Thanksgiving Doughnuts
Introduction
Thanksgiving is a time for delicious food, warm gatherings, and sweet indulgences. Cloudy Kitchen has brought an amazing twist to traditional holiday treats with their Thanksgiving Doughnuts recipe. These delightful doughnuts are perfect for the holiday season, offering a unique take on Thanksgiving flavors. Whether you’re hosting a family dinner or simply looking for the perfect seasonal treat, these Thanksgiving Doughnuts are certain to impress.
Detailed Ingredients with Measures
Dough
Flour – 460g (3 3/4 cups)
Granulated sugar – 50g (1/4 cup)
Instant yeast – 3g (1 tsp)
Milk – 180g (3/4 cup)
Eggs – 2 large
Salt – 1 1/2 tsp
Unsalted butter – 100g (7 tbsp), softened
Pie Filling
Pumpkin puree – 250g (1 cup)
Brown sugar – 100g (1/2 cup)
Cinnamon – 1/2 tsp
Nutmeg – 1/4 tsp
Cloves – a small pinch
Coating
Granulated sugar or cinnamon sugar – as needed
Prep Time
Creating these delightful Thanksgiving Doughnuts requires some preparation. The prep time includes mixing the dough, allowing it to proof, and preparing the filling. This step typically takes about 20-30 minutes, excluding the resting period. It’s a hands-on process that ensures the doughnuts turn out fluffy and full of flavor.
Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Cook Time
Once the doughnuts have been shaped and proofed, frying them in oil takes only a few minutes per batch. The cook time is approximately 2-3 minutes per side, resulting in doughnuts that are golden-brown and crisp on the outside.
Total Time
When you combine the prep, resting, and cooking periods, the total time for the recipe is around 2-3 hours. This estimate includes the necessary time for the dough to proof and the finishing touches added after frying.
Yield
This recipe yields about 12-14 doughnuts, making it a delightful treat for medium-sized gatherings. You may adjust quantities accordingly if you need fewer or more doughnuts for your Thanksgiving celebration.
Thanksgiving Doughnuts are the perfect fusion of tradition and innovation, bringing holiday flavors into everyone’s favorite deep-fried treat. Dive into this recipe, and let your taste buds enjoy a moment of Thanksgiving festivity.
“`html
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Prepare the Dough
1. In the bowl of a stand mixer, combine the warm milk, sugar, and yeast. Mix gently and let it sit for about 5-10 minutes until the yeast is foamy and dissolved.
2. Add the eggs to the bowl and whisk together lightly.
3. Attach the dough hook to your mixer, and sift in the flour and salt. Begin mixing and gradually add cubed butter.
4. Knead the dough on medium speed for 8-10 minutes until it becomes smooth and pulls away from the sides of the bowl. Scrape down the bowl occasionally to ensure the butter incorporates fully.
First Rise
1. Transfer the dough to a lightly greased bowl. Cover it with plastic wrap or a clean kitchen towel.
2. Let the dough rise at room temperature for 1-1.5 hours, or until it doubles in size.
Prepare the Filling
1. While the dough is rising, prepare the desired filling for the doughnuts, such as spiced pumpkin or a flavored jam. Set aside.
Shape the Doughnuts
1. Turn the risen dough out onto a lightly floured surface. Press and roll it into a rectangle about ½ inch thick.
2. Use a round cutter to cut out circles, transferring them to a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Re-roll scraps as needed, but avoid overhandling the dough.
Second Rise
1. Cover the doughnut rounds loosely with a greased plastic wrap or a towel.
2. Allow them to rise again for 30-40 minutes, until puffy.
Prepare for Frying
1. In a heavy-bottomed pot or Dutch oven, heat oil to 350°F (175°C). Use a thermometer to maintain consistent frying temperature.
Fry the Doughnuts
1. Gently place the risen doughnuts into the hot oil, a few at a time, being careful not to overcrowd the pot.
2. Fry each side for 1-2 minutes, or until golden brown.
3. Carefully transfer the fried doughnuts onto a tray lined with paper towels to cool slightly.
Fill the Doughnuts
1. Use a piping bag fitted with a filling tip to pipe in the prepared filling into each doughnut.
2. Gently press the tip into the side or bottom of the doughnut and fill until just full.
Optional: Add Toppings
1. Roll the doughnuts in granulated sugar or dust with powdered sugar immediately after filling.
2. Let them cool slightly before serving.
Notes
Yeast Activation
– Ensure the milk is warm but not hot (about 100°F/38°C) to properly activate the yeast.
Temperature Control for Frying
– Keep the oil at a consistent temperature of 350°F (175°C) to avoid overly greasy or undercooked doughnuts.
Reusing Dough Scraps
– Avoid overworking dough scraps when re-rolling to preserve the dough’s texture and consistency.
Storage
– Store leftover doughnuts in an airtight container at room temperature for 1-2 days.
“`
“`html
Cook Techniques
Preparing the Dough
Ensure all wet and dry ingredients are measured correctly before starting. This prepares you for a smooth dough mixing process. Use warm milk to activate the yeast properly.
Activating Yeast
Activate the yeast by combining it with warm milk and sugar. Let it sit until it becomes foamy. This step is essential to ensure the dough rises properly. If the yeast doesn’t foam, discard it and start again.
Kneading the Dough
Knead the dough until it becomes smooth and elastic. This step is crucial to create a soft, pillowy texture in the finished doughnuts.
Proofing the Dough
Allow the dough to proof in a warm, draft-free environment until it doubles in size. Cover it loosely with plastic wrap or a clean kitchen towel to prevent it from drying out.
Shaping the Doughnuts
Roll out the dough evenly to ensure consistent cooking. Use a circle cutter for the doughnuts and a smaller cutter for the holes to maintain their classic shape.
Frying the Doughnuts
Use a neutral oil like canola or vegetable oil for frying. Heat the oil evenly and maintain a temperature between 350°F to 375°F for optimal cooking. Fry the doughnuts a few at a time to ensure consistent results and avoid overcrowding.
Making the Glaze
Combine powdered sugar, vanilla, and milk to prepare the glaze. Adjust the milk quantity to achieve your preferred consistency.
Glazing the Doughnuts
Dip the fried doughnuts in the glaze while they are still slightly warm for optimal coating. Use a wire rack to let the glaze set and drip off excess.
FAQ
Do I need a stand mixer for this recipe?
No, while a stand mixer simplifies the process, you can knead the dough by hand until it reaches a smooth and elastic texture.
How do I know when the dough is proofed correctly?
The dough should double in size during the proofing process. You can also press it gently with your finger; if the indentation springs back slowly, it’s ready.
Can I bake the doughnuts instead of frying them?
Frying is recommended for the best texture, but you can bake the doughnuts instead. They will have a denser texture compared to fried ones.
What oil is best for frying doughnuts?
Use a neutral oil with a high smoke point, such as canola or vegetable oil. This ensures even frying without altering the flavor of the doughnuts.
Can I prepare the dough ahead of time?
Yes, you can refrigerate the dough after the first proofing stage. Allow it to come back to room temperature before shaping and frying.
Why didn’t my doughnuts rise properly?
If your doughnuts didn’t rise, it could be due to inactive yeast, improper proofing temperature, or expired ingredients. Always ensure yeast activation and proper dough warmth during proofing.
How do I store leftover doughnuts?
Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. For longer storage, freeze the doughnuts and reheat them as needed.
Why is my icing too runny or too thick?
Adjust the consistency of the glaze by adding more powdered sugar if it is too runny or more milk if it is too thick. Mix thoroughly to ensure a smooth texture.
“`

“`html
Conclusion
Thanksgiving Doughnuts offer a unique twist to traditional holiday desserts, combining classic flavors with a fun and delightful treat that everyone will enjoy. Perfect for sharing with friends and family, these doughnuts bring a festive touch to your Thanksgiving celebrations. If you’re looking to elevate your dessert table, this recipe is an excellent choice that stands out while still honoring the comforting flavors of the season.
More recipes suggestions and combination
Pumpkin Spice Latte Doughnuts
Combine the cozy flavors of pumpkin, spices, and coffee to craft doughnuts that taste just like your favorite seasonal beverage.
Maple Pecan Doughnuts
Integrate maple syrup and crunchy pecans into your doughnuts for a rich and satisfying bite that feels quintessentially autumnal.
Cranberry Orange Doughnuts
Celebrate the zesty and tangy combination of cranberry and orange, perfect for a refreshing yet festive treat.
Sweet Potato Doughnuts
Incorporate sweet potato puree into your doughnut batter for a moist, flavorful option that pairs beautifully with cinnamon glaze.
Apple Cinnamon Doughnuts
Create a warm and comforting treat by blending apple and cinnamon into your recipe, echoing the essence of a classic apple pie.
Brown Sugar Glazed Doughnuts
Use a rich brown sugar glaze to top your doughnuts, adding caramel-like notes that complement the Thanksgiving season.
Chai Spiced Doughnuts
Add a blend of chai spices to your doughnuts for a warm, fragrant option that pairs wonderfully with tea or coffee.
“`