Cinnamon Sugar Pumpkin Donut Holes Recipe
These cinnamon sugar pumpkin donut holes are bite-sized, fall-inspired treats with a warm pumpkin spice flavor and a sweet, crunchy coating. Perfect for quick snacks or cozy gatherings, they can be fried, air-fried, or baked for a healthier twist.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients:
- 1 cup all-purpose flour or gluten-free 1:1 baking flour
- ¼ cup granulated sugar
- 1 tsp baking powder
- ½ tsp ground cinnamon
- ¼ tsp ground nutmeg
- ¼ tsp ground ginger
- ⅛ tsp ground cloves
- ¼ tsp salt
- ⅓ cup pumpkin puree not pumpkin pie filling
- 1 large egg
- ¼ cup milk or plant-based milk
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter melted (or coconut oil)
- Vegetable oil for frying omit for air fryer/baked versions
Cinnamon Sugar Coating:
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- 1 tbsp ground cinnamon
- 2 tbsp melted butter optional, for brushing
Instructions
- Prepare the Dough: In a large bowl, whisk flour, sugar, baking powder, cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, cloves, and salt. In another bowl, mix pumpkin puree, egg, milk, vanilla, and melted butter until smooth. Combine wet and dry ingredients, stirring until just mixed.
- Shape the Donut Holes: Scoop 1 tbsp portions of dough and roll into balls. Place on a parchment-lined tray (makes about 18-20).
- Heat the Oil (Fried Version): Heat 2 inches of vegetable oil in a skillet to 350°F. Fry 4-5 donut holes at a time for 2-3 minutes, turning occasionally, until golden. Drain on paper towels.
- Air Fryer Method (Optional): Preheat air fryer to 375°F. Spray donut holes with cooking spray. Air fry for 8-10 minutes, shaking halfway.
- Baked Method (Optional): Preheat oven to 375°F. Place donut holes on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Bake for 10-12 minutes.
- Coat in Cinnamon Sugar: Mix 1/2 cup sugar and 1 tbsp cinnamon in a bowl. Brush warm donut holes with melted butter (optional), then roll in cinnamon sugar.
- Serve: Enjoy warm with coffee or cider!
Notes
- Storage: Refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 3 days or freeze uncoated for up to 2 months. Thaw and coat before serving.
- Substitutions: Use gluten-free flour or almond flour for gluten-free; swap butter and milk for coconut oil and plant-based milk for dairy-free.
- Healthy Option: Reduce sugar to 2 tbsp and bake or air fry for lower calories.
- Flavor Twist: Add orange zest to dough or drizzle with glaze (1 cup powdered sugar + 2 tbsp milk).
- Tip: Keep oil at 350°F for frying to avoid greasy donut holes.