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These air fryer pumpkin donut holes are a comforting and delightful treat perfect for the autumn season. With warm spices like cinnamon and pumpkin pie spice, they offer a cozy flavor that feels like a hug in every bite. Cooking them in the air fryer gives a crisp exterior while keeping the inside soft and tender. Brushing them with melted butter and rolling in cinnamon sugar finishes them off beautifully, making them irresistible for breakfast or a snack on chilly days.
I first made these on a crisp autumn morning when fresh pumpkin was abundant, and since then they have become an essential part of my seasonal baking routine that friends and family eagerly ask for.
Ingredients
- All purpose flour: the base for tender donut holes, choose unbleached for best texture
- Brown sugar: adds natural sweetness and moisture, opt for soft packed if possible
- Baking powder: critical for the light and airy rise
- Pumpkin pie spice: blends cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves for that classic warmth
- Kosher salt: balances the sweetness and enhances the flavors
- Pumpkin purée: the star ingredient providing moisture and pumpkin flavor, fresh or canned both work
- Large egg: binds and enriches the batter
- Whole milk: adds creaminess, substitute with almond milk for a lighter version
- Pure vanilla extract: deepens overall flavor
- Unsalted butter melted: for richness in the batter and for brushing before coating
- Granulated sugar and ground cinnamon: combined to create that irresistible cinnamon sugar coating
Instructions
- Combine Dry Ingredients:
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, brown sugar, baking powder, pumpkin pie spice, and kosher salt until the mixture is uniform to evenly distribute the leavening and spices.
- Mix Wet Ingredients:
- In a separate bowl, stir together the pumpkin purée, egg, milk, vanilla extract, and melted butter until the mixture is smooth and homogenous, ensuring a consistent texture in the batter.
- Create Batter:
- Carefully fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture, stirring gently just until everything disappears into the batter; avoid overmixing to keep the donut holes tender and airy.
- Shape the Donut Holes:
- Use a spoon or small cookie scoop to portion out rounds of batter onto a parchment lined tray or lightly greased baking sheet; uniform sizing helps them cook evenly.
- Cook in Air Fryer:
- Preheat the air fryer to 360 degrees Fahrenheit (182 degrees Celsius). Arrange the donut holes in a single layer with space between them to allow air circulation. Cook in batches for about 8 to 10 minutes or until golden brown and puffed up.
- Coat with Cinnamon Sugar:
- While the donut holes are still warm, brush them lightly with melted butter, then roll them gently in the mixture of granulated sugar and ground cinnamon until evenly coated for that classic sweet and spicy finish.
These donut holes hold a special place in my heart, especially the pumpkin spice which is my favorite ingredient. The blend of spices is what truly evokes that fall feeling and makes the kitchen smell amazing when baking. I remember making these with my kids on a rainy afternoon, and the warmth and smells kept us cozy and happy all day long.
Storage Tips
Store cooled donut holes in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days to maintain softness. For longer storage, freeze them in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer bag for up to three months. Reheat gently in the air fryer or oven to refresh the crisp exterior.
Ingredient Substitutions
You can swap whole milk for unsweetened almond milk for a lighter, subtly nutty flavor. Melted coconut oil works well in place of butter and adds a hint of tropical richness. Using whole wheat flour for half of the all purpose flour gives a heartier texture and extra nutrients but may slightly alter the flavor and color.
Serving Suggestions
Serve these pumpkin donut holes alongside a drizzle of homemade caramel sauce or a small bowl of warm melted chocolate for dipping. A sprinkle of finely chopped pecans or a dusting of powdered sugar can give an elegant touch. Pair with hot beverages such as chai tea or spiced apple cider to complete the cozy fall experience.
These air fryer pumpkin donut holes are a cozy, easy to make fall treat. Serve warm and enjoy.
Your Recipe Questions Answered
- → Why are the donut holes dense?
Dense donut holes usually come from overmixing the batter. Stir ingredients gently until just combined to keep them tender and airy.
- → Can homemade pumpkin purée be used?
Yes, homemade purée works well. Strain it thoroughly to match the consistency of canned purée for best results.
- → Should cooking time be adjusted for double portions?
Cooking time remains the same, but cook in smaller batches to avoid overcrowding and ensure even crisping.
- → Can donut holes be made ahead of time?
Cooked donut holes can be stored at room temperature in a sealed container for up to 2 days. Warm them slightly before serving.
- → How to prevent sticking in the air fryer?
Use perforated parchment paper to line the air fryer basket, helping release donut holes cleanly after cooking.