Are you ready to take your taste buds on a fall adventure? Forget those store-bought doughnuts; this recipe delivers the ultimate homemade pumpkin doughnut experience. These fluffy, spiced, and perfectly fried delights are easier to make than you think, promising a delicious and satisfying treat for any occasion. Whether you're searching for easy recipes, quick dinner ideas (well, dessert ideas!), or simply crave some delicious dishes, this recipe fits the bill. It’s a perfect blend of homemade cooking and autumnal goodness.
Ingredients:
For the Doughnuts:
- 1 cup warm milk (105-115°F)
- 2 ¼ teaspoons active dry yeast
- ¼ cup granulated sugar
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- ½ teaspoon ground nutmeg
- ¼ teaspoon ground cloves
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 1 cup pumpkin puree
- 4 cups all-purpose flour, plus more for dusting
- Vegetable oil, for frying
For the Glaze (optional):
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 2-4 tablespoons milk
- ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
- Pinch of pumpkin pie spice (optional)
Instructions:
Step 1: Activate the Yeast
In a large bowl, combine warm milk, yeast, and granulated sugar. Let stand for 5-10 minutes until foamy. This ensures your yeast is active and ready to work its magic.
Step 2: Combine Wet Ingredients
Whisk in the egg, vanilla extract, cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves, salt, and pumpkin puree until well combined. The pumpkin puree adds moisture and that delightful autumn flavor.
Step 3: Incorporate Dry Ingredients
Gradually add the flour, mixing until a soft dough forms. You might not need all 4 cups; add flour until the dough is no longer sticky.
Step 4: Knead and Rise
Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and knead for 5-7 minutes until smooth and elastic. Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, turning to coat. Cover and let rise in a warm place for 1-1.5 hours, or until doubled in size.
Step 5: Shape and Fry
Punch down the dough to release the air. Roll it out to about ½ inch thickness and use a doughnut cutter (or a biscuit cutter and a smaller one for the hole) to cut out the doughnuts. Re-roll the scraps to make more.
Heat about 2 inches of vegetable oil in a large, heavy-bottomed pot or Dutch oven to 375°F (190°C). Carefully fry the doughnuts for 1-2 minutes per side, or until golden brown. Don't overcrowd the pot; work in batches.
Step 6: Drain and Cool
Remove the doughnuts with a slotted spoon and place them on a wire rack to drain excess oil. Let them cool completely before glazing.
Step 7: Make the Glaze (optional)
In a small bowl, whisk together the powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract until smooth. Add more milk for a thinner glaze, or more powdered sugar for a thicker one. Stir in pumpkin pie spice for an extra autumnal kick.
Step 8: Glaze and Enjoy
Once the doughnuts are cool, dip the tops in the glaze. Let the glaze set before serving and enjoying these warm, delicious pumpkin doughnuts!
Cooking Tips for Perfect Pumpkin Doughnuts:
- Don't overmix the dough: Overmixing can develop the gluten too much, resulting in tough doughnuts.
- Use a thermometer: Monitoring the oil temperature is crucial for even cooking and preventing burning.
- Let the doughnuts cool completely: This prevents the glaze from melting.
- Get creative with glazes: Experiment with different flavors like chocolate, maple, or even a simple cinnamon sugar coating.
Variations:
- Add nuts: Fold in chopped pecans or walnuts to the dough for added texture.
- Spice it up: Add a pinch of cardamom or ginger for a warmer flavor profile.
- Make mini doughnuts: Use a smaller cutter for bite-sized treats.
Nutritional Information (per doughnut, approximate):
This will vary based on the size of your doughnuts and the glaze used. However, a general estimate would be around 200-250 calories, depending on the ingredients. For a more precise calculation, use a nutrition calculator with your specific ingredient measurements.
These pumpkin doughnuts are sure to become a favorite fall recipe in your kitchen. They're perfect for breakfast, brunch, an afternoon snack, or even a delightful end to a cozy evening. Enjoy!