Pumpkin Spice Doughnut Hole Muffins Recipe

The Best Pumpkin Spice Doughnut Hole Muffins Recipe For Fall

Autumn’s crisp breeze carries magical pumpkin spice doughnut hole muffins that dance between nostalgic comfort and playful culinary creativity.

Sweet miniature treats capture the essence of cozy sweater weather with their warm, spiced interior.

Compact morsels blend traditional bakery techniques with modern snacking preferences.

Nutmeg and cinnamon intertwine, creating an irresistible aroma that beckons from kitchen counters.

Soft, pillowy textures promise indulgent moments of pure seasonal bliss.

Simple ingredients merge into delectable bites that celebrate fall’s most cherished flavors.

You’ll want to share these delightful muffins with everyone who crosses your path.

FAQs

  • Can I use a different type of flour for this recipe?

Yes, you can substitute all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour or a gluten-free blend. Just keep in mind that the texture and taste might slightly change.

  • Is it necessary to use pumpkin pie spice instead of individual spices?

No, the recipe calls for individual spices like cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger. If you prefer, you can use pumpkin pie spice as an equal replacement for these spices.

  • How do I know if the muffins are fully baked?

Insert a toothpick into the center of a muffin. If it comes out clean with no wet batter, the muffins are done. They should also have a golden brown color around the edges.

Pumpkin Spice Doughnut Hole Muffins: Tiny Baked Joys

  • Quick Kitchen Magic: Whip up these delightful pumpkin spice doughnut hole muffins with minimal effort and maximum flavor, perfect for bakers of all skill levels.
  • Crowd-Pleasing Comfort: Packed with warm spices and a cozy pumpkin twist, these mini muffins instantly spark joy and bring everyone together around the table.
  • Versatile Treat Sensation: Enjoy as a breakfast nibble, afternoon snack, or sweet dessert that works beautifully for casual gatherings, family brunches, or unexpected guest surprises.
  • No-Fuss Preparation: Simple ingredients and straightforward mixing technique mean you can create these delicious treats without complicated steps or professional baking skills.

Gather for Pumpkin Muffin Holes

Dry Ingredients:
  • Flour: All-purpose flour provides the base structure for the doughnut hole muffins.
  • Granulated Sugar, Brown Sugar: Sweeteners that add depth of flavor and moisture to the baked treat.
  • Baking Powder, Baking Soda: Leavening agents that help the muffins rise and become light and fluffy.
  • Salt: Enhances the overall flavor of the muffins.
Spices:
  • Cinnamon, Nutmeg, Ginger: Warm spices that create the classic pumpkin spice flavor profile.
Wet Ingredients:
  • Pumpkin Puree: Adds moisture and rich pumpkin flavor to the muffins.
  • Melted Butter, Oil: Fats that contribute to the tender texture of the muffins.
  • Milk: Provides liquid and helps bind the ingredients together.
  • Egg: Acts as a binding agent and adds structure to the muffins.
  • Vanilla Extract: Adds a subtle depth of flavor to the overall recipe.
Topping:
  • Cinnamon, Sugar: A classic coating that gives the muffins a sweet and spicy exterior.
  • Melted Butter: Helps the cinnamon-sugar mixture adhere to the warm muffins.

How to Bake Doughnut Hole Muffins

Step 1: Warm Up the Oven

Crank your oven to a toasty 350F (175C) and give your mini muffin pan a quick spray of cooking oil to prevent any sticky situations.

Step 2: Create Dry Ingredient Magic

Grab a spacious mixing bowl and toss in:
  • All-purpose flour
  • Granulated sugar
  • Brown sugar
  • Baking powder
  • Baking soda
  • Salt
  • Ground cinnamon
  • Nutmeg
  • Ground ginger

Whisk these dry ingredients until they’re perfectly blended.

Step 3: Blend Wet Ingredient Wonders

In a separate bowl, combine:
  • Pumpkin puree
  • Melted butter
  • Vegetable oil
  • Milk
  • Egg
  • Vanilla extract

Stir until the mixture looks smooth and dreamy.

Step 4: Marry the Ingredients

Slowly fold the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients.

Mix gently until everything just comes together – don’t overmix!

Step 5: Fill the Muffin Cups

Spoon the batter into your mini muffin pan, filling each cup about two-thirds full.

Step 6: Bake to Golden Perfection

Slide the pan into the oven and bake for 10-12 minutes.

Check doneness by inserting a toothpick – it should come out clean.

Step 7: Prepare the Irresistible Coating

While muffins are cooling, mix cinnamon and sugar in a small bowl.

Step 8: Create the Final Magical Touch

Dunk each warm muffin in melted butter, then roll in the cinnamon-sugar mixture until completely coated.

Enjoy your delectable treat!

Muffin Hole Baking Tricks

  • Add a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt to the wet ingredients for extra tender, soft muffins that stay deliciously moist.
  • Replace all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour or gluten-free blend to make the recipe more nutritious and allergen-friendly.
  • Experiment with additional warm spices like cardamom or allspice to create a more complex flavor profile that elevates the traditional pumpkin spice taste.
  • Use a pastry brush to evenly coat muffins with melted butter before rolling in cinnamon-sugar for a more consistent and delectable topping.
  • Store muffins in an airtight container at room temperature for 2-3 days, or freeze for up to a month to enjoy later.

Pumpkin Muffin Hole Flavors

  • Gluten-Free Pumpkin Spice Holes: Replace wheat flour with almond or gluten-free blend for a celiac-friendly version.
  • Vegan Pumpkin Mini Muffins: Swap egg with flax egg, use coconut oil instead of butter, and select plant-based milk for dairy-free alternative.
  • Low-Sugar Pumpkin Bites: Substitute granulated sugar with monk fruit sweetener or stevia, reduce total sugar content for diabetic-friendly option.
  • Keto Pumpkin Spice Morsels: Use coconut flour, replace sugar with erythritol, incorporate almond flour to create low-carb, ketogenic-friendly mini muffins.

Serve Up Doughnut Holes with Smiles

  • Fall Flavor Pairing: Serve these delightful pumpkin spice doughnut hole muffins alongside a warm cup of apple cider or spiced chai tea for a cozy autumn experience.
  • Holiday Brunch Centerpiece: Arrange the muffins on a rustic wooden platter with some scattered cinnamon sticks and fresh cranberries to create an eye-catching breakfast display.
  • Dessert Transformation: Drizzle melted caramel or chocolate over the muffins and sprinkle with chopped pecans for an elevated sweet treat that feels extra indulgent.
  • Gifting Delight: Package the muffins in clear cellophane bags tied with twine and attach a small cinnamon stick for a homemade gift that feels personal and festive.

Storing Muffins for Later Treats

  • Store cooled muffins in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Wrap each layer with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
  • Place muffins in a freezer-safe container or ziplock bag. Freeze for up to 2 months. Separate layers with wax paper to maintain texture.
  • Warm refrigerated or thawed muffins at 300F for 5-7 minutes. Wrap loosely in foil to prevent drying out.
  • Heat individual muffins for 10-15 seconds. Check temperature and avoid overheating to maintain softness.
Print
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Pumpkin Spice Doughnut Hole Muffins Recipe

Pumpkin Spice Doughnut Hole Muffins Recipe


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4.5 from 26 reviews

  • Total Time: 27 minutes
  • Yield: 12 1x

Description

Nostalgic pumpkin spice doughnut hole muffins bring autumn’s warmth to your kitchen, dancing with cinnamon and nutmeg. Sweet miniature bites invite weekend baking adventures and comfort that connects families around delicious homemade treats.


Ingredients

Scale

Dry Ingredients:

  • 1 3/4 cups (220 grams) all-purpose flour
  • 1/2 cup (100 grams) granulated sugar
  • 1/4 cup (50 grams) brown sugar, packed
  • 1 teaspoon baking powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt

Spices:

  • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
  • 1/4 teaspoon ground ginger

Wet Ingredients:

  • 1/4 cup (60 milliliters / 2 fluid ounces) unsalted butter, melted
  • 1/2 cup (120 grams) pumpkin puree
  • 1/4 cup (60 milliliters / 2 fluid ounces) vegetable oil
  • 1/4 cup (60 milliliters / 2 fluid ounces) milk
  • 1 large egg
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Topping:

  • 1/4 cup (60 milliliters / 2 fluid ounces) melted butter
  • 1/2 cup (100 grams) granulated sugar
  • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon

Instructions

  1. Prepare the oven at 350°F (175°C) and thoroughly coat a mini muffin pan with non-stick spray or butter.
  2. In a spacious mixing bowl, thoroughly blend all dry components including flour, sugars, leavening agents, salt, and warm spices using a whisk to eliminate any potential lumps.
  3. Create a separate mixture of liquid ingredients, whisking pumpkin puree, melted butter, oil, milk, egg, and vanilla until achieving a smooth, uniform consistency.
  4. Gently fold the liquid mixture into the dry ingredients, stirring minimally to prevent overmixing and maintain a tender texture.
  5. Distribute the batter evenly into mini muffin cavities, filling each approximately two-thirds full to allow proper rising.
  6. Transfer the pan to the preheated oven and bake for 10-12 minutes, checking doneness by inserting a toothpick that should emerge clean with minimal crumbs.
  7. While muffins are cooling, create a coating by combining ground cinnamon and granulated sugar in a shallow dish.
  8. Once muffins are warm but not scalding, briefly dip each into melted butter, then immediately roll in the spiced sugar mixture to create a delectable outer layer.

Notes

  • Select fresh, high-quality pumpkin puree for the most vibrant autumn flavor and smooth texture.
  • Avoid overmixing the batter to prevent tough, dense muffin holes that lose their delicate crumb.
  • Use room temperature ingredients to ensure even mixing and consistent baking results.
  • Swap whole wheat flour for all-purpose flour to boost nutritional value and add a nutty undertone.
  • Create a gluten-free version by substituting all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend for those with dietary restrictions.
  • Reduce sugar content by using alternative sweeteners like maple syrup or stevia for a lighter, healthier option.
  • Make these muffins dairy-free by replacing milk and butter with plant-based alternatives like almond milk and coconut oil.
  • Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or freeze for longer preservation.
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 12 minutes
  • Category: Breakfast, Snacks, Desserts
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 12
  • Calories: 153 kcal
  • Sugar: 10 g
  • Sodium: 112 mg
  • Fat: 7 g
  • Saturated Fat: 3 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 4 g
  • Trans Fat: 0.1 g
  • Carbohydrates: 21 g
  • Fiber: 1 g
  • Protein: 2 g
  • Cholesterol: 30 mg
Nathaniel Brooks

Nathaniel Brooks

Founder & Recipe Developer

Expertise

Farm-to-table cuisine, Seasonal recipe development, Culinary storytelling

Education

Ivy Tech Community College – Indianapolis, IN
Culinary Arts / Hospitality Administration & Events
Focused on hands-on training in classical and modern culinary techniques. ​


Nathaniel’s story starts in the foothills of the Appalachian Mountains, where farm stands, backyard gardens, and old family recipes shaped his love for real food. After graduating from Ivy Tech Community College in Indianapolis, he spent years working in farm-to-table kitchens, learning how to turn local, seasonal ingredients into something memorable.
Today, Nathaniel pours that same spirit into every single recipe on Aspiring Culinarian – recipes that feel real, comforting, and connected to the land. When he’s not in the kitchen, you’ll find him foraging wild herbs, chasing sunsets with his camera, or writing about the flavors that shaped his roots.

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