Are you ready to embrace the cozy flavors of fall? This Pumpkin Spice Donut Holes Air Fryer recipe delivers a warm, fluffy treat that’s perfect for any autumn day. With just a handful of simple ingredients and easy steps, you’ll enjoy delicious, guilt-free donut holes without the hassle. Let’s dive into making these nutty, spicy bites that your family and friends will love! Get your air fryer ready for some blissful fun!
Ingredients
List of Ingredients
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup pumpkin puree
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup brown sugar, packed
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
– 1 teaspoon pumpkin pie spice
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup milk (dairy or non-dairy)
– 1 large egg
– 2 tablespoons melted butter or coconut oil
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/4 cup cinnamon sugar (for coating)
These ingredients come together to create a simple yet delightful treat. The pumpkin puree adds moisture and a rich flavor. The sugars provide sweetness and a nice crust. The spices, especially pumpkin pie spice, give that warm, cozy taste we all love in fall.
Equipment Needed
– Air fryer
– Mixing bowls
– Whisk
– Cookie scoop or spoon
– Parchment paper (optional)
Using the right tools makes a big difference. The air fryer cooks these donut holes evenly and quickly. Mixing bowls and a whisk help blend the ingredients smoothly. A cookie scoop ensures uniform sizes, which leads to even cooking.
Nutritional Information
– Calories per serving: Approximately 120
– Key nutrients: Fiber, Vitamin A, and Iron
These donut holes are not only tasty but also provide some nutrition. The pumpkin adds fiber and vitamin A, which is great for your eyes. Enjoying them in moderation can fit well into a balanced diet.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparing the Batter
– Mixing dry ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together 1 cup of all-purpose flour, 1/4 cup of granulated sugar, 1/4 cup of brown sugar, 1 teaspoon of baking powder, 1/2 teaspoon of baking soda, 1 teaspoon of pumpkin pie spice, and 1/4 teaspoon of salt. This creates a sweet and spiced base for your donut holes.
– Combining wet ingredients: In a separate bowl, mix 1/2 cup of pumpkin puree, 1/4 cup of milk, 1 large egg, 2 tablespoons of melted butter or coconut oil, and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract. Stir until it’s smooth and creamy.
– Merging dry and wet mixtures: Pour the wet mixture into the dry ingredients. Stir gently until a smooth batter forms. Avoid overmixing. You want it silky and thick but not tough.
Air Frying Process
– Preheating the air fryer: Preheat your air fryer to 350°F (175°C) for about 5 minutes. This helps to cook the donut holes evenly.
– Portioning the batter: Use a small cookie scoop or spoon to drop 1 tablespoon of batter into the air fryer basket. Leave space between each ball. This gives them room to puff up.
– Cooking times and temperature: Air fry the donut holes for 8-10 minutes. They should be golden brown. Check with a toothpick; it should come out clean.
Finishing Touches
– Coating in cinnamon sugar: Once cooked, take the donut holes out and roll them in 1/4 cup of cinnamon sugar while warm. This coating adds sweetness and flavor.
– Presentation tips for serving: Serve the donut holes in a decorative bowl or on a tiered stand. You can drizzle them with icing or maple syrup for extra charm. Enjoy the warm, spiced goodness!
Tips & Tricks
Air Fryer Best Practices
– How to avoid sticking: Lightly grease your air fryer basket. You can also use parchment paper. This helps the donut holes lift out easily.
– Ensuring even cooking: Don’t overcrowd the basket. Leave space between each donut hole. This allows hot air to flow around them, cooking evenly.
– Adjustments for different air fryer models: Each model cooks differently. If your air fryer runs hot, check the donut holes a minute or two early. Adjust cooking time as needed.
Recipe Tweaks
– Substitutions for allergens: Use gluten-free flour for a gluten-free version. Substitute dairy milk with almond, oat, or soy milk to make it dairy-free.
– Adding chocolate chips or nuts: For extra flavor, mix in chocolate chips or chopped nuts. This adds texture and a fun twist.
– Using different spices or flavorings: Try adding nutmeg or ginger for a unique flavor. You can also use chai spice for a different taste.
Serving Suggestions
– Pairing with beverages: These donut holes go great with coffee or warm apple cider. They are perfect for cozy fall mornings.
– Creative serving ideas: Serve in a decorative bowl or on a tiered stand. Drizzle with icing or maple syrup for an extra touch. Sprinkle with extra cinnamon sugar for more sweetness.
Variations
Flavor Variations
You can change the flavor of your donut holes easily. A maple glaze is a great option. Just mix powdered sugar and maple syrup for a sweet topping. You can also add different spices. Nutmeg and allspice give a warm flavor twist. For pumpkin spice variations, try adding pumpkin pie mix or chai spices. Each option gives your donut holes a unique taste.
Doughnut Hole Shapes
You can switch up the size of your donut holes. For larger treats, simply form them into bigger balls. These become pumpkin spice donuts. If you want bite-sized snacks, make mini donut holes. They are fun for parties or kids. Each size offers a different eating experience.
Seasonal Twists
Make your donut holes festive with seasonal decorations. Use icing to create fun designs for holidays. You can also add seasonal fruits. Chopped apples or cranberries bring extra flavor and color. This not only enhances taste but makes the dish look beautiful too. Happy baking!
Storage Info
Short-Term Storage
To store your leftover pumpkin spice donut holes, let them cool completely. Place them in an airtight container. This keeps them fresh and moist. If you have some cinnamon sugar left, keep it in a separate container. This way, you can coat the donut holes again before serving.
Freezing Instructions
You can freeze these donut holes for later. First, let them cool completely. Then, place them in a single layer on a baking sheet. Freeze for about one hour. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag. They can stay fresh for up to three months. To reheat, bake them in the air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for 5-7 minutes.
Shelf Life
At room temperature, these donut holes last for about two days. Keep them in an airtight container to prevent them from drying out. If you notice any mold or an off smell, it’s best to throw them away. Enjoy them fresh for the best taste!
FAQs
Can I use a different type of flour?
Yes, you can swap the all-purpose flour. Whole wheat flour works well. It adds a nutty taste. Gluten-free flour is also an option. Just make sure it has a good binding agent.
How long do they take to cook?
These donut holes take about 8-10 minutes to cook. Keep an eye on them after 8 minutes. They should be golden brown and fluffy.
What should I do if my donut holes are not cooking evenly?
If your donut holes are uneven, check your air fryer. Make sure it is preheated well. You can also rotate the basket halfway through cooking. This helps them cook evenly.
Can I make these donut holes ahead of time?
Yes, you can make these donut holes in advance. You can prepare the dough and chill it. Just air fry them when you are ready. This keeps them fresh and tasty.
This blog post outlined a simple and tasty recipe for pumpkin spice donut holes. You learned about the ingredients, tools, and easy steps for making them. I shared tips for better air frying and fun ways to serve your treats. Remember, you can adjust this recipe for allergies or add fun flavors. Enjoy experimenting with your donut holes! They make a great snack or dessert, perfect for any time. Now, gather your ingredients and make these delicious bites at home!
