Cinnamon Sugar Pumpkin Donut Holes Irresistible Treat

Get ready to treat yourself! My Cinnamon Sugar Pumpkin Donut Holes are a must-try this fall. They offer a warm, sweet, and spiced flavor that will make your taste buds dance. With simple ingredients and easy steps, you’ll have a batch ready in no time. Whether for a cozy breakfast or a snack, these donut holes are simply irresistible. Let’s dive into the recipe and make some magic happen!
Ingredients
Essential Ingredients
To make cinnamon sugar pumpkin donut holes, you need a few key items. Here is what you will need:
- 1 cup canned pumpkin puree
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 1/4 cup vegetable oil
- 2 large eggs
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 teaspoons baking powder
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon nutmeg
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar (for coating)
- 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon (for coating)
These ingredients create a moist, flavorful batter that bakes into soft donut holes.
Optional Ingredients
You can add a few optional ingredients to enhance the flavor. Consider these:
- Vanilla extract for extra sweetness
- Chopped nuts for crunch
- Mini chocolate chips for a sweet twist
These ingredients can elevate your donut holes, making them even more delightful.
Substitutions for Dietary Needs
If you have dietary restrictions, you can still enjoy these treats. Here are some easy swaps:
- Use gluten-free flour instead of all-purpose flour.
- Swap vegetable oil with melted coconut oil for a different flavor.
- Replace eggs with flaxseed meal or applesauce for a vegan option.
These substitutions keep the essence of the dish while catering to your needs.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparation of the Batter
To start, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease your mini muffin pan or donut hole pan. In a large bowl, grab 1 cup of canned pumpkin puree, 1/2 cup of granulated sugar, 1/4 cup of brown sugar, 1/4 cup of vegetable oil, and 2 large eggs. Whisk these together until smooth. This mix gives the donut holes their moistness and flavor.
In another bowl, mix 2 cups of all-purpose flour, 2 teaspoons of baking powder, 1 teaspoon of baking soda, 1 teaspoon of cinnamon, 1/2 teaspoon of nutmeg, and 1/4 teaspoon of salt. Gradually add this dry mix to your wet mix. Stir just until combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this keeps them light and fluffy.
Baking the Donut Holes
Use a small cookie scoop or tablespoon to fill each cavity of your greased pan about 2/3 full with batter. This helps them rise perfectly. Bake them in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes. To check if they’re done, insert a toothpick into the center. If it comes out clean, they are ready. Let the donut holes cool in the pan for 5 minutes before removing them.
Coating in Cinnamon Sugar
While the donut holes bake, prepare the cinnamon sugar coating. In a small bowl, mix 1/2 cup of granulated sugar with 2 teaspoons of ground cinnamon. Once you take the donut holes out of the oven, roll them in the cinnamon sugar while they’re warm. This coating sticks better when they are still hot. After coating, place them on a cooling rack to cool completely.Enjoy your warm, sweet creations!
Tips & Tricks
How to Ensure Fluffy Donut Holes
To make fluffy donut holes, start with fresh baking powder. Old baking powder can ruin the rise. Mix your wet and dry ingredients gently. Overmixing can lead to dense treats. Also, remember to measure your flour correctly. Use a spoon to fill your measuring cup, then level it off. This method helps you avoid extra flour.
Common Baking Mistakes to Avoid
One big mistake is not preheating your oven. An oven that is not hot enough can make your donut holes dense. Avoid opening the oven door too often while baking. This can cause a drop in temperature. Lastly, ensure your baking pan is well-greased. Sticking can ruin your perfect donut holes.
Best Practices for Measuring Ingredients
Always use dry measuring cups for flour and sugar. For liquids, use clear liquid measuring cups. When measuring brown sugar, pack it down firmly. This gives you the right amount. For spices, using a scale can improve accuracy. This way, you get the right flavor every time.
Variations
Adding Chocolate Chips or Nuts
You can easily boost your donut holes with chocolate chips or nuts. Add 1/2 cup of chocolate chips to the batter for a sweet twist. If you prefer nuts, try chopped pecans or walnuts for a nice crunch. Just fold them into the batter gently. This step adds flavor and texture. You can mix and match these options for fun results.
Different Flavor Coat Options
While cinnamon sugar is classic, you can try other coatings. For a twist, roll the donut holes in powdered sugar. You can also mix in cocoa powder for a chocolatey touch. Another option is to use maple sugar for a unique taste. Get creative and find a flavor that you love. Each coating brings its own charm to the donut holes.
Gluten-Free Version of the Recipe
To make this recipe gluten-free, swap out all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend. Many blends work well and keep the donuts soft. Ensure the blend contains xanthan gum for the right texture. You might need to adjust baking time slightly. Check for doneness using a toothpick. This way, you can enjoy these delicious treats without gluten.
Storage Info
Best Ways to Store Leftover Donut Holes
To keep your donut holes fresh, store them in an airtight container. I recommend placing a paper towel at the bottom. This helps absorb any moisture. Keep the container at room temperature for up to three days. If you have more than that, consider freezing them for later.
How to Freeze for Later Use
Freezing is easy and keeps your donut holes tasty. First, let them cool completely. Then, arrange them in a single layer on a baking sheet. Freeze them for about an hour until firm. Once they are firm, place them in a freezer-safe bag. Be sure to squeeze out as much air as possible. You can freeze them for up to three months.
Reheating Recommendations
When you’re ready to enjoy your donut holes, reheating them is simple. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the donut holes on a baking sheet. Warm them for about 5-7 minutes. This will make them soft and bring back that fresh-baked taste. You can also microwave them for about 10-15 seconds. Just be careful not to overheat them! Enjoy your cinnamon sugar pumpkin donut holes just like they were fresh from the oven!
FAQs
Can I use fresh pumpkin instead of canned?
Yes, you can use fresh pumpkin. First, cook the pumpkin until soft. Then, mash it into a smooth puree. Be sure to drain any excess water. This gives your donut holes a fresh flavor. However, canned pumpkin is easier and quicker.
How long do these donut holes stay fresh?
These donut holes stay fresh for about three days at room temperature. Keep them in an airtight container. If you want them to last longer, store them in the fridge. They can stay good for up to a week when chilled.
What’s the best way to serve cinnamon sugar pumpkin donut holes?
Serve them warm for the best taste. You can arrange them in a pretty basket lined with parchment paper. For extra fun, add a small bowl of maple syrup for dipping. You can also dust them with more cinnamon sugar before serving. Enjoy the sweet, warm flavors!
You now know how to make delicious cinnamon sugar pumpkin donut holes. We explored the key ingredients, detailed step-by-step instructions, and tips for perfect results. Remember, you can customize your donut holes with different flavors or toppings to suit your taste. Store them properly to keep them fresh, and don’t hesitate to try new variations. Enjoy your baking journey, and share these tasty treats with friends and family for joy and smiles. Happy baking!
