The moment I took my first bite of a warm, freshly made doughnut, I knew I stumbled upon a little slice of heaven—especially when the flavors of Thanksgiving were involved. With the holidays just around the corner, I’m thrilled to share my recipe for Thanksgiving Doughnuts, each one crafted from a heavenly brioche dough. These delightful treats can whisk you away to a cozy fall afternoon in your kitchen, as they’re not only simple to whip up but also a total crowd-pleaser. Imagine serving these fluffy doughnuts—filled with spiced pumpkin cheesecake or drizzled with sweet maple pecan glaze—at your Thanksgiving table. Perfect for a festive brunch or a sweet end to your holiday feast, they’ll leave your guests craving more. Ready to roll up your sleeves and create these irresistible treats?
Why Are Thanksgiving Doughnuts a Must-Try?
Savor the Moment: These Thanksgiving doughnuts capture the essence of the holiday season with each delectable bite.
Versatile Creations: With five mouthwatering variations, from Pumpkin Cheesecake to Maple Pecan, there’s a flavor for everyone.
Simple to Make: The basic brioche dough is easy to prepare, allowing you to impress your guests without the fuss.
Perfect for Sharing: Serve these warm delights at gatherings, and watch them disappear in seconds—ideal for festive brunches!
Joy in Every Bite: Each fluffy doughnut offers a unique blend of flavors that evoke cozy fall memories, making them truly special.
Embrace the joy of baking with these delightful treats, and don’t forget to check out these popular home-baked dessert ideas to create a memorable feast!
Thanksgiving Doughnuts Ingredients
For the Brioche Dough
• All-Purpose Flour – Provides the essential structure and lightness in each doughnut.
• Active Dry Yeast – Aids in leavening, giving doughnuts that perfect airy texture.
• Granulated Sugar – Sweetens the dough; consider substituting with coconut sugar for a deeper flavor.
• Eggs – Adds richness to the brioche; replace with a flax egg for a vegan option.
• Whole Milk – Contributes moisture and a tender crumb; you can use almond milk for a dairy-free version.
• Salt – Enhances the flavors in the dough.
• Butter – Ensures a rich, buttery taste and soft texture; use vegan butter for a dairy-free alternative.
For the Fillings
• Pumpkin Puree – Adds moisture and classic flavor to the pumpkin cheesecake filling; can be substituted with squash puree.
• Cream Cheese – Essential for the pumpkin cheesecake filling; provides richness and tanginess.
• Chocolate Pudding – Offers a creamy, indulgent surprise in each bite.
• Apple Pie Filling – Gives a taste of fall in a sweet and spiced form.
For the Glaze
• Apple Cider – Used to create a sweet glaze; reduce to a syrupy consistency for a delicious drizzle.
• Powdered Sugar – Sweetens the glaze; mix with apple cider for a perfect finish.
• Heavy Cream – Creates a creamy texture for the glaze; can swap with coconut cream for a dairy-free option.
For Toppings
• Chopped Pecans – Adds a crunchy texture on top of the maple pecan doughnuts; can be substituted with walnuts or omitted entirely for nut-free versions.
• Cinnamon Sugar – Perfect for dusting your doughnuts; gives them an extra layer of flavor that embodies fall.
These Thanksgiving Doughnuts are sure to be a hit at your holiday gatherings, bringing joy and warmth to your festive table!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Thanksgiving Doughnuts
Step 1: Prepare the Brioche Dough
In a large mixing bowl, combine 4 cups of all-purpose flour, ½ cup of granulated sugar, 2 teaspoons of active dry yeast, and 1 teaspoon of salt. In a separate bowl, whisk together 3 large eggs and 1 cup of whole milk. Pour the wet ingredients into the dry mixture, then mix until a soft dough forms. Knead the dough on a floured surface for about 10 minutes until smooth. Let it rise in a warm place for 1-2 hours, or until doubled in size.
Step 2: Make Fillings
While the dough rises, prepare your desired fills for the Thanksgiving doughnuts. For the pumpkin cheesecake filling, mix 1 cup of pumpkin puree, 8 ounces of softened cream cheese, and ½ cup of granulated sugar until smooth. For the chocolate pudding filling, follow your preferred recipe or use a store-bought version. Refrigerate both fillings for about 30 minutes until thickened, ready for assembly.
Step 3: Shape the Doughnuts
Once the brioche dough has risen, punch it down gently to remove air. Turn it out onto a floured surface and roll it to a thickness of about ½ inch. Use a round cutter to make circles. For filled doughnuts, cut an additional smaller circle in the center of half the rounds. Arrange the dough circles on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and let them rise for another 30 minutes.
Step 4: Fry
Heat oil in a deep fryer or heavy saucepan to 350°F (175°C). Carefully drop in the doughnut shapes, frying them in batches to avoid overcrowding. Cook for about 2-3 minutes on each side until they turn golden brown. Use a thermometer to check that the internal temperature reaches 190°F (90°C). Once cooked, remove them from the oil and let them drain on paper towels.
Step 5: Glaze and Finish
While the doughnuts are still warm, toss them in a bowl of cinnamon sugar or dip them in your prepared glaze for a sweet finish. For the glaze, mix 1 cup of powdered sugar with 2 tablespoons of reduced apple cider until smooth. Immediately coat the warm doughnuts to allow the glaze to stick, then place them on a wire rack to set slightly before serving.
Thanksgiving Doughnuts: Endless Flavor Possibilities
Get ready to customize your Thanksgiving doughnuts and elevate their deliciousness with these delightful variations!
- Dairy-Free: Swap heavy cream with coconut cream in fillings to create scrumptious dairy-free versions everyone can enjoy.
- Vegan Delight: Replace eggs with a flax egg for a fully vegan doughnut that’s just as delightful and fluffy.
- Seasonal Swap: Use fresh apple cider instead of apple juice in the glaze for an authentic fall flavor boost!
- Flavor Burst: Add a dash of nutmeg or cardamom to the brioche dough for a warm, spiced aroma that’s perfect for fall.
- Fruity Filling: Experiment with other fruit fillings like fresh berry jam or seedless cherry preserves for a fruity twist that is refreshing.
- Baked Doughnuts: For a lighter option, try baking your doughnuts instead of frying—just remember they won’t have the same crispy exterior!
- Sugar Coating: Instead of traditional sugar, toss warm doughnuts in crushed candy canes for a festive touch that’s perfect for the holidays.
- Heat It Up: For a spicy kick, mix cinnamon with cayenne pepper in your sugar for a sweet and spicy finish that dazzles.
Feel free to dive into these variations as you explore what makes your taste buds sing! And if you’re looking for more sweet inspirations, check out these popular home-baked dessert ideas to round out your festive menu.
How to Store and Freeze Thanksgiving Doughnuts
Airtight Container: Store leftover doughnuts in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. This helps maintain their freshness and prevents them from becoming stale.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze doughnuts individually wrapped in plastic wrap and then in a freezer bag for up to 3 months. Thaw them at room temperature before serving.
Reheating: To restore their delightful texture, briefly reheat thawed doughnuts in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-10 minutes, or until warmed through.
Glazing After Freezing: If you freeze filled or glazed Thanksgiving doughnuts, it’s best to re-glaze them after thawing for optimal flavor and presentation.
Expert Tips for Making Thanksgiving Doughnuts
• Plan Ahead: Allow your brioche dough to rise overnight in the fridge. This slow fermentation enhances flavor and makes the dough easier to handle.
• Check Oil Temperature: Always use a thermometer to ensure the oil is at the right temperature (350°F/175°C) before frying. This prevents greasy doughnuts that aren’t cooked through.
• Fry One First: Test a small doughnut hole first to gauge the oil’s heat. If it browns too quickly, lower the temperature; otherwise, you’ll risk burnt doughnuts.
• Watch the Time: Fry doughnuts in small batches, keeping an eye on cooking times as they can vary depending on their size. Aim for golden brown on both sides.
• Sugar Alternatives: Dip doughnuts in cinnamon sugar while warm, or experiment with different glazes for unique flavors, keeping the Thanksgiving doughnuts festive and exciting!
What to Serve with Thanksgiving Doughnuts
Picture a warm kitchen, the scent of sugar and spices swirling in the air as you prepare the perfect complement to your Thanksgiving doughnuts.
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Coffee or Espresso: The rich, bold flavors of coffee serve as an excellent counterpoint to the sweetness of the doughnuts, enhancing their deliciousness.
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Spiced Apple Cider: Warm spiced cider perfectly embodies the flavors of autumn and adds a cozy touch to this sweet treat.
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Cranberry Sauce: A tart, zesty cranberry sauce can brighten up the flavors, providing a delightful contrast to the richness of the filled doughnuts.
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Whipped Cream: Light and fluffy whipped cream adds a creamy texture that enhances each bite while balancing the sweetness.
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Pumpkin Spice Latte: Elevating the festive spirit, this seasonal favorite pairs beautifully with pumpkin cheesecake doughnuts, enhancing their flavors.
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Maple Syrup Drizzle: A drizzle of warm maple syrup adds sweetness and a touch of nostalgia that complements the comforting flavors of fall.
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Pecan Pie Bars: For dessert lovers, offering sweet pecan pie bars alongside will create a harmonious Thanksgiving dessert spread.
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Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of vanilla ice cream can turn each doughnut into a decadent dessert, melting gently into warm doughnut bites.
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Nutty Trail Mix: A crunchy nut blend can add contrasting textures and flavors, making a delightful side that adds variety to your Thanksgiving table.
Make Ahead Options
These Thanksgiving doughnuts are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time during the holidays! You can prepare the brioche dough up to 24 hours in advance; simply make it and refrigerate overnight. This slow rise not only makes it easier to handle but also enhances the dough’s flavor. Additionally, you can prepare your fillings (like pumpkin cheesecake or chocolate pudding) a day ahead and store them in the refrigerator to thicken. When you’re ready to fry, just shape the dough and let it rise for another 30 minutes before cooking. This way, you’ll have deliciously fresh Thanksgiving doughnuts with minimal fuss and maximum flavor—ideal for celebrating with family and friends!
Thanksgiving Doughnuts Recipe FAQs
What type of flour is best for brioche dough?
I recommend using all-purpose flour for the brioche dough. It provides the right structure and lightness to create those fluffy Thanksgiving doughnuts we all love! Some bakers might opt for bread flour, but all-purpose yields great results without being too heavy.
How should I store leftover Thanksgiving doughnuts?
Store any leftover Thanksgiving doughnuts in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. To keep them fresh, avoid stacking them too tightly, as that can cause them to become squished. If you want to enjoy them later, freeze them wrapped individually in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer bag for up to 3 months.
Can I freeze Thanksgiving doughnuts?
Absolutely! To freeze your Thanksgiving doughnuts, allow them to cool completely after frying. Then, wrap each doughnut individually in plastic wrap and place them into a freezer bag. When you’re ready to enjoy them, simply thaw at room temperature and reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-10 minutes to restore their delightful texture.
What can I do if my doughnuts don’t rise properly?
If your doughnuts fail to rise, it could be due to inactive yeast. Always ensure your yeast is fresh and proof it in warm milk before adding to the dough. If the dough feels too dry, try adding a bit more milk during mixing or kneading. Lastly, a longer rising time in a warmer environment can also help if your kitchen is chilly.
Are these doughnuts safe for people with nut allergies?
Good question! If you’re serving guests with nut allergies, you can easily make these Thanksgiving doughnuts nut-free. Simply skip the pecans used in the maple pecan variation and ensure your other ingredients are free from cross-contamination. You can substitute them with sunflower seeds for added crunch if desired!
Can I make these doughnuts vegan?
Absolutely! To make vegan Thanksgiving doughnuts, replace the eggs with flax eggs (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 3 tablespoons of water per egg), use plant-based milk like almond or oat, and swap regular butter with vegan butter or coconut oil. These alterations will keep all the flavors delightfully intact!
Thanksgiving Doughnuts: Delightful Fall Flavors in Every Bite
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a large mixing bowl, combine 4 cups of all-purpose flour, ½ cup of granulated sugar, 2 teaspoons of active dry yeast, and 1 teaspoon of salt. In a separate bowl, whisk together 3 large eggs and 1 cup of whole milk. Pour the wet ingredients into the dry mixture, then mix until a soft dough forms. Knead the dough on a floured surface for about 10 minutes until smooth. Let it rise in a warm place for 1-2 hours, or until doubled in size.
- While the dough rises, prepare your desired fills for the Thanksgiving doughnuts. For the pumpkin cheesecake filling, mix 1 cup of pumpkin puree, 8 ounces of softened cream cheese, and ½ cup of granulated sugar until smooth. For the chocolate pudding filling, follow your preferred recipe or use a store-bought version. Refrigerate both fillings for about 30 minutes until thickened, ready for assembly.
- Once the brioche dough has risen, punch it down gently to remove air. Turn it out onto a floured surface and roll it to a thickness of about ½ inch. Use a round cutter to make circles. For filled doughnuts, cut an additional smaller circle in the center of half the rounds. Arrange the dough circles on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and let them rise for another 30 minutes.
- Heat oil in a deep fryer or heavy saucepan to 350°F (175°C). Carefully drop in the doughnut shapes, frying them in batches to avoid overcrowding. Cook for about 2-3 minutes on each side until they turn golden brown. Use a thermometer to check that the internal temperature reaches 190°F (90°C). Once cooked, remove them from the oil and let them drain on paper towels.
- While the doughnuts are still warm, toss them in a bowl of cinnamon sugar or dip them in your prepared glaze for a sweet finish. For the glaze, mix 1 cup of powdered sugar with 2 tablespoons of reduced apple cider until smooth. Immediately coat the warm doughnuts to allow the glaze to stick, then place them on a wire rack to set slightly before serving.