Laura Mariano
The Magic of Pumpkin Donut Holes
Pumpkin donut holes are the very definition of cozy fall indulgence. As the air turns crisp and pumpkin spice season arrives, these bite-sized treats bring warmth and comfort to every occasion. Perfectly portioned, they’re ideal for breakfast alongside a steaming cup of coffee, a sweet afternoon snack, or a festive dessert at autumn gatherings. Their small size makes them easy to share, yet irresistible enough to keep reaching for more. Best of all, they’re quick to prepare and endlessly crowd-pleasing. Whether baked for a lighter, muffin-style version or fried for that classic donut-shop texture, pumpkin donut holes capture the essence of fall in every bite. With their golden exterior, tender crumb, and fragrant spice blend, they’re a seasonal staple that feels both nostalgic and fresh. Simple to make, delightful to eat, and guaranteed to disappear fast, these little gems embody the magic of pumpkin spice.
What Are Pumpkin Donut Holes?
Pumpkin donut holes are miniature donuts that can be fried for a traditional texture or baked in a mini muffin pan for a lighter, cake-like version. The fried style mimics the classic donut-shop bite: crisp outside, soft inside. The baked version leans toward “muffin-style,” with a tender crumb and slightly denser feel. What makes them seasonal favorites is the addition of pumpkin puree and warm spices like cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and cloves. These ingredients infuse each bite with cozy autumn flavor, turning a simple donut hole into a fall celebration. Whether rolled in cinnamon sugar or topped with glaze, pumpkin donut holes are the perfect way to enjoy pumpkin spice in a fun, bite-sized form.
Ingredient Spotlight
- Pumpkin puree: Use pure pumpkin puree, not pumpkin pie filling, to control sweetness and spice. It adds moisture, flavor, and that signature autumn taste.
- Flour: All-purpose flour provides structure.
- Sugar: Granulated sugar sweetens the batter, while cinnamon sugar adds a finishing touch.
- Baking powder: Ensures lift and lightness.
- Pumpkin pie spice blend: A mix of cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, cloves, and allspice delivers the warm, aromatic flavor that defines pumpkin treats.
- Eggs: Bind ingredients and add richness.
- Butter or oil: Fat contributes tenderness and flavor. Melted butter gives richness, while neutral oil keeps the crumb moist.
- Milk: Balances the batter and helps achieve the right consistency.
- Cinnamon-sugar coating: A classic finish that adds crunch and sweetness.
- Optional glazes: Cream cheese glaze brings tangy richness, maple glaze adds earthy sweetness, and both elevate the donut holes into decadent desserts.
Together, these ingredients create a batter that’s simple yet flavorful, producing donut holes that are moist, spiced, and perfectly balanced.
Tools & Equipment
- Mini muffin pan: Essential for baked versions, ensuring uniform size.
- Deep saucepan or Dutch oven: For frying, providing even heat distribution.
- Cookie scoop: Helps portion batter or dough evenly.
- Thermometer: Critical for monitoring frying oil temperature (around 350°F).
- Mixing bowls, spatula, whisk: Basic tools for combining ingredients smoothly.
Flavor Variations
Pumpkin donut holes are versatile, with endless flavor possibilities. The classic cinnamon-sugar coating is simple yet irresistible, offering a crunchy-sweet finish. For a more indulgent option, drizzle with pumpkin spice glaze, which enhances the warm spices already in the batter. Maple glaze adds earthy sweetness and pairs beautifully with pumpkin. Cream cheese drizzle provides tangy contrast, balancing richness with brightness. For chocolate lovers, dipping donut holes in melted chocolate creates a decadent twist that feels festive and fun. Each variation highlights pumpkin’s cozy flavor while offering unique textures and tastes, making these donut holes adaptable for any fall occasion.
Easy Pumpkin Donut Holes Recipe | Cinnamon Sugar Fall Treats
Equipment
- Mini muffin pan (for baked version)
- Deep saucepan or Dutch oven (for fried version)
- Cookie scoop for uniform size
- Thermometer (for frying oil)
- Mixing bowls, whisk, spatula
- Cooling rack
- Small bowls for coatings/glazes
Ingredients
- 1 cup pumpkin puree (not pumpkin pie filling)
- 1½ cups all-purpose flour
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- 1 tsp baking powder
- 1½ tsp pumpkin pie spice (cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, cloves, allspice)
- 1 large egg
- ¼ cup melted butter or neutral oil
- ¼ cup milk
- Coating: ½ cup sugar + 1 tsp cinnamon
- Optional glazes: cream cheese glaze, maple glaze, or melted chocolate
Instructions
Baked Version:
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease mini muffin pan.
- Mix dry ingredients (flour, sugar, baking powder, spices).
- In another bowl, whisk pumpkin puree, egg, butter/oil, and milk.
- Fold dry into wet until just combined. Scoop into pan, filling ¾ full.
- Bake 12–15 minutes until golden and tester comes out clean.
- Dip warm donut holes in melted butter, then roll in cinnamon sugar.
Fried Version:
- Heat oil to 325–350°F (165–175°C).
- Mix dough as above. Chill briefly to reduce stickiness.
- Roll into small balls with floured hands.
- Fry in batches 2–3 minutes until golden. Drain on paper towels.
- Roll immediately in pumpkin spice sugar.
Notes
- Pumpkin puree only: Avoid pumpkin pie filling, which is pre-sweetened and spiced.
- Pro tip: Chill dough before rolling to reduce stickiness.
- Make-ahead: Best fresh, but baked donut holes can be stored airtight for 2–3 days or frozen up to 2 months.
- Variations: Try maple glaze, cream cheese drizzle, or chocolate dip for festive flair.
- Serving ideas: Pair with coffee, chai latte, or apple cider for cozy autumn vibes.
