Festive Pumpkin Rice Krispie Donuts with Maple Cinnamon Glaze
Festive Pumpkin Rice Krispie Donuts with Maple Cinnamon Glaze are the ultimate holiday treat that combines the beloved textures of classic Rice Krispie treats with the cozy flavors of pumpkin spice. This recipe is a festive twist that’s perfect for the autumn season and any celebration wanting a touch of whimsy. In this step-by-step guide, you’ll learn not only how to create these delightful donuts but also discover why they’re a must-make for your seasonal festivities!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
There are countless reasons to fall in love with Festive Pumpkin Rice Krispie Donuts. For starters, they are incredibly easy to prepare, requiring just a handful of ingredients and minimal cooking time, making them a fantastic choice for busy families. The vibrant orange hue and lovely glaze provide a visual feast that will impress guests of all ages. Plus, these treats are wonderfully adaptable; you can easily involve kids in the kitchen, encouraging creativity while teaching them valuable cooking skills. In addition to their delightful appearance, the combination of pumpkin purée and warm spices makes each bite a seasonal embrace, perfect for autumn snacking. What’s not to love about donuts that are both fun to make and delicious to eat?
Ingredients
For these Festive Pumpkin Rice Krispie Donuts, you will need:
- 3 tablespoons butter
- 1 (10 oz) bag mini marshmallows
- 1/2 cup canned pumpkin purée
- 1 teaspoon pumpkin pie spice
- Pinch of salt
- 6 cups Rice Krispies cereal
- A few drops of orange food coloring (optional)
- Nonstick spray or butter (for hands and donut pan)
- 3/4 cup powdered sugar
- 2 tablespoons milk (more if needed to thin)
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
These ingredients come together harmoniously to create a light, airy donut with a sweet glaze that perfectly complements the warm pumpkin flavor.
Step-by-Step Directions
Step 1: Prepare Your Equipment
Begin by spraying or greasing your donut pan generously with nonstick spray or butter. If you’re planning to shape the donuts by hand, grease your hands and work surface to prevent sticking.
Step 2: Melt the Butter
In a large pot over medium-low heat, melt the butter. This forms the base for your delicious donut mixture.
Step 3: Add the Marshmallows
Once the butter is melted, add the mini marshmallows. Stir constantly until the marshmallows have transformed into a gooey, smooth consistency.
Step 4: Mix in Pumpkin Flavors
Now it’s time to introduce some pumpkin goodness! Mix in the pumpkin purée, pumpkin pie spice, and a pinch of salt. If you desire a vibrant orange hue, feel free to add a few drops of food coloring. Stir until everything is beautifully combined and smooth.
Step 5: Incorporate Rice Krispies
Remove the pot from heat and fold in the Rice Krispies cereal until it is fully coated in the marshmallow mixture. This step is crucial for getting that ideal donut texture.
Step 6: Shape the Donuts
Using either the prepared donut pan or your hands, form the mixture into the shape of donuts. If you’re using a donut pan, press the mixture firmly into each mold. Allow them to cool completely before removing them from the mold or your hands.
Step 7: Prepare the Glaze
While the donuts cool, whisk together the powdered sugar, milk, ground cinnamon, and an additional pinch of salt until you achieve a smooth, pourable consistency. Adjust with more milk if necessary to create the perfect glaze for drizzling or dipping.
Step 8: Glaze and Serve
Once the donuts have cooled, dip or drizzle the glaze over each donut, allowing any excess to drip off. Let the glaze set for a few minutes before serving your Festive Pumpkin Rice Krispie Donuts.
Tips & Tricks
- Personalize Your Glaze: Add vanilla extract or maple syrup to the glaze for a flavor boost!
- Don’t Rush the Cooling: Allow the donuts to cool completely in the pan before transferring them to ensure they hold their shape.
- Involve the Kids: Let children help drizzle the glaze for a fun, collaborative cooking experience.
- Party Display: Serve these donuts on a festive platter with colorful fall decorations for an eye-catching dessert table centerpiece.
Serving Suggestions & Pairings
These Festive Pumpkin Rice Krispie Donuts can be enjoyed on their own or paired with various autumn beverages. Consider serving them alongside a cozy cup of spiced chai, hot cider, or pumpkin spice latte. For an extra touch, add a side of whipped cream for dipping or sprinkle with additional cinnamon for an attractive serving option.
Nutritional Information
While these treats are a delightful indulgence, they are also relatively light compared to traditional donuts. Each donut offers a delightful balance of sweetness and spice, making them a festive option for gatherings. One donut contains approximately:
- Calories: 150
- Total Fat: 5g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Carbohydrates: 24g
- Sugar: 10g
- Protein: 1g
Enjoy them in moderation as part of a festive treat platter!
Storing Tips & Variations for Festive Pumpkin Rice Krispie Donuts
If you have leftovers (though we bet they won’t last long), store your donuts in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, consider freezing them. Just be sure to thaw at room temperature before enjoying them again.
If you want to switch things up:
- Add Mix-ins: Consider adding chocolate chips or dried cranberries to the mixture for added texture and flavor.
- Frosting Variations: Experiment with chocolate or cream cheese frosting for an even richer treat.
- Flavor Exploration: Use different spice blends or flavored extracts to create new variations tailored to your taste preferences.
Conclusion for Festive Pumpkin Rice Krispie Donuts
If you’re looking for a fun, festive treat that captures the spirit of autumn, look no further than these Festive Pumpkin Rice Krispie Donuts with Maple Cinnamon Glaze. They embody everything we love about fall—warm flavors, joyful gatherings, and simple yet delightful recipes that everyone can enjoy. We encourage you to try making them and experience the smiles they bring to your family and friends. Happy baking!
FAQs
1. Can I use regular marshmallows instead of mini marshmallows?
Yes, you can substitute regular marshmallows! Just measure out an equivalent volume (approximately 12 large marshmallows) and melt them as you would mini marshmallows.
2. How can I make these vegan?
To make them vegan, swap the butter for a plant-based alternative and use vegan marshmallows.
3. Can I omit the food coloring?
Absolutely! The food coloring is optional and just for visual appeal; the donuts will taste just as delicious without it.
4. How do I ensure the donuts hold their shape?
Press the mixture firmly into the molds or shape them tightly by hand to ensure they hold together after cooling.
5. What can I do with leftover glaze?
Leftover glaze can be stored in the refrigerator for a few days. Use it for drizzling over pancakes, waffles, or even on your morning oatmeal for added sweetness!
Festive Pumpkin Rice Krispie Donuts with Maple Cinnamon Glaze
Delightful and easy-to-make pumpkin Rice Krispie donuts topped with a sweet maple cinnamon glaze, perfect for autumn celebrations.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Bake
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
- 3 tablespoons butter
- 1 (10 oz) bag mini marshmallows
- 1/2 cup canned pumpkin purée
- 1 teaspoon pumpkin pie spice
- Pinch of salt
- 6 cups Rice Krispies cereal
- A few drops of orange food coloring (optional)
- Nonstick spray or butter (for hands and donut pan)
- 3/4 cup powdered sugar
- 2 tablespoons milk (more if needed to thin)
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
Instructions
- Prepare your donut pan by spraying or greasing it generously with nonstick spray or butter.
- In a large pot over medium-low heat, melt the butter.
- Add the mini marshmallows and stir constantly until they are smooth and gooey.
- Mix in the pumpkin purée, pumpkin pie spice, and a pinch of salt. Add food coloring if desired.
- Remove from heat and fold in the Rice Krispies until fully coated.
- Shape the mixture into donuts, using a pan or your hands, and cool completely before removing.
- Prepare the glaze by whisking together powdered sugar, milk, ground cinnamon, and additional salt until smooth.
- Once the donuts are cooled, dip or drizzle the glaze over them and let it set before serving.
Notes
Add vanilla extract to the glaze for extra flavor. Allow donuts to cool fully to maintain shape when handling.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 donut
- Calories: 150
- Sugar: 10g
- Sodium: 80mg
- Fat: 5g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 24g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 1g
- Cholesterol: 15mg
