2 Ingredient Pumpkin Pie Donut Holes

There’s something magical about fall — crisp air, golden leaves, cozy sweaters, and most importantly, pumpkin spice everything. If you’re looking for the easiest way to bring fall flavor into your kitchen, these 2 ingredient pumpkin pie donut holes are a dream come true. No complicated steps, no long list of ingredients — just two simple items and a little oil for frying. These mini donut holes are the perfect blend of spiced pumpkin goodness and fluffy, golden texture.

Unlike traditional donuts that require yeast, proofing, and mixing multiple components, this recipe simplifies the process while delivering that same indulgent flavor. The secret lies in combining self-rising flour with canned pumpkin pie mix, which already includes spices like cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves. You’ll have delicious, warm donut holes in under 20 minutes — perfect for a quick dessert or an autumn brunch centerpiece.

Self-rising flour is a pantry hero for simple recipes like this. If you’re curious about what makes it different, this Wikipedia article on self-rising flour breaks down the components — flour, baking powder, and salt — that give the dough its lift. On the other hand, many people confuse pumpkin puree with pumpkin pie mix. The latter, explained in this Wikipedia article on pumpkin pie, comes pre-sweetened and seasoned, making it perfect for minimal-ingredient desserts like these donut holes.

🎃 What are pumpkin pie donut holes?

Pumpkin pie donut holes are small, deep-fried treats made with a spiced pumpkin-flavored dough. They resemble classic donut holes in size and shape but deliver all the comforting flavors of pumpkin pie in every bite. Think: crispy outside, soft and warm inside, coated in a dusting of cinnamon sugar. With just two main ingredients, they offer the cozy essence of fall without the time commitment of baking a pie.

These mini donuts are ideal for:

• Fall-themed parties

• Quick breakfasts

• Kids’ lunchbox treats

• Thanksgiving dessert platters

Because they’re fried, these donut holes get that unmistakable golden crunch — a contrast to the soft, spiced center. You can read more about how frying achieves that perfect texture in this Wikipedia article on deep frying.

If you’re on Pinterest searching for fall desserts, this collection will inspire your next seasonal baking day.

🥣 Ingredients breakdown

To make these pumpkin pie donut holes, you only need a few basic ingredients:

• 1 cup self-rising flour (approx. 125g)

• ½ cup canned pumpkin pie mix (approx. 128g)

• Canola or vegetable oil (for frying)

• Optional: Cinnamon sugar (½ cup granulated sugar + ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon)

What is self-rising flour?

Self-rising flour is a type of flour that already contains baking powder and salt. It’s ideal for recipes where you want to simplify ingredients. If you don’t have self-rising flour, you can make your own using:

• 1 cup all-purpose flour

• 1½ teaspoons baking powder

• ¼ teaspoon salt

Using self-rising flour helps the donut holes puff up without any added yeast, making it perfect for quick-fry recipes like this one.

What is canned pumpkin pie mix?

Canned pumpkin pie mix is not the same as pumpkin puree. It already contains:

• Pumpkin puree

• Sugar

• Spices (cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves, allspice)

• Salt

Because it’s pre-seasoned and sweetened, it eliminates the need for extra ingredients like sugar or spice — ideal for two-ingredient recipes. More about the flavor profile can be found in the pumpkin pie Wikipedia entry.

These ingredients not only save time but also reduce cleanup, making this recipe incredibly accessible, even for novice cooks.

🍳 Kitchen equipment you’ll need

To make these donut holes at home, you don’t need any fancy appliances. Here’s what you’ll need:

• Mixing bowl

• Measuring cups or scale

• 1-tablespoon cookie scoop or regular spoon

• Deep skillet or saucepan

• Oil thermometer (to maintain 335–350°F)

• Slotted spoon or tongs

• Paper towels

• Plate or tray for draining

While a deep fryer works well, a heavy-bottomed pot or skillet is sufficient. Ensuring the oil maintains the correct temperature is key to getting the perfect fry — too low and your donuts will be greasy, too high and they’ll burn on the outside while remaining raw inside.

Air fryer recipes, like the ones in this Pinterest collection, can also be adapted if you’re avoiding deep frying — more on that below.

🔪 Step-by-step instructions with pro tips

Follow these simple steps to make the perfect pumpkin pie donut holes:

1. Mix the dough

• In a large bowl, stir together the self-rising flour and pumpkin pie mix until a thick, slightly sticky dough forms.

• Do not overmix; stir just until the flour is incorporated.

2. Shape the dough

• Scoop about 1 tablespoon of dough and gently roll it into a ball using floured or oiled hands.

• Place formed balls on a parchment-lined tray until ready to fry.

3. Heat the oil

• Pour about 2 inches of canola or vegetable oil into a deep skillet or saucepan.

• Heat to 335–350°F (use a thermometer for accuracy).

4. Fry in batches

• Carefully add donut holes in batches of 4–6.

• Fry for 2–3 minutes, turning halfway through, until golden brown and puffed.

• Use a slotted spoon to remove and transfer to a paper towel-lined plate.

5. Coat and serve

• While still warm, roll each donut hole in cinnamon sugar until fully coated.

• Serve immediately for best texture and flavor.

These steps yield crunchy-on-the-outside, fluffy-on-the-inside donut holes. Cinnamon sugar adds that irresistible final touch.

You’ll find many similar pumpkin spice treats on Pinterest — perfect for expanding your fall recipe rotation.

✅ Why this recipe works

This two-ingredient donut recipe succeeds because the ingredients are already optimized to work together:

• Self-rising flour provides both structure and leavening

• Pumpkin pie mix adds moisture, sweetness, and spice

• Frying creates a crunchy, caramelized outer shell

No eggs, butter, or extra sugar are needed. It’s also an ideal last-minute recipe when you need something festive and fast.

Unlike yeast donuts, this recipe skips the rising time entirely. It also avoids complicated batters or fillings, streamlining the whole process.

This kind of effortless cooking is also seen in 2 ingredient recipes trending on Pinterest — ideal for busy parents, students, or beginner bakers.

🍁 Recipe variations & additions

Looking to switch things up? Here are some delicious variations and substitutions:

• Baked version: Scoop dough into a greased mini muffin pan and bake at 350°F for 10–12 minutes

• Air fryer version: Place formed dough balls into a preheated air fryer at 350°F for 8–10 minutes, flipping halfway

• Gluten-free version: Use a 1:1 gluten-free self-rising flour blend

• Flavor twist: Add a dash of maple syrup, ginger, or vanilla extract

• Add-ins: Mix in mini chocolate chips or finely chopped pecans

For those reducing sugar, skip the cinnamon sugar coating or use a sugar substitute. This makes them lower in calories while still offering that warm, spiced flavor.

Gluten-free or air fryer recipes are especially popular on platforms like Pinterest, where dietary restrictions meet creative cooking.

🧊 Storage & reheating tips

These pumpkin pie donut holes are best enjoyed fresh, but leftovers can be stored for short-term enjoyment.

Storage tips:

• At room temperature: Store in an airtight container for up to 2 days

• Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days

• Freezer: Freeze on a baking sheet, then transfer to a zip-top bag for up to 1 month

Reheating tips:

• Oven: Bake at 300°F for 5–7 minutes

• Air fryer: Reheat at 325°F for 3–4 minutes

• Microwave: 10–15 seconds per donut hole (least recommended; may soften texture)

Always let them cool completely before storing to avoid sogginess.

Need more ideas for holiday mornings? Check out these Thanksgiving breakfast ideas for creative ways to serve these donut holes.

🧾 Nutrition information

Here’s the approximate nutrition breakdown per donut hole (assuming 20 donut holes per batch):

• Calories: 80

• Fat: 4g

• Carbs: 10g

• Sugar: 4g

• Protein: 1g

To make the recipe healthier:

• Use less or no cinnamon sugar

• Opt for the baked or air-fried version

• Substitute sugar with a low-calorie sweetener

Despite being a fried dessert, you can still enjoy these donut holes in moderation as part of a balanced diet.

🍽️ Serving ideas for different occasions

Pumpkin donut holes are incredibly versatile and work well for various events:

• Thanksgiving brunch: Serve with coffee, tea, or hot cider

• Halloween party platter: Pair with candy corn and caramel popcorn

• Weekend breakfast: Serve with maple-glazed turkey bacon and eggs

• Office treat: Pack in a decorative tin for coworkers

If you love baked fall goodies, you’ll appreciate the warm, comforting vibe these treats add to any gathering. These treats also pair beautifully with other classic donuts or breakfast bites.

❌ Common mistakes to avoid

Avoid these pitfalls to ensure your donut holes turn out perfectly every time:

• Using pumpkin puree instead of pumpkin pie mix: You’ll end up with bland, unsweetened dough

• Overmixing the dough: Makes the final product dense

• Oil temperature too high or low: Results in either undercooked or greasy donuts

• Overcrowding the pan: Lowers oil temperature, leading to uneven frying

• Skipping the cinnamon sugar: While optional, it significantly enhances flavor

Always double-check labels and measure accurately to avoid compromising the recipe’s simplicity and taste.

❓ Frequently asked questions (FAQ)

Can I bake pumpkin donut holes instead of frying?
Yes! Use a mini muffin pan and bake at 350°F for about 10–12 minutes.

What’s the difference between pumpkin puree and pumpkin pie mix?
Pumpkin pie mix is pre-sweetened and spiced, while pumpkin puree is just cooked, mashed pumpkin.

How do you know when donut holes are cooked through?
They should be golden brown and puffed, and a toothpick inserted should come out clean.

Can I make these ahead of time?
Yes, but they’re best fresh. You can make the dough in advance and refrigerate for up to 24 hours.

What oil is best for frying donut holes?
Canola or vegetable oil are ideal for neutral flavor and high smoke point.

Can I use all-purpose flour instead of self-rising?
Yes, just add 1½ teaspoons of baking powder and ¼ teaspoon of salt per cup of flour.

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