Introduction to Thanksgiving Doughnuts
As the leaves turn brilliant shades of orange and gold, the arrival of autumn invites us to celebrate with delicious flavors reminiscent of Thanksgiving. Imagine biting into a warm, fluffy doughnut filled with rich pumpkin cheesecake and coated in sweet pumpkin spice sugar. That’s right—Thanksgiving doughnuts are the perfect fall treat that combines the warmth of holiday flavors with the comfort of a beloved pastry.
Why are these delights so special? First, they incorporate seasonal favorites like pumpkin and warm spices, making them an ideal companion for chilly evenings. Plus, doughnuts provide a fun and unique way to indulge in Thanksgiving flavors without the traditional pie.
According to a recent study, enjoying seasonal desserts can enhance our mood, connecting us to cherished memories of family gatherings and festive celebrations. These doughnuts not only offer a delightful culinary experience but also make great conversation starters at dinner parties or cozy get-togethers. So why not surprise your friends and family with a batch of homemade Thanksgiving doughnuts? They’ll appreciate your creativity, and you’ll enjoy the satisfaction of crafting something truly special. Ready to get baking? Let’s dive into the recipe!
Ingredients for Thanksgiving Doughnuts
Creating the perfect Thanksgiving doughnuts starts with carefully chosen ingredients. Each component plays a crucial role in making these treats a seasonal delight. Let’s break them down!
Essential Ingredients for the Brioche Dough
To achieve that fluffy and rich texture, you’ll need:
- Active dry yeast: 2 ¼ teaspoon for that perfect rise.
- Whole milk: 250g, lukewarm to activate the yeast.
- Sugar: 4 tablespoon (50g) to sweeten the dough.
- All-purpose flour: 565g provides structure.
- Salt: 1 teaspoon enhances flavor.
- Eggs: 2 at room temperature for richness.
- Vanilla bean paste: 1 teaspoon adds a delightful aroma.
- Unsalted butter: 100g for a tender crumb.
- Neutral oil: For frying to crispy perfection.
Ingredients for Pumpkin Spice Sugar
This fragrant topping is a must for that fall essence. You’ll need:
- Granulated sugar: 200g to coat the doughnuts.
- Pumpkin pie spice: 1 ½ teaspoon brings the warmth of the season.
Ingredients for Pumpkin Cheesecake Filling
This creamy center is the star of your Thanksgiving doughnuts. Gather:
- Pumpkin puree: 280g, using 200g reduced in the filling.
- Cream cheese: 450g, softened to blend smoothly.
- Powdered sugar: 100g for sweetness.
- Vanilla bean paste: ½ teaspoon for depth of flavor.
- Ground cinnamon: 1 teaspoon for a cozy warmth.
- Pumpkin pie spice: 1½ teaspoon to enhance the pumpkin flavor.
- Pinch of salt: To balance the sweetness.
Once you have these ingredients ready, you’re on your path to making Thanksgiving doughnuts everyone will love! If you’re curious about the benefits of using fresh, seasonal ingredients, check out this article on eating in season.
Preparing Thanksgiving Doughnuts
Thanksgiving isn’t just about turkey and pumpkin pie; it’s also about indulging in delightful thanksgiving doughnuts. This festive treat combines the flavors of autumn with the joy of bites that are pillowy and delicious. Ready to dive in? Let’s break this down step by step!
Activate the Yeast
To kick off your thanksgiving doughnuts, start by activating your yeast. In a small bowl, mix 2 ¼ teaspoons of active dry yeast with 250g of lukewarm whole milk and 2 tablespoons of sugar. After a good stir, let it sit for about 10-15 minutes until it’s foamy and frothy. This indicates that your yeast is alive and well, ready to help the dough rise beautifully!
Mix the Brioche Dough
In your stand mixer, combine 565g of all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon of salt, and the remaining 2 tablespoons of sugar. After a quick mix, add in your eggs, vanilla bean paste, and that foamy yeast mixture. Start mixing on low for 2-3 minutes. Don’t fret if the dough seems a bit dry at this stage; it will come together! Increase the mixer speed to medium and mix until the dough is soft and smooth.
Incorporate the Butter
Here’s where the magic happens! Lower your mixer speed and add 100g of unsalted butter, piece by piece, allowing each to completely incorporate before adding the next. This process takes about 3-4 minutes. Once you’ve added all the butter, mix on medium speed for another 5 minutes to ensure a fluffy, buttery dough.
Let the Dough Rise
Transfer your dough to an oiled bowl and cover tightly with plastic wrap. Let it rise in the fridge for at least three hours or overnight. If you're short on time, room temperature will do, but colder dough might yield better flavor.
Shape the Doughnuts
After rising, line two baking sheets with parchment paper. Turn your dough out onto a work surface and divide into 75g portions. Roll each portion into a tight ball, then place them on the baking sheets, flattening slightly but leaving space for them to puff up during the next rise.
Prepare for Frying
While the doughnuts are proofing (you’ll know they’re ready when a poke leaves a slight indentation), heat up neutral oil in a heavy-bottomed pot to about 350°F (180°C). This ensures that your thanksgiving doughnuts will fry to perfection.
Fry the Doughnuts
Carefully drop in two doughnuts at a time and fry them for about 3 minutes on each side until they’re golden brown. Use a slotted spoon to remove them and let cool on a rack before tossing them in pumpkin spice sugar—which brings the Thanksgiving vibes!
Toss in Pumpkin Spice Sugar
Mix 200g of granulated sugar with 1 ½ teaspoons of pumpkin pie spice in a bowl. Once cooled, toss your doughnuts in this sweet, fragrant mixture so they’re ready for the next big step!
Prepare the Pumpkin Cheesecake Filling
In a saucepan, cook 280g of pumpkin puree over medium heat for about 4-5 minutes. Let it cool down a bit and then mix your limited ingredients: soft cream cheese, powdered sugar, and more spices for that cheesecake flavor. Whip it up until everything is dreaming of Thanksgiving!
Assemble the Doughnuts
Finally, it’s time to assemble! Use a piping bag to fill each doughnut with that luscious pumpkin cheesecake filling. Top them off with an extra dollop if you like—the more, the merrier!
These festive thanksgiving doughnuts are the ultimate treat for your holiday gatherings, and they’ll surely impress friends and family alike! For more autumn-inspired recipes, check out AllRecipes or New York Times Cooking.
Now, put on your apron and unleash your inner pastry chef!
Variations on Thanksgiving Doughnuts
Maple Pecan Doughnuts
Imagine biting into a fluffy Thanksgiving doughnut adorned with a maple glaze and crunchy pecans. These doughnuts pack a delightful mix of sweet and nutty flavors, perfectly complementing the fall season. To make them, simply whisk together maple syrup and powdered sugar for the glaze, and sprinkle diced pecans on top just before they set. Whether enjoyed with a hot cup of cider or shared with loved ones, these doughnuts are sure to elevate your holiday gathering.
Chocolate Chip Pumpkin Doughnuts
If you’re a fan of pumpkin spice and chocolate, these doughnuts are your new go-to! Enriched with chocolate chips and a hint of cinnamon, they strike a perfect balance between sweet and savory. As you prepare your luscious dough, fold in semi-sweet chocolate chips before frying them to golden perfection. The combination of flavors adds a festive twist that’s sure to impress your guests! For an extra touch, drizzle melted chocolate over the top for a traditional dessert feel.
Explore more variations and stack your doughnut game this Thanksgiving! Consider checking out Food52's guide to doughnut toppings for more inspiration!
Cooking Tips and Notes for Thanksgiving Doughnuts
Ensuring the Perfect Dough Consistency
For Thanksgiving doughnuts that are fluffy and delicious, achieving the right dough consistency is key. After mixing, the dough should be soft and elastic but not sticky. If it's too dry, a splash of milk can help; if too wet, add a touch more flour. Don’t rush the rising times; they allow flavors to develop beautifully. For a successful second rise, keep an eye on the dough—it should double in size and be ready for frying when it springs back slightly after poking!
Tips for Frying Safely
Frying can seem daunting, but with a little care, you can master it! Use a heavy-bottomed pot to ensure even heat distribution. Always monitor the oil temperature, aiming for 350°F (180°C)—a candy or frying thermometer works magic here. Lower the doughnuts gently into the oil to prevent splattering, and never overcrowd the pot, or they’ll steam rather than crisp. Have a wire rack lined with parchment paper ready for draining and sugar coating, ensuring your Thanksgiving doughnuts get that perfect touch! For more frying safety tips, check out this guide from the FDA.
Serving Suggestions for Thanksgiving Doughnuts
Pairing with Seasonal Beverages
To elevate your Thanksgiving doughnuts, consider pairing them with seasonal beverages. A steaming cup of spiced apple cider or a cozy pumpkin spice latte complements the rich flavors of the doughnuts beautifully. For non-caffeine enthusiasts, a warm chai tea adds a delightful spice that resonates with the doughnut's pumpkin cheesecake filling. Not only do these drinks enhance flavor, but they also create a warm, inviting atmosphere perfect for your holiday gatherings.
Creative Presentation Ideas
Make your Thanksgiving doughnuts the centerpiece of your dessert table! Arrange them on a beautiful wooden board and sprinkle with fall-themed decorations, like miniature pumpkins or leaves. Use colorful cake stands to create varying heights and make an eye-catching display. A drizzle of caramel sauce over the doughnuts or a dusting of powdered sugar can add a touch of elegance. Finally, don’t forget to have festive napkins or plates that celebrate the harvest season — they’ll make your treats even more appealing!
For more inspiration, check out The Spruce Eats for additional creative serving ideas.
Time Breakdown for Thanksgiving Doughnuts
Preparation Time
Start your culinary adventure with about 20 minutes for prepping the dough and ingredients. This includes mixing the yeast, flour, and spices, ensuring everything is ready for the delightful journey that awaits.
Rising Time
Plan for a generous rest period. The dough needs roughly 3 hours in the fridge or can be left overnight for an even richer flavor. The second rise will take 20 minutes to 1 hour based on your environment.
Frying Time
Each batch of thanksgiving doughnuts will be ready in a quick 6 minutes. With two doughnuts frying at a time, the process moves smoothly, giving you time to soak in the delicious aromas filling your kitchen.
Assembly Time
The final touch of filling these delicious morsels with pumpkin cheesecake will take about 15 minutes. Don't rush—you want to savor every bite!
Total Time
From start to finish, expect about 4 to 5 hours, including rising and cooling times. But trust us; the delicious reward will be worth every minute spent!
If you’re looking for more culinary tips, check out Serious Eats for in-depth expertise on doughnut-making.
Nutritional Facts for Thanksgiving Doughnuts
When indulging in delightful Thanksgiving doughnuts, it's essential to know what you're savoring. Each doughnut is a festive treat, perfect for the season!
Calories per Doughnut
These delicious creations contain around 300 calories each. Perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth without derailing your day!
Sugar Content
Each doughnut has approximately 15 grams of sugar, thanks to the pumpkin spice sugar coating. While they’re a treat, moderation is key to maintaining balance during the holiday season.
Protein and Fat Information
With about 3 grams of protein and 16 grams of fat per doughnut, these treats bring some richness to the table, especially with the cream cheese filling. Enjoy them once in a while as part of a varied diet!
For more insights on holiday nutrition, you might find Healthline informative. Happy feasting!
FAQs about Thanksgiving Doughnuts
Can I make the dough in advance?
Absolutely! You can prepare the dough for your Thanksgiving doughnuts up to 24 hours in advance. Simply follow the recipe until the first rise, then cover the dough tightly and store it in the refrigerator. When you’re ready to fry, just let it come to room temperature and complete the second rise.
How do I store leftover doughnuts?
If you have any leftover doughnuts (though they might not last long!), store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. For longer storage, consider freezing them. Just make sure they’re completely cooled before wrapping them securely in plastic wrap and placing them in a freezer-safe bag.
What can I substitute for pumpkin puree?
If you’re looking for alternatives to pumpkin puree, consider using butternut squash puree or even sweet potato puree. Both options offer a similar texture and sweetness that works beautifully in your Thanksgiving doughnuts. For more adaptation ideas, check out this guide.
By keeping these tips in mind, you’re all set to enjoy delicious homemade Thanksgiving doughnuts with friends and family!
Celebrating Fall Flavors with Homemade Delights
As we wrap up this delightful journey into making Thanksgiving doughnuts, it’s clear these treats are a celebration of fall's finest flavors. With the warm spices of pumpkin and the creamy richness of cheesecake, they're sure to be a hit at your holiday gatherings. Enjoy crafting and sharing!
Thanksgiving Doughnuts: Easy Recipes for a Joyful Celebration
Equipment
- stand mixer
- heavy-bottomed pot
- wire rack
- parchment paper
- piping bag
Ingredients
Brioche Dough
- 2 ¼ teaspoon active dry yeast
- 250 g whole milk lukewarm
- 4 tablespoon sugar (50g)
- 565 g all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 2 whole eggs at room temperature
- 1 teaspoon vanilla bean paste
- 100 g unsalted butter at room temperature
- Neutral Oil for Frying
Pumpkin Spice Sugar
- 200 g granulated sugar
- 1 ½ teaspoon pumpkin pie spice
Pumpkin Cheesecake Filling
- 280 g pumpkin puree use 200g reduced in the filling
- 450 g cream cheese softened
- 100 g powdered sugar
- ½ teaspoon vanilla bean paste
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1 ½ teaspoon pumpkin pie spice
- Pinch salt
Instructions
Doughnuts
- In a small bowl, combine the yeast, milk and 2 tablespoon of the sugar. Mix well, and leave to sit for 10-15 minutes, or until foamy.
- In the bowl of a stand mixer fitted with the dough hook, combine the flour, salt, and remaining 2 tablespoon sugar. Mix briefly to combine. Add the eggs, vanilla, and foamy yeast mixture to the bowl. Mix on low for 2-3 minutes, until the dough is starting to come together. It may look slightly dry but do not worry - it will mix together nicely in the next steps. Increase the mixer speed to medium, and mix for another 5 minutes, until the dough is soft and smooth.
- Reduce the mixer speed to low, and add the butter a little at a time, waiting until it is fully incorporated into the dough before adding the next piece. This process should take 3-4 minutes. Once the butter is fully incorporated, increase the mixer speed to medium, and mix for a further 5 minutes, until the dough is very soft and smooth.
- Transfer to an oiled bowl, and cover tightly with plastic wrap. Place in the fridge for a minimum of 3 hours and up to overnight. Alternatively the first rise can be done at room temperature.
- Line two baking sheets with parchment paper. Turn the dough out onto work surface (try not to use flour if you can). Divide into 75g portions. Roll each portion into a tight ball, making sure that they are well sealed on the bottom.
- Place the rolled doughnuts on the baking sheets, flattening each one slightly, leaving adequate space between.
- Leave the doughnuts to proof for a second time. This rise time will depend on the weather and the temperature of your starting dough so will take anywhere between 20 minutes to an hour. When you poke them lightly with your finger, it should leave a small indentation that springs back.
- While the doughnuts are proofing, heat neutral oil in a large heavy-bottomed pot (cast iron works great). Heat the oil to 350°f / 180°c. Place a wire rack over a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Once the oil has come to temperature, test it with a few scraps of dough. Gently lower the doughnuts, two at a time, into the hot oil. Cook for 3 minutes on one side and then flip again, and cook for a further 3 minutes, until golden brown. Remove from the oil using a slotted spoon and place on a cooling rack.
- Allow to cool for 30 seconds before tossing in the sugar. Repeat the process with the rest of the doughnuts. Once the doughnuts are totally cool, poke a hole in them using a chopstick, and widen the hole using your finger.
Pumpkin Spice Sugar
- Combine all ingredients in a bowl. Have ready for when frying the doughnuts.
Pumpkin Cheesecake Filling
- Place the pumpkin into a medium saucepan. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, for 4-5 minutes until reduced slightly. Set aside to cool, and then measure out 200g of reduced pumpkin.
- Place the reduced pumpkin along with all other ingredients in a medium bowl. Stir to incorporate with a rubber spatula, then switch to a whisk and whip until well incorporated.
Assembly
- Transfer the pumpkin cheesecake filling into a piping bag fitted with a round attachment. Fill each doughnut with pumpkin cheesecake filling, finishing with a little blob on the top.
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