Healthy Baked Cinnamon Sugar Donut Holes Recipe

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Healthy Baked Cinnamon Sugar donut holes are a delightful treat that captures the essence of cozy fall flavors. These donut holes are crispy on the outside and tender on the inside, coated in warm cinnamon sugar, making them perfect for breakfast or as a snack. With just 25 minutes of preparation and cooking time, you can enjoy these delicious bites that delight both kids and adults alike!

Why You’ll Love This Healthy Baked Cinnamon Sugar

There are countless reasons to love this Healthy Baked Cinnamon Sugar recipe. First, it’s a low-calorie cinnamon sugar option, with each donut hole containing only 92 calories. This recipe is not only easy to make but also allows you to indulge without guilt. The use of pumpkin puree adds moisture and flavor, making it a perfect choice for fall. Additionally, you can easily customize the recipe to be gluten-free or vegan, providing options for various dietary needs. The combination of warm spices and sweet cinnamon will have your taste buds dancing. Best of all, these are perfect for Halloween treats or Thanksgiving dessert bites!

Ingredients for Healthy Baked Cinnamon Sugar

Gather these items:

2 cups all-purpose flour
⅔ cup pumpkin puree (not pumpkin pie filling)
½ cup brown sugar (packed)
2 large eggs
¼ cup whole milk (or substitute)
3 tbsp melted butter
2 tsp baking powder
1½ tsp pumpkin spice blend
½ tsp ground cinnamon
¼ tsp nutmeg
¼ tsp ground cloves
½ tsp salt
1 tsp vanilla extract
¾ cup granulated sugar
2 tbsp ground cinnamon
4 tbsp melted butter (for brushing)
As needed vegetable oil (heated to 350°F)

How to Make Healthy Baked Cinnamon Sugar Step-by-Step

Step 1: Mix the cinnamon sugar coating and melt the butter. Heat oil to 350°F or preheat oven/air fryer. Have all coating items ready.
Step 2: Whisk dry ingredients in one bowl and wet ingredients in another. Combine gently into a thick, scoopable batter.
Step 3: Fry, bake, or air-fry the batter until golden and cooked through.
Step 4: Brush warm donut holes with melted butter and roll immediately in cinnamon sugar.
Step 5: Serve warm; store leftovers at room temperature or freeze for later.

Pro Tips for the Best Healthy Baked Cinnamon Sugar

Keep these in mind:

These donut holes are perfect for breakfast or snacks.
For a lower sugar option, consider using a low sugar cinnamon sugar blend.
If you want to make these gluten-free, substitute the all-purpose flour for a gluten-free flour blend.
Using pumpkin puree not only adds flavor but also enhances the moisture content, ensuring fluffy donut holes.

Best Ways to Serve Healthy Baked Cinnamon Sugar

These delightful donut holes can be served in various ways:

Pair them with a cup of your favorite coffee or tea for a cozy breakfast treat.
They make excellent snacks for kids, especially during fall-themed parties.
Serve them warm with a drizzle of maple syrup for an extra sweet touch.

How to Store and Reheat Healthy Baked Cinnamon Sugar

To keep your donut holes fresh, store them at room temperature in an airtight container. They can last for up to 2 days. If you want to enjoy them later, freeze them for up to a month. To reheat, simply pop them in the microwave for a few seconds until warm or lightly toast them in the oven to regain their crispy texture.

Frequently Asked Questions About Healthy Baked Cinnamon Sugar

What’s the secret to perfect Healthy Baked Cinnamon Sugar?

The secret lies in the balance of spices and ensuring you don’t overmix the batter. This helps maintain the fluffy texture while achieving that crispy outer layer. Using fresh spices will also elevate the flavor!

Can I make Healthy Baked Cinnamon Sugar ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the batter in advance and store it in the refrigerator for a day. Just bake or fry them fresh when you’re ready to enjoy!

How do I avoid common mistakes with Healthy Baked Cinnamon Sugar?

To avoid mistakes, ensure your baking powder is fresh for the best rise. Also, watch the cooking time to prevent over-browning. If frying, maintain the oil temperature for even cooking.

Variations of Healthy Baked Cinnamon Sugar You Can Try

Here are some exciting variations to consider:

Substitute pumpkin puree with applesauce for a different flavor profile.
Add chocolate chips or nuts to the batter for added texture.
Experiment with different spices like ginger or allspice for a unique twist.

Healthy Baked Cinnamon Sugar Donut Holes Recipe - Healthy Baked Cinnamon Sugar - additional detail

For more delicious recipes, check out Gooey Cinnamon Cream Cheese Muffins or Pumpkin Pie Cupcakes. You can also explore Creamy Pumpkin Gnocchi for a delightful twist on pumpkin dishes.