Do you crave a warm, spiced treat? These Air Fryer Pumpkin Donut Holes are easy and fun to make at home! With simple ingredients and quick steps, you can enjoy a delicious snack that’s perfect for fall or any time. I’m excited to share tips, tricks, and variations to make your donut holes just right. Ready to impress your family and friends? Let’s dive in!
Ingredients
List of Required Ingredients
To make tasty air fryer pumpkin donut holes, gather these key items:
– 1 cup canned pumpkin puree
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup brown sugar, packed
– 1 large egg
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1 teaspoon pumpkin pie spice
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon baking soda
– 1/4 cup milk (whole or almond)
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
– Cinnamon sugar (1/2 cup granulated sugar mixed with 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon for coating)
Optional Ingredients for Customization
You can add fun twists to your donut holes with these extras:
– Chopped nuts for crunch
– Mini chocolate chips for sweetness
– A dash of nutmeg for extra spice
– Different flavored extracts, like almond or maple
Ingredient Substitutions
If you need to swap some items, try these options:
– Use fresh pumpkin if you have it, but cook and puree it first.
– Substitute coconut oil for butter for a dairy-free option.
– For gluten-free, use a gluten-free flour blend.
– Swap almond milk with any plant-based milk you prefer.
These choices help you make the recipe your own while keeping it tasty and fun!
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparing the Batter
To make the batter, start with a large bowl. Add the canned pumpkin puree, granulated sugar, brown sugar, egg, and vanilla extract. Mix these ingredients until smooth. In another bowl, blend the flour, baking powder, pumpkin pie spice, salt, and baking soda. This makes your dry mix. Gradually add the dry mix to the wet mix. Alternate with the milk to keep the batter smooth. Stir until just combined. Finally, pour in the melted butter and mix well. Your batter should be thick but easy to work with.
Shaping the Donut Holes
Now, it’s time to shape the donut holes. Use a spoon or small cookie scoop. Form small dough balls, about 1 inch in size. Make sure they are round and even. This helps them cook well. If you want, line the air fryer basket with parchment paper. This stops the dough from sticking. Place the dough balls in a single layer in the basket. Leave some space between them. This allows for even cooking.
Cooking in the Air Fryer
Preheat the air fryer to 350°F (175°C). Once it’s hot, cook the donut holes for 8-10 minutes. Flip them halfway through for even browning. They should turn golden when done. You might need to cook them in batches. After cooking, toss the warm donut holes in cinnamon sugar. Make sure they are fully coated. Let them cool slightly, then enjoy the warm treat!
Tips & Tricks
Ensuring the Perfect Texture
To get soft and fluffy donut holes, mix the wet and dry ingredients well. Don’t overmix. The batter should be thick but smooth. If it feels too dry, add a bit more milk. This helps keep the donut holes moist.
Air Fryer Settings for Different Models
Air fryers can vary a lot. Most models work well at 350°F (175°C). If your air fryer has a temperature dial, set it to this temperature. Cook for 8-10 minutes. Check them halfway and flip for even cooking. If your air fryer cooks fast, check them a minute early.
Serving Suggestions for Pumpkin Donut Holes
These donut holes taste best warm. Serve them right after coating in cinnamon sugar. You can pair them with a hot drink like coffee or tea. For a fun twist, add a drizzle of icing or melted chocolate on top. Enjoy!
Variations
Alternative Flavor Additions
You can change the flavor of your donut holes easily. Try adding chocolate chips for a sweet twist. A tablespoon of orange zest can brighten the taste. For a spiced kick, mix in a bit of cayenne pepper or ginger. You can also swap pumpkin pie spice with apple pie spice for a fun change.
Healthier Substitutions (gluten-free, dairy-free)
You can make these donut holes gluten-free by using almond flour or a gluten-free blend. For a dairy-free version, use coconut milk instead of regular milk. You can also replace butter with coconut oil. These changes keep the taste great while fitting different diets.
Seasonal Toppings and Glazes
Toppings can add fun flair to your donut holes. In fall, drizzle maple glaze for a sweet touch. During winter, sprinkle crushed peppermint on top. You can also roll the holes in powdered sugar for a classic look. Seasonal toppings make these treats feel special and festive.
Storage Info
Best Practices for Storing Leftovers
Store leftover pumpkin donut holes in an airtight container. This keeps them fresh. Place a paper towel inside to absorb moisture. The donut holes stay soft and tasty this way. Keep them at room temperature for up to two days. If you need them to last longer, refrigerate them for up to a week.
Reheating Instructions
To reheat your donut holes, use an air fryer or oven. Preheat your air fryer to 350°F (175°C). Heat the donut holes for about 3-5 minutes. This makes them warm and crisp again. If using an oven, set it to 350°F (175°C) and heat for 5-7 minutes. Avoid using the microwave, as it can make them soggy.
Freezing Options and Tips
You can freeze pumpkin donut holes for later use. Place them in a single layer on a baking sheet. Put the sheet in the freezer until they are solid. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer bag. Label the bag with the date. They can last up to three months in the freezer. To enjoy, thaw them in the fridge overnight before reheating.
FAQs
How do I know when the donut holes are done?
You can tell the donut holes are done by their color. They should be golden brown. You can also insert a toothpick in the center. If it comes out clean, they are ready. Cooking them for 8-10 minutes usually works well. Make sure to flip them halfway for even cooking.
Can I use fresh pumpkin instead of canned?
Yes, you can use fresh pumpkin. First, you need to cook and puree it. Roast or steam the pumpkin until it is soft. Let it cool, then mash it until smooth. Use the same amount as the canned pumpkin in the recipe. Just keep in mind that fresh pumpkin may have more moisture. You might need to adjust the flour.
What is the best way to reheat leftover donut holes?
To reheat donut holes, use the air fryer. Set it to 350°F (175°C) for about 3-5 minutes. This method keeps them warm and crispy. You can also use a microwave, but they may lose their crispiness. If you choose the microwave, heat for 10-15 seconds at a time. Enjoy them warm for the best taste!
You now have all the tools to make tasty pumpkin donut holes. We covered the key ingredients, step-by-step instructions, and helpful tips. You learned how to customize flavors and store leftovers for later.
Enjoy experimenting with this recipe in your kitchen. Perfecting these donut holes can lead to delightful treats for you and your loved ones. Happy frying!
