Irresistible Pumpkin Donut Holes

why make this recipe

Pumpkin donut holes are a delightful treat that captures the essence of fall. They are soft, moist, and packed with the warm flavors of pumpkin pie spice. Whether you are enjoying them by yourself or sharing with friends and family, they provide a perfect balance of sweetness and heartiness. Making these donut holes at home allows you to enjoy a fresh and warm version that you simply can’t match with store-bought alternatives. Plus, they are easy to make and create lovely memories in your kitchen, replete with the comforting aroma of baked pumpkin wafting through your home.

These little bites make for an excellent snack, breakfast item, or dessert, and they are wonderfully versatile. You can serve them at parties, bring them to gatherings, or keep them as a special treat for yourself. With their charming, petite size and sweet glaze, pumpkin donut holes are a fantastic way to celebrate the fall season.

how to make Irresistible Pumpkin Donut Holes

Creating delicious pumpkin donut holes is a straightforward process that doesn’t require professional baking skills. Just follow these easy steps to fill your kitchen with the heartwarming aroma of pumpkin and spices.

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:

1. Preheat the oven: Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This step is crucial as it ensures that your donuts will bake evenly.

2. Grease the pan: Lightly grease a mini muffin or donut hole pan with non-stick spray. This will prevent your donut holes from sticking and make for an easy release once they are baked.

3. Prepare the wet ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the low-fat buttermilk, egg, pumpkin puree, and melted butter until the mixture is smooth and well combined.

4. Mix the dry ingredients: In another bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, dark brown sugar, baking powder, pumpkin pie spice, and salt. Stir these dry ingredients together until they are fully combined.

5. Combine wet and dry ingredients: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients while stirring gently. Be careful not to overmix; you want the batter to stay light and airy.

6. Fill the pan: Using a spoon, scoop the batter into the prepared pan, filling each cavity about three-quarters full. This allows enough space for the dough to rise while baking.

7. Bake: Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for 10 to 12 minutes. You’ll know they are ready when the tops become lightly golden and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

8. Cool: Allow the donut holes to cool in the pan for about 5 minutes, then carefully transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely.

9. Make the glaze: For the glaze, mix the sifted powdered sugar, 1/2 teaspoon of pumpkin pie spice, and enough warm water or whole milk to achieve a smooth, pourable consistency.

10. Glaze the donut holes: Once the donut holes have cooled, dip the tops of each into the glaze, allowing any excess to drip off. Set them aside and let the glaze set before serving.

how to serve Irresistible Pumpkin Donut Holes

Serving your pumpkin donut holes can be just as fun as making them. You have a few options that will enhance their presentation and taste:

1. Fresh and warm: Serve the donut holes right after they have cooled and been glazed. They are at their best when still slightly warm.

2. With drinks: Pair them with a hot cup of coffee, tea, or cider. The warm flavors of pumpkin and spices create a delightful balance with beverages.

3. As a platter: Arrange the donut holes on a decorative plate or a festive platter. You can sprinkle some extra powdered sugar over the top or add a few cinnamon sticks for a cozy look.

4. Breakfast or brunch: These donut holes are a great addition to any breakfast or brunch spread. Set them alongside fruits, yogurt, and other pastries for a colorful and varied selection.

5. Gift them: If you want to share the love, package the donut holes in a cute box or bag. They make for an excellent homemade gift for friends, relatives, or neighbors, especially during the fall season.

how to store Irresistible Pumpkin Donut Holes

Storing your pumpkin donut holes properly will help maintain their freshness and flavor:

1. Room temperature: If you plan to enjoy them within a couple of days, simply keep the donut holes in an airtight container at room temperature. They should stay good for 2-3 days.

2. Refrigerate: For longer storage, you can refrigerate them. Place the donut holes in an airtight container; they will stay fresh for about a week. However, keep in mind that refrigeration may slightly alter their texture.

3. Freezing: If you want to keep them even longer, you can freeze the donut holes. Arrange them on a baking sheet in a single layer and freeze until solid. Once frozen, transfer the donut holes into a freezer-safe container or bag. They can last up to 3 months in the freezer. When you’re ready to eat them, thaw them at room temperature or reheat in a warm oven.

tips to make Irresistible Pumpkin Donut Holes

1. Use pure pumpkin puree: Always choose pure pumpkin puree rather than pumpkin pie filling, as the latter contains added sugars and spices that can affect the taste of your donut holes.

2. Don’t overmix: When combining the wet and dry ingredients, mix just until combined. Overmixing can lead to dense and tough donut holes.

3. Adjust the glaze: If you prefer a thicker glaze, use less milk or water. If you like it thinner, add a little more liquid. Finding your perfect glaze consistency can enhance the overall taste experience.

4. Add nuts or chocolate chips: For added texture and flavor, consider folding in mini chocolate chips or chopped nuts like pecans or walnuts into the batter before baking.

5. Experiment with spices: Don’t hesitate to tweak the amount of pumpkin pie spice to suit your palate. You can also add a dash of nutmeg or cinnamon for extra warmth.

variation

If you want to mix things up with your pumpkin donut holes, here are some fun variations you can try:

1. Chocolate pumpkin donut holes: Add cocoa powder to the dry ingredients (around 1/4 cup) for chocolate-flavored pumpkin donut holes. You might need to slightly adjust the amount of flour to maintain the right batter consistency.

2. Maple syrup glaze: Instead of a traditional sugar glaze, try mixing powdered sugar with maple syrup for a flavorful alternative.

3. Cream cheese filling: For a delicious surprise, pipe a small amount of cream cheese filling into the center of each donut hole before baking. This adds a rich and creamy element that complements the pumpkin flavor beautifully.

FAQs

1. Can I use fresh pumpkin instead of canned pumpkin puree?

Yes, you can use fresh pumpkin! To do this, cut a small sugar pumpkin in half, remove the seeds, and roast it until it’s tender. Then, scoop out the flesh and blend it until smooth to use in your recipe.

2. How can I tell when the donut holes are done baking?

You’ll know the donut holes are done when they are slightly golden on the top, and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. If there is wet batter clinging to the toothpick, they need a few more minutes in the oven.

3. Can I make these donut holes ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the batter ahead and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. Just remember to bake them fresh for the best texture and flavor. You can also bake them in advance and store them for a few days as described earlier.

4. What is the best way to reheat leftover donut holes?

To reheat, simply place them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-10 minutes until warmed through. This will help maintain their soft texture.

5. Can I replace the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free option?

Yes, you can substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Make sure it is a 1:1 baking blend, and your donut holes should still turn out fluffy and delicious.

These irresistible pumpkin donut holes are not only easy to make but also bring a sense of holiday cheer to your kitchen. With their cozy flavors and delightful texture, they are bound to become a favorite for anyone who tries them. Happy baking!

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