Pumpkin Spice Donut Holes: Easy 30-Min Bake

August 16, 2025

Pumpkin Spice Donut Holes have become my absolute favorite fall treat, and I’m so excited to share this easy pumpkin spice donut holes recipe with you! There’s just something magical about that warm, cozy scent filling my kitchen, a mix of pumpkin and cinnamon that instantly brings me joy. I remember my first attempt at making these, and while they weren’t perfect, the aroma alone was a victory. Now, after lots of practice, I’ve perfected these tender, spiced little bites, and I know you’ll adore them. Let’s get cooking!

Why You’ll Love These Pumpkin Spice Donut Holes

Incredible taste: Perfectly spiced with warm cinnamon, ginger, nutmeg, and cloves.
Quick prep time: You can whip up these tasty bites in under 30 minutes.
Healthier indulgence: Baked instead of fried, making them a lighter treat.
Budget-friendly: Uses common pantry staples for an affordable fall favorite.
Family-friendly fun: Kids love helping to make and decorate these mini donuts.
This easy pumpkin spice donut holes recipe is perfect for beginners.
You’ll be amazed at how simple this easy pumpkin spice donut holes recipe is to follow.
Enjoy these delightful pumpkin spice donut bites any time of year!

Ingredients for Pumpkin Spice Donut Holes

Gathering these simple pumpkin spice donut hole ingredients is the first step to baking perfection. You’ll need 1 and 3/4 cups (210g) all-purpose flour, plus 1 and 1/2 teaspoons baking powder, 1/2 teaspoon baking soda, and a warm blend of spices: 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon, 1 teaspoon ground ginger, 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg, and 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves. Don’t forget 1/2 teaspoon salt to balance the sweetness. For the moist base, we’ll use 1/2 cup (100g) granulated sugar and 1/2 cup (100g) packed light brown sugar. The star, 1 cup (245g) pumpkin purée (make sure it’s not pie filling!), adds moisture and that signature flavor. You’ll also need 2 large eggs, 1/2 cup (120ml) buttermilk (or whole milk if that’s what you have on hand), 1/4 cup (57g) unsalted butter, melted, and 1 teaspoon vanilla extract for that classic sweet aroma. Finally, for the delicious coating, have ready 1/2 cup (113g) unsalted butter, melted, 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar, and 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon.

Pumpkin Spice Donut Holes: Easy 30-Min Bake - Pumpkin Spice Donut Holes - additional detail

How to Make Pumpkin Spice Donut Holes

Step 1: Get your oven ready by preheating it to 350°F (175°C). While it warms up, properly grease your donut hole pan or mini muffin tin. This prevents any sticking and ensures your beautiful donut holes pop right out!
Step 2: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together all the dry ingredients: 1 and 3/4 cups (210g) all-purpose flour, 1 and 1/2 teaspoons baking powder, 1/2 teaspoon baking soda, the warm spices (2 teaspoons ground cinnamon, 1 teaspoon ground ginger, 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg, and 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves), and 1/2 teaspoon salt. Give it a good stir to distribute everything evenly.
Step 3: In a separate bowl, you’ll combine the wet ingredients. Whisk together 1/2 cup (100g) granulated sugar, 1/2 cup (100g) packed light brown sugar, 1 cup (245g) pumpkin purée, 2 large eggs, 1/2 cup (120ml) buttermilk, 1/4 cup (57g) unsalted butter, melted, and 1 teaspoon vanilla extract until the mixture is smooth and creamy. The smell of the vanilla and pumpkin is already amazing!
Step 4: Now it’s time to bring it all together. Pour the wet ingredients into the bowl with the dry ingredients. Using a spatula or wooden spoon, gently fold everything together until it’s *just* combined. It’s really important not to overmix here; a few streaks of flour are okay. Overmixing can make your donut holes tough.
Step 5: Filling the pan cavities is the next step in how to make pumpkin spice donut holes. Spoon the batter into the prepared pan, filling each cavity about three-quarters full. A piping bag makes this super easy and clean, but two spoons work just fine too!
Step 6: Bake these delightful little treats for 10 to 12 minutes. You’ll know they’re ready when a toothpick inserted into the center of a donut hole comes out clean. The kitchen will start to smell wonderfully of pumpkin and spice.
Step 7: Let the donut holes cool in the pan for about 5 minutes. This little resting period helps them firm up slightly. Then, carefully invert the pan onto a wire rack to release them.
Step 8: While they’re still warm, it’s time for the best part! Dip each donut hole first into the 1/2 cup (113g) unsalted butter, melted, ensuring it’s fully coated. Then, immediately roll them in the cinnamon sugar mixture (1 cup (200g) granulated sugar mixed with 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon). This coating is what makes these pumpkin spice donut holes so irresistible.
Step 9: Place the beautifully coated donut holes back onto the wire rack to set. Serve them warm and enjoy the cozy, spiced goodness! Following these steps is key for how to make pumpkin spice donut holes that everyone will rave about.

Pro Tips for the Best Pumpkin Spice Donut Holes

Want to elevate your homemade pumpkin spice donut holes? Here are a few tricks I’ve learned to make them absolutely perfect every time:

Always use 100% pure pumpkin purée, not pumpkin pie filling, for the best flavor and texture.
Don’t overmix the batter! Gently folding until just combined is key to tender donut holes.
Coat the donut holes while they are still warm – this helps the cinnamon sugar mixture stick beautifully.
Measure your flour correctly. Spoon it into the measuring cup and level it off; don’t scoop directly from the bag.

What’s the secret to perfect Pumpkin Spice Donut Holes?

The secret to perfect best pumpkin spice donut holes really lies in not overmixing the batter and ensuring you coat them while they’re still warm. The residual heat helps the butter and cinnamon sugar adhere perfectly.

Can I make Pumpkin Spice Donut Holes ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the batter up to 24 hours in advance and store it covered in the refrigerator. Just let it sit at room temperature for about 15 minutes before filling your pan. The coating should be done right before serving for the best texture. For more baking tips, you can check out our baking philosophy.

How do I avoid common mistakes with Pumpkin Spice Donut Holes?

A common pitfall is overmixing the batter, which leads to tough donut holes. Another mistake is not coating them while warm, resulting in the cinnamon sugar falling off. Also, ensure your baking powder and soda are fresh for proper lift! If you encounter issues, our contact page is available for support.

Best Ways to Serve Pumpkin Spice Donut Holes

These delightful pumpkin spice donut holes are fantastic on their own, but they also pair wonderfully with a few things. Imagine serving a warm batch alongside a creamy mug of coffee or a steaming cup of spiced apple cider – pure autumn bliss! They also make a beautiful addition to a brunch spread or a festive dessert table. For an extra special treat, consider a simple dusting of powdered sugar or a drizzle of maple glaze. These pumpkin cinnamon donut holes are also perfect for dipping into a warm caramel sauce for an extra layer of cozy flavor. You can learn more about the privacy of your data when using our site.

Nutrition Facts for Pumpkin Spice Donut Holes

Here’s a look at the approximate nutritional breakdown per serving (which is about 2 donut holes) for these delicious baked treats. These are estimates based on the ingredients in this recipe:

Calories: 220
Fat: 8g
Saturated Fat: 4g
Protein: 3g
Carbohydrates: 25g
Fiber: 1g
Sugar: 15g
Sodium: 150mg

Nutritional values are estimates and may vary based on specific ingredients used and portion sizes. For more information on our practices, please see our affiliate disclaimer.

Pumpkin Spice Donut Holes: Easy 30-Min Bake - Pumpkin Spice Donut Holes - additional detail

How to Store and Reheat Pumpkin Spice Donut Holes

Once your delicious pumpkin spice donut holes have cooled a bit, proper storage is key to keeping them fresh and tasty. Make sure they are completely cool before storing to prevent sogginess. For short-term enjoyment, place them in an airtight container at room temperature. They should stay wonderfully fresh for about 3 to 4 days. If you have more than you can eat right away, don’t worry! These spiced pumpkin donut balls freeze beautifully. Arrange them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid, then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container for up to 2 months. This ensures you have a tasty treat ready whenever a craving strikes!

When you’re ready to enjoy your frozen donut holes, the best way is to let them thaw overnight in the refrigerator. If you prefer them warm, you can gently reheat them. A few minutes in a toaster oven at a low temperature (around 250°F or 120°C) or even a few seconds in the microwave will bring back that cozy, fresh-baked warmth. If you froze them plain, you can re-dip them in the cinnamon sugar mixture after reheating for that perfect finish. For any questions about our recipes, feel free to check our terms and conditions.

Frequently Asked Questions About Pumpkin Spice Donut Holes

What are pumpkin spice donut holes?

Pumpkin spice donut holes are essentially mini, bite-sized versions of classic pumpkin donuts, baked to perfection. They capture all the warm, comforting flavors of autumn with pumpkin purée and a blend of cinnamon, ginger, nutmeg, and cloves. They’re typically coated in a sweet cinnamon-sugar mixture, making them a delightful, easy-to-eat treat.

Can I make pumpkin spice donut holes with gluten-free or vegan ingredients?

Absolutely! You can easily adapt this recipe to be gluten-free pumpkin spice donut holes by using a good quality gluten-free all-purpose flour blend. For vegan pumpkin spice donut holes, substitute the eggs with a flax egg (1 tbsp flaxseed meal + 3 tbsp water, let sit for 5 minutes) and use a dairy-free milk like almond or oat milk instead of buttermilk. You’ll also want to use vegan butter for both the batter and the coating.

What is the best way to store leftover pumpkin spice donut holes?

For the best flavor and texture, store cooled pumpkin spice donut holes in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you need to store them for longer, freezing is your best bet. Place them in a single layer on a baking sheet until frozen, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag for up to 2 months. This helps maintain their texture and prevents them from becoming soggy.

Why are pumpkin spice donut holes so popular?

Why are pumpkin spice donut holes popular? It’s the perfect storm of cozy flavors and convenient size! They deliver that beloved pumpkin spice taste in a portable, bite-sized package that’s perfect for snacks, parties, or just a sweet treat. Plus, the aroma alone is enough to evoke feelings of fall and comfort, making them a seasonal favorite that people crave.

Variations of Pumpkin Spice Donut Holes You Can Try

Once you’ve mastered the basic baked version, it’s fun to explore different ways to enjoy these spiced delights. For a twist on the classic coating, try making glazed pumpkin spice donut holes by whisking together powdered sugar with a splash of milk and a drop of vanilla until smooth, then dipping the warm donut holes into the glaze. If you’re looking for an even quicker cooking method, these are fantastic as air fryer pumpkin spice donut holes! Just follow the recipe for the batter, then air fry at 350°F (175°C) for about 6-8 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through. For those with dietary needs, you can easily create vegan pumpkin spice donut holes by using flax eggs and plant-based milk and butter, or opt for gluten-free pumpkin spice donut holes by swapping the all-purpose flour for a 1:1 gluten-free baking blend.