Save to Pinterest Air Fryer Pumpkin Spice Donut Holes are my go-to fall treat when the leaves start to turn and I want to fill my kitchen with the scents of cinnamon and pumpkin. These little bites are easy to whip up and deliver all the warmth and nostalgia of bakery donuts without the mess of deep-frying. Whether you are craving something sweet for breakfast or looking to impress guests on a crisp October evening, this recipe is guaranteed to make everyone smile.
I made these donut holes for a last minute brunch and my friends were amazed at how tender and flavorful they were. Now they ask for them every weekend when pumpkin season hits.
Ingredients
- All purpose flour: gives structure and a pillowy crumb look for unbleached flour for best texture
- Granulated sugar: provides sweetness and helps brown the outside you want fresh fine crystals
- Baking powder and baking soda: create that signature airy lift always check your leavening is fresh
- Salt: balances the sweetness and boosts every spice
- Pumpkin pie spice: brings warmth and depth use a blend with real cinnamon and ginger for authentic flavor
- Canned pumpkin puree: adds moisture and rich autumn essence use pure pumpkin not pumpkin pie filling
- Milk: softens the batter and binds it use whole milk for richer taste
- Large egg: helps the donut holes hold together and gives extra fluff choose fresh and free range if possible
- Unsalted butter: delivers a tender crumb and golden brown finish use high quality butter for best results
- Vanilla extract: enhances every note of spice and pumpkin pick pure vanilla for rich aroma
- Cinnamon and granulated sugar for coating: brings the classic donut shop finish select fragrant cinnamon for maximum aroma
- More melted butter: makes the coating irresistible look for deep yellow butter for fresh flavor
Instructions
- Mix Dry Ingredients:
- In a large bowl whisk together flour granulated sugar baking powder baking soda salt and pumpkin pie spice for about one minute until well blended. Stir slowly to aerate the mixture and ensure every grain of spice is even this step makes sure every bite is flavorful.
- Blend Wet Ingredients:
- In a separate bowl combine pumpkin puree milk egg melted butter and vanilla extract until the mixture turns creamy and completely smooth. Use a spatula to scrape down the sides to make sure everything is incorporated. Take your time mixing until there are no streaks left.
- Combine Wet and Dry:
- Pour the wet mixture into the dry ingredients and stir gently with a spatula or wooden spoon until just combined. The dough should look thick and soft but not smooth like a cake batter. Do not overmix or you might get dense donut holes.
- Shape Donut Holes:
- Lightly grease your hands with a touch of oil or melted butter and scoop tablespoon portions of dough. Roll into balls about one inch across and transfer to a parchment lined plate. Making sure all pieces are equal size keeps them cooking evenly.
- Preheat Air Fryer:
- Set your air fryer to 350 degrees Fahrenheit and preheat for three minutes. This helps set the perfect cooking environment right from the start and prevents dough from absorbing oil or sticking.
- Arrange and Cook:
- Carefully place donut holes in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Leave space between each to allow hot air to circulate. Air fry for seven to eight minutes until golden brown and crisp on the outside. Shake the basket halfway through to guarantee even browning.
- Brush with Butter:
- When the donut holes emerge hot from the air fryer use a pastry brush to coat each with melted butter. Be gentle so you do not tear the soft outsides. This step seals in moisture and makes them taste just like bakery donuts.
- Coat in Cinnamon Sugar:
- Immediately toss each buttered donut hole in the cinnamon sugar mixture. Roll well so every side gets a good layer. If you love extra crunch repeat the toss once more before serving.
- Serve Warm:
- Enjoy these donut holes fresh from the air fryer for maximum flavor and texture. Serve alone or with a side of coffee or hot cider.
Save to Pinterest My favorite part of making these donut holes is watching my kids help coat them in cinnamon sugar. Last Thanksgiving I doubled the recipe so every cousin could join in and our kitchen smelled like spice and laughter for hours.
Storage Tips
Keep leftover donut holes in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. For fresher taste and texture reheat in the air fryer for about two minutes. You can freeze uncoated holes for up to three months and coat after reheating for best results.
Ingredient Substitutions
If you want to make dairy free swap milk and butter for oat milk and vegan butter. Use gluten free all purpose flour for a wheatless version. For eggs try a flaxseed substitute which keeps the texture light. Homemade pumpkin spice or just cinnamon works as a spice base too.
Serving Suggestions
Pair these donut holes with hot coffee tea or apple cider for a harvest breakfast. Try offering a small bowl of cream cheese glaze or vanilla yogurt for dipping. They also make an adorable centerpiece for an autumn party dessert platter.
Cultural Context
Donut holes in American baking echo the nostalgia of old fashioned county fairs and cozy coffee shops but this pumpkin spice twist brings the warmth of fall traditions. Air frying combines that classic taste with healthier modern kitchen technology the best of both worlds.
Save to Pinterest Air Fryer Pumpkin Spice Donut Holes are delightfully simple and pure fall comfort in every bite. Make them once and you will crave them season after season.
Common Recipe Questions
- → Can I use homemade pumpkin puree?
Yes, homemade pumpkin puree can be used. Ensure it's well-drained and smooth before mixing with other ingredients.
- → Do I need to preheat the air fryer?
Preheating the air fryer helps achieve even cooking and a fluffy texture. A 3-minute preheat at 350°F is recommended.
- → How do I prevent the donut holes from sticking?
Lightly greasing your hands and spacing the dough balls apart in the air fryer basket will prevent sticking and ensure even cooking.
- → Can I make these ahead of time?
These are best served fresh, but you can reheat them in the air fryer for 2 minutes to restore their texture if made ahead.
- → What can I dip the donut holes in?
Try pairing with a cream cheese glaze or classic vanilla icing for an extra decadent twist on this autumn treat.
- → Are there gluten-free or dairy-free options?
You may substitute gluten-free flour, non-dairy milk, and vegan butter to accommodate dietary needs. Check labels for allergens.