Pumpkin Donut Holes with Cinnamon Sugar Coating
These Pumpkin Donut Holes with Cinnamon Sugar Coating are fluffy, perfectly spiced bite-sized treats that combine the cozy flavors of autumn pumpkin and warm cinnamon sugar. Easy to make and ideal for snacking or serving at gatherings, they boast a tender crumb and a sweet, crunchy coating that’s simply irresistible.
- Author: Nina
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: About 24 donut holes 1x
- Category: Appetizers
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free (if using gluten-free flour)
Main Ingredients
- 1 cup pumpkin puree (canned or fresh)
- 2 cups all-purpose flour (or gluten-free flour blend for gluten-free option)
- 3/4 cup sugar
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 2 large eggs
- 1/2 cup whole milk or buttermilk
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Oil for frying (canola or vegetable oil)
Cinnamon Sugar Coating
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
- Prepare the Dough: In a large mixing bowl, combine the pumpkin puree, eggs, milk, and vanilla extract until smooth and well blended. In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture and stir just until a soft, slightly sticky dough forms. Avoid overmixing to keep the donut holes light and airy.
- Heat the Oil: Pour oil into a heavy-bottomed pot or deep fryer about 2-3 inches deep. Heat the oil to a steady 350°F (175°C). Use a candy or small ice cream scoop to portion the dough evenly for round, uniform donut holes.
- Fry the Donut Holes: Carefully drop small spoonfuls of dough into the hot oil, frying in batches to avoid overcrowding. Cook each batch for 2-3 minutes, turning halfway through to ensure even golden brown color. Remove donut holes with a slotted spoon and drain on paper towels.
- Coat with Cinnamon Sugar: While donut holes are still warm, roll them generously in the cinnamon sugar mixture. The warmth will help the sugar stick and create a crunchy coating. Let them cool slightly before serving.
Notes
- Keep the oil temperature consistent between 350°F and 360°F to prevent greasy or burnt donut holes.
- Mix the batter just until combined to maintain tender and fluffy texture.
- Use freshly ground cinnamon and nutmeg for the best flavor.
- Fry one test donut hole first to check oil temperature and texture before cooking the entire batch.
- Serve donut holes warm for optimal taste, though they remain delicious at room temperature.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 3 donut holes
- Calories: 150
- Sugar: 10g
- Sodium: 130mg
- Fat: 7g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 30mg
Keywords: pumpkin donut holes, cinnamon sugar coating, autumn recipe, fall dessert, bite-sized donuts, gluten-free donut holes