Irresistible Pumpkin Donut Holes to Spice Up Your Mornings

Why Make This Recipe

Pumpkin donut holes are not just a treat; they are a way to celebrate the cozy spirit of autumn. These delicious bites are soft, fluffy, and packed with seasonal flavors that will make your mornings special. They are a fantastic way to enjoy the taste of pumpkin and warm spices without committing to a full-sized donut. Plus, they are easy to make and just the right size for a quick snack or breakfast on the go.

With the perfect combination of pumpkin puree and pumpkin pie spice, these donut holes strike a balance between sweet and spiced. They are baked instead of fried, which makes them a slightly healthier option for those who love to indulge. Making these delightful treats gives you the opportunity to fill your home with a warm, inviting aroma that makes everyone want to gather in the kitchen.

This recipe is not just about the flavors, but also about the experience of baking and sharing them with family and friends. You can present them at breakfast, enjoy them during coffee breaks, or package them as thoughtful gifts. Everyone will love the taste of these little pumpkin delights, and you will enjoy the process of making them.

How to Make Irresistible Pumpkin Donut Holes

Making these pumpkin donut holes is a straightforward process. With just a handful of ingredients and simple steps, you’ll have a delicious treat ready in no time. Here’s how to create these pumpkin-flavored delights.

Ingredients

• 1 cup low fat buttermilk
• 1 large egg
• 1 cup pumpkin puree
• 1/4 cup unsalted butter (melted)
• 1 1/2 cups all purpose flour
• 3/4 cup dark brown sugar
• 2 teaspoons baking powder
• 2 teaspoons pumpkin pie spice
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 pinch salt
• 1 cup powdered sugar (sifted)
• 1/2 teaspoon pumpkin pie spice (for the glaze)
• 2-4 tablespoons warm water or whole milk (to achieve the desired consistency)

Directions

How to Make Pumpkin Donut Holes

1. Preheat the Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This step is crucial for getting your donut holes perfectly baked.

2. Prepare the Pan: Grease a mini muffin or donut hole pan lightly with non-stick spray to prevent sticking. You can also use silicone pans, which make it easier to remove the donut holes after baking.

3. Mix Wet Ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the low-fat buttermilk, egg, pumpkin puree, and melted butter. Ensure everything blends well until the mixture is smooth.

4. Combine Dry Ingredients: In another bowl, mix the flour, dark brown sugar, baking powder, pumpkin pie spice, and a pinch of salt. Stir until well-combined.

5. Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, stirring gently to combine. Avoid over-mixing, as this can lead to tough donut holes. The batter should be thick and well-blended.

6. Fill the Pan: Spoon the batter into the prepared muffin or donut hole pan. Fill each cavity about three-quarters full to allow room for rising while baking.

7. Bake: Place the filled pan in the preheated oven and bake for 10 to 12 minutes, or until the tops are lightly golden and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

8. Cool: Once baked, remove the pan from the oven and let it cool for about 5 minutes. Then, carefully transfer the donut holes to a wire rack to cool completely.

9. Make the Glaze: In a separate bowl, mix the powdered sugar, 1/2 teaspoon of pumpkin pie spice, and enough warm water or milk to achieve a smooth, drizzling consistency.

10. Glaze the Donut Holes: Once the donut holes are completely cool, dip the tops into the glaze or drizzle it over them. Allow the glaze to set for a few minutes before serving.

How to Serve Irresistible Pumpkin Donut Holes

These pumpkin donut holes are perfect for serving in a variety of ways. You can enjoy them warm, straight from the oven, or allow them to cool completely for a perfect snack later on. Here are a few serving ideas:

• With Coffee or Tea: Pair your donut holes with a hot cup of coffee or tea for a delightful breakfast or snack.
• As Dessert: Serve them with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or whipped cream for a sweet treat after dinner.
• With Breakfast: Include them as a side with scrambled eggs and bacon for a complete breakfast experience.
• At Gatherings: Present the donut holes in a beautiful dish at your next brunch or gathering. They look lovely displayed on a tiered cake stand.

Feel free to get creative with your presentation! Dust them with extra powdered sugar or even sprinkle some cinnamon for an added touch.

How to Store Irresistible Pumpkin Donut Holes

To keep your pumpkin donut holes fresh, proper storage is essential. Here are a few tips on how to store them effectively:

• Room Temperature: If you plan to eat them within a day or two, you can store them in an airtight container at room temperature. Add a piece of bread into the container to help keep them moist.
• Refrigeration: For longer storage, place the donut holes in the fridge. Use an airtight container to prevent them from drying out. They can stay fresh for about a week in the fridge.
• Freezing: If you want to enjoy them later, freeze the donut holes. Allow them to cool completely, then place them in a single layer on a baking sheet. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag and store for up to three months. When ready to eat, let them thaw at room temperature or heat them in the microwave for a few seconds.

Tips to Make Irresistible Pumpkin Donut Holes

To ensure your pumpkin donut holes turn out perfectly every time, consider these handy tips:

1. Use Fresh Pumpkin Puree: While canned pumpkin works well, making your own puree from fresh pumpkins enhances the flavor.
2. Don’t Overmix: Mixing the batter too much can lead to dense donut holes. Gently stir until just combined.
3. Adjust Sweetness: If you prefer less sweetness, you can reduce the amount of brown sugar in the batter.
4. Experiment with Spices: Feel free to add more spices, such as nutmeg or ginger, to customize the flavor to your liking.
5. Texture Check: If the batter seems too thick, add a little more buttermilk to reach a smooth consistency.

Variation

While the classic pumpkin flavor is hard to beat, you can explore different variations to keep things interesting:

• Chocolate Chip Pumpkin Donut Holes: Mix in some chocolate chips into the batter for a deliciously sweet surprise.
• Maple Glaze: Instead of a basic glaze, make a maple syrup glaze by mixing powdered sugar with maple syrup and a little milk.
• Nutty Twists: Fold in chopped nuts like pecans or walnuts for added crunch and nutrition.
• Cinnamon Sugar Coating: After baking, roll the donut holes in a mixture of cinnamon and granulated sugar instead of glazing them.

FAQs

Can I use pumpkin pie filling instead of pumpkin puree?

It’s best to use pure pumpkin puree rather than pumpkin pie filling, as filling often contains added sugars and spices that can alter the taste and consistency of your donuts.

How can I make these donut holes gluten-free?

You can substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend suitable for baking. Make sure the blend is designed for one-to-one substitution.

What can I substitute for buttermilk?

If you don’t have buttermilk on hand, you can make a quick substitute by mixing 1 cup of milk with 1 tablespoon of white vinegar or lemon juice. Let it sit for about 5 minutes before using it in the recipe.

Can I bake these in a standard muffin pan?

Yes, you can use a standard muffin pan. Just note that the baking time will be longer, usually around 15-20 minutes. Keep an eye on them and do a toothpick test!

How do I know when the donut holes are done baking?

The donut holes are done when they are golden brown on top, and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Avoid opening the oven too often as it can affect the baking process.

How long can I keep leftover donut holes?

If stored properly, leftover donut holes can last for about a week in the fridge and can be frozen for up to three months. Just ensure they are in an airtight container to maintain freshness.

Baking irresistible pumpkin donut holes will surely spice up your mornings, and with these easy-to-follow steps, you’re just a whisk away from enjoying this delightful treat!

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