As I watched the autumn leaves swirl outside my kitchen window, I found myself reminiscing about the warm, comforting scents of my childhood Thanksgivings. This year, I decided to blend that nostalgia with a modern twist by creating Thanksgiving Doughnuts—the perfect fusion of our beloved holiday flavors! These delightful treats offer not just one but five incredible varieties, from Apple Pie to Pumpkin Cheesecake, each crafted on a soft, fluffy brioche base. They are truly a fantastic way to indulge in the essence of fall while also serving as a fun baking project that brings friends and family together. Plus, they’re an awesome addition to your morning coffee routine this holiday season! Are you ready to bring a little sweetness to your Thanksgiving table?
Why Are These Doughnuts a Must-Try?
Fluffy Texture: With a soft brioche base, these doughnuts are light and airy, making every bite a delightful experience.
Fall Flavor Explosion: Indulge in five unique flavors, from Apple Pie to Maple Pecan, perfect for celebrating the season.
Fun Family Activity: Baking these doughnuts is a wonderful way to bond with loved ones—everyone can choose their favorite flavor!
Perfect for Sharing: These treats are not just tasty; they’re visually stunning, making them a hit at any holiday gathering.
Quick & Easy: Despite their impressive appearance, the steps are simple and manageable, making them suitable for bakers of all levels.
Dive into this Thanksgiving Doughnuts experience, and create sweet memories that will warm your heart and home this holiday season!
Thanksgiving Doughnut Ingredients
For the Dough
• Milk – Provides moisture, richness, and helps activate the yeast; lukewarm is best for optimum results.
• Granulated Sugar – Adds sweetness and aids in fermentation; for a richer flavor, you can substitute with coconut sugar.
• Active Dry Yeast – Leavens the dough for a light texture; make sure it’s fresh for the best rise.
• Eggs – Contributes to the dough’s structure and richness; for a vegan option, try flax eggs.
• Vanilla Bean Paste – Imparts a delightful flavor and aroma; extract can be used as a substitute, but it’s less intense.
• Sea Salt – Enhances sweetness and balances the overall flavor profile.
• All-Purpose Flour – Gives structure to the dough; switch to whole wheat flour for a heartier texture, though it will differ.
• Unsalted Butter – Adds richness and flavor; vegetable oil can be used as a dairy-free alternative.
For the Fillings & Flavors
• Pumpkin Puree – Essential for the Pumpkin Cheesecake doughnuts, it adds both moisture and flavor.
• Cream Cheese – Used for filling the Pumpkin Cheesecake doughnuts; can be swapped for dairy-free cream cheese.
• Cinnamon, Nutmeg, Pumpkin Spice – These fall spices create the warm flavors that define the season; feel free to adjust according to your taste.
Prepare your kitchen for these delightful Thanksgiving Doughnuts, and let the flavors of fall elevate your holiday celebrations!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Thanksgiving Doughnuts
Step 1: Prepare Brioche Dough
In a large mixing bowl, combine 1 cup of lukewarm milk, 2 tablespoons of sugar, and 2 teaspoons of active dry yeast. Allow the mixture to sit for about 5 minutes until frothy. Next, blend in 2 large eggs, 2 teaspoons of vanilla bean paste, and ½ teaspoon of sea salt. Gradually add 4 cups of all-purpose flour and ½ cup of softened unsalted butter, mixing until a sticky dough forms.
Step 2: First Rise
Transfer your dough to a greased bowl, covering it with a clean kitchen towel. Let the dough rise in a warm spot until it has doubled in size, approximately 1 to 1.5 hours. Alternatively, for easier handling, you can refrigerate it overnight. This slow rise will enrich the flavor and texture of your Thanksgiving doughnuts.
Step 3: Make Fillings
While the dough rises, prepare the fillings. For the Apple Pie doughnut, make a quick apple pie filling by cooking chopped apples with cinnamon and sugar until softened. For Pumpkin Cheesecake, blend 8 ounces of cream cheese with ½ cup of pumpkin puree and spices. Keep both fillings in the refrigerator until your doughnuts are ready to be shaped.
Step 4: Shape Doughnuts
Once your dough has risen, punch it down and divide it into smaller portions. Roll each portion into a smooth ball and then flatten it slightly to form the doughnuts. Place them on a parchment-lined baking sheet, making sure to leave space between each. Cover with a towel and let them proof until they look puffy, around 30-45 minutes.
Step 5: Fry Doughnuts
In a deep pot, heat vegetable oil to 350°F (180°C). Carefully drop the doughnuts into the hot oil, frying them in batches for about 2-3 minutes per side until they are golden brown and puffed up. Use a slotted spoon to transfer them to a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil, keeping a watchful eye on their color.
Step 6: Coat & Fill
While the doughnuts are still warm, toss them in granulated sugar to coat. If you’re making filled doughnuts, use a piping bag to fill them with your apple pie filling or pumpkin cheesecake mixture through a small hole in the side, ensuring each bite is packed with flavor. Enjoy your Thanksgiving doughnuts fresh for the best experience!
What to Serve with Thanksgiving Doughnuts?
Indulging in these sweet, fluffy delights creates the perfect opportunity to craft a memorable meal experience.
- Hot Coffee: The classic pairing enhances the sweetness of the doughnuts, making for a comforting morning ritual.
- Spiced Apple Cider: Serve warm to complement the autumn flavors, providing a fragrant and cozy beverage that resonates with the season.
- Creamy Whipped Cream: A dollop on the side adds lusciousness, inviting you to savor every bite with added sweetness.
- Maple Bacon: The salty and smoky notes contrast beautifully with the sweet doughnuts for a balanced flavor explosion.
- Fruit Salad: Fresh, seasonal fruit brings brightness and acidity, cutting through the richness of each doughnut.
- Ice Cream: A scoop of vanilla or cinnamon ice cream creates a decadent dessert experience, perfect for a holiday gathering.
- Pecan Pie Bars: The nutty, sweet components mirror the flavors found in the Maple Pecan doughnuts, providing a delicious double treat.
- Cinnamon Hot Chocolate: Rich and creamy, this warm drink pairs perfectly with doughnuts, making a delightful after-meal indulgence.
- Cheese Board: A selection of soft cheeses can create a delightful contrast with the sweet doughnuts, showcasing different textures and tastes.
How to Store and Freeze Thanksgiving Doughnuts
Room Temperature: Keep doughnuts in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 day for optimal freshness and flavor.
Fridge: If you have leftover filled doughnuts, you can refrigerate them, but they may dry out quickly—aim to consume within 1 day.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze unfilled doughnuts in a single layer until firm, then transfer to a freezer bag. They can be frozen for up to 2 months.
Reheating: To enjoy your Thanksgiving doughnuts, reheat from frozen in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes or until warmed through.
Make Ahead Options
These Thanksgiving Doughnuts are perfect for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy the cozy flavors of fall with minimal effort on busy days! You can prepare the brioche dough up to 24 hours in advance by mixing all the ingredients and refrigerating it overnight for a rich flavor. Additionally, you can create your fillings—like apple pie and pumpkin cheesecake—up to 3 days ahead and store them in airtight containers in the fridge. When you’re ready to serve, simply shape and fry the doughnuts as instructed, then coat and fill them for a delightful treat that tastes just as delicious as fresh-baked. This way, you can savor the taste of Thanksgiving while saving precious time with loved ones!
Expert Tips for Thanksgiving Doughnuts
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Perfect Frying Temperature: Always use a thermometer to ensure your oil is at 350°F; frying at the wrong temperature can lead to greasy or dense Thanksgiving doughnuts.
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Don’t Skip the Rise: Allow sufficient time for the dough to rise; underproofed doughnuts can turn out dense and heavy instead of airy and fluffy.
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Flavor Variations: Feel free to experiment with different fillings and glazes! Create unique Thanksgiving doughnuts by incorporating seasonal flavors like cranberry or pecan.
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Keep Them Fresh: For the best texture, enjoy doughnuts the same day they’re made. If storing, use an airtight container for no more than one day to maintain their fluffiness.
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Make Ahead Options: Prepare the dough the night before and refrigerate for a slower rise; this not only enhances flavor but also makes for easier baking during busy mornings.
Thanksgiving Doughnuts Variations & Substitutions
Feel free to get creative with these doughnuts—there are endless ways to customize them into something uniquely yours!
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Vegan Version: Substitute eggs with flax eggs and use almond or soy milk for a delicious dairy-free doughnut. These doughnuts will still stay fluffy and delightful.
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Gluten-Free: Use a gluten-free flour blend to create doughnuts that everyone can enjoy without compromising on taste or texture. They can be just as airy and flavorful!
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Boozy Twists: Add a splash of bourbon or rum to your filling for an extra kick. This will enhance the warmth and festivity of the flavors, perfect for adults!
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Extra Crunch: Coat your doughnuts in crushed nuts or toasty coconut after frying for an added crunch and delightful texture. It’s a perfect contrast to the soft interior.
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Cinnamon Sugar Bliss: Mix cinnamon with granulated sugar for the coating instead of plain sugar for an extra layer of fall flavor. This will warm your heart with each bite.
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Chai Spice: Instead of pumpkin spice, use a mix of chai spices (like cardamom and ginger) in your dough for a unique aromatic experience. It will take your taste buds on an exciting journey.
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Filling Variety: Swap your fillings for fruit preserves, chocolate ganache, or custard—there’s no limit when it comes to flavors! Each filling adds its magic while keeping the doughnut base delicious.
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Festive Drizzles: For your glaze, consider maple syrup or caramel drizzle to boost sweetness and flavor. This decadent touch creates an inviting look that will wow your guests!
Don’t forget to check out our tips on how to create your own unique Thanksgiving Doughnut masterpiece! These variations will not only satisfy your cravings but also inspire your creative culinary spirit.
Thanksgiving Doughnuts Recipe FAQs
What type of milk should I use for the doughnuts?
I recommend using lukewarm whole milk for its richness and moisture, which helps in activating the yeast properly. However, feel free to use almond or oat milk for a dairy-free version; just ensure it’s warmed slightly to mimic the dairy effect.
How long can I store Thanksgiving doughnuts?
Doughnuts are best enjoyed fresh, so keep them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 day. If you must refrigerate filled doughnuts, do so, but aim to eat them within a day as chilling can dry them out rather quickly.
Can I freeze my Thanksgiving doughnuts?
Absolutely! For freezing, let unfilled doughnuts cool completely, arrange them in a single layer on a baking sheet, and freeze until firm. Then, transfer them to a freezer bag. They can be stored for up to 2 months. To reheat, pop them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes.
What should I do if my doughnuts come out dense?
If your Thanksgiving doughnuts turn out dense, it might be because they were underproofed or your oil was too hot during frying. Always check that the dough has roughly doubled in size before frying, and maintain the oil temperature at 350°F (180°C) using a thermometer to avoid greasy results.
Are these doughnuts pet-friendly?
While the doughnuts themselves are human treats, do not share them with your pets, especially due to the sugar and spices used. Pets should never consume foods with ingredients like chocolate, which would be present in variations like Chocolate Pudding doughnuts, so it’s best to stick to pet-safe treats for them.
Can I make these doughnuts vegan?
Yes! To create vegan Thanksgiving doughnuts, simply replace the eggs with flax eggs (1 tablespoon of ground flaxseed mixed with 3 tablespoons of water equals one egg), use plant-based milk, and substitute unsalted butter with vegetable oil or vegan butter. You can also use dairy-free cream cheese for the fillings to keep them entirely plant-based.
Thanksgiving Doughnuts: Five Irresistible Fall Flavors to Try
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a large mixing bowl, combine milk, sugar, and yeast. Allow to sit for 5 minutes until frothy. Add eggs, vanilla bean paste, and sea salt. Gradually mix in flour and butter until a sticky dough forms.
- Transfer the dough to a greased bowl, cover with a towel, and let rise in a warm spot until doubled, about 1 to 1.5 hours. Alternatively, refrigerate overnight.
- Prepare the fillings: Cook chopped apples with cinnamon and sugar for the Apple Pie filling. For Pumpkin Cheesecake, blend cream cheese with pumpkin puree and spices. Refrigerate fillings.
- Punch down the risen dough, divide it into portions, roll into balls, and flatten. Place on a parchment-lined sheet, cover, and let proof for 30-45 minutes.
- Heat vegetable oil to 350°F. Fry doughnuts in batches for 2-3 minutes per side until golden brown. Drain on paper towels.
- Toss warm doughnuts in granulated sugar to coat. Use a piping bag to fill with apple pie or pumpkin cheesecake filling through a small hole.
