Pumpkin Donut Holes in the Air Fryer Oven

Craving a warm, spiced treat that’s perfect for fall? These Pumpkin Donut Holes in the Air Fryer Oven are the ultimate bite-sized snack, combining the cozy flavors of pumpkin and spice with a crispy, soft texture—all with minimal effort!

Imagine fluffy, pumpkin-spiced donut holes, air-fried to golden perfection and dusted with cinnamon sugar. The air fryer gives them a light, crispy exterior, while the inside stays soft and warm, making every bite a delicious fall-inspired treat.

These pumpkin donut holes are the perfect treat for breakfast, dessert, or a cozy snack. They’re quick to make and so easy to enjoy, bringing the flavors of pumpkin spice right into your kitchen without the mess of frying!

Ready to enjoy these delightful pumpkin donut holes? Let’s make them in the Air Fryer Oven and indulge in a warm, spiced treat today!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Air Fryer Easy: No deep frying. Less mess, less oil, same soft center and crispy edges.
• Perfectly Spiced: A simple blend of cinnamon and nutmeg gives that warm pumpkin pie flavor.
• Quick and Fun: Ready in under an hour from start to finish. Great for kids to help too.
• Small-Batch Friendly: Makes just enough to enjoy fresh, but easy to double for a crowd.
• Freezer-Friendly: These freeze beautifully — just reheat and roll in sugar again.

What You Need to Know Before You Start

Prep Time & Cook Time:
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 8–10 minutes per batch
Total Time: ~45 minutes

Servings:
This recipe makes about 24 small donut holes — perfect for sharing with 4–6 people.

Difficulty:
Beginner-friendly. No mixer required. Great for all skill levels.

Required Kitchen Tools

• Mixing bowls (medium and small)
• Whisk and spoon or rubber spatula
• Cookie scoop or tablespoon
• Parchment paper
• Air fryer (basket or oven-style)
• Silicone brush (optional, for melted butter)
• Cooling rack

Ingredients for Pumpkin Donut Holes

Here’s what you’ll need to make these tender little bites (exact amounts are listed in the recipe card at the bottom):

• All-Purpose Flour: Gives structure and fluff to the donut holes.
• Sugar: Sweetens the dough and is used for the coating.
• Baking Powder & Baking Soda: For a light, pillowy rise.
• Salt: Just a pinch to balance the sweetness.
• Cinnamon & Nutmeg: Warm spices that enhance the pumpkin flavor.
• Canned Pumpkin Puree: Moistens and flavors the dough — not pumpkin pie mix.
• Milk: Helps bind and soften the dough.
• Egg: Adds richness and stability.
• Melted Butter: Used in the dough and brushed on before the sugar coating.
• Cinnamon Sugar (for Coating): The final sweet, sparkly touch.

Variations for Pumpkin Donut Holes

• Gluten-Free Option: Use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend instead of regular flour.
• Maple Sugar Coating: Swap granulated sugar with maple sugar for a deeper fall flavor.
• Add a Filling: Pipe a bit of cream cheese or Nutella into the center after cooking.
• Pumpkin Pie Spice: Replace the cinnamon and nutmeg with 1½ tsp pumpkin pie spice for a shortcut.
• Brown Butter Boost: Use browned butter instead of melted butter in the dough for added richness.

How to Make Pumpkin Donut Holes – Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Mix the Dry Ingredients

In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg until well combined.

2. Combine the Wet Ingredients

In a separate bowl, mix the pumpkin puree, milk, egg, and melted butter. Whisk until smooth and fully blended.

3. Make the Dough

Pour the wet ingredients into the dry mixture. Stir gently with a spatula or spoon until just combined. Don’t overmix — the dough should be thick but scoopable.

4. Preheat the Air Fryer

Set your air fryer to 350°F (177°C). Let it preheat for 3–5 minutes while you prepare the dough balls.

5. Shape the Donut Holes

Use a small cookie scoop or tablespoon to portion out dough. Roll gently between your hands to form smooth balls. Place on a parchment-lined tray.

6. Air Fry in Batches

Lightly spray or brush your air fryer basket with oil. Place a few donut holes in the basket, spacing them out. Air fry at 350°F for 8–10 minutes, flipping once halfway. They should be golden brown and puffed.

7. Coat with Cinnamon Sugar

While warm, brush each donut hole with a little melted butter. Roll in the cinnamon-sugar mix until fully coated. Place on a wire rack to cool slightly.

Serving and Decoration

These little donut holes are best served warm, just after their cinnamon-sugar coating sets. Here are a few ways I love to serve them:

• Morning Treat: Serve with hot apple cider or a pumpkin spice latte.
• Party Platter: Pile them in a rustic basket with a napkin liner.
• Drizzle Option: Lightly drizzle with maple glaze or cream cheese icing for extra sweetness.
• Autumn Brunch Board: Add them to a board with sliced fruit, muffins, and mini pancakes for a fall-themed breakfast spread.

How to Store Pumpkin Donut Holes

• Room Temperature: Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temp for up to 2 days. They’re best eaten fresh but still tasty on day two.
• Refrigerator: If you need to store longer, refrigerate for up to 4 days and reheat before serving.
• Freezer: Freeze baked (uncoated) donut holes in a zip-top bag for up to 2 months. Reheat and roll in sugar after thawing.

Tips and Tricks for Success

• Don’t Overmix: Stir just until combined to keep the donut holes soft and tender.
• Use a Cookie Scoop: Helps keep the size uniform so they cook evenly.
• Brush, Don’t Dip: Brushing with melted butter keeps them light and avoids soggy spots.
• Flip for Even Browning: Gently turn halfway through the air-frying time.
• Taste the Sugar Mix: Adjust cinnamon to your liking — you can make it lighter or spicier.

Nutrition Information

Serving Size	3 Donut Holes
Calories	160 kcal
Carbohydrates	24g
Protein	2g
Fat	6g
Saturated Fat	3g
Cholesterol	20mg
Sodium	140mg
Fiber	1g
Sugar	10g

Note: Nutrition values are estimates based on standard ingredients.

Pumpkin Donut Holes FAQs

Can I bake these in a regular oven?
Yes! Bake at 350°F for 10–12 minutes on a lined baking sheet until golden and puffed.

Can I make the dough ahead of time?
Yes. Store the unshaped dough in the fridge for up to 24 hours. Bring to room temp before air frying.

Do I need to spray the air fryer basket?
Yes. A light coating of oil prevents sticking and helps the donut holes crisp.

Can I use fresh pumpkin instead of canned?
Sure, just make sure it’s pureed and not too watery. Strain excess moisture if needed.

Conclusion

These Pumpkin Donut Holes are cozy, quick, and irresistibly good. I love how the air fryer makes them light and golden with barely any effort. They’re perfect for when you want something sweet without turning on the oven — or spending hours baking.

If you’re in the mood for fall flavors and simple joy, this one’s for you. Let me know how yours turn out — I’d love to hear!