As the leaves turn and the air gets crisp, I’m reminded of the warm embrace of autumn flavors. That’s why I’m thrilled to share my recipe for gluten-free pumpkin donut holes—your new go-to snack this season! These delightful treats are not only light and fluffy, but they also come without any oil, making them a guilt-free indulgence that fits seamlessly into any healthy lifestyle. Coated in a warm cinnamon sugar, each donut hole delivers the comforting taste of pumpkin and spices, perfect for breakfast or a cozy afternoon treat. Plus, being completely vegan and allergy-friendly means everyone can join in on the fun! Ready to whisk up a batch? Let’s dive into this autumnal joy!
Why are These Donut Holes Irresistible?
Deliciously Light: Each bite of these gluten-free pumpkin donut holes offers a soft, cakey texture that’s a delight to savor. Seasonal Spices create that warm autumn essence we all love, while being free from oil keeps them guilt-free! Versatile Options allow you to customize; try adding cocoa powder for a chocolate kick or use applesauce for lighter fruitiness. Quick and Easy: Perfect for a crowd, these donut holes can be whipped up in no time, making them an ideal treat for any occasion. Pair them with coffee or a warm beverage for the ultimate cozy moment!
Pumpkin Donut Holes Ingredients
• Gather all the essentials to whip up these delightful pumpkin donut holes!
For the Batter
- Pumpkin Puree – Provides moistness and rich pumpkin flavor. Substitution: Use homemade pumpkin puree or canned as long as it’s pure pumpkin, without added sugars.
- Gluten-Free All-Purpose Flour – The base for structure and texture. Note: Ensure the flour blend contains xanthan gum or add separately for best results.
- Maple Syrup – Sweetens the donut holes naturally. Substitution: Agave nectar or any liquid sweetener can be used.
- Baking Powder – Leavening agent that helps achieve fluffiness. No direct substitutes, but baking soda with vinegar can work in a pinch.
- Cinnamon – Adds warmth and spiciness. Substitution: Pumpkin spice can be used for a spiced flavor.
- Nutmeg – Enhances the classic pumpkin flavor. Skip if unavailable; it’s optional but recommended.
- Almond Milk (or non-dairy milk) – Adds moisture to the batter. Substitution: Any non-dairy milk works, such as soy or oat milk.
For Coating
- Cinnamon Sugar – For coating after baking, creating a sweet crust. DIY: Mix granulated sugar with ground cinnamon for the dusting.
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Gluten-Free Vegan Pumpkin Donut Holes
Step 1: Preheat Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures a perfectly baked texture for your gluten-free vegan pumpkin donut holes. While the oven heats up, gather your baking equipment and prepare for the fun ahead of mixing the batter.
Step 2: Prepare Pan
Grease your donut hole pan generously with cooking spray or oil to prevent sticking. If you don’t have a donut hole pan, a mini muffin pan works perfectly too! This step is crucial to ensure the donut holes release easily once they’re baked.
Step 3: Mix Dry Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the gluten-free all-purpose flour, baking powder, ground cinnamon, and nutmeg. Make sure there are no clumps in the dry ingredients as this will help achieve a light and fluffy texture in your pumpkin donut holes.
Step 4: Mix Wet Ingredients
In another bowl, combine the pumpkin puree, almond milk, and maple syrup. Stir well to create a smooth mixture. Once your wet ingredients are combined, you can easily incorporate them into the dry mix for a rich, flavorful batter that beautifully captures the essence of fall.
Step 5: Combine Ingredients
Pour the wet ingredients into the dry mixture and stir until just combined; be careful not to overmix! The batter should be thick but pourable. A few lumps are perfectly fine, and this blend will ensure your gluten-free vegan pumpkin donut holes remain tender and moist after baking.
Step 6: Fill Pan
Using a spoon or piping bag, carefully fill each cavity of the prepared pan about ¾ full with the batter. The batter should resemble thick cake mix and should not overflow during baking. This will create perfectly sized donut holes that will rise beautifully in the oven.
Step 7: Bake
Place the filled pan in the preheated oven and bake for 12-14 minutes. You’ll know they’re done when a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. The tops should be lightly golden, and your kitchen will be filled with an irresistible aroma of pumpkin and spices.
Step 8: Cool
Once baked, remove the donut hole pan from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. Carefully transfer the donut holes to a wire rack to cool completely. This step allows for better texture and prevents any sogginess, keeping your gluten-free vegan pumpkin donut holes delightful!
Step 9: Coat
While the donut holes are still warm, prepare the cinnamon sugar coating. Place the sugar and cinnamon mix in a container or bag, then add in a few donut holes at a time. Gently shake to coat them evenly, creating a sweet and crunchy outer layer that enhances the flavors beautifully.
What to Serve with Gluten-Free Pumpkin Donut Holes
These light and fluffy delights are the perfect sweet treat, inviting warmth and comfort to any occasion.
- Creamy Hot Chocolate: Perfectly complements the spices in the donut holes, creating a cozy beverage for a chilly day.
- Maple Pecan Granola: A crunchy, nutty pairing that offers delightful texture alongside the softness of the donut holes.
- Fresh Fruit Salad: Bright, juicy fruits add freshness and balance out the sweetness, bringing a burst of color to your plate.
- Chai Tea: The spiced flavors of chai enhance the warmth of pumpkin, making every bite even more comforting.
- Almond Milk Latte: The creaminess and subtle nutty flavor perfectly match the pumpkin spice profile, creating a blissful morning treat.
- Whipped Coconut Cream: A light and airy topping that adds a luscious finish, inviting you to indulge just a little more.
- Caramel Dipping Sauce: For those with a sweet tooth, this rich sauce provides a decadent and delightful contrast to the donut holes.
- Pumpkin Spice Smoothie: Keep the pumpkin theme going with a smoothie that brings together the same flavors in a refreshing form.
- Spiced Apple Cider: This warm drink wraps you in autumn goodness and pairs beautifully with the cinnamon sugar coating of the donut holes.
Pumpkin Donut Holes: Fun Variations!
Feel free to sprinkle a little creativity into your pumpkin donut holes recipe for personalized delights that everyone will love!
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Chocolatey Twist: Add 1/4 cup of cocoa powder to the batter for an indulgent chocolate flavor. Swap out the cinnamon sugar for powdered sugar after baking for a sweet surprise!
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Zesty Citrus: Add the zest of one orange or lemon to the batter for a refreshing citrus pop that pairs beautifully with pumpkin. A hint of brightness can elevate the cozy autumn vibes.
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Apple Flavor: Replace pumpkin puree with applesauce for a light, fruity alternative. These donut holes will still be soft and satisfying, bringing a lovely new flavor to your fall favorites.
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Nutty Delight: Fold in 1/2 cup of chopped nuts, like walnuts or pecans, for extra crunch and texture. The earthy flavors complement the spices perfectly while adding a wholesome twist.
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Spiced Heat: Mix in a pinch of cayenne pepper or ground ginger to ramp up the spice level. This small addition can bring a delightful kick that balances the sweetness of the donut holes.
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Caramel Drizzle: For an indulgent treat, drizzle warmed vegan caramel sauce over the donut holes after coating them in cinnamon sugar. This decadent touch will make them a true showstopper.
For more delicious pumpkin-inspired treats, check out Spiced Pumpkin Streusel or indulge in a comforting Pumpkin Cornbread Cinnamon that will warm your heart!
With these variations, you can enjoy the timeless flavors of pumpkin in all sorts of exciting new ways!
Expert Tips for Pumpkin Donut Holes
• Oil-Free Baking: Ensure your pumpkin donut holes stay moist by using pure pumpkin puree. Avoid adding oil, as it’s not necessary for texture.
• Careful Mixing: Avoid overmixing the batter; a few lumps are fine. This helps keep your pumpkin donut holes light and airy, rather than dense.
• Check for Doneness: Use a toothpick to test if the donut holes are cooked through; they should spring back lightly when touched for best results.
• Warm Coating: Coat the donut holes in cinnamon sugar while they’re still warm to create an irresistible crust. The warmth helps the sugar adhere better.
• Batch Preparation: Consider making extra and storing them in an airtight container to enjoy later. These gluten-free pumpkin donut holes stay delicious for a couple of days!
Make Ahead Options
These Gluten-Free Pumpkin Donut Holes are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time! You can prepare the batter up to 24 hours ahead; simply mix all your ingredients and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The donut holes can also be baked in advance and stored in an airtight container for up to 3 days. To maintain their delightful texture, allow them to cool completely before storing. When ready to enjoy, simply reheat them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-7 minutes, then coat in cinnamon sugar, and you’ll have fresh, fluffy pumpkin donut holes with every bite!
Storage Tips for Pumpkin Donut Holes
Room Temperature: Store leftover pumpkin donut holes in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. This keeps them fresh and ready for a quick snack!
Fridge: If you want to prolong their freshness, refrigerate the donut holes. They can last up to 5 days in the fridge, just be sure to seal them well to avoid dryness.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the donut holes in a single layer on a baking sheet before placing them in a freezer bag. They will stay good for up to 3 months; simply reheat in the oven for that fresh-baked taste!
Reheating: To reheat, pop the donut holes in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-10 minutes. This ensures they regain their deliciously soft texture, making those pumpkin donut holes enjoyable once again!
Gluten-Free Vegan Pumpkin Donut Holes Recipe FAQs
What type of pumpkin puree should I use?
Absolutely! For the best flavor and texture, I recommend using pure pumpkin puree, either homemade or canned without added sugars. This ensures your donut holes are moist and rich in pumpkin goodness.
How should I store the donut holes, and how long will they last?
Store your leftover pumpkin donut holes in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. If you want to keep them longer, refrigerate them to extend their freshness for up to 5 days. Just make sure to seal the container well to prevent them from drying out!
Can I freeze the pumpkin donut holes?
Yes, indeed! To freeze, place the donut holes in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid, about 1-2 hours. Then, transfer them into a freezer bag. They’ll stay good for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy them again, simply reheat in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-10 minutes.
What if my donut holes turn out dense?
If your gluten-free pumpkin donut holes turn out dense, it’s likely due to overmixing the batter. When combining the wet and dry ingredients, mix until just combined—remember, a few lumps are perfectly fine! Also, be sure to measure your flour correctly; too much flour can make them dense.
Are these donut holes suitable for people with allergies?
Yes! These pumpkin donut holes are vegan, gluten-free, and made without any common allergens. However, always check individual ingredient labels, especially for the flour and non-dairy milk, to ensure they meet your dietary requirements.
How can I enhance the flavor of my donut holes?
For extra flavor, consider adding a teaspoon of pumpkin spice to the batter for a spicier kick. You can also include mix-ins like chocolate chips or chopped nuts for added texture and taste, making your pumpkin donut holes even more delightful!
Pumpkin Donut Holes That Will Make You Smile and Savor
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Grease your donut hole pan generously with cooking spray or oil.
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the gluten-free all-purpose flour, baking powder, ground cinnamon, and nutmeg.
- In another bowl, combine the pumpkin puree, almond milk, and maple syrup; stir until smooth.
- Pour the wet ingredients into the dry mixture and stir until just combined.
- Fill each cavity of the prepared pan about ¾ full with the batter.
- Bake for 12-14 minutes until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
- Let cool for a few minutes before transferring to a wire rack.
- Coat warm donut holes in cinnamon sugar by shaking in a container.
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