Pumpkin season is here, and there’s nothing better than bite-sized baked treats infused with warm fall spices. These Baked Pumpkin Doughnut Bites are tender, fluffy, and lightly sweetened, with a perfectly spiced cinnamon-sugar coating. Unlike fried doughnuts, these mini bites are healthier, easier to make, and just as indulgent. They’re perfect for breakfast, brunch, snacks, or as a festive addition to your holiday dessert table.
Ingredients
For the Doughnut Bites:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- ½ cup light brown sugar, packed
- 2 teaspoons baking powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
- ½ teaspoon ground nutmeg
- ¼ teaspoon ground ginger
- 1/8 teaspoon ground cloves
- 1 cup pure pumpkin puree (not pumpkin pie filling)
- 2 large eggs, room temperature
- 1/3 cup milk (any kind)
- ¼ cup unsalted butter, melted and slightly cooled
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
For the Coating:
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
Equipment Needed
- Standard 24-cup mini muffin pan
- Non-stick cooking spray or butter for greasing
- Mixing bowls
- Whisk and spatula
- Wire rack for cooling
- Shallow bowls for coating
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prep and Preheat
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and position a rack in the center. Generously grease your mini muffin pan with non-stick spray or butter to ensure the doughnut bites release easily after baking.
2. Combine Dry Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, brown sugar, baking powder, salt, cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and cloves. Make sure the mixture is uniform and free of lumps for consistent flavor in every bite.
3. Mix Wet Ingredients
In a separate medium bowl, whisk together the pumpkin puree, eggs, milk, melted butter, and vanilla extract until smooth. This step ensures your batter will be moist and perfectly spiced.
4. Make the Batter
Pour the wet pumpkin mixture into the dry ingredients. Using a spatula, gently fold the mixture until just combined. Avoid overmixing; a few small lumps are okay. Overmixing can make the doughnut bites dense rather than tender.
5. Bake
Divide the batter evenly among the 24 mini muffin cups, filling each about three-quarters full. Bake for 10–12 minutes or until the tops spring back when lightly touched and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
6. Cool Slightly
Allow the bites to cool in the pan for 5 minutes before transferring them carefully to a wire rack. They need to be warm for coating but not so hot that they break apart when dipped in butter.
7. Coat the Bites
Prepare the coating by mixing the granulated sugar and cinnamon in a shallow bowl. Place the melted butter in another bowl. Working one at a time, dip each warm bite into the melted butter, then roll in the cinnamon-sugar mixture until evenly coated. Return to the wire rack to set.
Tips for Perfect Pumpkin Doughnut Bites
- Pumpkin Purée: Use plain pumpkin purée, not pumpkin pie filling, to avoid overly sweet or spiced bites.
- Spices: Adjust the cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and cloves to your taste. For a milder flavor, reduce each by half.
- Mini Muffin Pan: Ensure each cup is filled evenly for uniform baking. Overfilled cups may overflow during baking.
- Cooling: Let the bites cool slightly but remain warm for the coating; this helps the cinnamon-sugar adhere properly.
- Storage: Keep in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerate for 5 days. Reheat briefly before serving for the best texture.
Flavor Variations
- Maple Glaze: Drizzle with a simple maple glaze instead of cinnamon sugar.
- Chocolate-Dipped: Dip half in melted chocolate for an indulgent twist.
- Spiced Nut Coating: Mix finely chopped toasted pecans with cinnamon sugar for added crunch.
- Gluten-Free: Substitute all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free baking blend.
Serving Suggestions
- Perfect for breakfast alongside coffee, tea, or hot chocolate.
- Serve at brunch buffets or holiday gatherings for a festive treat.
- Stack in a decorative bowl for parties or family gatherings.
- Pair with whipped cream, cream cheese frosting, or a dollop of yogurt for extra indulgence.
Why You’ll Love These Baked Doughnut Bites
These pumpkin doughnut bites are moist, tender, and full of warm fall spices. The cinnamon-sugar coating adds a sweet crunch, making each bite irresistible. They’re simple to make, require no frying, and are perfect for sharing or gifting.
Whether you’re hosting a fall brunch, looking for a cozy afternoon snack, or preparing treats for Halloween or Thanksgiving, these doughnut bites are an easy crowd-pleaser.
Bonus Tip
For extra flavor, sprinkle a pinch of sea salt on top of the coated bites while the butter is still warm. The salty-sweet contrast enhances the pumpkin and spices beautifully.