Irresistible Pumpkin Donut Holes: Cozy Autumn Treats

The aroma of freshly baked Pumpkin Donut Holes wafts through the air, enticing you with hints of cinnamon and nutmeg. Each bite promises a fluffy texture and a hint of autumn sweetness that dances on your taste buds.

These delicious treats are not just for fall; they can be enjoyed any time you need a bit of cozy comfort. I still remember the first time I made these pumpkin delights in my tiny kitchen, trying to impress friends during a weekend brunch. Spoiler alert: they were a hit!

Ingredients for Pumpkin Donut Holes

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

• Pumpkin Puree: Use canned or homemade puree to achieve that rich pumpkin flavor; ensure it’s pure pumpkin without additives.

• All-Purpose Flour: This forms the base of your donut holes; feel free to substitute with gluten-free flour if needed.

• Sugar: Granulated sugar adds sweetness and helps create that crunchy exterior when rolled in sugar after baking.

• Baking Powder: This is essential for fluffiness; double-check it’s fresh to ensure your donut holes rise nicely.

• Cinnamon and Nutmeg: These spices give your donut holes that warm, cozy flavor reminiscent of autumn gatherings.

• Eggs: They provide structure and moisture; large eggs work best for this recipe.

• Milk: Whole milk enhances richness; however, you can use any milk you prefer, including plant-based options.

• Butter: Melted butter adds moisture and richness; don’t skimp on this ingredient!

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

How to Make Pumpkin Donut Holes

Gather Your Ingredients

Start by collecting all your ingredients together so you can easily access them while cooking. This will save you from running around like a headless chicken midway through the process.

Mix Dry Ingredients

In a large bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, cinnamon, and nutmeg until well combined. The sweet aroma will already start tempting your senses at this stage.

Combine Wet Ingredients

In another bowl, mix pumpkin puree, eggs, melted butter, and milk until smooth and creamy. You want it to resemble a luscious orange dream before combining with dry ingredients.

Combine Mixtures

Gently fold the wet mixture into the dry ingredients until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; we want airy donut holes that melt in your mouth!

Preheat Oven

While you prepare the batter, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). A hot oven ensures that your donut holes rise beautifully while baking.

Fill Muffin Tin

Coat a mini muffin tin with cooking spray or grease it lightly with butter. Use a spoon to fill each cavity about two-thirds full with batter—don’t be shy!

Bake to Perfection

Place the muffin tin in the preheated oven and bake for about 10-12 minutes or until golden brown. You know they’re ready when a toothpick comes out clean!

Roll in Sugar

Once baked, let them cool slightly before rolling in granulated sugar or cinnamon sugar for extra sweetness. This step is crucial for achieving that delightful crunch.

Enjoy Your Treats

Serve warm with coffee or tea—trust me; these Pumpkin Donut Holes are best enjoyed fresh! Feel free to share with friends or keep them all to yourself (no judgment here).

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by mixing your dry ingredients first to ensure even distribution of flavors. Then, combine the wet ingredients before gently folding them together. This method ensures your Pumpkin Donut Holes rise perfectly and deliver that fluffy texture we all crave.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap out the pumpkin puree for sweet potato or butternut squash if you’re feeling adventurous! You can also experiment with spices, adding a pinch of nutmeg or even some chocolate chips for an extra twist.

Storing & Reheating

Store your Pumpkin Donut Holes in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. For a warm treat, pop them in the microwave for 10-15 seconds, or let them bask in the oven at low heat for a few minutes.

Creating these delightful bites reminds me of the time I surprised my family with a batch during our annual fall gathering. Their delighted faces were priceless, and I still hear requests every year!

FAQs:

What are Pumpkin Donut Holes made of?

Pumpkin donut holes combine flour, sugar, baking powder, and pumpkin puree to create a moist and flavorful treat. Spices like cinnamon and nutmeg enhance the autumn flavor. You can also add ingredients like vanilla extract and a pinch of salt for balanced taste. The mixture is rolled into small balls, fried or baked until golden, and often tossed in cinnamon sugar for an extra sweet touch.

How do you store Pumpkin Donut Holes?

To store pumpkin donut holes effectively, place them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. If you want to keep them longer, consider freezing them. Wrap each donut hole individually in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe bag. They can last up to three months in the freezer. When ready to enjoy, thaw at room temperature or reheat in the oven.

Can I use canned pumpkin for Pumpkin Donut Holes?

Yes, using canned pumpkin for pumpkin donut holes is an excellent choice! Canned pumpkin puree is convenient and has a consistent flavor. Ensure you select pure pumpkin puree rather than pumpkin pie filling, which contains added sugars and spices that might alter your recipe. Canned pumpkin makes it easy to achieve that moist texture and rich taste essential for delicious donut holes.

Are Pumpkin Donut Holes healthy?

While pumpkin donut holes are a delightful treat, they should be enjoyed in moderation as part of a balanced diet. They contain beneficial ingredients like pumpkin, which is rich in vitamins A and C, fiber, and antioxidants. However, they also have sugar and fat due to the frying or baking process. To make them healthier, consider baked versions or reduce sugar while still keeping their delicious flavor intact.

Conclusion for Pumpkin Donut Holes:

Pumpkin donut holes are a delightful way to celebrate the flavors of fall with their warm spices and soft texture. By using simple ingredients like pumpkin puree and spices, you can create these delectable treats easily at home. Whether enjoyed fresh out of the oven or stored for later, they offer versatility that appeals to everyone. So gather your ingredients and indulge in this autumn-inspired delight!

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Pumpkin Donut Holes

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• Author: Jennifer
• Total Time: 27 minutes
• Yield: Approximately 12 servings 1x

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Description

Pumpkin Donut Holes are a delightful treat that encapsulates the essence of autumn with every bite. These fluffy, bite-sized morsels are infused with warm spices like cinnamon and nutmeg, making them perfect for breakfast, snacks, or dessert year-round. Rolled in sugar for an irresistible crunch, they promise to be a hit at any gathering or cozy afternoon at home.

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Ingredients

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• 1 cup pumpkin puree
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 2 tsp baking powder
• 1 tsp cinnamon
• 1/2 tsp nutmeg
• 2 large eggs
• 1/4 cup whole milk
• 1/4 cup melted butter

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Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and prepare a mini muffin tin with cooking spray.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, cinnamon, and nutmeg.
3. In another bowl, combine the pumpkin puree, eggs, melted butter, and milk until smooth.
4. Gently fold the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients until just combined; do not overmix.
5. Fill each mini muffin cavity about two-thirds full with batter.
6. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until golden brown; a toothpick should come out clean.
7. Let cool slightly before rolling in granulated sugar.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 12 minutes
• Category: Dessert
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 donut hole (30g)
• Calories: 90
• Sugar: 6g
• Sodium: 50mg
• Fat: 3g
• Saturated Fat: 2g
• Unsaturated Fat: 1g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 14g
• Fiber: 0g
• Protein: 2g
• Cholesterol: 25mg