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Here is what you need to make Pumpkin Cinnamon Sugar Donut Holes: - 1 cup canned pumpkin puree - 2 cups all-purpose flour - 1/2 cup granulated sugar (for dough and coating) - 1/4 cup brown sugar - 1 tablespoon baking powder - 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon - 1/2 teaspoon nutmeg - 1/2 teaspoon allspice - 1/2 teaspoon salt - 1/2 cup milk - 1 large egg - 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted - 1 tablespoon vanilla extract - 1/2 cup granulated sugar (for coating) - 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon (for coating) - Vegetable oil (for frying) Each ingredient plays a role in creating a soft and flavorful donut hole. The canned pumpkin puree adds moisture and a rich taste. Flour gives structure, while sugars add sweetness. Baking powder helps the donut holes puff up as they fry. Spices like cinnamon, nutmeg, and allspice bring warm, cozy flavors that match fall. Milk and egg bind the mix, and melted butter adds richness. Finally, the cinnamon sugar coating makes each bite a sweet treat. Keep these ingredients handy, and you will create a delightful snack that everyone will love. 1. First, grab a large mixing bowl. In this bowl, mix together: - 2 cups all-purpose flour - 1/2 cup granulated sugar - 1/4 cup brown sugar - 1 tablespoon baking powder - 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon - 1/2 teaspoon nutmeg - 1/2 teaspoon allspice - 1/2 teaspoon salt Whisk these dry ingredients well. This step is key for even flavor. 2. In another bowl, combine: - 1 cup canned pumpkin puree - 1/2 cup milk - 1 large egg - 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted - 1 tablespoon vanilla extract Whisk until the mixture is smooth and creamy. 3. Pour the wet ingredients into the dry mixture. Use a spatula to fold them together gently. The batter should be thick and slightly lumpy. Avoid overmixing; that keeps your donut holes soft. 1. Heat vegetable oil in a deep fryer or a heavy pot. Aim for a temperature of 350°F (175°C). This heat is perfect for frying. 2. Use a cooking thermometer to check the oil's temperature. This step is important for crispy, golden donut holes. 1. Now, it’s time to shape the dough. Use a small cookie scoop or your hands. Take about a tablespoon of dough and roll it into a ball. Repeat this until all the dough is shaped. 2. Carefully drop a few donut holes into the hot oil. Don't crowd the pot; this helps them cook evenly. Fry each batch for about 3-4 minutes. Turn them occasionally until they turn golden brown on all sides. 3. Once cooked, use a slotted spoon to lift the donut holes out. Let them drain on a paper towel-lined plate. This helps remove excess oil. Now you're ready to coat them in cinnamon sugar! To make perfect donut holes, avoid overmixing the batter. When you fold the wet and dry ingredients together, do it gently. Stop mixing when you see a few lumps. This keeps the donut holes light and fluffy. For even cooking, drop only a few donut holes at a time into the hot oil. This helps the temperature stay steady. Fry them for about 3-4 minutes. Turn them as they cook to get a nice golden color all around. Pair these warm donut holes with hot coffee or a cold glass of milk. The sweet, spicy flavor goes well with both. For a fun presentation, stack them in a small basket. You can also sprinkle some extra cinnamon sugar on top for a charming touch. Frying can be tricky, so handle hot oil with care. Use long tongs to avoid getting splattered. Always keep a safe distance from the hot oil. Using a thermometer helps a lot. Heat the oil to 350°F (175°C). This is the best temperature for frying. If it’s too hot, the donut holes burn. If it’s too cool, they soak up oil and become greasy. {{image_2}} You can make these donut holes even tastier. Here are two simple ways. - Adding chocolate chips: Stir in 1/2 cup of chocolate chips into your dough. This will add a sweet burst in every bite. Chocolate and pumpkin pair well together. - Incorporating nuts: Add 1/2 cup of chopped nuts, like pecans or walnuts. They give a nice crunch. This also adds healthy fats and flavor. Health-conscious cooks can still enjoy these treats with a few swaps. - Baking instead of frying: To bake, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the donut holes on a lined baking sheet. Bake for 12-15 minutes until golden. They will be less oily and lighter. - Using alternative sweeteners: Swap granulated sugar for coconut sugar or stevia. This can cut down on calories. Make sure to check the conversion rates to keep sweetness balanced. Get creative with seasonal flavors to keep things exciting. - Other fall spices to use: Mix in spices like ginger or cloves. These spices add warmth. You can make a unique twist on the classic flavor. - Topping ideas for holidays: Try drizzling maple glaze over the donut holes. You can also sprinkle them with crushed candy canes for a fun holiday treat. These small changes can make your donut holes festive and fun. To keep your pumpkin cinnamon sugar donut holes fresh, use an airtight container. A glass or plastic container works best. You can store them at room temperature for up to two days. For longer storage, keep them in the fridge for about a week. If you want to keep them even longer, consider freezing them. They can last up to three months in the freezer. Just make sure to wrap them well to prevent freezer burn. When it's time to enjoy leftovers, there are great ways to reheat your donut holes. The best method is to use an oven. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the donut holes on a baking sheet and heat for about 5-7 minutes. This method helps maintain their texture and warmth. You can also use a microwave, but be careful. Heat them for just 10-15 seconds at a time. Too long in the microwave can make them chewy. Enjoy your delicious treats warm! You can use fresh pumpkin. Fresh pumpkin has a lighter taste. It also adds a fresher texture. Canned pumpkin is thicker and smoother. It gives a richer flavor. If you use fresh pumpkin, cook it first. Roast or steam it until soft. Then, mash it well. This ensures it mixes nicely into the dough. Yes, you can freeze these donut holes. Make sure they cool completely first. Place them in an airtight container. You can also use a freezer bag. They stay fresh for up to three months. To thaw, leave them in the fridge overnight. You can also reheat them in the oven for a few minutes. This keeps them warm and tasty. You can use several oils for frying. Canola oil is a great choice. It has a mild taste and high smoke point. Peanut oil works well too; it adds a slight nutty flavor. Sunflower oil is another option. It also has a high smoke point. Each oil will change taste slightly, so pick one you like. To make these donut holes gluten-free, swap the flour. Use a gluten-free all-purpose flour mix. Look for one that has xanthan gum. This helps with texture and rise. Almond flour or coconut flour can work too, but you need to adjust the liquid. Always test small batches to get the right consistency. In this post, I shared how to make delicious pumpkin cinnamon sugar donut holes. We discussed the key ingredients, step-by-step instructions, tips for perfect results, and creative variations. Remember to handle hot oil safely and consider storage tips for leftovers. Baking or using other spices can mix things up. Enjoy experimenting and sharing these tasty treats with friends and family. Happy frying!

Pumpkin Cinnamon Sugar Donut Holes

Indulge in the flavors of fall with these delightful Pumpkin Cinnamon Sugar Donut Holes! Made with simple ingredients like pumpkin puree, spices, and coated in a sweet cinnamon-sugar blend, these treats are perfect for any occasion. In just 30 minutes, you can enjoy these warm, fluffy bites that will become a new favorite. Click through to explore the full recipe and bring autumn's sweetness into your kitchen!
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Ingredients
  

1 cup canned pumpkin puree

2 cups all-purpose flour

1/2 cup granulated sugar

1/4 cup brown sugar

1 tablespoon baking powder

1 teaspoon ground cinnamon

1/2 teaspoon nutmeg

1/2 teaspoon allspice

1/2 teaspoon salt

1/2 cup milk

1 large egg

1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted

1 tablespoon vanilla extract

1/2 cup granulated sugar (for coating)

2 teaspoons ground cinnamon (for coating)

Vegetable oil (for frying)

Instructions
 

In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, granulated sugar, brown sugar, baking powder, cinnamon, nutmeg, allspice, and salt.

    In a separate bowl, combine the pumpkin puree, milk, egg, melted butter, and vanilla extract. Whisk until smooth and well combined.

      Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients, folding gently with a spatula until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; the batter should be thick but slightly lumpy.

        Heat vegetable oil in a deep fryer or heavy pot to 350°F (175°C).

          Using a small cookie scoop or your hands, take about a tablespoon of dough and form it into a ball. Repeat until all the batter is shaped into balls.

            Carefully drop a few donut holes at a time into the hot oil, making sure not to crowd the pot. Fry for about 3-4 minutes, turning them occasionally, until they are golden brown on all sides.

              Use a slotted spoon to remove the donut holes and let them drain on a paper towel-lined plate.

                While the donut holes are still warm, combine the 1/2 cup of granulated sugar and 2 teaspoons of cinnamon in a shallow bowl. Roll each donut hole in the cinnamon sugar mix until fully coated.

                  Serve warm, and enjoy your delicious Pumpkin Cinnamon Sugar Donut Holes!

                    Prep Time: 15 minutes | Total Time: 30 minutes | Servings: About 24 donut holes