These Easy Bisquick Pumpkin Donut Holes are a sweet treat packed with fall flavors! Made with just a few simple ingredients, they are soft, fluffy, and oh-so-tasty!
Honestly, I can’t resist these little bites! They’re perfect for breakfast or a snack, and they warm up your kitchen with that cozy pumpkin spice aroma. Enjoy them fresh or with a sprinkle of sugar!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Bisquick Baking Mix: This is the base of your donut holes. If you don’t have Bisquick, you can try a homemade mix with flour, baking powder, and salt (1 cup flour + 1.5 tsp baking powder + 1/2 tsp salt).
Canned Pumpkin Puree: For a fresh option, you can use homemade pumpkin puree by roasting and blending pumpkin. Just make sure to drain extra liquid to avoid soggy donuts.
Sugar: If you want to cut down on sugar, you can substitute a sugar alternative, like stevia or monk fruit. It works fine for coating too!
Vegetable Oil: Canola oil or peanut oil are good substitutes for frying if you’re looking for alternatives.
Egg: For a vegan option, use 1/4 cup of unsweetened applesauce or a flax egg (1 tbsp flaxseed meal + 2.5 tbsp water) to bind the ingredients together.
How Do I Fry the Perfect Donut Holes?
Frying can be tricky, but with a few tips, you can get it just right! Start by preheating the oil in your deep fryer or skillet to 350°F (175°C). A thermometer is super handy here.
- To test the oil, drop a little batter in. If it sizzles and immediately rises, you’re ready!
- Fry in batches to keep the temperature consistent. Overcrowding the pan can lead to soggy donuts, as they can drop the oil temperature too much.
- Use a slotted spoon to gently turn the donut holes for even browning. They take about 2-3 minutes to get that golden color.
Once done, let them cool briefly on paper towels before rolling them in sugar. Enjoy making these delicious bites!
Easy Bisquick Pumpkin Donut Holes
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 cup Bisquick baking mix
- 1/2 cup canned pumpkin puree
- 1/4 cup sugar (for coating)
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon (for coating)
- Vegetable oil, for frying
- 1 tsp pumpkin pie spice (or a mix of cinnamon and nutmeg)
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar (optional, as a sweetener for the batter)
- 1 large egg
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 10 minutes to prepare and around 10 minutes for frying. All in all, you will have delicious, warm pumpkin donut holes ready in about 20 minutes!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Dough:
In a medium bowl, mix together the Bisquick baking mix, canned pumpkin puree, egg, pumpkin pie spice, and optional granulated sugar if you want a sweeter dough. Stir everything together gently until it forms a soft, cohesive dough. Don’t over-mix!
2. Heat the Oil:
In a deep fryer or a heavy skillet, heat enough vegetable oil to submerge the donut holes, ideally around 2-3 inches deep. Use a kitchen thermometer to ensure the oil reaches 350°F (175°C). If you don’t have a thermometer, drop a small piece of dough into the oil; if it sizzles and rises, you’re ready to fry!
3. Shape the Donut Holes:
Using a small spoon or your hands, take portions of the dough and roll them into balls about 1 inch in diameter. Keep your hands slightly wet with oil if the dough is sticking.
4. Fry the Donut Holes:
Carefully drop the dough balls into the hot oil in batches, being careful not to overcrowd the pan. Fry them for about 2-3 minutes, turning them occasionally, until they’re golden brown all over. Once they’re cooked, use a slotted spoon to remove them and drain them briefly on paper towels.
5. Coat with Cinnamon Sugar:
In a shallow bowl, mix the sugar and ground cinnamon together for the coating. While the donut holes are still warm, roll each one in the cinnamon-sugar mixture until they’re fully coated. This will give them a delightful sweet and spiced flavor!
6. Serve and Enjoy:
Your Easy Bisquick Pumpkin Donut Holes are ready! They taste best served warm, but they can also be enjoyed at room temperature. Share them with friends or keep them all to yourself – they’re that good!
Enjoy your soft, fluffy pumpkin donut holes, perfect for a cozy autumn treat!
Can I Use a Different Type of Oil for Frying?
Absolutely! You can substitute vegetable oil with canola oil, peanut oil, or even coconut oil. Just make sure the oil has a high smoke point for frying.
How Should I Store Any Leftover Donut Holes?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. If you want them to last longer, you can refrigerate them for up to a week or freeze them for up to a month. Just reheat in the microwave or oven to enjoy them warm again!
Can I Make These Donut Holes Gluten-Free?
Yes, you can! Simply use a gluten-free baking mix instead of Bisquick. Just ensure the gluten-free mix contains leavening agents, or you can add your own baking powder if needed.
What If I Don’t Have Pumpkin Pie Spice?
No worries! You can make your own blend by combining cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves (a common recipe is 1 tsp cinnamon, 1/2 tsp nutmeg, and 1/4 tsp cloves). Alternatively, use plain cinnamon for a more straightforward flavor.