These Cinnamon Sugar Pumpkin Donut Holes are soft, sweet, and bursting with pumpkin spice flavor. Perfect for any autumn morning, these donut holes are easy to make and irresistibly delicious. They're the ultimate fall treat that will have your family devouring them in minutes.
These Cinnamon Sugar Pumpkin Donut Holes are the perfect fall treat, packed with warm spices and pumpkin flavor. They’re easy to make, and the cinnamon sugar coating gives them an extra touch of sweetness, making them irresistible for any occasion.
INGREDIENTS
- ¾ cup pumpkin puree: Adds moisture and a rich pumpkin flavor.
- 1 cup regular or plant-based milk: Helps bind the ingredients and creates a creamy batter.
- ¼ cup melted regular or vegan butter: Adds richness and enhances the soft texture.
- 1 cup cane sugar: Provides sweetness to balance the spices.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla: Complements the pumpkin with warm flavor.
- 1 ½ teaspoon pumpkin pie spices: A blend of cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves for that signature fall taste.
- 1 teaspoon baking soda: Ensures a light and fluffy texture.
- 1 ½ teaspoon baking powder: Adds additional rise for perfect donut holes.
- 2 cups regular or gluten-free all-purpose flour: Forms the base of the donut batter.
- ½ cup cane sugar (for topping): Creates a sweet, crispy coating when combined with cinnamon.
- 2 teaspoons cinnamon (for topping): Adds warmth and spice to the sugar coating.
- 3 tablespoons maple syrup (for dipping sauce): A delicious complement for extra sweetness.
- 1 tablespoon melted regular or vegan butter (for dipping sauce): Blends with the syrup for a rich, buttery dip.
INSTRUCTIONS
- Step 1:
- Preheat the oven to 350°F and grease silicone donut hole molds with non-stick spray to ensure easy release.
- Step 2:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the pumpkin puree, milk, melted butter, cane sugar, vanilla extract, pumpkin pie spice, baking powder, and baking soda. Stir until well combined and smooth.
- Step 3:
- Gradually add the all-purpose flour to the wet ingredients, stirring gently until a smooth pumpkin batter forms. Be careful not to overmix.
- Step 4:
- Spoon the pumpkin batter into the prepared donut hole molds, filling each mold about three-quarters full.
- Step 5:
- Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the donut holes are golden brown and a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
- Step 6:
- While the donut holes are baking, prepare the cinnamon sugar topping by combining the cane sugar and cinnamon in a small bowl.
- Step 7:
- Once the donut holes are done, remove them from the oven and carefully toss them in the cinnamon sugar mixture while they are still warm. This will help the sugar adhere to the donuts.
- Step 8:
- If serving with the maple butter dipping sauce, mix together the maple syrup and melted butter in a small bowl. Serve the warm donut holes with the dipping sauce on the side for extra indulgence.
Serving and Storage Tips
- Serving: Serve these Cinnamon Sugar Pumpkin Donut Holes warm for the best flavor. They pair perfectly with a hot cup of coffee, tea, or apple cider.
- Storage: Store any leftover donut holes in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. For longer storage, refrigerate them for up to 4 days. Reheat in the oven for 5-7 minutes at 300°F to restore their soft texture.
- Freezing: You can freeze these donut holes for up to 2 months. When ready to eat, thaw them overnight in the fridge and reheat in the oven for a few minutes before serving.
Helpful Notes
- Maple Butter Sauce: For an extra indulgent treat, serve these donut holes with the warm maple butter dipping sauce. It adds a rich, sweet flavor that complements the pumpkin and spices perfectly.
- Extra Crispy Coating: For an even crispier exterior, after tossing the donut holes in the cinnamon sugar mixture, pop them back into the oven for an additional 2-3 minutes to caramelize the sugar coating.
Tips from Well-Known Chefs
- For an elevated version, add a dash of freshly grated nutmeg to the batter, as suggested by renowned pastry chef Dominique Ansel.
- Chef Alex Guarnaschelli recommends using a mix of white and brown sugar for the cinnamon sugar coating to add depth to the flavor.
WHY YOU'LL LOVE THIS RECIPE
- Perfect Fall Flavor: The blend of pumpkin puree and pumpkin pie spices makes these donut holes a quintessential autumn treat.
- Quick and Easy: With a straightforward recipe and minimal prep time, these donut holes are perfect for busy mornings or last-minute gatherings.
- Irresistible Coating: The cinnamon sugar topping provides a sweet, crunchy exterior that contrasts beautifully with the soft, spiced interior.
- Customizable: The recipe is adaptable for different dietary needs and preferences, making it easy to modify to suit your taste.
VARIATIONS
- Gluten-Free Option: Use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend to make these donut holes suitable for those with gluten sensitivities.
- Vegan Option: Substitute plant-based milk and vegan butter to make the donut holes dairy-free and vegan-friendly.
- Spice Variations: Adjust the spices to your preference by adding extra cinnamon or a dash of nutmeg for a customized flavor profile.
- Chocolate Chip Add-Ins: Fold in mini chocolate chips or chopped nuts into the batter for added texture and richness.
- Frosting Option: Drizzle with a simple glaze or frosting for an extra touch of sweetness.