Hey there, fellow baking enthusiast! If you’re anything like me, the kitchen is your little slice of heaven, a place where flour flies, stories are shared, and cozy scents fill the air. Today, I’m so excited to share a recipe that perfectly captures the essence of fall: Pumpkin Donut Holes with Cream Cheese Dip. These adorable, bite-sized treats are warm, spiced, and oh-so-satisfying. Pair them with a dreamy cream cheese dip, and you have an irresistible dessert that’s sure to steal the show. Ready to roll up those sleeves and dive in? Let’s get started!
Why Make This Recipe
So, why should you make these delightful pumpkin donut holes? First off, they are the perfect embodiment of autumn. The combination of pumpkin puree and warm spices will wrap you in a cozy hug, like wearing your favorite sweater on a crisp day. Plus, they’re easy to make and take less than an hour from start to finish!
These little donut holes are great for sharing, whether it’s with friends at a get-together or just enjoying a quiet afternoon with a cup of coffee. They’re a celebration of seasonal ingredients that will surely impress anyone who takes a bite. And oh, that cream cheese dip? It’s the kind of velvety goodness that makes your heart sing! With just a few simple ingredients, you’ll create a dessert that feels like a big, warm hug in every bite.
So, whether you’re gearing up for a fall-themed gathering, a cozy evening at home, or simply craving something sweet, this recipe is your golden ticket!
How to Make Pumpkin Donut Holes with Cream Cheese Dip
Now, let’s get to the fun part: making these delicious pumpkin donut holes! I promise, it’s easier than you might think. Grab your ingredients and let’s make some magic happen!
Ingredients
- ¼ cup butter, melted
- 1 cup brown sugar
- 1 large egg
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- ½ cup buttermilk
- ¾ cup pumpkin puree
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp baking powder
- ½ tsp baking soda
- 1 tsp salt
- 2 tsp pumpkin pie spice
- ½ cup butter, melted (for rolling)
- ½ cup sugar (for rolling)
- 2 tsp cinnamon (for rolling)
- 4 oz cream cheese, softened (for dip)
- 1 cup powdered sugar (for dip)
- 1 tsp vanilla extract (for dip)
- 4–6 tbsp milk (for dip)
Directions
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). It’s always a good idea to get that warm, welcoming heat going while you prep the batter! Grease your mini muffin tin so the donut holes come out easily.
In a large mixing bowl, combine the melted butter, brown sugar, egg, vanilla extract, buttermilk, and pumpkin puree. Mix until everything is smooth and well combined.
In another bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and pumpkin pie spice. This is where the magic happens, those warm spices will make your kitchen smell heavenly!
Gradually combine the wet and dry ingredients. Mix just until everything is incorporated; don’t overdo it!
Scoop the batter into the prepared mini muffin tin, filling each cup about ¾ full. Bake for 10 to 12 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
Let the donut holes cool slightly before diving in. Melt your additional butter for rolling, and combine the sugar and cinnamon in a separate small bowl. Dip each donut hole in melted butter, then roll it in the cinnamon-sugar mixture.
Now, let’s whip up that dreamy cream cheese dip! In a separate bowl, beat together the softened cream cheese, powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and milk until it’s smooth and creamy. Adjust the milk to get the desired consistency, you want that lovely dipable texture!
How to Serve Pumpkin Donut Holes
Serving these pumpkin donut holes is as simple as it is delightful! Arrange them on a pretty platter, and don’t forget to include a bowl of that luscious cream cheese dip in the center. You can also garnish with a sprinkle of extra cinnamon or powdered sugar for that decorative touch.
These donut holes are perfect for parties, brunches, or cozy afternoons with loved ones. Just be prepared for smiles all around, because everyone is going to want to indulge in these little gems!
How to Store Pumpkin Donut Holes
If you happen to have any leftovers (which is unlikely but can happen!), you can keep these pumpkin donut holes fresh. Simply store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you prefer them to last longer, pop them in the fridge for about a week. Just be sure to let them come back to room temperature when you’re ready to enjoy them!
As for the cream cheese dip, it can also be stored in the refrigerator in a separate airtight container for up to a week. Just give it a little stir before serving again!
Tips to Make Pumpkin Donut Holes
- Don’t Skip the Spice: Pumpkin pie spice is a must! It elevates the flavor and gives it that quintessential fall taste.
- Watch the Time: Keep an eye on your donut holes while they bake. Every oven is different, so check them a minute or two early to avoid overbaking.
- Make it a Family Affair: Get the kids involved! Let them help with measuring, mixing, or rolling the donut holes in sugar. It’s a great way to bond and create fun memories.
Variations
While the classic pumpkin donut holes with cream cheese dip are amazing on their own, you can easily switch things up! Here are a few ideas:
- Maple Glaze: Drizzle a sweet maple glaze over the top instead of using the dip for a different flavor twist.
- Nutty Crunch: Add chopped nuts like walnuts or pecans to the batter for extra texture and flavor.
- Chocolate Chip Delight: Sprinkle in some chocolate chips for a rich, sweet contrast with the pumpkin spice.
FAQs
1. Can I use fresh pumpkin instead of canned puree?
Absolutely! Just make sure to cook and puree your fresh pumpkin until smooth. It might take a little more time, but the flavor is worth it!
2. What can I use if I don’t have buttermilk?
No worries! You can make your own buttermilk by mixing 1/2 cup of regular milk with 1/2 tablespoon of vinegar or lemon juice. Let it sit for about 5 minutes, and you’ll have a perfect substitute.
3. Can I freeze the donut holes?
Yes! These donut holes freeze wonderfully. Once cooled, place them in a single layer on a baking sheet to freeze individually. Once frozen solid, transfer them to a freezer bag or container. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply thaw and reheat for a few minutes in the oven or microwave.
And there you have it, dear friends! A recipe that not only tastes heavenly but also brings the essence of autumn straight into your kitchen. I hope you enjoy every moment of making (and devouring) these Pumpkin Donut Holes with Cream Cheese Dip. Happy baking, and see you next time in our little corner of sweet possibilities!
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Pumpkin Donut Holes with Cream Cheese Dip
- Total Time: 27 minutes
- Yield: 24 donut holes 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Delightful pumpkin donut holes paired with a creamy dip, perfect for fall gatherings.
Ingredients
- ¼ cup butter, melted
- 1 cup brown sugar
- 1 large egg
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- ½ cup buttermilk
- ¾ cup pumpkin puree
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp baking powder
- ½ tsp baking soda
- 1 tsp salt
- 2 tsp pumpkin pie spice
- ½ cup butter, melted (for rolling)
- ½ cup sugar (for rolling)
- 2 tsp cinnamon (for rolling)
- 4 oz cream cheese, softened (for dip)
- 1 cup powdered sugar (for dip)
- 1 tsp vanilla extract (for dip)
- 4–6 tbsp milk (for dip)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease your mini muffin tin.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the melted butter, brown sugar, egg, vanilla extract, buttermilk, and pumpkin puree. Mix until smooth.
- In another bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and pumpkin pie spice.
- Gradually combine the wet and dry ingredients and mix just until incorporated.
- Scoop the batter into the mini muffin tin, filling each cup about ¾ full. Bake for 10 to 12 minutes.
- Let the donut holes cool slightly, then dip in melted butter and roll in a cinnamon-sugar mixture.
- For the cream cheese dip, beat together cream cheese, powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and milk until smooth.
Notes
Store leftover donut holes in an airtight container for up to 3 days at room temperature or up to a week in the refrigerator.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 2 donut holes
- Calories: 250
- Sugar: 15g
- Sodium: 200mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 30mg