices provide a crunchy contrast, and their natural sweetness pairs beautifully with the spices in the donut holes.
Cream Cheese Dip: A rich cream cheese dip mixed with vanilla can add a creamy texture that pairs wonderfully with the warmth of your donut holes.
Caramel Sauce: Drizzling warm caramel sauce over the donut holes turns them into an ultimate decadent dessert, perfect for satisfying any sweet tooth.
Hot Chocolate: A cozy cup of hot chocolate enhances the whole experience, and its richness beautifully complements the flavors of the donuts.
Vanilla Ice Cream: Serving these donut holes with a scoop of vanilla ice cream transforms them into an extraordinary dessert that everyone will love.
Delicious Baked Pumpkin Donut Holes Recipe FAQs
What type of pumpkin puree should I use?
Absolutely! Always choose pure pumpkin puree for the best flavor and texture in your Delicious Baked Pumpkin Donut Holes. Avoid pumpkin pie filling, as it contains added sugars and spices that can affect the overall taste.
How should I store my leftover donut holes?
Very good question! You can store leftover donut holes in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you want to keep them for an extended period, they can be refrigerated for about a week. Just remember to let them come back to room temperature before enjoying to regain their delightful texture.
Can I freeze these donut holes?
Of course! For freezing, you should first place the cooled donut holes in a single layer on a baking sheet to freeze until firm. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply thaw and reheat them in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds or in an oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5 minutes.
What if my donut holes turn out too dense?
The more the merrier! If your donut holes end up dense, it’s likely due to overmixing the batter. To avoid this, gently fold your wet and dry ingredients until they are just combined—some lumps are perfectly fine! Also, ensure you’re using the right measurements for baking powder and baking soda, as these are crucial for leavening.
Are there any dietary considerations for these donut holes?
You bet! These Delicious Baked Pumpkin Donut Holes can easily be adapted for different diets. If you need a dairy-free option, substitute regular milk with almond milk. For a gluten-free version, replace all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend that contains xanthan gum. Just be sure to check all ingredient labels for potential allergens!
Delicious Baked Pumpkin Donut Holes that Feel Like Fall
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease the donut hole pan.
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger.
- In another bowl, mix pumpkin puree, granulated sugar, brown sugar, eggs, vegetable oil, and milk until smooth.
- Combine the wet mixture with the dry ingredients, folding gently until just combined.
- Fill each cavity of the donut hole pan about two-thirds full with the batter.
- Bake for 10-12 minutes until a toothpick comes out clean and tops are slightly golden.
- Cool in the pan for 5 minutes then roll in cinnamon sugar mixture while warm.
- Serve warm or store in an airtight container.