Irresistible Air Fryer Pumpkin Donut Holes Recipe

The scent of pumpkin spice wafting through the kitchen, the crisp air of autumn outside, and the promise of soft, warm donut holes melting in your mouth—this recipe is everything I love about fall wrapped into one bite. These air fryer pumpkin donut holes are perfection: golden, fluffy, and packed with cozy flavors like cinnamon, nutmeg, and clove. Plus, they’re made in an air fryer, which means less oil and guilt-free indulgence. Trust me, once you try them, you’ll wonder how you ever celebrated fall without them.

I stumbled upon the idea for air fryer pumpkin donut holes while experimenting with fall recipes. I wanted something quick, easy, and most importantly—a treat that felt like a hug on a chilly day. And let me tell you, these little bites of joy exceeded all expectations! Whether you’re looking for a fun weekend baking project or a seasonal snack to wow your friends, this recipe is the answer. Grab your favorite cozy sweater and a mug of something warm, because we’re about to make some magic happen.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick & Easy: These air fryer pumpkin donut holes come together in under 30 minutes, making them perfect for spontaneous fall cravings.
• No Deep-Frying Required: Enjoy the deliciousness of donut holes without the mess or extra oil. The air fryer does all the heavy lifting here!
• Simple Ingredients: You likely already have most of these pantry staples, so no need for a special grocery run.
• Perfect for Fall Gatherings: These bite-sized treats are ideal for Halloween parties, Thanksgiving dessert tables, or cozy weekends at home.
• Irresistibly Delicious: Soft, fluffy, and bursting with pumpkin spice flavor, these donut holes are a fall flavor explosion. They’re sweet, lightly spiced, and absolutely addictive!

What sets these air fryer pumpkin donut holes apart is the texture—light and airy yet satisfyingly tender. Plus, the pumpkin puree adds a natural moistness that’s hard to resist. I tested this recipe multiple times to ensure every bite is as soft and flavorful as possible. The cinnamon-sugar coating gives them that perfect crunch and sweetness, making every bite something special. These donut holes are comfort food reimagined in the best way—healthier, faster, and just as satisfying.

What Ingredients You Will Need

This recipe uses simple, wholesome ingredients that pack big fall flavor into tiny bites. Here’s what you’ll need:

• All-purpose flour: The base of the donut holes; you can substitute with gluten-free flour if needed.
• Baking powder: Helps create that fluffy texture we all love.
• Salt: Just a pinch enhances the sweetness and spices.
• Cinnamon, nutmeg, and ground cloves: The ultimate fall spice trio for a warm, aromatic flavor.
• Pumpkin puree: Adds moistness and a natural pumpkin flavor. Make sure it’s 100% pumpkin, not pumpkin pie filling.
• Brown sugar: Adds richness and a touch of molasses-like depth.
• Egg: Helps bind everything together; use a flax egg for a vegan option.
• Vanilla extract: Enhances the overall flavor profile.
• Milk: Any type works here; I love using almond milk for a dairy-free twist.
• Cinnamon-sugar coating: Made with granulated sugar and cinnamon for that perfect crunch.
• Cooking spray: Helps achieve that golden brown exterior in the air fryer.

If you’re missing an ingredient, don’t worry—I’ve got substitution tips below to help you out!

Equipment Needed

You don’t need much to whip up these air fryer pumpkin donut holes, but here’s a quick rundown:

• Air fryer: The star of the show! If you don’t have one, don’t worry; I’ll share oven instructions below.
• Mixing bowls: One for dry ingredients and another for wet ingredients.
• Whisk: To combine your ingredients smoothly.
• Cookie scoop: Perfect for portioning out evenly-sized donut holes.
• Tongs: Useful for flipping the donut holes in the air fryer.

If you don’t own a cookie scoop, you can use a tablespoon instead—it works just as well!

Preparation Method

1. Prepare the cinnamon-sugar coating: In a small bowl, mix 1/2 cup granulated sugar with 1 teaspoon cinnamon. Set aside for later.
2. Mix the dry ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together 1 1/4 cups all-purpose flour, 2 teaspoons baking powder, 1/4 teaspoon salt, 1 teaspoon cinnamon, 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg, and 1/8 teaspoon ground cloves.
3. Combine wet ingredients: In another bowl, whisk together 1/2 cup pumpkin puree, 1/3 cup brown sugar, 1 large egg, 1 teaspoon vanilla extract, and 1/4 cup milk.
4. Mix the dough: Gradually add the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients, stirring just until combined. Avoid overmixing as it can make the donut holes dense.
5. Shape the donut holes: Use a cookie scoop or tablespoon to form small balls of dough. Roll them gently between your palms to make them smooth.
6. Preheat the air fryer: Set your air fryer to 375°F (190°C) and preheat for 3-4 minutes.
7. Cook the donut holes: Lightly grease the air fryer basket with cooking spray. Place the donut holes in a single layer, leaving space between them. Air fry for 8-10 minutes, flipping halfway through.
8. Coat the donut holes: While still warm, roll the donut holes in the cinnamon-sugar mixture until fully coated.
9. Serve: Enjoy immediately or let them cool slightly before serving.

Pro tip: If your dough feels sticky, lightly dust your hands with flour before rolling. This will make shaping the donut holes a breeze!

Cooking Tips & Techniques

Want to make sure your air fryer pumpkin donut holes come out perfect every time? Here are some tried-and-true tips:

• Don’t overcrowd the air fryer: Give each donut hole enough space to cook evenly. Work in batches if needed.
• Check for doneness: After 8 minutes, gently poke a toothpick into one of the donut holes. If it comes out clean, they’re ready!
• Choose the right pumpkin puree: Avoid pumpkin pie filling—it’s too sweet and spiced. Stick to pure pumpkin puree for the best results.
• Customize the sweetness: Taste your cinnamon-sugar coating before you roll the donut holes. Adjust the amount of cinnamon to suit your preference.
• Keep them warm: If you’re making multiple batches, place cooked donut holes on a plate covered with foil to keep them warm.

If you’re new to air fryers, don’t be intimidated! They’re easy to use and make cooking fun. Plus, they’re perfect for creating healthier versions of fried favorites.

Variations & Adaptations

The beauty of this recipe is its versatility. Here are some ideas to make these air fryer pumpkin donut holes your own:

• Gluten-free option: Swap the all-purpose flour for a gluten-free baking blend. Make sure it’s one that includes xanthan gum for structure.
• Vegan version: Replace the egg with a flax egg (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed + 2 1/2 tablespoons water) and use a plant-based milk like almond or oat milk.
• Chocolate twist: Add mini chocolate chips to the dough for a sweet surprise in every bite.
• Spice it up: Increase the cinnamon and nutmeg for an extra bold flavor, or add a pinch of cardamom for a unique twist.
• Drizzle it: Instead of a cinnamon-sugar coating, drizzle the donut holes with a simple powdered sugar glaze for a different texture.

Experimenting with different flavors and adaptations is half the fun! My personal favorite? Adding a touch of maple syrup to the glaze for extra fall vibes.

Serving & Storage Suggestions

These air fryer pumpkin donut holes are best enjoyed warm, right out of the air fryer. Pair them with a steaming cup of coffee, chai tea, or hot apple cider for the ultimate fall treat.

If you have leftovers (unlikely, but it’s possible), store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. To extend their shelf life, you can keep them in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. To reheat, simply pop them back into the air fryer for 2-3 minutes at 350°F (175°C) or microwave them for about 10 seconds.

Pro tip: If you’re serving these at a party, consider arranging them on a tiered tray with a small bowl of the cinnamon-sugar mixture for dipping. They’ll look adorable and taste even better!

Nutritional Information & Benefits

Here’s a quick breakdown of the nutrition for these air fryer pumpkin donut holes (based on an average serving size of 3 donut holes):

• Calories: Approximately 120
• Fat: 2g
• Carbohydrates: 22g
• Protein: 2g
• Fiber: 1g

Pumpkin is the star ingredient here, bringing a dose of vitamin A, fiber, and antioxidants to the table. Plus, the air fryer method reduces the need for excess oil, making these donut holes a lighter treat. They’re perfect for anyone looking to indulge without overdoing it!

Conclusion

These air fryer pumpkin donut holes are the ultimate fall treat—easy, delicious, and perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a cozy brunch, planning a festive party, or just need a little pick-me-up, this recipe is sure to delight. I love how versatile it is, and I hope you’ll try customizing it to suit your own tastes and dietary needs.

If you give these donut holes a try, I’d love to hear what you think! Leave a comment below and let me know how they turned out. Don’t forget to share your personal twists or variations—I’m always looking for new ideas to try. Happy fall baking!

FAQs

Can I bake these donut holes instead of air frying?

Absolutely! Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and bake the donut holes on a parchment-lined tray for about 10-12 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.

Can I freeze these donut holes?

Yes, you can! Store them in an airtight container or freezer bag for up to 2 months. Reheat in the oven or air fryer for a few minutes before serving.

Can I make these ahead of time?

Absolutely. You can prepare the dough ahead and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours. Shape and air fry when ready to serve.

What’s the best way to make the glaze instead of cinnamon-sugar coating?

Mix 1 cup powdered sugar with 2 tablespoons milk and 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract until smooth. Drizzle over the cooled donut holes.

Can I use homemade pumpkin puree?

Yes, homemade pumpkin puree works wonderfully in this recipe. Just make sure to strain it well to avoid too much moisture in the dough.

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