Healthy Pumpkin Donut Holes: Soft, Fluffy & Guilt-Free

If you’re craving a sweet, cozy treat that doesn’t derail your healthy eating goals, these Healthy Pumpkin Donut Holes are exactly what you need. Imagine bite-sized donuts with a soft, spiced pumpkin flavor that melts in your mouth. Unlike traditional fried donuts loaded with sugar, this recipe keeps things light, uses wholesome ingredients, and can be ready in under 30 minutes.

These pumpkin donut holes are perfect for breakfast, a mid-day snack, or a festive fall treat. They’re naturally sweetened, baked instead of fried, and easy to make even if you’re short on time. Plus, you can customize them with a drizzle of chocolate, a dusting of cinnamon sugar, or even a glaze made with yogurt and maple syrup.

Whether you’re looking for a family-friendly snack, something to take to a party, or a guilt-free dessert, this recipe hits all the marks. With simple ingredients you likely already have in your kitchen and straightforward instructions, you can whip up a batch quickly and enjoy the aroma of fresh pumpkin and warm spices filling your home.

Preparation Time: 10 minutes | Cooking Time: 15 minutes | Total Time: 25 minutes
Difficulty: Easy | Servings: 12 donut holes

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What Makes These Healthy Pumpkin Donut Holes Special?

1. Baked, Not Fried – Enjoy all the flavor of traditional donut holes without the extra oil or guilt.

2. Moist & Fluffy Texture – The combination of pumpkin puree and yogurt keeps them tender and soft.

3. Naturally Sweetened – Uses maple syrup or honey for gentle sweetness, avoiding refined sugar.

4. Quick & Easy – Ready in just 25 minutes from start to finish; perfect for busy mornings.

5. Customizable Flavor – Add cinnamon, nutmeg, or even chocolate chips for your personal touch.

These donut holes are ideal for anyone looking for a healthier dessert or snack option. Using simple techniques like mixing wet and dry ingredients separately ensures a light, airy texture without overcomplicating the process.

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Ingredient Notes

• Pumpkin Puree – The star of the recipe. Provides moisture, natural sweetness, and a rich flavor. Substitution: sweet potato puree.

• Whole Wheat Flour – Adds fiber and a hearty texture. Substitution: all-purpose flour if preferred.

• Baking Powder & Baking Soda – Essential for rising and a fluffy texture. Ensure they’re fresh for best results.

• Maple Syrup or Honey – Natural sweeteners that enhance flavor without refined sugar. Adjust sweetness to taste.

• Greek Yogurt – Keeps donut holes moist and tender. Can use plant-based yogurt for dairy-free version.

• Spices: Cinnamon, Nutmeg, Ginger – Classic fall flavors that complement pumpkin perfectly.

• Optional Mix-Ins: Chocolate Chips, Nuts, or Cranberries – Add variety and extra flavor.

• Equipment Needed – Mini muffin pan or donut hole pan, mixing bowls, whisk, and oven.

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How To Make Healthy Pumpkin Donut Holes

1. Preheat the Oven – Set your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease your mini muffin pan. This ensures donut holes won’t stick.

2. Mix Dry Ingredients – In a medium bowl, whisk together 1 cup whole wheat flour, 1 tsp baking powder, ½ tsp baking soda, ½ tsp salt, 1 tsp cinnamon, ½ tsp nutmeg, and ¼ tsp ginger.

3. Mix Wet Ingredients – In a separate bowl, combine ½ cup pumpkin puree, ¼ cup Greek yogurt, ¼ cup maple syrup, 1 large egg, and 1 tsp vanilla extract. Whisk until smooth.

4. Combine Wet and Dry – Slowly fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture. Mix until just combined. Overmixing will make the donuts tough.

5. Add Optional Mix-Ins – Stir in ¼ cup chocolate chips, nuts, or cranberries if desired.

6. Fill the Pan – Spoon the batter into the prepared pan, filling each cavity about ¾ full. (Quick tip: Use a cookie scoop for even portions.)

7. Bake – Bake for 12-15 minutes until a toothpick inserted comes out clean. Donut holes should be slightly golden on top.

8. Cool & Enjoy – Allow them to cool in the pan for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack. Serve warm or at room temperature.

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Storage Options

• Room Temperature – Store in an airtight container for up to 2 days.

• Refrigeration – Keep in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days.

• Freezing – Freeze in a single layer on a tray, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months.

• Reheating Tips – Microwave for 15-20 seconds or warm in a 325°F oven for 5 minutes for that freshly baked feel.

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Variations and Substitutions

1. Chocolate Swirl Pumpkin Donut Holes – Mix 2 tbsp cocoa powder into the batter for a chocolatey twist.

2. Glazed Pumpkin Donut Holes – Drizzle with a simple yogurt-maple glaze for extra sweetness.

3. Vegan Version – Substitute egg with flax egg and use plant-based yogurt.

4. Nutty Pumpkin Donut Holes – Add chopped walnuts or pecans for crunch.

5. Seasonal Adaptation – Sprinkle with pumpkin spice sugar or drizzle with caramel for a festive treat.

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Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use canned pumpkin puree? – Yes, canned 100% pumpkin puree works perfectly. Avoid pumpkin pie filling.

2. Can I make these ahead? – Absolutely. Bake, cool, and refrigerate or freeze for later.

3. What if I don’t have whole wheat flour? – All-purpose flour works, but the texture will be slightly lighter.

4. How do I make them extra fluffy? – Don’t overmix the batter and ensure your baking powder is fresh.

5. Can I add chocolate chips? – Yes! Fold in ¼ cup chocolate chips or your favorite mix-ins.

6. Are these gluten-free? – Substitute with a 1:1 gluten-free baking flour blend for a gluten-free version.

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Warm Conclusion

These Healthy Pumpkin Donut Holes are the perfect fall treat that balances indulgence with wholesome ingredients. They’re soft, spiced, and incredibly easy to make. Take a batch to breakfast, snack time, or a festive gathering—you’ll impress everyone without the guilt. Grab your mini muffin pan, mix up a batch, and enjoy the warm flavors of pumpkin in every bite. Don’t forget to share your creations and any fun variations you try!

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