Discover the Magic of Cinnamon Sugar Pumpkin Donut Holes: A Fall Essential
Welcome, fellow baking enthusiasts! I’m absolutely thrilled you’ve stumbled upon this little corner of autumnal delight. Today, we’re diving headfirst into a recipe that doesn’t just taste like fall; it embodies the very essence of the season: our irresistible **Cinnamon Sugar Pumpkin Donut Holes**. Imagine biting into a warm, soft, pumpkin-infused morsel, perfectly balanced with a vibrant medley of warm spices like cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and cloves, all enveloped in a glistening, sweet cinnamon sugar coating. These aren’t merely treats; they are miniature spheres of pure comfort, designed to warm you from the inside out on crisp autumn days.
The journey to creating these delightful pumpkin donut holes is as enchanting as the final product. It begins with simple, wholesome ingredients, transforms through an easy-to-follow baking process, and culminates in the joyous act of rolling each baked gem in a fragrant, homemade cinnamon sugar mixture. Forget the hassle of deep-frying; our baked approach ensures a lighter, less messy experience without compromising on that coveted donut texture and flavor. Using a simple cookie scoop makes portioning a breeze, guaranteeing uniform, picture-perfect donut holes every time. Whether you’re savoring them fresh out of the oven, sharing them with loved ones at a festive gathering, or enjoying them as a comforting snack with your favorite fall beverage, these **homemade pumpkin donut holes** promise to elevate your autumn experience. Get ready to fall in love with baking all over again as we explore the wonderful world of pumpkin recipes, where **pumpkin puree** shines as the star ingredient, creating memories and indulging senses.
- Cinnamon Sugar Pumpkin Donut Holes are the ultimate fall dessert, expertly blending rich pumpkin puree with aromatic spices for an unparalleled autumnal taste.
- Achieve **perfectly portioned** and consistently baked treats with the help of a simple cookie scoop, ensuring every bite is a delight.
- These delectable donut holes are **best enjoyed warm**, freshly baked, and generously coated in their signature cinnamon sugar. Store them in an airtight container to maintain freshness, or present them beautifully at room temperature for any seasonal gathering.
Essential Ingredients for Perfect Pumpkin Donut Holes
Embarking on the creation of these enchanting **cinnamon sugar pumpkin donut holes** begins with selecting the right ingredients. To truly capture the cozy spirit of fall and achieve that irresistible flavor and texture, I always recommend prioritizing quality. Every component plays a vital role in crafting these autumnal delights. Let’s meticulously review what you’ll need to transform your kitchen into a haven of sweet, spicy aromas:
- For the Light and Fluffy Pumpkin Donut Base: You’ll start with melted butter, which adds richness and moisture, alongside brown sugar for deep, caramelized sweetness. A large egg binds everything together and provides structure. Maple extract is a secret weapon here, infusing a subtle yet distinct autumn flavor that pairs exquisitely with pumpkin. For a touch of tanginess and tenderness, we’ll create a quick buttermilk substitute by mixing milk with a teaspoon of lemon juice. The star, of course, is high-quality pumpkin puree—ensure it’s 100% pure pumpkin, not pie filling. Then, a blend of dry ingredients: all-purpose flour forms the structure, while baking powder and baking soda provide the lift for that perfectly airy texture. Kosher salt balances the sweetness, and a symphony of spices—cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and ground cloves—infuses the donuts with quintessential fall warmth.
- For the Irresistible Cinnamon Sugar Coating: This outer layer is crucial for the signature appeal of our donut holes. You’ll need additional melted butter to help the coating adhere, granulated sugar for sparkle and sweetness, and a generous amount of **cinnamon**. Adding a touch of cardamom here elevates the spice profile, contributing an unexpected yet delightful aromatic note that sets these donut holes apart.
- For the Optional Decadent Cream Cheese Frosting Dip: If you’re looking to add an extra layer of indulgence, prepare for a creamy, tangy dip. Gather cream cheese (softened for easy blending), powdered sugar for smooth sweetness, a hint more of that wonderful maple extract, and enough heavy cream to achieve your desired dipping consistency.
Remember, the freshness and quality of these ingredients are the bedrock of success for these **pumpkin-perfected treats**. Investing in good quality spices and pure pumpkin puree will yield unparalleled flavor. Happy baking!
Crafting the Irresistible Donut Batter
Every time I embark on making these **cinnamon sugar pumpkin donut holes**, a delightful wave of anticipation washes over me. The mere thought of the warm, autumnal aromas soon to fill my kitchen is enough to make the preparation feel like a cozy ritual. Let’s meticulously go through the steps of preparing this delectable donut batter, ensuring each element contributes to the perfect fall treat. The journey begins by combining your wet ingredients to form the moist, flavorful base.
First, grab a spacious mixing bowl where the magic will truly happen. Here, you’ll unite the rich, **melted butter** with the comforting sweetness of **brown sugar**, a binding **large egg**, and that special touch of **maple extract**. Stir these together until they are thoroughly combined, creating a smooth and inviting mixture that will form the heart of our donut holes. Next, in a separate, smaller bowl, prepare your makeshift buttermilk by gently mixing milk with a teaspoon of fresh lemon juice. Allow this mixture to sit undisturbed for about five minutes. This simple reaction creates a subtle tang and helps tenderize the baked goods, enhancing the overall texture and flavor profile of our pumpkin donuts.
Now, for a crucial step involving the star ingredient: **pumpkin puree**. I’ve learned a little trick that makes a significant difference in achieving the perfect donut texture. Spread your pumpkin puree thinly across several layers of paper towels and gently press down to extract any excess moisture. Repeat this process with fresh paper towels if necessary, until the pumpkin is noticeably thicker and less watery. This seemingly small step is the secret to preventing soggy donuts and ensuring they bake up light, airy, and moist, rather than dense. Once blotted, incorporate the pumpkin puree and your prepared buttermilk into the wet ingredients, stirring until everything is smoothly integrated.
In another bowl, it’s time to assemble the dry components. Whisk together the **all-purpose flour**, **baking powder**, **baking soda**, **kosher salt**, and the exquisite blend of **cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and ground cloves**. This ensures that the leavening agents and spices are evenly distributed, leading to uniform rise and flavor in every donut hole. Finally, gently introduce the dry ingredients into the wet mixture. Stir just until a thick, cohesive batter forms, being very careful not to overmix. Overmixing can develop the gluten in the flour too much, resulting in tougher, less tender donut holes. A perfectly mixed batter should be thick yet still pourable, promising those light and airy textures we crave from a truly exceptional fall treat.
Baking to Golden Perfection: Your Pumpkin Donut Holes
With our delightful donut batter ready, the next step is to transform it into those eagerly anticipated **cinnamon sugar pumpkin donut holes**. Before you begin, preheat your oven to a welcoming 350°F (175°C). The aroma that will soon emanate from your kitchen as these bake is truly one of autumn’s greatest gifts! While the oven heats, prepare your mini muffin tin or silicone donut hole mold. A light spray with non-stick cooking spray is essential to ensure that each precious pumpkin donut hole releases easily and gracefully from its mold. As I always say, “A well-greased tin is the secret to a smooth exit and perfectly shaped treats!”
This is where a trusty kitchen tool, the humble cookie scoop, becomes your best friend. Its purpose here is invaluable: to ensure consistent portions. Uniformly sized donut holes are not just aesthetically pleasing; they are key to even baking. Scoop approximately one tablespoon of batter into each cavity, filling them about three-quarters full. It might be tempting to overfill, but resist the urge! We’re aiming for perfectly domed, spherical donut holes, not overflowing pumpkin volcanoes. Filling them precisely will allow them to rise beautifully without merging into one another or spilling over.
Once filled, your mini muffin tin is ready for its moment in the oven. Bake for approximately 10 to 12 minutes. The exact baking time can vary slightly depending on your oven, so keep a watchful eye. You’ll know they’re perfectly baked when the tops are set, appear lightly golden, and most importantly, when a toothpick inserted into the center of a donut hole comes out clean. This clean toothpick test indicates that the interior is fully cooked and wonderfully moist. Once baked, carefully remove the pan from the oven. Allow the donut holes to cool in the pan for just 2 to 3 minutes; this brief cooling period helps them firm up slightly before you transfer them. Then, gently remove them to a wire rack to finish cooling. This rack ensures air circulation, preventing the bottoms from becoming soggy. Repeat the baking process with any remaining batter until you have a glorious batch of golden, ready-to-be-coated **baked pumpkin donut holes**.
The Grand Finale: Coating with Cinnamon Sugar
Once your charming **baked pumpkin donut holes** have emerged from the oven, slightly cooled but still warm, they are ready for their crowning glory: the irresistible **cinnamon sugar mixture**. This final step is what truly transforms them into the iconic autumn treats we adore, creating a magical crust that adds both texture and an explosion of flavor. Trust me, this is where the sensory experience reaches its peak!
To begin, prepare your coating station. In one small, shallow bowl, pour your **melted butter**. This butter serves as the delicious adhesive, ensuring the cinnamon sugar clings beautifully to every curve of the donut hole. In a second small bowl, create your aromatic cinnamon sugar blend. Whisk together the granulated sugar, a generous amount of cinnamon, and that touch of cardamom we discussed earlier. The cardamom adds a sophisticated, fragrant note that perfectly complements the warmth of the cinnamon and pumpkin, making this coating truly special.
Now, for the main event! Take each warm donut hole and gently dunk it into the melted butter, ensuring every surface is thoroughly coated. The warmth of the donut hole helps the butter seep in slightly, creating a moist exterior. Immediately after its butter bath, roll the donut hole generously in the prepared cinnamon sugar mixture. Use your fingers to gently press the sugar mixture onto the donut, making sure it’s fully covered. It’s like dressing them in a cozy, sparkling sweater of sweetness, which not only enhances their visual appeal but also their texture and flavor profile. The slight warmth of the donut holes is key here; it helps the sugar adhere perfectly, melting ever so slightly to form that delightful, sweet, and spiced crust that we all crave. This isn’t just a step; it’s the transformative moment where simple **pumpkin donut holes** become these utterly mouth-watering **cinnamon sugar pumpkin donut holes**, ready to be devoured.
Elevate Your Treat with an Optional Cream Cheese Frosting Dip
For those who believe that a delightful treat can always be made even better, allow me to introduce the utterly divine **Optional Cream Cheese Frosting Dip**. This luscious addition takes our **cinnamon sugar pumpkin donut holes** from simply wonderful to absolutely extraordinary, providing a creamy, tangy counterpart that perfectly complements the spiced sweetness of the donuts. Prepare your taste buds for an unforgettable experience!
Crafting this dip is wonderfully straightforward. In a medium-sized mixing bowl, combine 4 ounces of softened cream cheese with 1 cup of powdered sugar. Using an electric mixer (or a whisk and a strong arm!), beat these two ingredients together until the mixture is incredibly smooth and free of any lumps. The cream cheese provides a rich, slightly tangy base that cuts through the sweetness beautifully, while the powdered sugar ensures a velvety texture without any grittiness.
Next, introduce that lovely **maple extract**. A single teaspoon is all it takes to infuse the dip with a warm, autumnal note that echoes the flavors in our pumpkin donut holes. Stir this in until well combined. At this point, assess the consistency of your dip. If it appears too thick for easy dipping – you’re looking for a luxurious, dippable texture – gradually add **heavy cream**, starting with about 4 tablespoons and adding more, a tablespoon at a time, until you achieve your ideal creamy dippiness. Be mindful not to add too much at once, as a little heavy cream goes a long way in thinning the frosting. Beat until the dip is light, airy, and perfectly smooth, ready to embrace your warm donut holes.
When it’s time to serve, present your glorious plate of **cinnamon sugar pumpkin donut holes** alongside this inviting cream cheese dip. Offering the dip on the side encourages a fun, interactive eating experience that guests of all ages will adore. It’s an irresistible combination that invites you to dip, savor, and repeat. Trust me, this optional dip isn’t just an addition; it’s a game-changer that will make your fall gathering or cozy evening in even more special. The marriage of the spiced pumpkin donut and the creamy, maple-kissed frosting is truly a match made in autumn heaven.
Perfect Serving Suggestions for Your Fall Donut Holes
Imagine this idyllic scene: a brisk autumn evening, the leaves outside your window painting the landscape in magnificent hues of crimson and gold. You’ve just successfully baked a batch of these enchanting **Cinnamon Sugar Pumpkin Donut Holes**, filling your home with their irresistible, spicy-sweet aroma. Now, it’s time to truly immerse yourself in the cozy comfort of the season by presenting these treats in a way that makes them utterly unforgettable. Here are some of my favorite serving suggestions, designed to elevate your donut hole experience and make those autumn moments even more memorable.
One of the most harmonious pairings for these spiced pumpkin delights is a warm, comforting beverage. Consider serving them alongside a steaming mug of **spiced apple cider**, where the tartness and warmth of the cider beautifully complement the rich pumpkin and sweet cinnamon notes of the donut holes. Alternatively, a frothy **chai latte** provides a creamy, aromatic counterpoint, enhancing the spice profile of the donuts and creating a truly indulgent experience. For coffee lovers, a robust dark roast or a pumpkin spice latte would also be a perfect match, offering a delightful contrast or a cohesive theme.
If you’re hosting a fall gathering, a holiday brunch, or simply enjoying a cozy night in with family, presentation can make all the difference. Arrange your **cinnamon sugar pumpkin donut holes** artfully on a rustic wooden platter or a charming ceramic plate. Dust them lightly with a bit of extra cinnamon sugar for that picture-perfect finish. For an interactive and utterly decadent experience, serve them alongside the optional **Cream Cheese Frosting Dip**. Watching your guests happily dip these warm, fluffy treats into the creamy, maple-kissed frosting adds another layer of enjoyment to the occasion. If your donut holes have cooled down a bit since baking, a quick warm-up in the microwave (just 10-15 seconds per few donuts) will restore their tender texture and fragrant warmth – they are truly at their best when slightly warm, trust me on this! Garnish your platter with a few fresh cinnamon sticks, star anise, or even some small decorative gourds to enhance the autumnal aesthetic. These thoughtful touches not only make the serving experience more appealing but also deepen the sensory connection to the fall season. So, go ahead, play around with these serving suggestions, and let your **homemade pumpkin donut holes** be the star of your autumn celebrations.
Storage Solutions to Keep Your Donut Holes Fresh
It’s a rare and wonderful occasion when you find yourself with leftover **cinnamon sugar pumpkin donut holes**. But should this delightful situation arise, knowing how to properly store them is key to preserving their fresh, delectable taste. My goal is for you to enjoy every last crumb, just as delicious as the moment they emerged from the oven. Follow these simple storage tips to keep your homemade fall treats at their peak quality for as long as possible.
The golden rule for storing baked goods, especially these moist donut holes, is to use an **airtight container**. This crucial step prevents them from drying out and helps lock in all those wonderful flavors and tender textures. Exposure to air is the enemy of freshness, so ensure your container seals tightly.
If you plan to enjoy your donut holes within a couple of days, they will remain perfectly tasty when stored at **room temperature** in an airtight container. Keep them away from direct sunlight or heat sources, which can prematurely spoil them or alter their texture. They will maintain their quality for up to 2 days this way, perfect for a quick breakfast or an afternoon snack.
For extending their indulgence beyond two days, or if your kitchen runs particularly warm, I recommend stashing them in the **refrigerator**. Placed in an airtight container, they will keep beautifully for up to 4 days. When you’re ready to enjoy them, simply let them come to room temperature or, even better, give them a quick warm-up in the microwave for 10-15 seconds to restore their fresh-baked warmth and softness.
And if you’ve truly outdone yourself with a bounty of **pumpkin donut holes** and wish to savor them for an even longer period, **freezing** is your best option. Arrange the fully cooled donut holes in a single layer on a baking sheet and flash freeze them for about an hour. Once solid, transfer them to a freezer-safe airtight container or a heavy-duty freezer bag. They will patiently wait for you in the freezer for up to 1-2 months. When a craving strikes, simply remove the desired number of donut holes and let them thaw at room temperature, or gently reheat them in the oven or microwave until warm and soft. Keeping these sweet, spiced delights on hand has never been easier or more delicious, ensuring you’re always just moments away from a taste of autumn comfort.
Creative Customization Ideas for Your Pumpkin Donut Holes
One of the most rewarding aspects of home baking is the freedom to get creative, especially with a versatile recipe like these **cinnamon sugar pumpkin donut holes**. While the classic recipe is undeniably perfect, there are countless ways to infuse your unique twist, transforming these fall treats into something distinctly your own. Let’s explore some exciting customization ideas that will inspire you to experiment and make this recipe truly shine in your kitchen.
Firstly, don’t shy away from playing with the **spice blend** in the donut batter itself. While cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and cloves form the traditional foundation, consider adding a dash of allspice for a deeper, more complex warmth, or a hint of mace for a delicate, slightly sweet undertone. A touch of pure vanilla extract can also enhance the overall flavor, adding another layer of comforting sweetness. If you’re feeling adventurous, a pinch of black pepper might sound unconventional, but it can provide a subtle warmth and sophistication, elevating the pumpkin notes beautifully.
Beyond the classic **cinnamon sugar coating**, the possibilities for external embellishment are vast. Instead of rolling them in sugar, consider a decadent **sugar glaze**. A simple glaze made from powdered sugar and a touch of milk or maple syrup, perhaps infused with a drop of vanilla or a hint of orange zest, can turn these donut holes into a truly elegant dessert. For a rich, chocolatey twist, you could drizzle them with melted dark chocolate or a simple chocolate ganache. A sprinkle of chopped toasted pecans or walnuts over a fresh glaze would add wonderful texture and a nutty flavor that complements pumpkin beautifully.
For those with **dietary preferences or restrictions**, adapting this recipe is entirely possible without sacrificing flavor or enjoyment. If you’re avoiding dairy, you can easily substitute the milk with a plant-based alternative such as almond milk, oat milk, or coconut milk, each bringing its own subtle flavor profile. For the butter, a high-quality plant-based butter substitute can be used. When it comes to sugar, various natural sweeteners or sugar substitutes can be incorporated for those managing their sugar intake. Monk fruit, erythritol, or stevia can replace granulated sugar in the coating, and a sugar-free maple syrup can be used in the dip. Remember, the natural sweetness and moisture of the pumpkin are quite forgiving, making these adjustments relatively straightforward. The key is to experiment with small batches if you’re unsure, finding the perfect balance for your palate. Have fun making these **pumpkin donut holes** uniquely yours, exploring endless delicious possibilities!
Frequently Asked Questions About Pumpkin Donut Holes
It’s completely normal to have questions when venturing into a new baking project, especially one as beloved as **cinnamon sugar pumpkin donut holes**. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or just starting, a few common queries often pop up. Let’s address some of these burning questions together, ensuring your baking experience is as smooth and successful as possible.
- Is my donut batter supposed to be this thick?
Yes, absolutely! Unlike a thin pancake or cake batter, a proper donut batter, especially for baked donut holes, should have a noticeable heft and thickness to it. This consistency is crucial for creating those delightfully tender, yet structurally sound donut holes that hold their shape while baking and maintain a moist interior. If your batter seems overly thin or runny, it might be due to variations in flour absorption or pumpkin puree moisture. A simple fix is to gradually add a tablespoon or two more of all-purpose flour until it reaches a thick, scoopable consistency. Resist the urge to add too much, though, as an excessively thick batter can result in dense, heavy donuts. - Can I use any type of pumpkin puree?
For the absolute best results and flavor in your **homemade pumpkin donut holes**, it is essential to use 100% pure pumpkin puree. This is typically found in a can in the baking aisle and contains only pumpkin. It’s crucial to avoid using pumpkin pie filling. While convenient, pumpkin pie filling already contains added spices, sugar, and sometimes other ingredients, which will completely throw off the delicate balance of spices and sweetness we’re aiming for in this recipe. Using pure pumpkin allows you to control the exact flavor profile, ensuring a truly authentic and delicious outcome. Remember the tip about blotting excess moisture from the pumpkin puree for optimal texture! - How do I get that perfect cinnamon sugar crust that really sticks?
Ah, the secret to that utterly irresistible, perfectly adhering **cinnamon sugar coating** lies in one simple factor: warmth. You must roll your **baked pumpkin donut holes** in the cinnamon sugar mixture while they are still warm to the touch. The residual heat from the freshly baked donuts creates a slightly moist surface on the butter-coated exterior, allowing the sugar and spice mixture to melt just enough and bond securely. If the donut holes cool down completely before coating, the sugar won’t adhere as effectively, resulting in a less vibrant and less impactful crust. So, as soon as they are cool enough to handle without burning your fingers (typically 2-3 minutes after coming out of the pan), get them dipped in butter and then rolled in that fragrant cinnamon sugar. This timing makes all the difference for that deliciously sweet, spiced exterior that everyone will rave about. - Can I fry these donut holes instead of baking?
While this recipe is specifically designed for baking, which results in a lighter, less greasy donut, you *could* adapt it for frying. However, the batter consistency might need slight adjustments to be suitable for deep-frying, often requiring a slightly stiffer dough to prevent it from absorbing too much oil. If you choose to fry, aim for a temperature of about 350-375°F (175-190°C) and fry small batches until golden brown, ensuring they are cooked through. Be aware that frying will significantly change the nutritional profile and yield a different texture. For the ease and intended outcome of this recipe, baking is highly recommended.
Wrap-Up: Your New Favorite Fall Treat Awaits!
The journey of creating these **Cinnamon Sugar Pumpkin Donut Holes** in your own kitchen is more than just following a recipe; it’s a delightful immersion into the very heart of fall baking. From the careful measurement of each ingredient, like the earthy pumpkin puree, to the joyful moment you watch them puff up into golden spheres in your mini muffin tin, every step is a sweet anticipation. There’s an unparalleled satisfaction that comes from producing these warm, spiced, and perfectly coated treats from scratch – a joy that simply cannot be replicated by store-bought alternatives.
I genuinely adore seeing how you, my wonderful community, bring your personal touch to my recipes. Don’t hesitate to share your mouthwatering creations and any ingenious variations you dream up on social media! It’s in the sharing, the collective enjoyment, and those little triumphs (like mastering that perfect **cinnamon sugar coating**) that the true magic of baking lies. These moments foster connection and add a special warmth to our homes, making baking a truly heartwarming experience for everyone involved.
But let me assure you, this is just the beginning of your autumnal culinary adventure. If these **cinnamon sugar pumpkin donut holes** have sparked joy and made your taste buds dance with delight, then you are in for a continuous treat. I’ve curated a whole treasure trove of **pumpkin recipes** on the blog, each promising to deliver that cozy, comforting autumn vibe we all crave. So, grab your apron, wield your cookie scoop, and let’s keep this pumpkin fiesta going strong! I invite you to dive deeper into the blog, where a world of seasonal delights awaits, ready to add a dash of magic and a heap of sweetness to your fall. Welcome to our vibrant community, where every season presents a fresh opportunity to fill our homes and hearts with delicious warmth.
Cinnamon Sugar Pumpkin Donut Holes
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Ingredients
- For the Pumpkin Donuts
- 1/4 cup butter, melted (plus more for coating)
- 1 cup brown sugar
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon maple extract
- 1/2 cup milk plus 1 teaspoon lemon juice, let sit 5 minutes
- 3/4 cup pumpkin puree, excess moisture removed, see instructions
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon nutmeg
- 1/4 teaspoon ginger
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
- For the Cinnamon Sugar Coating
- 1/2 cup butter, melted
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1 teaspoon cardamom
- For the Cream Cheese Frosting Dip, optional
- 4 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon maple extract
- 6 tablespoons heavy cream, start with 4, add more if needed
Instructions
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Make the Donut Batter:
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In a large mixing bowl, stir together the melted butter, brown sugar, egg, and maple extract until well combined.
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In a small bowl or cup, mix the milk and lemon juice and let sit for 5 minutes to create a quick buttermilk substitute.
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Place the pumpkin puree on several layers of paper towels and press out as much moisture as possible. Repeat with fresh towels if needed. The pumpkin should be thick and almost dry.
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Add the blotted pumpkin and milk mixture to the wet ingredients and stir until smooth.
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In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and cloves.
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Add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture and stir just until a thick batter forms. Do not overmix.
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Bake the Donuts:
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Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a mini muffin tin or silicone donut hole mold.
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Scoop about 1 tablespoon of batter into each cavity, filling them about 3/4 full. A small cookie scoop works great for even portions.
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Bake for 10 to 12 minutes, or until the tops are set and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
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Let the donut holes cool in the pan for 2 to 3 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack. Repeat until all the batter is used.
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Add the Cinnamon Sugar Coating:
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Pour the melted butter into a small bowl. In another bowl, mix together the granulated sugar, cinnamon, and cardamom.
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Once the donut holes are cool enough to handle but still warm, dip each one in the melted butter, then roll in the cinnamon sugar mixture until well coated.
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Make the Cream Cheese Dip (optional):
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In a medium bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and powdered sugar until smooth.
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Add the maple extract and 4 tablespoons of heavy cream. Beat until creamy.
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If the dip is too thick, add an additional 1 to 2 tablespoons of cream until it reaches your desired consistency.
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Notes:
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Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days or refrigerate for up to 4 days.
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Best served warm with a cozy fall drink like chai or spiced cider.