Name: Delicious Pumpkin Donut Holes That Will Brighten Your Day
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 30 min
Ingredients: 1 cup Pumpkin Puree (homemade for best results); 2 large Eggs (room temperature); 3/4 cup Coconut Flour (reduce other flours by half if needed); 1/2 cup Maple Syrup (adjust for sweetness); 1 teaspoon Baking Powder; 2 teaspoons Pumpkin Pie Spice (or substitute with cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger); 1/4 cup Coconut Butter (or melted white chocolate); 2 tablespoons Maple Syrup (adjust as needed)

As I stood in my kitchen, the warm and spicy aroma of pumpkin wafted through the air, instantly transporting me to cozy autumn days. Today, I’m excited to share a delightful treat: Healthy Pumpkin Donut Holes with Maple Glaze. These little bites are soft and moist, offering a guilt-free indulgence that’s both gluten-free and paleo-friendly. With just a hint of sweetness from the maple and the comforting spices of fall, they’re the perfect alternative when you crave something sweet yet nutritious. Whether you’re in need of a quick snack or a cozy treat to accompany your afternoon coffee, these pumpkin donut holes deliver on all fronts—easy prep and a satisfyingly wholesome flavor that will have everyone reaching for seconds. Ready to make your kitchen smell like autumn? Let’s dive into this delicious recipe together!

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Why Are These Pumpkin Donut Holes Special?

Healthy, Guilt-Free Treat: Enjoy a sweet indulgence that aligns with your health goals, offering a deliciously low-sugar option.

Versatile Flavors: Infused with warm spices and subtle maple sweetness, these donut holes bring the essence of fall into every bite.

Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you can whip up a batch in no time.

Perfect for All Occasions: Whether it’s a fall gathering or a much-needed afternoon snack, these donut holes are sure to impress. For an alternative sweet treat, check out my Cinnamon Sugar Donut recipe!

Crowd-Pleasing Appeal: Everyone will love these bites, even those who aren’t on special diets. Enjoy a comforting treat that everyone can savor!

Pumpkin Donut Holes Ingredients

• Get ready to bake these delightful little treats!

For the Batter

Pumpkin Puree – Provides moisture and a rich flavor; use homemade for best results.
Eggs – Acts as a binding agent for structure; make sure they are at room temperature for optimal results.
Coconut Flour – This gluten-free flour absorbs moisture effectively; it’s not a 1:1 substitute, so reduce other flours by half if needed.
Maple Syrup – Natural sweetener with caramel-like notes; adjust according to your taste for the sweet donut holes you desire.
Baking Powder – Creates rise and fluffiness, ensuring every bite is light and airy.
Pumpkin Pie Spice – Adds warmth and depth of flavor; feel free to substitute with cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger.

For the Glaze

Coconut Butter – Provides a creamy finish with a hint of coconut flavor; substitute with melted white chocolate for a different twist.
Maple Syrup – Used in the glaze to add sweetness; adjust as needed for your preference.

These pumpkin donut holes are not only delightful but also a healthier treat option that can satisfy your sweet tooth without the guilt!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Healthy Pumpkin Donut Holes with Maple Glaze

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). As the oven warms up, take a donut hole pan and generously apply non-stick spray or lightly coat it with coconut oil. This will ensure your Healthy Pumpkin Donut Holes release easily after baking.

Step 2: Mix the Wet Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, combine the pumpkin puree, eggs, maple syrup, and pumpkin pie spice. Use a whisk to blend everything together until the mixture is smooth and homogenous, which should take about 1-2 minutes. This step infuses your batter with the delicious flavors and moistness essential for these pumpkin donut holes.

Step 3: Add Dry Ingredients
Gradually sift in the coconut flour and baking powder into the pumpkin mixture, stirring gently as you incorporate. Be careful not to overmix; you want just enough time to eliminate any lumps, which will take about 1-2 minutes. The dough should be thick but still wet, signaling readiness for the next step.

Step 4: Fill the Pan
Using a tablespoon or a cookie scoop, carefully fill each cavity of your prepared donut hole pan about halfway with the batter. This allows room for rising while baking. Take a moment to smooth out the tops with the back of your spoon for an even appearance, ensuring your Healthy Pumpkin Donut Holes will look as good as they taste.

Step 5: Bake the Donut Holes
Place your filled pan in the preheated oven and bake for approximately 15 minutes. Keep an eye on them—the donut holes are done once they spring back when gently pressed and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. The lovely aroma of pumpkin and spices will fill your kitchen as they bake!

Step 6: Cool the Donut Holes
After baking, allow the pan to cool on a wire rack for about 5 minutes. This initial cooling ensures that they hold their shape when you transfer them. Then, gently pop the Healthy Pumpkin Donut Holes out of the pan and let them cool completely on the rack, allowing for a perfect texture.

Step 7: Prepare the Glaze
While the donut holes are cooling, mix together the coconut butter and maple syrup in a small bowl. Stir until the mixture is smooth and creamy, which should take about 1 minute. This luscious glaze will perfectly top your pumpkin delights, adding that sweet finish you’re aiming for.

Step 8: Glaze the Donut Holes
Once the donut holes are completely cool, dip the tops into the warm glaze, allowing any excess to drip off. For an extra touch, you can sprinkle them lightly with coconut flour or powdered sugar if desired. This step brings all the flavors together, making your Healthy Pumpkin Donut Holes truly irresistible!

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What to Serve with Healthy Pumpkin Donut Holes

The comforting aroma of autumn wafts through your kitchen, inviting you to create a delightful spread to enjoy alongside your homemade treats.

Hot Coffee: The rich, warm flavors of coffee beautifully complement the sweet, spiced notes of pumpkin, making it an ideal pairing for your donut holes.
Vanilla Yogurt: A spoonful of creamy yogurt adds a tangy contrast that enhances the sweetness of the donut holes, creating a balanced snack that’s both satisfying and refreshing.
Chai Tea: The fragrant spices of chai highlight the warm notes of pumpkin while offering a soothing experience, perfectly warming for chilly days.
Fresh Fruit Salad: Bright, juicy fruits provide a refreshing pop of color and flavor that contrasts perfectly with the sweet donut holes, adding a nutritious element to your snack.
Maple Syrup Drizzle: Elevate your treats by drizzling extra maple syrup over the donut holes, enhancing their sweetness while adding a delightful stickiness.
Coconut Whipped Cream: Light and airy cream with a hint of coconut perfectly complements the pumpkin flavor, creating a decadent topping for a special occasion.
Cinnamon Tea: A warming beverage that carries the comforting flavors of spice would harmonize beautifully with your pumpkin donut holes, enhancing the overall cozy vibe.
Nutty Granola: A sprinkle of crunchy granola adds texture and earthy flavors, making your healthy pumpkin donut holes feel even more substantial for a satisfying snack.

Embrace the season and enjoy these pairings with your delicious pumpkin donut holes for a delightful and wholesome experience!

Make Ahead Options

These Healthy Pumpkin Donut Holes are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the batter up to 24 hours in advance by mixing the wet and dry ingredients and storing the mixture in an airtight container in the refrigerator. This helps develop the flavors while keeping everything fresh. Alternatively, you can pre-bake the donut holes and let them cool completely, storing them in an airtight container for up to 3 days at room temperature, or refrigerate them for a week. When ready to enjoy, simply reheat in a warm oven for a few minutes, then dip in the glaze and savor a delightfully fresh treat anytime!

Variations for Pumpkin Donut Holes

Feel free to get creative and make these delightful pumpkin donut holes your own with these fun twists!

Banana Swap: Substitute pumpkin puree with mashed bananas for a sweet, fruity flavor that pairs wonderfully with maple glaze.
Choco-Lovers: Add chocolate chips to the batter before baking for a delightful surprise. The melty chocolate enhances every bite, making these even more indulgent!
Nutty Crunch: Toss in chopped nuts like walnuts or pecans for an added texture and nutty flavor. They create a perfect contrast to the soft donut holes and add a satisfying crunch.
Spice It Up: Experiment with spices, like cardamom or cloves, to give your pumpkin donut holes a unique flavor twist that will surprise and delight your taste buds. This is a lovely way to personalize your treats!
Low-Carb Alternative: For a low-carb version, swap coconut flour with almond flour. Just be cautious, as you’ll need to adjust the liquid content slightly—start with a little less!
Fruity Delight: Try adding apple cider for a bit of fall flavor. Just replace part of the maple syrup with apple cider for a refreshing twist.
Bourbon Glaze: For a grown-up version, mix a splash of bourbon into your glaze for a warm, caramelized depth of flavor that elevates your donut holes to new heights.

Explore these variations that will contribute to any festive gathering, and don’t forget to pair them with your favorite beverage for the perfect cozy snack! For another delightful treat, try my Blueberry Cake Donuts next!

How to Store and Freeze Pumpkin Donut Holes

Room Temperature: Store your pumpkin donut holes in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days to maintain their soft, delightful texture.

Fridge: If you wish to keep them longer, refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 1 week, which will help prolong freshness.

Freezer: For extended storage, freeze the pumpkin donut holes in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer bag for up to 3 months.

Reheating: When ready to enjoy, reheat from frozen in a microwave for 10-15 seconds or warm them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for a few minutes until heated through.

Expert Tips for Pumpkin Donut Holes

Use Fresh Pumpkin: For the best flavor and moisture, opt for homemade pumpkin puree instead of canned; it keeps your donut holes from drying out.
Empty Pan Carefully: Don’t overfill your donut hole pan; aim to fill each mold about halfway to allow space for rising, ensuring fluffy pumpkin donut holes.
Room Temperature Eggs: Make sure your eggs are at room temperature before mixing; this helps them incorporate better and contributes to a lighter texture.
Gentle Mixing: Be cautious not to overmix the batter; mix just until combined for light and airy donut holes. Overmixing could lead to a denser result.
Cool Completely: Allow your pumpkin donut holes to cool completely before glazing; this helps the glaze adhere better and enhances the overall flavors and textures.

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Healthy Pumpkin Donut Holes Recipe FAQs

How do I choose the best pumpkin puree?
Absolutely! For the richest flavor and moisture, I recommend using homemade pumpkin puree made from roasted or steamed pumpkins. If using canned, look for 100% pure pumpkin without added sugars or fillers. Check the label to avoid any odd additives; the puree should have a smooth, thick consistency without dark spots.

How should I store pumpkin donut holes?
Very simply! Keep your pumpkin donut holes in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you want to extend their freshness, you can refrigerate them for up to a week. Just make sure they’re completely cooled before storing to avoid excess moisture.

Can I freeze pumpkin donut holes?
Absolutely! To freeze, first place the cooled pumpkin donut holes in a single layer on a baking sheet; this prevents them from sticking together. Freeze for about 2 hours, then transfer them to a freezer bag or airtight container, where they can be stored for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy them, reheat from frozen in the microwave for 10-15 seconds or in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for a few minutes.

What should I do if my donut holes are too dense?
If your donut holes turn out denser than expected, it could be that the batter was overmixed or the coconut flour was not measured correctly. Remember that coconut flour is very absorbent; if using a different flour, start with half the amount. Mix just until combined after adding the dry ingredients, and ensure your ingredients are at room temperature for an optimal texture!

Are these healthy pumpkin donut holes suitable for people with nut allergies?
Very much so! These healthy pumpkin donut holes are naturally nut-free, as they use coconut flour instead of typical grain or nut flours. They’re also gluten-free, making them a great choice for those with gluten sensitivities. Always check your ingredients if you’re serving to others to ensure they accommodate any other allergies.

How long will the glaze last?
I recommend using the glaze fresh for the best flavor, but it can be stored in the refrigerator for up to a week. Just give it a good stir before using again, as it may thicken when chilled. If it becomes too thick, you can gently warm it up to restore its creamy consistency.

Enjoy your baking adventure! Let the aroma of these delightful pumpkin donut holes fill your kitchen!