![The core of these donut holes is simple yet flavorful. Here’s what you need: - 1 cup canned pumpkin puree - 1/4 cup unsweetened applesauce - 1/4 cup granulated sugar - 1/4 cup brown sugar, packed - 1 large egg - 2 cups all-purpose flour - 1 tsp baking powder - 1/2 tsp baking soda - 1 tsp ground cinnamon - 1/2 tsp ground nutmeg - 1/4 tsp ground ginger - 1/4 tsp salt - 1/2 cup vegetable oil (for frying) - 1/2 cup granulated sugar (for coating) - 2 tsp ground cinnamon (for coating) These ingredients create a warm, spiced flavor that makes each bite irresistible. While the key ingredients shine on their own, a few optional add-ins can take these donut holes to a new level. Consider adding: - A splash of vanilla extract for a sweet aroma. - Chopped nuts like walnuts or pecans for added crunch. - Mini chocolate chips for a fun twist. These enhancements can make your donut holes unique and tailored to your taste. If you’re missing some items, don’t worry! Here are easy swaps: - Use homemade pumpkin puree instead of canned if you prefer fresh flavors. - Replace applesauce with mashed bananas for a different sweetness. - Try coconut oil in place of vegetable oil for frying to add a hint of coconut flavor. These substitutions make the recipe flexible, so you can cook with what you have. For the full recipe, check out the details above. To make these donut holes, start by mixing wet ingredients. In a big bowl, combine 1 cup of canned pumpkin puree, 1/4 cup of applesauce, 1/4 cup of granulated sugar, 1/4 cup of brown sugar, and 1 large egg. Stir until it’s smooth. In another bowl, whisk together the dry stuff. You’ll need 2 cups of flour, 1 tsp of baking powder, 1/2 tsp of baking soda, 1 tsp of ground cinnamon, 1/2 tsp of nutmeg, 1/4 tsp of ginger, and 1/4 tsp of salt. Be sure to mix well. Gradually add the dry mix to the wet mix. Stir gently until everything is just combined. Don’t overmix! This step is key for soft donut holes. Chill the dough for 30 minutes in the fridge. It helps with shaping. Heat vegetable oil in a large pot or deep fryer to 350°F (175°C). This temperature is vital for crispy donut holes. Use a small cookie scoop or your hands to take about 1 tablespoon of dough. Roll it into a ball. Carefully drop the balls into the hot oil in small groups. Fry them for 3-4 minutes until they turn golden brown. Use a slotted spoon to turn them gently. This ensures even cooking. Avoid overcrowding the pot to keep the oil hot. Once fried, remove the donut holes and let them drain on paper towels. This step removes excess oil. In a shallow bowl, mix 1/2 cup of granulated sugar with 2 tsp of ground cinnamon for the coating. While the donut holes are still warm, roll them in this mixture. Make sure they are well coated. This adds a sweet touch that makes them irresistible. Enjoy these warm delights from the [Full Recipe]. When making cinnamon sugar pumpkin donut holes, avoid overmixing the dough. This can make them tough. Also, don’t skip chilling the dough. It helps the donut holes hold their shape. Fry in small batches to keep the oil temperature steady. If you crowd the pan, they may not cook evenly. Lastly, roll them in sugar while they are warm. This helps the coating stick better. To get a light and fluffy texture, measure your flour properly. Too much flour can lead to dense donut holes. Use the spoon and level method. Spoon flour into a measuring cup and level off with a knife. Mixing your wet and dry ingredients just until combined also helps. The dough should be slightly sticky but manageable. You will need a few handy tools for this recipe. A mixing bowl is vital for combining ingredients. A whisk makes blending dry ingredients easy. Use a cookie scoop to portion the dough evenly. This ensures uniform donut holes. A slotted spoon helps you turn and remove them from the hot oil. Finally, have paper towels ready to drain excess oil after frying. For the full recipe, check out the cooking instructions above. {{image_2}} You can add more warmth with pumpkin spice. Just mix in extra spices like clove or allspice. This gives a cozy fall flavor. Use about 1 teaspoon of each spice for the best taste. These donut holes become a true seasonal treat with that extra kick. If you love chocolate, try a chocolate glaze. Melt 1 cup of chocolate chips with a bit of cream. Dip the warm donut holes into this glaze. You can then sprinkle them with crushed nuts or sprinkles. This twist brings a rich taste to your pumpkin donuts. You can play with the coatings too! Instead of cinnamon sugar, roll your donut holes in powdered sugar. For a fun twist, coat them in coconut flakes or crushed graham crackers. You can also try a maple glaze for a sweet contrast. The options are endless, so get creative! For the full recipe, you can explore how to make these delicious donut holes. To keep your donut holes fresh, store them in an airtight container. Use parchment paper between layers to avoid sticking. This method helps maintain their fluffy texture. Place the container in a cool, dry place. Avoid storing them in the fridge, as this can make them dry. You can freeze these donut holes for a later treat. First, let them cool completely. Then, place them in a single layer on a baking sheet. Freeze for about an hour, then transfer to a heavy-duty freezer bag. When you're ready to enjoy them, reheat in a 350°F oven for 5-7 minutes. This will bring back their warmth and softness. Homemade donut holes stay fresh for about 2-3 days at room temperature. If stored properly in an airtight container, they can last up to a week in the fridge. However, the best taste comes when enjoyed fresh. With proper freezing, they can last for up to 2 months. Always check for any signs of spoilage before eating. For the full recipe, check out the detailed instructions to make these delightful treats. If you can't find canned pumpkin puree, use fresh pumpkin. Cook the pumpkin until soft. Then, mash it well to get a smooth texture. You can also use butternut squash puree as a tasty alternative. Both options give a similar flavor and texture. Yes, you can bake these donut holes for a healthier twist! Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the rolled donut holes on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for about 15-20 minutes or until they are golden. Keep an eye on them to avoid over-baking. To check if the oil is ready, use a thermometer. The ideal temperature is 350°F (175°C). If you don't have a thermometer, drop a small piece of dough into the oil. If it bubbles and rises, the oil is hot enough. Fry in small batches to keep the temperature steady. This article covered how to make cinnamon sugar pumpkin donut holes from start to finish. You learned about the key ingredients, the steps for perfect frying, and helpful tips along the way. I shared variations and best storage practices too. Now you have all the tools to create these tasty treats. Enjoy experimenting with flavors and impress your friends and family with your delicious donut holes!](https://grilledflavors.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/aa08d20b-f820-467a-89a6-5a734a9e29ca-300x300.webp)
Cinnamon Sugar Pumpkin Donut Holes
Delight in the flavors of fall with these irresistible cinnamon sugar pumpkin donut holes! Made with creamy pumpkin puree and fragrant spices, these warm treats are perfect for any occasion. Easy to prepare and fun to share, you’ll love the crunch of the exterior and the soft, fluffy interior. Click through to discover the full recipe and impress your friends and family with this delicious autumn-inspired dessert!