Jump to Recipe Print RecipeAs I pulled my pumpkin spice donut holes from the oven, the warm, sweet scent of cinnamon and nutmeg instantly took me back to autumn afternoons spent with loved ones. There’s something magical about these little bites of happiness—fluffy, moist, and generously coated in cinnamon sugar—that make them a perfect addition to chilly mornings or festive gatherings. With just a handful of simple ingredients, this baked indulgence offers a guilt-free treat that won’t take hours to prepare and is sure to delight everyone at your table. So why not bring a taste of fall into your kitchen? Ready to learn how to make these irresistible pumpkin spice donut holes? Why are Pumpkin Spice Donut Holes a Must-Try? Unmatched Flavor: The delightful blend of pumpkin, cinnamon, and nutmeg creates a cozy taste that truly embodies the spirit of autumn. Simplicity: With just a few basic ingredients, these donut holes come together easily for bakers of any skill level. Baked, Not Fried: Enjoy a lighter yet scrumptious treat that’s healthier than traditional donuts. Versatile Treats: Whether for breakfast, dessert, or as a festive snack, they’re perfect for any occasion. Try pairing them with a warm drink or serve alongside a Cinnamon Sugar Donut for a delightful spread! Crowd-Pleaser: These little bites of joy are sure to win over friends and family, making them ideal for gatherings. Ready to bake up a batch? Let’s get started! Pumpkin Spice Donut Holes Ingredients For the Donut Holes All-Purpose Flour – Provides structure; substitute with gluten-free flour for a GF version. Baking Powder – Leavening agent for fluffiness; no substitutions needed. Baking Soda – Enhances the rise; use no substitutions. Ground Cinnamon – Adds warmth and spice; can be replaced with pumpkin pie spice for extra flavor. Ground Ginger – Provides a zesty flavor; substitute with ground nutmeg for a different spice profile. Ground Nutmeg – Contributes depth of flavor; no direct substitute recommended. Ground Cloves – Offers a robust spice note; optional to omit if unavailable. Salt – Balances the sweetness; use sea salt or kosher salt for best results. Granulated Sugar – Sweetens the batter; can be replaced with coconut sugar for a lower GI alternative. Packed Light Brown Sugar – Adds moisture and a deeper flavor; replace with granulated sugar if needed. Pumpkin Purée – The main flavor component providing moisture; ensure it’s 100% pure pumpkin purée only. Large Eggs – Binds ingredients and helps structure; use flaxseed meal mixed with water for a vegan option. Buttermilk (or milk) – Adds tenderness; substitute with almond milk or any plant-based milk for a dairy-free version. Melted Butter – Enhances flavor and moisture; swap with coconut oil for a dairy-free treat. Vanilla Extract – Boosts overall flavor; no substitutions recommended. For the Cinnamon Sugar Coating Granulated Sugar – Sweetens the coating; can use coconut sugar for a lower GI option. Ground Cinnamon – Enhances the flavor of the coating; feel free to adjust based on preference. Get ready to enjoy these delightful pumpkin spice donut holes that offer a sweet bite of autumn in every mouthful! Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Pumpkin Spice Donut Holes Step 1: Preheat the Oven Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While it warms up, generously grease a donut hole pan or a mini muffin tin, ensuring each cavity is well-coated to prevent sticking. This will help your pumpkin spice donut holes release easily once baked. Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, ground cinnamon, ground ginger, ground nutmeg, ground cloves, and salt. Ensuring these dry ingredients are well combined is key to achieving a consistent flavor and fluffy texture in your pumpkin spice donut holes. Step 3: Combine the Wet Ingredients In a separate bowl, whisk the granulated sugar and packed light brown sugar until free of lumps. Next, add the pumpkin purée, large eggs, buttermilk, melted butter, and vanilla extract, mixing everything together until you have a smooth and creamy consistency. This mixture will add moisture and sweetness to your pumpkin spice donut holes. Step 4: Fold the Mixtures Together Gently fold the wet ingredients into the bowl of dry ingredients using a spatula. Be careful not to overmix; a few lumps should remain in the batter. This method is essential for keeping your pumpkin spice donut holes light and fluffy, preventing them from becoming dense. Step 5: Fill the Pan Using a spoon or a piping bag, fill each cavity of the prepared donut hole pan or mini muffin tin about two-thirds full with batter. This allows room for the pumpkin spice donut holes to rise perfectly during baking. Smooth the tops with the back of the spoon for an even shape. Step 6: Bake and Check for Doneness Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for 10 to 12 minutes. You’ll know they’re done when the donut holes are puffed, golden brown, and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Keep an eye on them to ensure they don’t overbake, as this can dry them out. Step 7: Cool the Donut Holes Once baked, remove the pan from the oven and allow the pumpkin spice donut holes to cool in the pan for about 5 minutes. This helps them set up a bit before transferring them to a wire rack, where they can cool completely and develop their perfect texture. Step 8: Coat and Serve While they’re still warm, dip each pumpkin spice donut hole in melted butter, allowing any excess to drip off. Then, roll them in a mixture of granulated sugar and extra ground cinnamon. This simple coating will make them sweet and irresistible, ready to be enjoyed by everyone! What to Serve with Pumpkin Spice Donut Holes As the sweet aroma of pumpkin spice fills your kitchen, consider pairing these delightful treats with warm, inviting flavors to create a full experience. Creamy Hot Chocolate: Rich and velvety, hot chocolate adds a touch of indulgence, perfect for chilly mornings or cozy evenings. Maple Flavored Coffee: The hint of maple complements the spices in the donut holes, making every sip a cozy embrace. Whipped Cream: A dollop on the side is an extra treat; it adds a light, airy contrast to the sweet, spiced donut holes. Warm Apple Cider: The sweetness of baked apples and cinnamon provides a lovely seasonal pairing, enhancing the overall fall vibe. For a delightful dessert board, consider serving your pumpkin spice donut holes alongside a warm slice of apple pie. The combination of flavors makes for an unforgettable tasting experience. Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of this classic treat adds temperature contrast and creaminess, balancing the warm spices beautifully. Spiced Tea: Whether chai or a classic black tea with a touch of spice, this comforting drink enhances the flavors of your donut holes. Pumpkin Spice Donut Holes Variations & Substitutions Ready to put your own spin on these delectable pumpkin spice donut holes? Let’s explore some fun and flavorful ways to tweak the recipe! Gluten-Free: Swap all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend for a delicious GF treat. Dairy-Free: Use almond milk and coconut oil instead of buttermilk and melted butter to keep it dairy-free. Vegan: Replace eggs with flaxseed meal mixed with water for a plant-based option that’s just as fluffy and satisfying. Flavor Boost: Enhance the spice by adding a dash of cardamom or extra cinnamon for an aromatic twist. Fruity Delight: Mix in some diced apples or raisins for a fruity burst that complements the pumpkin beautifully. These little additions can change the entire flavor profile, adding unexpected sweetness. Chocolate Lovers: Toss in mini chocolate chips to the batter for a delightful chocolate twist that will surely please any chocoholic at your table! Cream Cheese Glaze: Drizzle a cream cheese glaze over the tops after coating them in cinnamon sugar for a rich and creamy finish. This can elevate your donut holes to dessert perfection. Mini Muffin Variation: Bake the batter in mini muffin tins instead of donut holes for a bite-sized muffin version that’s equally delicious! Feel free to experiment with these ideas or try some of your own! Baking is all about creativity. And if you’re ever in the mood for something a bit different, check out my Cinnamon Sugar Donut or Blueberry Cake Donuts for more delicious options! How to Store and Freeze Pumpkin Spice Donut Holes Room Temperature: Store pumpkin spice donut holes in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days to maintain their delightful moisture and fluffiness. Fridge: For extended freshness, refrigerate your donut holes for up to a week. Just be sure they’re sealed tightly to prevent drying out. Freezer: Freeze the donut holes in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer bag once solid. They can be kept for up to 3 months. Reheating: To enjoy frozen pumpkin spice donut holes, thaw them in the fridge overnight and warm them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5-10 minutes. Make Ahead Options These pumpkin spice donut holes are a wonderful option for meal prep! You can prepare the batter up to 24 hours in advance, simply storing it in an airtight container in the refrigerator to keep it fresh. If you’re short on time, you can also bake the donut holes, let them cool completely, and then store them at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerate for longer freshness. To maintain their delightful texture, warm them briefly in the oven before serving. Just dip the warm donut holes in melted butter and coat them with cinnamon sugar right before enjoying to bring back their irresistible warmth and flavor. Expert Tips for Pumpkin Spice Donut Holes Don’t Overmix: Gently combine the wet and dry ingredients to keep your pumpkin spice donut holes light and airy. Overmixing can lead to a dense texture. Check Early: Start checking for doneness a minute or two before the suggested baking time. This prevents overbaking, which can dry out your delicious donut holes. Use the Right Measuring Technique: For accurate flour measurement, use the “spoon and level” method. This ensures you avoid packing the flour, which can make your donut holes heavy. Experiment with Spices: If you want to give your pumpkin spice donut holes a unique twist, feel free to customize the spice blend to your liking, adjusting cinnamon, ginger, or even adding nutmeg. Coating Tip: For an extra indulgent touch, roll the warm donut holes in cinnamon sugar right after dipping them in melted butter to ensure the coating sticks well. Storage Reminder: Keep any leftover donut holes in an airtight container at room temperature for a few days for the best taste and texture. Pumpkin Spice Donut Holes Recipe FAQs How do I choose the right pumpkin purée? Absolutely! For the best results, use 100% pure pumpkin purée. Always check the label to ensure there are no additives or sweeteners. Look for deep orange-colored purée with a smooth texture. If you find any cans with bulging lids or rust spots, it’s best to avoid them. What’s the best way to store pumpkin spice donut holes? Very good question! To keep your pumpkin spice donut holes fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you want to extend their life, refrigerate them for up to a week, ensuring they’re well sealed. This dual method helps maintain their delightful moisture and flavor. Can I freeze pumpkin spice donut holes? Of course! Start by placing your cooled pumpkin spice donut holes in a single layer on a baking sheet. Freeze them for about 1-2 hours until solid. After that, transfer the frozen donut holes to a freezer-safe bag, squeezing out excess air. They can be kept in the freezer for up to 3 months and are perfect for a quick treat! What should I do if my donut holes turn out dense? Oh no! If your donut holes end up dense, it might be due to overmixing the batter or using too much flour. Remember to gently fold wet and dry ingredients until just combined. It’s also vital to use the “spoon and level” method for measuring flour. This prevents packing it too tightly, ensuring a light and fluffy donut hole. Can my pets have any part of the pumpkin spice donut holes? Great concern! While pure pumpkin is safe for pets in small amounts, it’s important to avoid giving them any parts of baked goods that contain sugars, spices, or dairy—especially chocolate. Always stick to plain cooked pumpkin if you want to share a taste with your furry friends! How can I customize the spices in my pumpkin spice donut holes? Certainly! You can mix and match your favorite spices to create a unique flavor. For instance, swap ground ginger with nutmeg for a different twist, or add a pinch of allspice for an extra kick. Just remember that the balanced taste of pumpkin, cinnamon, and nutmeg should still shine through! Pumpkin Spice Donut Holes that Spark Joy and Warm Memories Delight in these pumpkin spice donut holes that combine the cozy flavors of autumn, perfect for any occasion. 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: 120 Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes Ingredients 1x2x3x? For the Donut Holes2 cups All-Purpose Flour Substitute with gluten-free flour for a GF version.2 teaspoons Baking Powder No substitutions needed.1 teaspoon Baking Soda Use no substitutions.2 teaspoons Ground Cinnamon Can be replaced with pumpkin pie spice for extra flavor.1 teaspoon Ground Ginger Substitute with ground nutmeg for a different spice profile.1 teaspoon Ground Nutmeg No direct substitute recommended.1/4 teaspoon Ground Cloves Optional to omit if unavailable.1/2 teaspoon Salt Use sea salt or kosher salt for best results.1 cup Granulated Sugar Can be replaced with coconut sugar for a lower GI alternative.1/2 cup Packed Light Brown Sugar Replace with granulated sugar if needed.1 cup Pumpkin Purée Ensure it's 100% pure pumpkin purée only.2 Large Eggs Use flaxseed meal mixed with water for a vegan option.1/2 cup Buttermilk (or milk) Substitute with almond milk or any plant-based milk for a dairy-free version.1/4 cup Melted Butter Swap with coconut oil for a dairy-free treat.1 teaspoon Vanilla Extract No substitutions recommended.For the Cinnamon Sugar Coating1/2 cup Granulated Sugar Can use coconut sugar for a lower GI option.1 teaspoon Ground Cinnamon Feel free to adjust based on preference. Equipment donut hole panMixing bowlsWhiskspatulameasuring cupsMeasuring spoons Method Step-by-Step Instructions for Pumpkin Spice Donut HolesPreheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a donut hole pan or mini muffin tin.In a large bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, ground cinnamon, ground ginger, ground nutmeg, ground cloves, and salt.In a separate bowl, combine the granulated sugar and packed light brown sugar, then add the pumpkin purée, large eggs, buttermilk, melted butter, and vanilla extract, mixing until smooth.Gently fold the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients until just combined, being careful not to overmix.Fill each cavity of the prepared pan about two-thirds full with batter, smoothing the tops.Bake for 10 to 12 minutes or until golden brown and a toothpick comes out clean.Cool the donut holes in the pan for about 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.While warm, dip in melted butter and roll in a mixture of granulated sugar and ground cinnamon. Nutrition Serving: 1donut holeCalories: 120kcalCarbohydrates: 18gProtein: 2gFat: 5gSaturated Fat: 3gPolyunsaturated Fat: 0.2gMonounsaturated Fat: 2gCholesterol: 40mgSodium: 100mgPotassium: 60mgFiber: 1gSugar: 8gVitamin A: 1500IUCalcium: 30mgIron: 0.5mg NotesKeep any leftover donut holes in an airtight container for up to 3 days. For longer storage, refrigerate for up to a week or freeze for up to 3 months. Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!
