Pumpkin Donut Holes (Air Fryer or Oven): Bite-Sized Fall Treats That Are Soft, Spiced, and Irresistible

When the crisp autumn air rolls in and the scent of cinnamon and nutmeg fills your kitchen, there’s no better way to celebrate the season than with a batch of Pumpkin Donut Holes. These bite-sized, fluffy treats are bursting with pumpkin flavor, warm spices, and a tender crumb—then rolled in cinnamon sugar for a sweet, crunchy finish.

Whether you make them in the air fryer for a quick, oil-free treat or bake them in the oven for a classic, fluffy texture, these pumpkin donut holes are the ultimate fall indulgence. They’re perfect for breakfast, holiday brunches, Halloween parties, or as a cozy afternoon snack with a mug of coffee or apple cider.

In this detailed, SEO-optimized guide, you’ll find a foolproof recipe, step-by-step instructions for both cooking methods, expert tips, variations, and storage advice to make the best pumpkin donut holes of your life—no deep frying required!

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Why You’ll Love These Pumpkin Donut Holes

✅ Easy & Quick – Ready in under 30 minutes
✅ No Deep Frying – Healthier than traditional donuts
✅ Perfect for Fall – Packed with pumpkin and cozy spices
✅ Kid-Friendly – Fun to make and eat
✅ Great for Gifting – Serve in a mason jar with a ribbon
✅ Versatile – Make them in the air fryer or oven

These little morsels are like pumpkin bread and donuts had a delicious lovechild—soft, moist, and impossible to resist.

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The Magic of Pumpkin in Baking

Pumpkin puree isn’t just for pies. When used in baked goods like donut holes, it adds:

• Natural moisture – Keeps treats soft for days
• Rich color – A vibrant orange hue that screams fall
• Subtle sweetness – Reduces the need for excess sugar
• Nutrient boost – High in vitamin A, fiber, and antioxidants

Just be sure to use 100% pure pumpkin puree (not pumpkin pie filling, which contains added sugar and spices).

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Ingredients for Pumpkin Donut Holes

This recipe makes about 20–24 donut holes, depending on size.

For the Donut Holes:

• 1 cup (125g) all-purpose flour
• ½ tsp baking powder
• ½ tsp baking soda
• ¼ tsp salt
• 1 ½ tsp ground cinnamon
• ¼ tsp ground nutmeg
• ⅛ tsp ground cloves
• ⅛ tsp ground ginger
• ⅓ cup (80g) canned pumpkin puree (not pie filling)
• ¼ cup (60ml) milk (dairy or plant-based)
• ¼ cup (60ml) maple syrup or honey
• 1 large egg
• 2 tbsp (30ml) melted coconut oil or vegetable oil
• 1 tsp pure vanilla extract

For the Cinnamon Sugar Coating:

• ½ cup (100g) granulated sugar
• 1 ½ tsp ground cinnamon
• 2–3 tbsp melted butter (for dipping, if desired)

Optional Glaze:

• ½ cup powdered sugar + 1–2 tsp milk + ½ tsp vanilla (for a drizzle instead of cinnamon sugar)

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Step-by-Step Recipe: How to Make Pumpkin Donut Holes

Follow these easy steps for perfect donut holes every time—whether you’re using the air fryer or oven.

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare

• For Air Fryer: Preheat to 350°F (175°C).
• For Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C).
• Lightly grease a mini muffin tin (if baking) or have a bowl ready for coating.

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a medium bowl, whisk together:

• Flour
• Baking powder
• Baking soda
• Salt
• Cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves, and ginger

Set aside.

Step 3: Mix Wet Ingredients

In a large bowl, whisk together:

• Pumpkin puree
• Milk
• Maple syrup (or honey)
• Egg
• Melted oil
• Vanilla extract

Mix until smooth and well combined.

Step 4: Combine Wet and Dry

Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture. Stir gently with a spatula until just combined. Do not overmix—this keeps the donut holes tender.

Tip: The batter will be thick, like muffin batter.

Step 5: Fill the Pan or Air Fryer Basket

• For Oven Baking: Spoon batter into a greased mini muffin tin, filling each cup about ¾ full. Makes ~20–24 holes.
• For Air Fryer: Use a silicone mini donut hole mold (if available), or spoon small mounds (1-inch) into the basket, leaving space between. Cook in batches.

Step 6: Cook

• Oven: Bake for 10–12 minutes, until a toothpick inserted comes out clean and edges are golden.
• Air Fryer: Cook at 350°F for 6–8 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden and cooked through.

Note: Air fryer times vary by model—watch closely to avoid overcooking.

Step 7: Make the Cinnamon Sugar Coating

While donut holes cook, mix sugar and cinnamon in a shallow bowl. Melt butter in another bowl (optional, for extra richness).

Step 8: Coat the Donut Holes

1. As soon as donut holes come out of the oven or air fryer, while still warm, roll them in melted butter (if using), then in the cinnamon sugar.
2. For a lighter option, skip the butter and toss directly in cinnamon sugar.
3. Repeat with all donut holes.

Tip: Work quickly—warm donut holes absorb the coating best.

Step 9: Serve or Glaze

• Serve warm for the best texture.
• Optional: Drizzle with vanilla glaze instead of using cinnamon sugar.

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Tips for Perfect Pumpkin Donut Holes

• Don’t Overmix the Batter – This leads to tough donut holes. Mix until just combined.
• Use Room-Temperature Ingredients – Especially the egg and milk, for even mixing.
• Grease the Pan Well – Prevents sticking. Non-stick spray works great.
• Check Early – Oven and air fryers vary. Start checking at 9 minutes (oven) or 6 minutes (air fryer).
• Double the Batch – They disappear fast! Freeze extras (see storage tips).
• Add-Ins: Fold in ¼ cup mini chocolate chips, chopped pecans, or dried cranberries.

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Creative Variations to Try

Make these donut holes your own:

1. Maple-Glazed Pumpkin Donut Holes

Drizzle with a glaze made from powdered sugar, pure maple syrup, and a splash of milk.

2. Vegan Pumpkin Donut Holes

• Replace egg with a flax egg (1 tbsp ground flax + 3 tbsp water)
• Use plant-based milk and maple syrup
• Use coconut oil

3. Gluten-Free Version

Substitute all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free baking blend. Add ½ tsp xanthan gum if not included.

4. Protein-Packed Donut Holes

Add 1–2 scoops of vanilla or pumpkin spice protein powder. Add 1–2 tbsp extra milk if batter is too thick.

5. Mini Muffin Pan Hack (No Air Fryer Mold)

Use a greased mini muffin tin for oven baking—no special equipment needed.

6. Holiday Spiced Donut Holes

Add a pinch of allspice or cardamom for extra warmth.

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How to Store and Preserve Your Donut Holes

• Room Temperature: Store in an airtight container for up to 2 days. Best enjoyed fresh.
• Refrigerator: Keep for up to 5 days. Reheat in the microwave for 10–15 seconds.
• Freezer: Freeze uncoated donut holes in a single layer, then transfer to a freezer bag for up to 3 months. Thaw and reheat in the air fryer (3–4 mins at 320°F) or oven. Re-coat with cinnamon sugar after reheating.
• Make-Ahead Tip: Bake and freeze, then coat and serve warm when needed.

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Serving Suggestions: How to Enjoy Your Pumpkin Donut Holes

These little bites are perfect for:

• Breakfast or Brunch – Serve with coffee, tea, or pumpkin spice lattes
• Fall Parties – Great for Halloween, Thanksgiving, or Friendsgiving
• Kids’ Snacks – Fun, bite-sized, and nutritious
• Dessert Platters – Pair with fruit, yogurt, and granola
• Gifts – Pack in a festive jar with a ribbon and tag: “Shake & Bake: Pumpkin Donut Hole Mix”

For extra indulgence, serve with:

• Whipped cream or Greek yogurt
• Apple butter for dipping
• A caramel drizzle

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Nutritional Information (Approximate per Donut Hole, 1/20 of Batch)

Calories	65
Fat	2.5g
Saturated Fat	1g
Carbohydrates	10g
Sugar	6g
Protein	1.5g
Fiber	0.5g

Note: Values vary based on substitutions and coating method.

A lighter treat than fried donuts, these are a mindful way to enjoy seasonal flavors.

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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: Can I make these without sugar?
A: You can reduce sugar in the batter, but the cinnamon sugar coating adds flavor and texture. Try coconut sugar as a substitute.

Q: Can I use fresh pumpkin?
A: Yes, but roast and puree it first. Strain excess moisture to avoid a soggy batter.

Q: Why are my donut holes dry?
A: Overbaking or too much flour. Measure flour correctly (spoon and level), and check early.

Q: Can I use a regular muffin tin?
A: Yes, but they’ll be larger—adjust baking time to 14–16 minutes.

Q: Are these gluten-free or vegan?
A: Not by default, but see variations above for adaptations.

Q: Can I skip the coating?
A: Yes, but the cinnamon sugar adds crunch and flavor. Dust with powdered sugar instead.

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Final Thoughts: A Bite of Autumn Bliss

The Pumpkin Donut Holes (Air Fryer or Oven) are more than just a treat—they’re a celebration of fall in every bite. With their warm spices, tender crumb, and sweet cinnamon finish, they capture the essence of the season in a convenient, shareable form.

Whether you’re whipping them up for a quick breakfast, a holiday party, or a cozy night in, these donut holes bring joy, flavor, and that unmistakable aroma of autumn to your home.

So grab your pumpkin puree, fire up the air fryer or oven, and treat yourself to a little taste of fall heaven.

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