Cinnamon Sugar Pumpkin Donut Holes (Fall Treat) Recipe

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If you are looking for a cozy way to welcome fall into your kitchen, this Cinnamon Sugar Pumpkin Donut Holes (Fall Treat) Recipe is exactly what you need. These bite-sized pumpkin donut holes are tender and moist, bursting with warm spices and fresh pumpkin flavor, then lovingly coated in a sweet cinnamon sugar topping that makes each bite feel like a little celebration of autumn. Whether you’re serving them at a family gathering or sneaking one with your coffee on a crisp morning, these donut holes are an irresistible taste of the season that melts in your mouth every time.

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Ingredients You’ll Need

With just a handful of simple, pantry-friendly ingredients, this recipe brings together a perfect balance of sweetness, spice, and pumpkin goodness. Each component plays a key role, from the warm cinnamon and aromatic spices to the moist pumpkin puree, ensuring every bite is flavorful and comforting.

• All-purpose flour: The base that gives the donut holes their structure and tender crumb.
• Granulated sugar: Adds just the right touch of sweetness to balance the spices and pumpkin.
• Baking powder: Ensures these bite-sized treats rise beautifully for a light texture.
• Salt: Enhances all the flavors without being intrusive.
• Ground cinnamon: Brings that quintessential warm spice that defines fall baking.
• Ground nutmeg, ginger, allspice, and cloves: A cozy blend of spices that makes the pumpkin flavor pop and adds complexity.
• Large egg: Binds everything together for just the right consistency.
• Buttermilk: Keeps the donut holes moist and tender with a subtle tang.
• Vanilla extract: Adds a sweet aromatic depth that complements the pumpkin and spices.
• Unsalted butter (melted): Contributes richness and helps create a tender crumb.
• Pumpkin puree: The star ingredient that makes this recipe a true fall treat, infusing flavor and moisture.
• Butter (melted) for coating: Acts as a glue for the cinnamon sugar to adhere perfectly.
• Granulated sugar and ground cinnamon for topping: The classic duo that adds crunch and that irresistible sugar-spice finish.

How to Make Cinnamon Sugar Pumpkin Donut Holes (Fall Treat) Recipe

Step 1: Prepare Your Mini Muffin Tin

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F and generously greasing your 24-cup mini muffin tin. This ensures your donut holes come out easily and keep their perfect shapes.

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a large bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, baking powder, salt, and all the warm spices—cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, allspice, and cloves. This fragrant, spiced mixture forms the flavorful foundation of your donut holes.

Step 3: Combine Wet Ingredients and Incorporate

Crack in the large egg and begin mixing it into your dry ingredients. Then pour in the buttermilk, vanilla extract, and melted butter. Stir gently until everything is just combined; a few small lumps here and there are totally fine and will help keep the texture light.

Step 4: Fold in Pumpkin Puree

Add the pumpkin puree into the batter and fold it in carefully to ensure everything is evenly blended, creating a beautiful orange-speckled batter that smells like autumn in a bowl.

Step 5: Bake Your Donut Holes

Spoon about one tablespoon of the batter into each mini muffin cup, spreading it evenly. Pop the tin into your preheated oven and bake for 9 to 10 minutes, or until the donut holes spring back when you press them gently. This signals they’re perfectly baked and ready to be transformed.

Step 6: Prepare the Cinnamon Sugar Coating

While your donut holes are baking, mix together the cinnamon and granulated sugar in a shallow dish. This simple cinnamon sugar coating is going to add the perfect sweet-spicy crunch once your donut holes come out of the oven.

Step 7: Coat and Enjoy

Once cooled slightly but still warm, gently roll each donut hole in the melted butter, then immediately toss it in the cinnamon sugar mixture until fully coated. These little balls of deliciousness are now ready to serve warm or at room temperature.

How to Serve Cinnamon Sugar Pumpkin Donut Holes (Fall Treat) Recipe

Garnishes

Elevate your donut holes by sprinkling a pinch of extra cinnamon sugar on top just before serving. For a festive touch, add finely chopped toasted pecans or a light drizzle of maple glaze, enhancing that cozy fall vibe.

Side Dishes

These Cinnamon Sugar Pumpkin Donut Holes pair wonderfully with a hot cup of spiced chai tea or freshly brewed coffee. Serve alongside a creamy latte or a glass of rich apple cider to create a perfect fall snack spread that’s sure to impress.

Creative Ways to Present

Think beyond the plate! Arrange these donut holes in a rustic basket lined with parchment paper for a charming coffee table treat. Or stack them on a tiered stand alongside seasonal fruits and nuts for a delightful autumn-themed dessert tower.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftover donut holes in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. They stay wonderfully soft and the cinnamon sugar coating remains deliciously intact.

Freezing

To keep the magic fresh longer, freeze your donut holes in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container. They freeze beautifully for up to one month without losing their tender texture or spiced flavor.

Reheating

When ready to enjoy again, warm the donut holes in the oven at 300°F for about 5 minutes or microwave for 10-15 seconds. This quick reheat will bring back their soft, warm charm and refresh the cinnamon sugar coating’s delightful aroma.

FAQs

Can I use canned pumpkin for this recipe?

Absolutely! Canned pumpkin puree works perfectly and makes this Cinnamon Sugar Pumpkin Donut Holes (Fall Treat) Recipe quick and easy without sacrificing flavor or texture.

What if I don’t have buttermilk?

No worries! You can substitute buttermilk by adding one tablespoon of white vinegar or lemon juice to a cup of regular milk; let it sit for 5 minutes before adding to the batter. This little trick helps keep your donut holes moist and tender.

Can I bake these in a regular muffin tin?

While you can, keep in mind that these are meant to be bite-sized donut holes so using a standard muffin tin will result in larger muffin-style treats, which may require longer baking times.

How do I prevent donut holes from sticking to the pan?

Generously greasing the mini muffin tin or using a non-stick spray is key to easy release. You can also line the cups with small paper liners if you prefer, but a well-greased pan usually does the trick flawlessly.

Is it possible to make these dairy-free?

Yes! Substitute the buttermilk with a dairy-free milk plus a splash of vinegar and swap the butter for a plant-based alternative. Your donut holes will still have that cozy fall flavor you love.

Final Thoughts

There is something truly special about making and sharing these Cinnamon Sugar Pumpkin Donut Holes (Fall Treat) Recipe that feels like wrapping yourself in a warm blanket of fall flavors. They are simple, quick, and utterly delicious—perfect for brightening up any chilly day or festive occasion. Give this recipe a try and watch them disappear fast, leaving behind nothing but happy smiles and the perfect hint of cinnamon-sugar sweetness in the air.

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