Cozy Pumpkin Donut Holes: Air Fryer or Oven Recipe Magic

Whipping up delectable pumpkin donut holes brings pure autumn joy to your kitchen adventures.

Crispy edges and soft centers make these bite-sized treats irresistible.

Seasonal spices dance through each morsel, creating a warmth that feels like a cozy sweater.

Simple ingredients from your pantry transform into magical morsels that everyone will adore.

Minimal effort yields maximum satisfaction with this foolproof recipe.

The air fryer or traditional oven method ensures flexible preparation for any cooking setup.

Storage Guidelines for Pumpkin Donut Holes

• Store cooled donut holes in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Separate layers with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
• Place completely cooled donut holes in a freezer-safe container or ziplock bag. Freeze for up to 2 months. Wrap individually in plastic wrap before freezing to maintain freshness.
• Warm frozen or refrigerated donut holes at 300F for 3-4 minutes until heated through. Shake basket halfway to ensure even warming.
• Spread donut holes on a baking sheet and warm at 300F for 5-6 minutes. Watch carefully to prevent over-browning. Briefly roll in fresh cinnamon sugar after reheating to restore original coating.

FAQs About Pumpkin Donut Holes

• Are these donut holes healthy?

While not a health food, these pumpkin donut holes offer some nutritional benefits from pumpkin, which is rich in vitamins A and C, and contains fiber. They’re a healthier alternative to traditional deep-fried donuts.

• Can I make these donut holes gluten-free?

Yes, you can substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Use a 1:1 baking replacement flour to maintain the same texture and consistency.

• How do I know when the donut holes are fully cooked?

Check for a golden-brown color and insert a toothpick into the center. If it comes out clean without raw batter, the donut holes are fully cooked. They should also feel firm to the touch.

What Makes Pumpkin Donut Holes the Perfect Bite

• Craft Versatile Treats: Easily prepare these delightful bites using either an air fryer or traditional oven, giving you flexibility in cooking methods.
• Master Quick Preparation: Simple ingredients and straightforward steps make this recipe perfect for bakers of all skill levels, from beginners to experienced home cooks.
• Enjoy Family-Friendly Baking: Create memorable moments while making these delicious donut holes together, engaging everyone in a fun culinary experience that sparks joy and connection.

Ingredients in Pumpkin Donut Holes

• Flour: The base foundation for the donut hole structure.
• Baking Powder, Baking Soda: Essential leavening agents for light and fluffy texture.
• Salt: Enhances the overall flavor of the donut holes.
• Cinnamon, Ginger, Nutmeg, Cloves: Provide warm, classic pumpkin spice flavor profile.
• Pumpkin Puree: Adds moisture and signature pumpkin taste to the donut holes.
• Milk: Helps create a smooth and cohesive dough.
• Egg: Binds ingredients and provides structure.
• Melted Butter: Contributes rich flavor and helps with texture.
• Granulated Sugar: Provides sweetness and helps with browning.
• Brown Sugar: Adds depth of flavor and moisture.
• Granulated Sugar, Ground Cinnamon: Creates a sweet and spicy exterior for the donut holes.
• Melted Butter: Helps the cinnamon sugar adhere to the donut holes.

How to Bake or Air Fry Pumpkin Donut Holes

Step 1: Create Flavor-Packed Dough

• Granulated sugar
• Brown sugar
• Pumpkin puree
• Milk
• Melted butter
• Egg
• Vanilla extract

Gradually fold dry ingredients into wet mixture, stirring until just combined. Do not overmix the batter.

Step 2: Craft Perfect Donut Balls

Using a tablespoon, scoop out dough and roll into smooth, uniform balls. Ensure each ball is compact and round.

Step 3: Air Fryer Magic

Preheat air fryer to 350°F. Arrange donut balls in basket without touching. Cook for 10-15 minutes, shaking basket midway to ensure even browning. Donut holes should turn golden and feel firm.

Step 4: Oven Baking Alternative

Preheat oven to 350°F. Line baking sheet with parchment paper. Place donut balls evenly, keeping space between them. Bake 15-20 minutes until golden brown.

Step 5: Create Irresistible Coating

• Cinnamon sugar mixture
• Melted butter

Allow donut holes to cool slightly. Dip each ball in melted butter, then roll thoroughly in cinnamon sugar until completely covered.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy

Transfer coated donut holes to serving plate. Best enjoyed warm with a hot beverage. Store leftovers in airtight container for up to two days.

Tips for Crispy and Fluffy Pumpkin Donut Holes

• Prevent overmixing the dough to keep donut holes tender and light, ensuring a soft, delicate texture.
• Shake the air fryer basket halfway through cooking for even browning and consistent golden-crisp exterior on all sides.
• Use room temperature ingredients like eggs and milk to help the dough mix more smoothly and create better texture.
• Space donut holes apart during cooking to allow proper air circulation, preventing them from sticking together and ensuring crisp edges.
• Check doneness by inserting a toothpick into the center – it should come out clean, indicating fully cooked pumpkin donut holes.

Flavorful Twists on Pumpkin Donut Holes

• Maple Pecan Pumpkin Holes: Replace sugar coating with a maple glaze made from powdered sugar, maple syrup, and chopped pecans sprinkled on top for extra crunch and nutty flavor.
• Cream Cheese Stuffed Pumpkin Holes: Create a cream cheese filling by mixing softened cream cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla. Insert filling into center of each donut hole before cooking for a rich, creamy center.
• Chocolate Drizzled Pumpkin Holes: After coating with cinnamon sugar, drizzle melted dark or white chocolate over donut holes for an indulgent touch. Sprinkle additional cinnamon or crushed nuts for extra texture.

Pairing Suggestions for Pumpkin Donut Holes

• Pair Perfectly with Warm Beverages: Complement the spiced pumpkin donut holes with a steaming mug of chai latte, enhancing the warm autumn flavors and creating a cozy taste experience.
• Create a Sweet-Savory Breakfast Combo: Serve alongside crispy bacon strips and a light vanilla yogurt, balancing the donut holes' sweetness with salty and tangy elements for a delightful morning meal.
• Match with Seasonal Coffee Drinks: Enjoy with a pumpkin spice cappuccino or caramel macchiato, amplifying the seasonal spice profile and creating a harmonious flavor connection.
• Elevate with Creamy Dipping Sauce: Prepare a maple cream cheese dip or salted caramel sauce to add an extra layer of indulgence and complementary richness to the donut holes.

Pumpkin Donut Holes (Air Fryer or Oven) Recipe

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4.8 from 33 reviews

• Total Time: 20-30 minutes
• Yield: 12 1x

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Description

Seasonal pumpkin donut holes dance with warm spices, delivering autumn’s sweetness in bite-sized perfection. Crisp exterior and tender center make these treats irresistible for weekend gatherings or quick dessert cravings you’ll savor.

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Ingredients

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Main Ingredients:

• 1/2 cup pumpkin puree
• 1 large egg
• 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
• 1/3 cup milk

Dry Ingredients:

• 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 1/4 cup light brown sugar, packed
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/2 teaspoon salt

Spices:

• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger
• 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
• 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

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Instructions

1. Blend dry ingredients in a medium bowl, combining flour, leavening agents, salt, and warming spices until evenly distributed.
2. Whisk wet ingredients in a large mixing bowl, incorporating sugars, pumpkin puree, milk, melted butter, egg, and vanilla extract until smooth and uniform.
3. Gently fold dry ingredients into wet mixture, stirring minimally to prevent gluten development and maintain tender texture.
4. For air fryer preparation, heat appliance to 350F and shape dough into compact, tablespoon-sized spheres.
5. Arrange donut holes in air fryer basket without overcrowding, leaving space between each piece for consistent heat circulation.
6. Cook for 10-15 minutes, rotating basket midway to ensure golden-brown coloration and even cooking throughout.
7. Alternatively, for oven method, preheat to 350F and arrange dough balls on parchment-lined baking sheet.
8. Bake 15-20 minutes until golden and center tests clean with inserted toothpick.
9. Create coating by combining granulated sugar and ground cinnamon in one bowl, melting butter separately.
10. Once slightly cooled, dunk each donut hole in melted butter, then roll thoroughly in cinnamon-sugar mixture for complete coverage.

Notes

• Prevent Over-mixing by gently folding dry ingredients into wet ingredients until just combined, which keeps donut holes tender and light.
• Use Room Temperature Ingredients like eggs and milk to ensure smoother batter and more even baking, helping donut holes maintain consistent texture.
• Control Portion Size with a small cookie scoop or tablespoon to create uniform donut holes that cook evenly and look professionally made.
• Experiment with Spice Variations by adding cardamom, replacing some cinnamon with pumpkin pie spice, or incorporating orange zest for unique flavor profiles.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 10-20 minutes
• Category: Breakfast, Snacks, Desserts
• Method: Air Frying
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 12
• Calories: 110 kcal
• Sugar: 8 g
• Sodium: 140 mg
• Fat: 4 g
• Saturated Fat: 2.5 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 1 g
• Trans Fat: 0 g
• Carbohydrates: 18 g
• Fiber: 1 g
• Protein: 2 g
• Cholesterol: 30 mg