Irresistible Pumpkin Donut Holes

Why Make This Recipe

Fall season brings about cravings for warm, comforting flavors. One of the best ways to embrace this season is through delightful treats like Irresistible Pumpkin Donut Holes. These small bites are not only delicious but also incredibly easy to make. They contain pumpkin puree, which adds moisture and a touch of sweetness, while pumpkin pie spice introduces warmth and familiarity that cozy autumn afternoons often call for. Whether it’s a family gathering or just a cozy night in, these donut holes are perfect for sharing or enjoying all by yourself.

The beauty of this recipe is in its simplicity. It requires common ingredients found in most kitchen pantries, making it accessible for everyone. Plus, they’re baked instead of fried, so you can indulge a bit more without any guilt! The sweet glaze adds that final touch, making these treats not just a snack but also a lovely dessert any time of the day.

So, gather your ingredients and get ready to treat yourself and your loved ones to these delightful pumpkin donut holes!

How to Make Irresistible Pumpkin Donut Holes

Creating these little bites of joy is straightforward and requires only a few steps. Follow along as we break it down, ensuring that you have a fun and easy baking experience.

Ingredients

Here’s a list of what you will need to make these Irresistible Pumpkin Donut Holes:

• 1 cup low-fat buttermilk
• 1 large egg
• 1 cup pumpkin puree (not pumpkin pie filling)
• 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

1. Preheat the Oven
   Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Greasing your mini muffin or donut hole pan with non-stick spray is also essential at this stage to prevent the donut holes from sticking.

2. Mix Wet Ingredients
   In a large bowl, take the buttermilk, egg, pumpkin puree, and melted butter. Whisk them together until the mixture is smooth and well-combined. This step is important because it helps to incorporate air into the mixture, making your donut holes fluffy.

3. Combine Dry Ingredients
   In another bowl, mix together the flour, dark brown sugar, baking powder, pumpkin pie spice, and a pinch of salt. It’s best to use a whisk or a fork to ensure everything is evenly combined.

4. Combine Wet & Dry Mixtures
   Gradually add your dry mixture into the wet mixture. Stir gently just until combined. Avoid overmixing because this can lead to dense donut holes. The batter might be a little thick, and that’s perfectly fine!

5. Fill the Pan
   Using a spoon or a small scoop, fill each cavity in the donut pan about three-quarters full with the batter. Don’t overfill them; they will rise as they bake.

6. Bake
   Place the filled pan in the preheated oven. Bake for about 10 to 12 minutes or until the tops are golden and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Keep an eye on them as baking times may vary depending on your oven.

7. Cool
   Once baked, allow them to cool in the pan for about 5 minutes. After that, transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely. This step ensures they don’t become soggy.

8. Prepare the Glaze
   In a small bowl, mix together the powdered sugar and pumpkin pie spice. Gradually add warm water or milk until you reach a smooth glaze consistency.

9. Glaze the Donut Holes
   Once your donut holes are cool, dip the tops into the glaze or drizzle it over them with a spoon. Let them sit for a bit to allow the glaze to set before serving.

How to Serve Irresistible Pumpkin Donut Holes

These delicious donut holes are perfect for any occasion. You can serve them as a sweet treat during a morning brunch, an afternoon snack, or as dessert after dinner. They pair perfectly with coffee or warm spiced cider, enhancing their sweet and cozy flavor.

Consider serving them on a beautiful platter, perhaps with a sprinkle of extra pumpkin pie spice or a few pumpkin seeds for presentation. If you’re hosting a gathering, these donut holes can be a lovely centerpiece on a dessert table, inviting guests to indulge.

How to Store Irresistible Pumpkin Donut Holes

If you have leftovers (though they might not last long!), storing these donut holes is easy. Place them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. This way, they remain soft and tasty!

If you want to keep them longer, consider refrigerating them. Although they may slightly lose their soft texture, they can last up to a week in the fridge. Before serving them from the fridge, you can warm them in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds to regain some softness.

For longer storage, freeze the glazed (or unglazed) donut holes. Place them in a single layer in a freezer-safe bag or container. They can last up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw them at room temperature or microwave them quickly.

Tips to Make Irresistible Pumpkin Donut Holes

• Use Fresh Pumpkin: If you have access to fresh pumpkins, roasting and pureeing your own can enhance the flavor of your donut holes.
• Don’t Overmix: Stir until just combined to ensure a light, fluffy texture.
• Experiment with Spices: While pumpkin pie spice is classic, feel free to add a pinch of cinnamon, nutmeg, or ginger for a unique twist.
• Make Ahead: You can prepare the batter a day ahead, refrigerate it, and bake the next day for a quick treat.
• Decorate: Add chocolate chips to the batter for a chocolatey twist or sprinkle nuts on the glaze.

Variation

If you want to get creative, here are a few variations you might enjoy:

• Chocolate Chip Pumpkin Donut Holes: Fold in a cup of semi-sweet chocolate chips into the batter for a delightful chocolate-pumpkin combo.
• Maple Glazed Donut Holes: Replace the water in the glaze with maple syrup for a sweet, maple flavor that pairs perfectly with pumpkin.
• Spiced Nutmeg: Adjust the spices to incorporate more nutmeg or even swap in a touch of cardamom for a unique touch.

FAQs

1. Can I use canned pumpkin pie filling instead of pumpkin puree?
No, it’s best to use plain pumpkin puree to control the sweetness and spices in your donut holes. Pumpkin pie filling is already flavored and sweetened.

2. What if I don’t have a donut hole pan?
If you don’t have a donut hole pan, you can use a mini muffin pan instead. The baking time may vary slightly, so keep an eye on them.

3. Can I make these ahead of time?
Yes! You can make the pumpkin donut holes one or two days ahead. Store them in an airtight container, and they will still be delicious when served.

4. How can I make the glaze thicker?
If you want a thicker glaze, reduce the amount of liquid you add when mixing the glaze ingredients, or add more powdered sugar until you get the desired consistency.

5. Can I use whole milk instead of buttermilk?
While whole milk can work, buttermilk adds a tangy flavor and helps to create fluffier donut holes. If you must use whole milk, consider adding a tablespoon of vinegar or lemon juice to mimic buttermilk.

By following this simple recipe, you will create Irresistible Pumpkin Donut Holes that are fluffy, flavorful, and perfectly suited for the fall season. Enjoy baking, serving, and sharing these delightful bites with family and friends!

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