Pumpkin Donut Holes

How to make Pumpkin Donut Holes

Ingredients

• 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
• 2 teaspoons pumpkin pie spice
• 1 1/4 teaspoons baking powder
• 1/2 cup brown sugar
• 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
• 1 large egg
• 3/4 cup pumpkin puree
• 1/2 cup buttermilk
• 2 tablespoons salted butter (melted)
• 6 tablespoons salted butter (melted, for coating)
• 3/4 cup granulated sugar
• 1 1/2 tablespoons ground cinnamon
• 1/2 teaspoon pumpkin pie spice

Directions

1. Preheat your oven to 350 degrees F. Prepare a mini muffin pan by lightly greasing it with non-stick cooking spray. Set this pan aside.

2. In a medium-sized mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, pumpkin pie spice, baking powder, and brown sugar until well combined. Set this dry mixture aside for later.

   

3. In the bowl of a stand mixer fitted with a paddle attachment, or in a large mixing bowl using an electric hand mixer, combine the vanilla extract, egg, pumpkin puree, buttermilk, and melted butter. Mix this mixture for a few minutes until it is smooth.

4. Gradually add in the dry mixture to the wet ingredients. Stir until just combined. Be careful not to over-mix the batter. It’s okay if there are a few lumps.

5. Fill each muffin cup about 3/4 of the way with the batter. Bake in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes. You’ll know they are done when a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

6. Let the donut holes cool for a few minutes. While they are still warm, dip each donut hole into the melted butter. Make sure to coat them completely.

7. After coating in butter, roll the donut holes in the cinnamon sugar mixture. Coat them a few times for a good layer.

8. Place the coated donut holes on a serving tray or plate. Serve warm or at room temperature. They taste best when fresh! Enjoy your homemade pumpkin donut holes!

Why You’ll Love This Pumpkin Donut Holes

There are many reasons to love pumpkin donut holes. First and foremost, they are simple to make and require basic ingredients that you might already have in your kitchen. The combination of pumpkin, spices, and sweetness creates a warm, comforting flavor that is perfect for fall.

These donut holes are incredibly moist and have a delightful softness that melts in your mouth. Dipping them in melted butter and rolling them in cinnamon sugar takes them to the next level. Whether you serve them for breakfast, a snack, or dessert, they are sure to be a hit!

Nutritional Benefits

Pumpkin is not only delicious but also packed with nutrients. It is low in calories and high in fiber, which helps you feel full longer. Pumpkin is also rich in vitamins A and C, which are important for your skin and immune system.

The spices used in these donut holes, like cinnamon, can aid in digestion and have antioxidant properties. These nutrient benefits, paired with the joy of indulging in a sweet treat, make these pumpkin donut holes a balanced choice when enjoyed in moderation.

What to Serve With Pumpkin Donut Holes

Pumpkin donut holes are incredibly versatile. Here are a few ideas on what to serve with them:

• Coffee or Tea: A warm cup of coffee or tea pairs perfectly with the sweetness of the donut holes. The bitterness of coffee can balance the sweetness, making for a delightful experience.

• Cream Cheese Spread: For a creamy twist, try serving them with a spread of cream cheese mixture. Mix cream cheese with a little powdered sugar and cinnamon for added flavor.

• Fresh Fruit: Serve with sliced apples or pears for a light and refreshing side that complements the rich flavors of the donut holes.

• Ice Cream: If you want to make a dessert out of them, serve warm donut holes with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a drizzle of caramel sauce.

How to Store Pumpkin Donut Holes

If you have any leftover pumpkin donut holes, it’s easy to store them. Place them in an airtight container and keep them at room temperature for up to 2 days. If you want to keep them fresh for longer, store them in the refrigerator. They should stay good for about 5 days.

To enjoy them later, you can reheat them in the microwave for about 10 to 15 seconds. This will bring back their warm, soft texture. If you decide to freeze them, wrap them in plastic wrap and store them in a freezer-safe bag. They can last in the freezer for up to 3 months.

Tips and Mistakes to Avoid

1. Don’t Over-Mix: Be careful not to over-mix the batter. Over-working the batter can make the donut holes tough. Mix just until the ingredients are combined.

2. Check Doneness: Ovens can vary in temperature, so always check your donut holes a minute or two before the timer goes off. Insert a toothpick in the center; they are done if it comes out clean.

3. Cool Before Coating: Allow the donut holes to cool for a few minutes before dipping them in butter. This will help the coating stick better and avoid it running off.

4. Adjust Spices: Feel free to adjust the amount of pumpkin pie spice to your liking. If you love cinnamon, add more!

Variations

For some fun, try these variations to customize your pumpkin donut holes:

• Chocolate Chip Pumpkin Donut Holes: Fold in some mini chocolate chips into the batter for a sweet addition.

• Maple Glaze: Instead of rolling in cinnamon sugar, drizzle a maple syrup glaze over the top after they’ve cooled.

• Nutty Flavor: Add chopped walnuts or pecans to give your donut holes a crunchy texture.

• Gluten-Free Option: Substitute the all-purpose flour for a one-to-one gluten-free flour blend to make these donut holes gluten-free.

FAQs

1. Can I use canned pumpkin?
   Yes! Canned pumpkin puree works perfectly for this recipe. Just make sure you use pure pumpkin puree and not pumpkin pie filling.

2. Can I bake these in a regular muffin pan?
   You can, but the texture will be different. Regular muffins will be larger, and you may need to bake them longer. Check doneness with a toothpick.

3. What if I don’t have buttermilk?
   If you don’t have buttermilk, you can make a substitute by adding one tablespoon of vinegar or lemon juice to a cup of milk. Let it sit for a few minutes until it thickens slightly.

4. How do I know when they are done baking?
   A toothpick inserted into the center of a donut hole should come out clean when they are done.

5. How can I prevent them from sticking to the muffin pan?
   Make sure to generously grease your muffin pan with non-stick spray. You can also use silicone muffin pans for easy release.

Now that you have everything you need to make delightful pumpkin donut holes, gather your ingredients and get started! Enjoy the warm, comforting flavors of this fall favorite!