Thank you MARS for sponsoring this post. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
As the vibrant hues of summer gently fade, a crisp whisper of autumn begins to dance in the air. For many, this signals the return to school routines and a subtle shift in our cravings towards comforting, warm flavors. While it might still feel like summer in some parts, the anticipation of fall, with its iconic pumpkin spice, is undeniably exciting. Today, we’re diving headfirst into this beloved season with a delightful recipe that perfectly captures the essence of autumn: baked pumpkin spice donut holes generously studded with M&M’s candies. These bite-sized treats are an irresistible way to welcome the changing seasons and add a touch of joy to your family moments.
Whether you’re fully ready to embrace pumpkin season or just dipping your toes into fall-inspired baking, these easy-to-make donut holes are destined to become a household favorite. They strike the perfect balance between classic fall spices and the playful sweetness of M&M’s, making them ideal for any gathering, big or small. Keep this recipe handy, as it’s sure to be a hit from late summer gatherings to cozy fall evenings.
Celebrating M&M’s: An Iconic Treat in Every Bite
Today’s culinary adventure is extra special as we join MARS Chocolate in celebrating the remarkable 75th anniversary of M&M’s candy! When I was invited to be part of this milestone celebration, creating a recipe that honored such an iconic treat was an absolute pleasure. M&M’s have been a cherished part of our culture for decades, bringing colorful fun and delicious chocolate to generations. From their humble beginnings to becoming a global phenomenon, M&M’s have consistently delighted taste buds and sparked creativity in the kitchen. Their vibrant colors and distinct crunch make them a fantastic addition to baked goods, transforming simple recipes into extraordinary experiences. It’s only fitting that these beloved candies take center stage in a fun, festive recipe like our pumpkin spice donut holes.
The Ultimate Fall Indulgence: Baked Pumpkin Spice Donut Holes
Imagine your favorite pumpkin donut, but in a perfectly portable, bite-sized form – that’s exactly what these baked pumpkin spice donut holes deliver. Each morsel is a symphony of fall flavors, infused with rich pumpkin puree and a warm medley of spices including cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and allspice. Unlike traditional fried donuts, these are baked to golden perfection, resulting in a delightfully soft, cake-like texture that practically melts in your mouth. This baking method also makes them a slightly lighter option without sacrificing any of the indulgent taste.
What makes these donut holes truly exceptional is the thoughtful inclusion of M&M’s. For this recipe, I opted for a delightful combination of crunchy peanut M&M’s and creamy peanut butter M&M’s. The pairing of peanut butter and pumpkin is an absolute revelation, a flavor combination you simply must experience if you haven’t already. The subtle saltiness and satisfying crunch of the peanut M&M’s add a wonderful textural contrast to the soft donut holes, while the peanut butter M&M’s introduce an extra layer of nutty sweetness that complements the autumnal spices beautifully. Of course, the beauty of M&M’s is their versatility; feel free to customize these treats with your favorite M&M’s varieties, whether it’s classic milk chocolate, crispy, or even seasonal editions. Every choice will add its own unique charm and flavor.
Perfect for Every Moment: From Breakfast to Dessert
These baked pumpkin spice donut holes with M&M’s are incredibly versatile, fitting seamlessly into almost any part of your day. Start your morning with a few for a delicious and easy breakfast on-the-go, providing a burst of energy and flavor to kickstart your day. They make an excellent after-school snack, a welcome treat for hungry kids returning from their studies, and a comforting pick-me-up during a mid-afternoon coffee break. Their portability also makes them ideal for packing in lunchboxes or bringing to potlucks and gatherings. Imagine serving these warm, spice-laden bites at a fall brunch, a Halloween party, or a Thanksgiving dessert spread – they’re guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser for both children and adults alike. Their inviting aroma alone is enough to fill your home with the cozy spirit of fall, making them perfect for creating cherished family memories.
Tips for Baking Perfect Pumpkin Spice Donut Holes
Achieving perfectly fluffy and flavorful donut holes is easier than you think with a few simple tips. Firstly, ensure your oven is preheated to the correct temperature; consistency is key for even baking. When mixing the dry and wet ingredients, be careful not to overmix the batter. Overmixing can lead to tough donut holes, so mix only until the ingredients are just combined. Gently folding in the M&M’s at the end helps distribute them evenly without crushing them. After baking, coating the donut holes in the cinnamon sugar mixture while they are still warm ensures the coating adheres beautifully, creating that irresistible sugary crust. For the freshest taste, these donut holes are best enjoyed immediately after coating. If you have any leftovers, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days, though they rarely last that long!
I genuinely hope you’re inspired to try these incredible pumpkin spice donut holes with M&M’s. Whether you bake them today or save the recipe for when fall truly sets in, they are a delicious way to celebrate the wonderful flavors of the season and the joy that M&M’s bring. These delightful treats are more than just a snack; they’re an experience, embodying comfort, flavor, and fun in every bite. While you’re enjoying these sweet creations, don’t forget to check out your local Kroger store for fantastic deals on M&M’s and discover even more exciting M&M’s recipes to inspire your next baking adventure. Happy baking!
Pumpkin Spice Donut Holes with M&Ms
30 minutes
10 minutes
40 minutes
Ingredients
- 1 ½ cup all-purpose flour
- 1 ¼ teaspoon baking powder
- 1/8 teaspoon (a hefty pinch) baking soda
- 1/8 teaspoon kosher salt
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- ¼ teaspoon freshly grated nutmeg
- a pinch of ginger
- a pinch allspice
- 2/3 cup pumpkin puree
- ¼ cup buttermilk
- 6 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1/3 cup brown sugar
- 1 large egg
- 1/3 cup peanut or milk chocolate M&Ms
For Coating:
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
- ¼ cup unsalted butter, melted
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350 degrees F. Lightly grease a mini muffin tin with baking spray and set aside.
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, nutmeg, ginger, and allspice.
- In a large measuring cup, whisk together the pumpkin puree and buttermilk.
- In the bowl of a stand mixer or medium bowl, beat the butter and brown sugar together on medium speed until light and fluffy. Add in the egg and mix until combined. Scrape down the bowl as needed.
- Alternate the flour mixture and pumpkin mixture, starting and ending with the flour. Mix until just combined. Be careful not to overmix. Using a spatula, fold in the M&Ms gently.
- Using a tablespoon, divide the batter into the mini muffin cups. Smooth the top of each for a rounded smooth shape. Bake the donut holes for 8-10 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Remove from oven and let sit in pan for 2 minutes
- Meanwhile, combine the granulated sugar and cinnamon in a small bowl.
- Coat the donut holes in the melted butter, then toss in the cinnamon sugar to coat. Enjoy immediately!
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