Pumpkin Donut Holes are soft, fluffy, and packed with warm pumpkin spice flavor. They’re an easy, delicious treat perfect for fall!

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Table of Contents

Ingredients
Substitutions and Additions
How to Make Pumpkin Donut Holes
Why You'll Love This Pumpkin Donut Holes Recipe
Recipe FAQ
Serving FAQ
Storage FAQ
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Table of Contents

These Pumpkin Donut Holes are the perfect fall treat, bursting with warm spices and a sweet, sugary coating. Enjoy them fresh from the oven with your favorite cup of coffee or tea. They're quick to make and incredibly satisfying for breakfast, a snack, or even dessert. With cinnamon and pumpkin flavors, these donut holes are irresistible any time of day!

This recipe is easy to follow, and the guide below includes step-by-step photos and directions. We’ve added pro tips and tricks to ensure perfect results, plus answers to the most frequently asked questions about this delicious recipe!

Pumpkin Donut Holes stacked together, one with a bite and a bowl full of Pumpkin Donut Holes on the side

More Recipes ⭐ Pumpkin Spice Chex Mix | Homemade Soft Pretzels | Apple Fries

Pumpkin Donut Holes take less than thirty minutes to make, making them perfect for busy mornings or a quick snack. Their soft, fluffy texture and spiced pumpkin flavor make them ideal for fall gatherings, parties, or cozy weekends at home. The sugary cinnamon coating adds just the right amount of sweetness, making every bite delicious. If you're looking for a fun and easy recipe to impress guests, these donut holes are a must-try!

Ingredients

What you'll need to make this Pumpkin Donut Holes recipe:

3 cups of all-purpose flour
1 cup of sugar
2 teaspoons of baking powder
2 teaspoons of pumpkin pie spice
1 teaspoon of salt
½ cup of buttermilk
1 cup of canned pumpkin purée
1 teaspoon of vanilla extract
1 large egg
2 tablespoons of unsalted butter

For The Topping:

¼ cup of unsalted butter, melted
¾ cup of sugar
1 tablespoon of ground cinnamon

Pro Tip

Watch out when you are at the grocery store that you buy pure pumpkin puree and not canned pumpkin pie filling.

Substitutions and Additions

Personalize your Pumpkin Donut Holes recipe by swapping out ingredients and adding delicious extras! These simple changes can make your donut holes uniquely yours. Here are some top substitutions and additions:

Add Nutmeg: Sprinkle in a pinch of nutmeg to enhance the warm spice flavors in your Pumpkin Donut Holes. These easy substitutions and additions can easily be swapped out while still maintaining the deliciousness of this easy homemade donut recipe.

Substitute Pumpkin Purée: Use sweet potato purée for a slightly sweeter, unique flavor in your Pumpkin Donut Holes.

Substitute All-Purpose Flour: Swap it with whole wheat flour for a healthier twist in your donut holes.

Add Chocolate Chips: Mix in mini chocolate chips for a sweet, melty surprise in every bite.

How to Make Pumpkin Donut Holes

Follow along with our pictures, step-by-step instructions, and the tips and tricks listed below for perfect results. Let’s get started and create this delicious fall treat together!

FIRST STEP: Preheat the oven to 350°F.

SECOND STEP: Line two baking sheets with silicone baking mats or parchment paper and spray with nonstick cooking spray.

THIRD STEP: In a large bowl, combine flour, sugar, baking powder, pumpkin pie spice, and salt. Set flour mixture aside.

FOURTH STEP: In a separate large mixing bowl, stir together the remaining ingredients (buttermilk, pumpkin puree, vanilla, egg, and butter).

buttermilk, pumpkin puree, vanilla, egg and butter mixed in a clear bowl with a wooden spoon

FIFTH STEP: Stir the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients. Stir just until well mixed. The batter will be thick.

Pumpkin Donut Holes ingredients in a bowl for mixing

SIXTH STEP: Scoop one tablespoon size amounts and shape them into balls using your hands. You’ll want to grease your hands for this step.

Pro Tip

A medium cookie scoop is a great tool to measure out just about the right amount of donut batter.

SEVENTH STEP: Place balls two inches apart on baking sheets. Bake one sheet at a time.

Pro Tip

You can also make these donut holes in a mini muffin pan.

Pumpkin Donut Holes placed on a baking sheet ready for baking

EIGHTH STEP: Bake for fourteen to fifteen minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the middle of the donut hole comes out clean.

NINTH STEP: Let cool for five minutes before adding the topping.

For The Topping:

FIRST STEP: Place half of the donut holes in a large, resealable food storage bag.

Pour half the melted butter into the bag and shake well to coat all donut holes. Remove the donut holes from the bag and set them aside.

Repeat the steps with the rest of the donut holes and melted butter.

SECOND STEP: In a small bowl, combine cinnamon and sugar.

Pour the cinnamon sugar mixture into a clean food storage bag, add half the buttered donut holes, and shake well to coat.

Remove from the bag and set on the baking tray to cool. Repeat with the other half of the donut holes.

THIRD STEP: Remove the donut holes from the bag and serve warm.

How To Serve Pumpkin Donut Holes

Pumpkin Donut Holes are versatile and perfect for many occasions. Whether for a fall party or weekend brunch, these tasty treats will be a hit! Here are some great ways to serve them:

Fall Parties and Halloween: These donut holes make a sweet addition to any fall gathering. Pair them with warm apple cider or hot chocolate for a cozy treat. They’re easy to grab and perfect for guests of all ages!
Family Breakfast or Brunch: Serve these pumpkin treats alongside scrambled eggs and bacon for a complete breakfast. Kids love their sugary coating, making them a family favorite for weekend mornings!
Thanksgiving Dessert Spread: Add Pumpkin Donut Holes to your Thanksgiving dessert table for a fun twist. They pair well with pumpkin pie and spiced lattes, making them perfect for holiday celebrations.

Why You'll Love This Pumpkin Donut Holes Recipe

Pumpkin Donut Holes are a favorite for our readers, and it’s easy to see why! This recipe delivers warm, comforting flavors with a fun, easy-to-make twist.

A Burst of Fall Flavors: These donut holes perfectly combine the sweet, spiced taste of pumpkin with the warmth of cinnamon and sugar. The result is a cozy, fall-inspired treat that feels like a hug in every bite.
Quick and Easy to Make: Readers love how fast they can whip up these pumpkin delights. With simple ingredients and easy steps, this recipe is ideal for busy mornings or last-minute gatherings.
A Fun, Family-Friendly Treat: These donut holes are perfect for all ages. Kids and adults alike enjoy their sweet, sugary coating and soft, fluffy texture, making them a must-have for family time.

Pumpkin Donut Holes are more than just a treat—they’re a fall favorite that brings joy to everyone who tries them!

Recipe FAQ

Can I make this Pumpkin Donut Holes recipe without a donut pan?
Yes, you can use a mini muffin tin instead. The shape will be different, but they’ll taste just as delicious!

What type of pumpkin should I use for this recipe?
Make sure to use canned pumpkin puree, not pumpkin pie filling. Pumpkin pie filling has added spices and sugar.

How do I get the cinnamon sugar to stick to the donut holes?
Coat the donut holes with melted butter right after baking, then roll them in the cinnamon sugar for best results.

Can I bake these donut holes ahead of time?
Yes, you can bake them a day in advance. Store them in an airtight container to keep them fresh and soft.

Pumpkin Donut Holes stacked together, one with a bite on it and a pumpkin pie jar on the side

Serving FAQ

Can I serve Pumpkin Donut Holes warm?
Yes, serving them warm enhances their soft, fluffy texture and brings out the cozy pumpkin and cinnamon flavors.

How many Pumpkin Donut Holes should I serve per person?
For a snack or dessert, plan on serving three or four donut holes per person to satisfy your guests.

Can I add toppings before serving Pumpkin Spice Donut Holes?
Yes, you can drizzle them with glaze, or dust them with powdered sugar to make them extra special before serving.

Are Pumpkin Donut Holes suitable for a fall party?
Absolutely! They’re a hit at fall gatherings, adding a fun, seasonal touch that everyone will enjoy.

Storage FAQ

Follow the directions below for tips and tricks on how to store, make ahead, and reheat your baked Pumpkin Donut Holes. From keeping them fresh to reheating for a quick snack, we’ve got you covered!

Can I make Pumpkin Donut Holes ahead of time?
Yes, you can make them a day in advance. Store them in an airtight container to keep them soft and fresh.

What's the best way to store leftover Pumpkin Donut Holes?
Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature. They will stay fresh for up to two days.

Can I freeze Pumpkin Donut Holes?
Yes, freeze them in a single layer, then transfer to an airtight container. They will stay good for up to one month.

How should I reheat Pumpkin Donut Holes?
Reheat them in the microwave for ten to fifteen seconds or until warm. Be careful not to overheat, so they stay soft.