Fall’s favorite treat just got easier! These Cinnamon Sugar Pumpkin Donut Holes are the perfect blend of sweet and spice. You’ll love how simple they are to whip up, making them a great snack or dessert. With just a few ingredients and easy steps, you can create delicious bites that will wow your friends and family. Let’s dive into this simple delight and brighten your autumn days!
Ingredients
To make the best cinnamon sugar pumpkin donut holes, you need a few key ingredients. They will create a moist and flavorful treat that everyone will love. Here’s what you’ll need:
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup pumpkin puree
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup brown sugar, packed
– 1/4 cup buttermilk (or milk + 1/4 teaspoon vinegar)
– 1 large egg
– 2 tablespoons melted butter
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar (for coating)
– 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon (for coating)
Each ingredient plays a special role in the donut holes. The flour gives the structure, while the baking powder and baking soda help them rise. The spices add warmth and flavor, making each bite cozy and delightful.
Pumpkin puree keeps the donut holes moist. Sweeteners like granulated and brown sugar bring out a rich sweetness. Buttermilk adds a nice tang, and the egg binds everything together. Finally, the coating of cinnamon sugar gives a delicious finish that makes these treats irresistible.
For the full recipe, check out the detailed steps to create these sweet delights.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparation Steps
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and prepare your baking pan. Use a mini muffin tin or a donut hole pan. Lightly grease it to stop the donut holes from sticking.
2. In a medium bowl, mix together the dry ingredients. This includes 1 cup of all-purpose flour, 1/2 teaspoon of baking powder, 1/2 teaspoon of baking soda, 1/2 teaspoon of ground cinnamon, 1/4 teaspoon of ground nutmeg, and 1/4 teaspoon of salt. Set the bowl aside for later.
3. In another bowl, combine the wet ingredients. Whisk together 1/2 cup of pumpkin puree, 1/4 cup of granulated sugar, 1/4 cup of packed brown sugar, 1/4 cup of buttermilk, 1 large egg, and 2 tablespoons of melted butter until smooth.
4. Gradually add the dry mixture to the wet mixture. Stir gently until just combined. It’s okay if there are a few lumps; avoid overmixing.
5. Use a spoon or small cookie scoop to fill each muffin cavity about 2/3 full with batter. This helps them rise properly while baking.
6. Bake in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes. Check for doneness by inserting a toothpick. It should come out clean.
Coating the Donut Holes
1. While the donut holes bake, prepare the cinnamon sugar mixture. In a bowl, mix 1/2 cup of granulated sugar with 2 teaspoons of ground cinnamon.
2. Once baked, let the donut holes cool in the pan for about 5 minutes. Then, remove them carefully.
3. Roll the warm donut holes in the cinnamon sugar mixture. Coat them evenly until they are fully covered.
4. Set the coated donut holes on a wire rack to cool completely.
Enjoy these Cinnamon Sugar Pumpkin Donut Holes as a sweet treat! For the full recipe, check out the details above.
Tips & Tricks
Baking Tips
– How to prevent overmixing:
Mix the wet and dry ingredients until just combined. A few lumps are okay. This keeps your donut holes soft and fluffy. If you mix too much, they can become tough.
– Perfect baking time and toothpick test:
Bake for 12-15 minutes. Use a toothpick to check if they are done. Insert it into the center. If it comes out clean, they’re ready. If not, give them a few more minutes.
– Ensuring even baking:
Make sure to fill each cavity of the pan equally. This helps all the donut holes bake at the same time. Rotate the pan halfway through baking for even heat.
Presentation Tips
– Serving suggestions:
Serve the donut holes in a decorative bowl. You can also stack them on a platter for a fun look. Pair them with coffee or tea to enhance the experience.
– Decorative options for serving platter:
Dust the top with extra cinnamon sugar before serving. You can add some fall leaves or small pumpkins around the platter for a festive touch. This makes your dessert stand out and look appealing.
For the full recipe, check out the details and enjoy making these treats!
Variations
Flavor Variations
You can easily change the taste of your cinnamon sugar pumpkin donut holes. Adding chocolate chips gives a sweet surprise in each bite. Try mixing in nuts for a satisfying crunch. Walnuts or pecans work well. If you want a spicy kick, switch out the cinnamon for allspice or ginger. Each spice brings its own warmth. You can even blend spices for a unique flavor profile.
Dietary Adjustments
If you need gluten-free options, use a gluten-free flour blend. Just make sure it has a good binding agent. For dairy-free substitutions, try almond milk or oat milk instead of buttermilk. You can also swap the melted butter with coconut oil or dairy-free margarine. These simple swaps make the recipe fit for everyone.
For the full recipe, check out the details above.
Storage Info
Best Storage Practices
Store your cinnamon sugar pumpkin donut holes at room temperature for the best taste. Use a container with a tight lid. If you live in a humid place, you might want to refrigerate them. Just make sure to wrap them well. Use plastic wrap or place them in an airtight bag. This helps keep them soft and fresh.
Shelf Life Information
These donut holes are best eaten within three days. After that, they may lose their soft texture. If you keep them in the fridge, they can last up to a week. Look for signs of spoilage, like a dry texture or off smell. If they look hard or have mold, it’s time to toss them. Enjoy these treats while they’re fresh for the best flavor!
FAQs
Common Questions
Can I use fresh pumpkin instead of puree?
Yes, you can use fresh pumpkin. First, cook the pumpkin until soft. Then, mash it until smooth. Make sure to drain any excess water. This will help your donut holes stay fluffy.
Can I freeze cinnamon sugar pumpkin donut holes?
Absolutely! Let them cool completely first. Place them in an airtight container or a freezer bag. They can last up to three months in the freezer. Just thaw and reheat when you’re ready to enjoy them.
How do I make the donut holes more flavorful?
To boost flavor, add a pinch of ground ginger or cloves. You can also mix in chocolate chips or chopped nuts. Experimenting with different spices can create unique flavors you’ll love.
Additional Inquiries
What can I serve with donut holes?
These donut holes are great with coffee or tea. You can also serve them with whipped cream or a sweet dip. Fruits like apples or berries make a nice side.
Can I bake these in a regular muffin tin?
You can, but keep in mind the size will change. Baking them in a regular muffin tin will make bigger muffins. Adjust the baking time to about 18-20 minutes for larger sizes. Enjoy the fun variations!
For the full recipe, check out the detailed steps to make these delicious treats.
In this blog post, we explored how to make cinnamon sugar pumpkin donut holes. We discussed ingredients, step-by-step instructions, and helpful baking tips. I shared ideas for flavor tweaks and storing your treats.
Remember, baking is fun and creative. Feel free to experiment with flavors and toppings. Enjoy your yummy donut holes with family and friends.
