Walking through a local farmers’ market, I was drawn in by the warm, spiced aroma of pumpkin treats wafting through the air—a true autumnal delight. This inspired me to create my own batch of Delicious Baked Pumpkin Donut Holes that are not only tender and fluffy but also provide a healthier alternative to their fried counterparts. These delightful bites come coated in a sweet cinnamon sugar, making them an ideal choice for breakfast or a cozy afternoon snack. Plus, they’re effortless to whip up, perfect for both seasoned chefs and kitchen novices alike. Ready to bring a little fall magic into your home? Let’s dive into the joy of baking! Why are these donut holes a must-try? Irresistible Flavor: These baked pumpkin donut holes are infused with warm spices like cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger, creating an aromatic treat that embodies fall. Healthier Option: By baking instead of frying, you enjoy a lighter version that’s just as delicious, making them a better choice for guilt-free indulgence. Easy to Prepare: With straightforward instructions and simple ingredients, whisking up this delectable recipe is a breeze—perfect for busy mornings or unexpected guests. Crowd-Pleasing Treats: Whether for breakfast or an afternoon snack, these donut holes are sure to be a hit with both kids and adults alike. For a delightful autumn dessert, pair them with a warm cup of coffee or tea! Storage-Friendly: Keep them fresh for several days in an airtight container or freeze for future cravings, ensuring you always have a delicious treat on hand. Experience a similar cozy delight with Baked Maple Donut or add some crunch with Baked Cauliflower New. Delicious Baked Pumpkin Donut Holes • Discover the essential ingredients to craft these spiced fall treats! For the Batter Pumpkin Puree – Adds moisture and rich pumpkin flavor; use pure puree for best results. All-Purpose Flour – Provides structure for the donut holes; consider whole wheat for a nuttier taste. Granulated Sugar – Sweetens and balances spice flavors; try coconut sugar for a healthier option. Brown Sugar – Brings caramel undertones; adjust sweetness levels as desired. Baking Powder – Acts as the leavening agent for fluffiness; ensure freshness for optimal results. Baking Soda – Helps achieve the proper rise; no substitutions needed here. Salt – Enhances overall flavor; adjust according to dietary needs. Ground Cinnamon, Nutmeg, and Ginger – These spices create the classic pumpkin flavor; you can experiment with allspice as a substitute. Eggs – Bind ingredients together and add moisture; flax eggs can be used for a vegan twist. Vegetable Oil or Melted Butter – Ensures richness and moisture; coconut oil is a great alternative. Milk – Combines ingredients for better texture; non-dairy milk works if preferred. For Coating Cinnamon Sugar Mixture – Provides a sweet finishing touch; adjust cinnamon level to your taste. Enjoy making these Delicious Baked Pumpkin Donut Holes for a cozy fall treat that everyone will adore! Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Delicious Baked Pumpkin Donut Holes Step 1: Preheat the Oven Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While the oven warms up, take a moment to lightly grease your donut hole pan with cooking spray or butter. This ensures your delicious baked pumpkin donut holes release easily after baking, resulting in perfectly shaped treats that are golden brown. Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, ground cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger. The aim is to ensure even distribution of the leavening agents and spices. Keep whisking until the dry ingredients are thoroughly combined, creating a well-mixed base for your flavorful donut holes. Step 3: Combine the Wet Ingredients In another bowl, mix the pumpkin puree, granulated sugar, brown sugar, eggs, vegetable oil, and milk until smooth and creamy. Use a whisk or electric mixer on low speed to blend these ingredients completely, allowing the warmth of the pumpkin and spices to come together seamlessly for a rich batter. Step 4: Fold Everything Together Carefully fold the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients using a spatula or wooden spoon. Be gentle to avoid overmixing, as this can make your donut holes dense. Mix until the two are just combined, and you no longer see streaks of flour. Your batter is now ready for the pan and filled with delightful pumpkin flavors. Step 5: Fill the Donut Hole Pan Using a spoon or a piping bag, fill each cavity of your prepared donut hole pan about two-thirds full. This allows enough room for the batter to rise beautifully during baking. Make sure to spread the batter evenly, giving each hole the chance to achieve that perfect round shape. Step 6: Bake the Donut Holes Place the filled pan in the preheated oven and bake for 10 to 12 minutes. You know they’re done when a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean, and the tops are golden brown. Keep an eye on them toward the end of baking, as ovens can vary in temperature. Step 7: Coat with Cinnamon Sugar Once baked, remove the donut holes from the oven and allow them to cool slightly in the pan for about 5 minutes. Then, carefully transfer them to a cooling rack. While they’re still warm, roll each one in a cinnamon-sugar mixture until fully coated. This adds a delightful sweet crunch that complements the soft, spicy interior. Step 8: Serve or Store Finally, enjoy your delicious baked pumpkin donut holes warm, or store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. They can also be frozen for future enjoyment—just reheat in the microwave or oven to revive their deliciousness. Enjoy your cozy fall treat! Make Ahead Options These Delicious Baked Pumpkin Donut Holes are perfect for meal prep! You can mix the dry ingredients (flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and spices) and store them in an airtight container for up to 3 days. The wet ingredients (pumpkin puree, sugars, eggs, oil, and milk) can be combined and refrigerated for up to 24 hours before baking. To maintain quality, keep the wet mixture tightly sealed and bring it back to room temperature before combining it with the dry mix. When you’re ready to bake, simply fold the mixtures together, fill the pan, and bake according to the instructions for fresh donut holes that are just as delicious as if you made them that day! Storage Tips for Delicious Baked Pumpkin Donut Holes Room Temperature: Store the donut holes in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days to maintain their soft and fluffy texture. Fridge: If you prefer, you can refrigerate them for up to a week; just be aware they may lose some moisture. Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the donut holes in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer to an airtight container or zip-top bag for up to 3 months. Reheating: To enjoy them warm again, reheat in the microwave for 10-15 seconds or in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5-7 minutes for a freshly baked taste! Delicious Baked Pumpkin Donut Holes: Variations & Substitutions Feel free to add your personal touch and make these baked pumpkin donut holes even more delightful and tailored to your taste! Chocolate Chip Boost: Fold in ½ cup of chocolate chips for a sweet chocolate contrast that will have everyone reaching for more. Nutty Crunch: Add ½ cup of chopped nuts, like walnuts or pecans, to the batter for an extra crunchy texture that pairs beautifully with the cozy pumpkin spice. Spice it Up: Experiment with spices by adding cardamom or allspice. Just a dash can elevate the flavor profile and add a unique twist. Maple Sweetness: Swap out granulated sugar with ½ cup of maple syrup for a rich, caramel-like sweetness, adjusting wet ingredients accordingly for perfect consistency. Vegan Delight: Substitute eggs with flax eggs (1 tablespoon flaxseed meal + 2.5 tablespoons water per egg) for a plant-based version that’s equally delicious. Dairy-Free Option: Use almond or oat milk in place of regular milk to keep it dairy-free while maintaining the moistness of the batter. Gluten-Free Goodness: Replace all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend for everyone to enjoy, ensuring the donut holes remain fluffy and light. Flavor Infusion: Top with maple glaze or a drizzle of chocolate for an extra layer of sweetness that brings a gourmet feel to your warm treats. For more scrumptious ideas, why not check out these delightful recipes like Baked Ziti Cheesy or enjoy the savory notes of Baked Parmesan Zucchini? Your kitchen is about to smell amazing! Expert Tips for Delicious Baked Pumpkin Donut Holes Use Pure Pumpkin: Always opt for pure pumpkin puree instead of pumpkin pie filling to ensure maximum flavor and avoid added sugars and spices. Don’t Overmix: Keep the batter light! Overmixing can lead to dense, heavy donut holes. Mix just until combined for a fluffy texture. Cool Before Coating: Let your donut holes cool for a few minutes before rolling them in the cinnamon sugar. This prevents the sugar from melting and becoming sticky. Check the Bake: Ovens can vary, so start checking your donut holes a minute or two early. They are done when a toothpick inserted comes out clean. Store Properly: Keep leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature to maintain freshness for up to three days. Enjoy them warm for the best experience! What to Serve with Delicious Baked Pumpkin Donut Holes Nothing pairs better with these warm, spiced treats than a collection of comforting side dishes and beverages that enhance their fall flavors. Creamy Yogurt Parfait: Layered with fruits, granola, and a touch of honey, it adds a refreshing contrast to the rich flavors of the donut holes. Spiced Chai Latte: The warming spices in this creamy beverage complement the pumpkin’s flavor, creating an aromatic sipping experience. Apple Slices with Caramel Dip: Sweet and crunchy, this classic snack provides a delightful texture to match the soft, pillowy donut holes. Maple Pecan Oatmeal: A heartier breakfast side, the nuttiness of pecans and the sweet maple syrup enhance the cozy autumn ambiance of the meal. Warm Cinnamon Tea: Infused with subtle spice, this drink soothes the soul and lifts the flavors of the baked pumpkin donut holes with every sip. Cheddar Cheese Scones: Savory and flaky, these scones offer a contrasting flavor profile that adds depth to your autumn gathering. Pumpkin Spice Latte: For an indulgent pairing, this seasonal favorite delights the senses by echoing the flavors of your delicious baked pumpkin donut holes. Candied Nuts: Their crunchy sweetness balances out the soft texture of the donut holes while providing an elegant touch to the overall presentation. Vanilla Ice Cream: This creamy dessert adds a luscious finish, especially when paired with the warm donut holes. It’s a simple, yet exquisite way to enjoy dessert. Delicious Baked Pumpkin Donut Holes Recipe FAQs What kind of pumpkin puree should I use? Absolutely! For the best flavor, always opt for pure pumpkin puree instead of pumpkin pie filling. The latter often contains added sugars and spices, which can alter the final taste of your donut holes. If you want to use fresh pumpkin, make sure to cook and thoroughly puree it, draining any excess moisture for ideal consistency. How should I store my baked pumpkin donut holes? Very simple! Keep your delicious baked pumpkin donut holes in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you want to keep them fresh for longer, you can refrigerate them for up to a week, although they may lose a bit of moisture. To maintain the perfect texture, I recommend enjoying them warm within the first few days! Can I freeze these donut holes? Definitely! Freezing is a great way to enjoy them later. Start by placing the donut holes in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Then transfer them to an airtight container or zip-top bag. They can be kept in the freezer for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to indulge again, reheat them in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds or in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5-7 minutes until warmed through. What should I do if my batter is too thick? No worries! If your batter seems too thick, it could be due to overly packed flour or insufficient liquid. Simply add a tablespoon of milk at a time, mixing gently, until you achieve a smooth consistency that’s pourable but not too runny. Remember, a well-balanced batter helps in creating those fluffy, delightful donut holes you’re aiming for! Can I make these donut holes vegan? Absolutely! Making these delicious baked pumpkin donut holes vegan is easy. You can replace the eggs with flax eggs—just mix 1 tablespoon of ground flaxseed with 3 tablespoons of water, letting it sit for about 5 minutes to thicken before mixing it into the wet ingredients. Use non-dairy milk as well, and you’ll have a delightful treat suitable for everyone! Delicious Baked Pumpkin Donut Holes for a Cozy Fall Treat Delicious Baked Pumpkin Donut Holes are a tasty and healthier fall treat, perfect for breakfast or an afternoon snack. Print Recipe Pin Recipe Prep Time 15 minutes minsCook Time 12 minutes minsCooling Time 5 minutes minsTotal Time 32 minutes mins Servings: 12 donut holesCourse: DessertCuisine: AmericanCalories: 80 Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes Ingredients 1x2x3x? For the Batter1 cup Pumpkin Puree Use pure puree for best results.1 cup All-Purpose Flour Consider whole wheat for a nuttier taste.1/2 cup Granulated Sugar Try coconut sugar for a healthier option.1/4 cup Brown Sugar Adjust sweetness levels as desired.2 teaspoons Baking Powder Ensure freshness for optimal results.1 teaspoon Baking Soda No substitutions needed here.1/2 teaspoon Salt Adjust according to dietary needs.1 teaspoon Ground Cinnamon You can experiment with allspice as a substitute.1/2 teaspoon Ground Nutmeg1/2 teaspoon Ground Ginger2 Eggs Flax eggs can be used for a vegan twist.1/4 cup Vegetable Oil or Melted Butter Coconut oil is a great alternative.1/4 cup Milk Non-dairy milk works if preferred.For Coating1/4 cup Cinnamon Sugar Mixture Adjust cinnamon level to your taste. Equipment donut hole panMixing bowlsWhiskSpatula Method Step-by-Step InstructionsPreheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease your donut hole pan.In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, ground cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger.In another bowl, mix the pumpkin puree, granulated sugar, brown sugar, eggs, vegetable oil, and milk until smooth and creamy.Carefully fold the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients using a spatula or wooden spoon.Fill each cavity of your prepared donut hole pan about two-thirds full.Place the filled pan in the preheated oven and bake for 10 to 12 minutes, until a toothpick comes out clean.Allow the donut holes to cool slightly, then roll each one in a cinnamon-sugar mixture until fully coated.Enjoy warm or store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. Nutrition Serving: 1donut holeCalories: 80kcalCarbohydrates: 12gProtein: 1gFat: 3gSaturated Fat: 1gCholesterol: 20mgSodium: 100mgPotassium: 50mgSugar: 5gVitamin A: 200IUCalcium: 20mgIron: 1mg NotesUse pure pumpkin puree instead of pumpkin pie filling for maximum flavor. Do not overmix the batter for fluffy texture. Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!
