As the leaves turn golden and the air cools, a warm, spiced aroma fills my kitchen, transporting me straight into the heart of fall. These Gluten-Free Pumpkin Donut Holes are my go-to treat, combining comfort and nostalgia in every bite. Perfect for anyone craving a little indulgence without the guilt, they’re incredibly quick to whip up—ready in just 14 minutes! Coated in a heavenly cinnamon sugar blend, these vegan and allergy-free delights make a fantastic breakfast or an afternoon snack that even non-gluten-free folks will love. The best part? They’re made with wholesome ingredients like pumpkin puree that pack a nutritional punch! Curious to bring some autumn magic into your kitchen? Let’s get baking!
Why Choose These Pumpkin Donut Holes?
Quick Baking: Whip up these delightful pumpkin donut holes in just 14 minutes, making them perfect for busy mornings or spontaneous guests.
Guilt-Free Indulgence: With no gluten, eggs, or dairy, these treats cater to a range of dietary needs while still satisfying your sweet tooth.
Flavorful & Festive: The combination of pumpkin puree and warm spices guarantees a burst of fall flavors in every bite, and their generous cinnamon sugar coating adds just the right amount of sweetness.
Versatile Serving Options: Enjoy them as a breakfast delight paired with your favorite coffee, or serve them as an afternoon treat alongside a scoop of dairy-free ice cream.
Crowd-Pleasing Appeal: These donut holes are so delicious, even non-vegans will be reaching for seconds! For more pumpkin-inspired goodness, don’t miss out on Pumpkin Cupcakes Brown or Apple Pumpkin Streusel.
Pumpkin Donut Holes Ingredients
• Curious about what you need to create these delightfully spiced treats? Here’s a quick overview of the essential ingredients for your Pumpkin Donut Holes!
For the Batter
- Gluten-Free All-Purpose Flour – This acts as the structural base; a gluten-free blend ensures the best results.
- Baking Powder – This leavens the dough for a light texture; always check it’s gluten-free.
- Pumpkin Puree – Adds moisture, flavor, and natural sweetness; you can substitute with homemade puree for extra freshness.
- Cinnamon – Enhances the flavor profile beautifully; consider using pumpkin pie spice for a unique twist.
- Granulated Sweetener – Provides the necessary sweetness and helps form a delicious crust; coconut sugar or a sugar substitute works well.
- Non-Dairy Milk – Binds and hydrates the mixture; almond or oat milk are great alternatives.
- Vanilla Extract – A flavor enhancer that shines through; while optional, it’s highly recommended.
- Coconut Oil (optional) – Adds richness; feel free to skip this to keep the recipe oil-free.
- Cooking Spray – Helps the cinnamon sugar adhere perfectly to the donut holes.
For the Coating
- Cinnamon Sugar Mixture – Elevates each bite with a sweet crunch; you can make your own with sugar and ground cinnamon!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Pumpkin Donut Holes
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While the oven warms up, grab your donut hole pan and generously coat each cavity with cooking spray to prevent sticking. This preparation ensures an easy release once your delightful Pumpkin Donut Holes are baked.
Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the gluten-free all-purpose flour, baking powder, cinnamon, and your chosen granulated sweetener. Combine these dry ingredients thoroughly, ensuring there are no clumps for a smooth texture. This blend creates a solid foundation for your pumpkin donut holes, contributing to their fluffy consistency.
Step 3: Whisk Wet Ingredients
In a separate bowl, mix together the pumpkin puree, non-dairy milk, and vanilla extract using a whisk until the mixture is smooth and creamy. The pumpkin puree not only adds flavor but also moisture, ensuring your treats are soft and delightful. Set this mixture aside while you prepare to combine the wet and dry ingredients.
Step 4: Combine Mixtures
Gently pour the wet mixture into the bowl containing the dry ingredients. Using a spatula, fold the mixtures together until just combined; be careful not to overmix, as this could make your Pumpkin Donut Holes dense. Aim for a thick but smooth batter, ready to be shaped into little bites of fall delight.
Step 5: Fill the Pan
Using a spoon or a small cookie scoop, fill each cavity of your prepared donut hole pan about two-thirds full with the batter. This allows room for the donut holes to rise while baking. The batter should be evenly distributed to ensure consistent cooking, leading to delightful treats for everyone to enjoy.
Step 6: Bake to Perfection
Place your filled pan into the preheated oven and bake for 14 minutes. Keep an eye out for a light golden color and a firm texture; a toothpick should come out clean when inserted into the center. This step is crucial for achieving the perfect fluffy interior in your Pumpkin Donut Holes.
Step 7: Cool and Coat
Once baked, remove the pan from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. While the donut holes are still warm, gently roll each one in cinnamon sugar for a sweet, crunchy coating. This adds a delightful finish to your pumpkin bites, enhancing the warm, comforting flavors that celebrate the essence of fall.
Pumpkin Donut Holes Variations & Substitutions
Customize these delightful pumpkin donut holes to suit your taste and dietary needs with a few simple swaps!
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Sweet Potato Swap: Substitute pumpkin puree with sweet potato for a subtly sweet and creamy flavor.
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Spiced Kick: Add a teaspoon of nutmeg or ginger along with the cinnamon for an extra layer of warmth and spice.
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Chocolate Delight: Mix in dairy-free chocolate chips to the batter for a sweet, decadent surprise in every bite.
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Nutty Texture: Incorporate chopped nuts like walnuts or pecans for added crunch and flavor contrast; they pair beautifully with pumpkin.
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Cinnamon Sugar Twist: Experiment with the cinnamon sugar coating by adding a touch of maple sugar for an earthy sweetness; it’s an irresistible upgrade!
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Make It Mini: Use a mini muffin pan instead of a donut hole pan for bite-sized treats that are perfect for sharing.
For more delicious twists on pumpkin flavors, try my Cinnamon Sugar Donut or White Chocolate Pumpkin Snickerdoodles; both will bring joy to your fall baking!
- Oil-Free Option: Omit the coconut oil entirely or substitute it with applesauce to maintain moistness for an oil-free treat.
Feel free to get creative and adjust ingredients as inspiration strikes!
What to Serve with Gluten-Free Pumpkin Donut Holes
As the aroma of pumpkin and spices fills your kitchen, let’s explore delightful pairings to elevate your cozy autumn treat experience.
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Warm Spiced Latte: A comforting drink that enhances the spices in the donut holes, creating a cozy café vibe right at home. The foam adds a creamy touch that balances the sweetness perfectly.
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Fruit Salad: Fresh, tart apples and juicy pears bring a refreshing burst that complements the sweetness of your pumpkin donut holes. Toss in some citrus for added brightness!
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Vegan Whipped Cream: This luscious and airy topping adds a light sweetness and creamy texture that beautifully contrasts the warm donut holes. Serve it on the side for easy dipping!
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Chai Tea: The rich spices in chai echo those in your donut holes, enhancing the overall flavor experience. The warmth of each sip creates a comforting moment perfect for fall.
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Maple Syrup: A simple drizzle adds a hint of sweetness that pairs wonderfully with the cinnamon sugar coating, creating a delightful flavor explosion in every bite.
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Coconut Yogurt: Creamy and tart, coconut yogurt is a fantastic dip! The hint of coconut essence pairs beautifully with the pumpkin, making each bite irresistible.
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Chocolate Almond Milk: For a deliciously decadent twist, serve a glass of chocolate almond milk. The chocolate adds a rich note that contrasts the spicy sweetness of your pumpkin donut holes.
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Caramel Sauce: A sweet caramel drizzle over your donut holes adds a touch of indulgence, transforming them into a dessert-like experience that everyone will adore.
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Classic Hot Apple Cider: The warming spices in hot cider echo those in the donut holes, creating a magical autumnal flavor pairing. This cozy drink invites flavorful memories to every gathering.
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Cinnamon Sugar Popcorn: For a fun and crunchy side, serve cinnamon sugar popcorn. This playful snack mirrors the sweet, spiced profile of your donut holes, perfect for sharing with family or friends over a cozy evening.
Make Ahead Options
These Gluten-Free Pumpkin Donut Holes are perfect for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy their delightful flavors any time! You can prepare the batter and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking. Make sure to cover it tightly to prevent drying out. When you’re ready to bake, just scoop it into the donut hole pan and follow the original baking instructions. Alternatively, you can bake the donut holes in advance and keep them in an airtight container for up to 3 days. To enjoy them at their best, simply reheat briefly in the oven before rolling in cinnamon sugar. Enjoy the convenience of a homemade snack with minimal effort!
Expert Tips for Pumpkin Donut Holes
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Use Fresh Ingredients: Always opt for fresh pumpkin puree or make your own. It makes a notable difference in flavor and moisture for your Pumpkin Donut Holes.
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Don’t Overmix: Gently fold your wet and dry ingredients until just combined. Overmixing can lead to dense donut holes, so keep it light and fluffy!
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Perfect Baking Time: Check for doneness at the 14-minute mark. Oven times can vary; a clean toothpick is your best guide to avoid overbaking.
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Coat While Warm: Roll the donut holes in cinnamon sugar while they’re still warm for best adherence. This ensures that each bite bursts with flavor!
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Storage Tips: Keep your leftover Pumpkin Donut Holes in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. Reheat for a warm treat anytime!
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Experiment with Spices: Don’t hesitate to add a dash of nutmeg or ginger for a spiced twist to your donut holes; it elevates the autumn flavor profile beautifully!
Storage Tips for Pumpkin Donut Holes
Room Temperature: Store your pumpkin donut holes in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days to maintain their fluffy texture and flavor.
Fridge: If you want to prolong their freshness, you can refrigerate the donut holes, but be sure to seal them tightly; they can last up to a week in the fridge, albeit with a slightly denser texture.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the pumpkin donut holes in a single layer on a baking sheet before transferring to a zip-top bag. They can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months.
Reheating: To enjoy your frozen pumpkin donut holes, reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-8 minutes until warmed through. Enjoy that fresh-baked flavor again!
Gluten-Free Pumpkin Donut Holes Recipe FAQs
What type of pumpkin puree should I use?
Absolutely! For the best flavor in your Gluten-Free Pumpkin Donut Holes, I recommend using fresh pumpkin puree or organic canned pumpkin puree without additives. If you’re adventurous, you can even make your own by roasting sugar pumpkins.
How should I store leftover pumpkin donut holes?
For optimal freshness, store your leftover pumpkin donut holes in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you want to keep them longer, they can be refrigerated for up to a week, though they may become a bit denser.
Can I freeze these pumpkin donut holes?
Of course! To freeze your pumpkin donut holes, place them in a single layer on a baking sheet until frozen solid, then transfer them to a zip-top bag or airtight container. They can be kept in the freezer for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy them, simply reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5-8 minutes.
What if my donut holes come out dense?
If your gluten-free pumpkin donut holes end up denser than expected, it could be due to overmixing when combining your wet and dry ingredients. Remember to mix just until combined; a few lumps are perfectly fine! Also, ensure your baking powder is fresh for proper leavening.
Are there any dietary considerations I should be aware of?
Definitely! These Gluten-Free Pumpkin Donut Holes are vegan and allergy-friendly, perfect for those avoiding gluten, dairy, and eggs. Just make sure to check your sweetener choice if you’re concerned about specific allergies. Always read labels carefully!
How do I make the cinnamon sugar coating stick better?
For the best adherence of the cinnamon sugar coating, roll the pumpkin donut holes in the sugar mixture while they’re still warm. This will help the sugar stick, creating that delicious crunchy layer you love.
Delicious Pumpkin Donut Holes – Guilt-Free Fall Treats
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and coat your donut hole pan with cooking spray.
- In a large bowl, whisk together the gluten-free flour, baking powder, cinnamon, and sweetener.
- In a separate bowl, mix the pumpkin puree, non-dairy milk, and vanilla extract.
- Pour the wet mixture into the dry ingredients and fold together until just combined.
- Fill each cavity of the donut hole pan two-thirds full with the batter.
- Bake for 14 minutes or until golden and a toothpick comes out clean.
- Cool for a few minutes, then roll each donut hole in cinnamon sugar while still warm.
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