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Baked Pumpkin Spice Donut Holes

These delightful Baked Pumpkin Spice Donut Holes combine comforting pumpkin and aromatic spices, offering a healthier twist on traditional fried donuts, perfect for cozy autumn afternoons.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 12 minutes
Total Time 27 minutes
Servings: 12 servings
Course: Dessert, Snack
Cuisine: American, Seasonal
Calories: 180
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Dry Ingredients
  • 2 cups all-purpose flour A foundation for the fluffiness in each bite.
  • ½ cup dark brown sugar Adds a rich, molasses-like depth.
  • 1½ teaspoons baking powder A helper in achieving that delightful rise.
  • 1½ teaspoons pumpkin pie spice The aromatic blend that showcases the essence of autumn.
  • ½ teaspoon salt Balances the sweetness and enhances flavors.
  • ¼ teaspoon baking soda Enhances the texture and ensures perfect puffiness.
Wet Ingredients
  • 1 cup pumpkin puree The star ingredient, bringing moisture and a vibrant color.
  • 2 large eggs Providing richness and binding together the ingredients.
  • ¼ cup whole milk Elevates the creaminess and overall tenderness.
  • ¼ cup unsalted butter (melted and cooled) Adds a dreamy richness to the batter.
For Coating
  • 1 cup granulated sugar For that beautifully sweet finish.
  • 1 teaspoon cinnamon A classic flavor that beautifully complements pumpkin.
  • ¼ cup butter (melted and cooled) For brushing the holes just before rolling in sugar.

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Preheat the oven to 325°F (163°C).
  2. Spray mini muffin pans with nonstick spray.
Mix Dry Ingredients
  1. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the dry ingredients: all-purpose flour, dark brown sugar, baking powder, pumpkin pie spice, salt, and baking soda until well combined.
Combine Wet Ingredients
  1. In a medium bowl, whisk the wet ingredients: pumpkin puree, eggs, milk, and melted butter until smooth and creamy.
Combine Wet and Dry
  1. Pour the wet mixture into the dry and stir gently until just incorporated. Avoid overmixing to keep the donuts light and fluffy.
Fill Muffin Cups
  1. Using a 1-inch cookie scoop, generously fill each muffin spot with the batter.
Bake
  1. Place the filled pans in the oven and bake for 10-12 minutes or until they feel soft yet springy to the touch.
Cool and Coat
  1. Let the donut holes cool slightly before brushing with melted butter and rolling them in the cinnamon-sugar mixture.

Notes

For an extra special touch, consider adding chopped nuts or chocolate chips into the batter. Using fresh pumpkin when in season enhances the flavor immensely. Don't hesitate to adjust the spices to suit your personal taste.