As the leaves turn and the air gets crisp, I find myself excitedly rummaging through my kitchen for cozy fall flavors. This year, I’m thrilled to share my Thanksgiving Brioche Doughnuts recipe, which offers five delightful variations that will have your family gathering around the table in no time. Each doughnut, made from a buttery brioche base, is uniquely filled with seasonal treasures, from creamy pumpkin cheesecake to spiced apple pie. Not only are these treats a heartwarming nod to Thanksgiving flavors, they’re also surprisingly simple to whip up, making them perfect for both holiday feasts and leisurely weekend breakfasts. So, which flavor are you most excited to try?
Why Are These Doughnuts So Irresistible?
Irresistible flavors: Each variation highlights the essence of Thanksgiving, from rich pumpkin to spiced apple pie, making every bite a seasonal delight.
Effortless preparation: The brioche dough might sound fancy, but it’s surprisingly easy to make, perfect for bakers of all skill levels.
Crowd-pleasing appeal: These doughnuts are sure to impress guests at holiday gatherings or cozy family breakfasts, making them a hit with everyone!
Versatile options: With five different fillings and toppings, you can cater to everyone’s tastes—switch them up to keep things exciting!
Comfort food with a twist: Enjoy the warm, comforting flavors of tradition in a fun and trendy doughnut shape that elevates your holiday table.
Thanksgiving Doughnuts Ingredients
For the Brioche Dough
- Bread Flour – Essential for a light and airy texture in your brioche.
- Unsalted Butter – Provides richness; make sure it’s softened for easy mixing.
- Milk – Adds moisture; use warm milk to help activate the yeast.
- Active Dry Yeast – Key for leavening; ensure it’s fresh for best results.
- Granulated Sugar – Balances flavors and aids in browning.
- Salt – Enhances flavor; don’t skip it for a well-rounded taste.
- Eggs – Contributes to richness and color; use room temperature for better integration.
For the Pumpkin Cheesecake Filling
- Pumpkin Puree – The star ingredient that adds delicious, seasonal flavor.
- Cream Cheese – Provides a creamy texture; allow it to soften for easy mixing.
- Powdered Sugar – Sweetens the filling and enhances its smoothness.
- Pumpkin Pie Spice – Infuses warmth; if you don’t have any, a mix of cinnamon and nutmeg works well.
For the Spiced Apple Filling
- Apple Pie Filling – Gives a homemade taste; consider using fresh apples for more texture.
- Cinnamon – Adds warmth; adjust to your taste.
- Nutmeg – A hint of this spice elevates the traditional flavor profile.
- Brown Sugar – Enhances sweetness and caramel notes in the filling.
For the Chocolate Pudding Filling
- Chocolate Pudding Mix – Choose a high-quality mix for rich flavor; you can also make it from scratch if preferred.
- Milk – Needed for the pudding mix; use full-fat for creaminess.
- Vanilla Extract – Adds depth; opt for pure vanilla for the best taste.
For the Glaze
- Apple Cider – Brings a tangy note; reduce it to concentrate the flavor for your glaze.
- Powdered Sugar – Sweetens and thickens the glaze; sift for a smoother finish.
For the Toppings
- Cinnamon Sugar – Perfect for rolling doughnuts; mix cinnamon with granulated sugar for an extra kick.
- Chopped Pecans – Adds crunch; consider toasting them for a more robust flavor.
- Whipped Cream – For a fluffy topping; serve on the side to elevate the experience.
These Thanksgiving Doughnuts are packed with seasonal goodness, ensuring a delightful treat for your family and friends!
Step-by-Step Instructions for Thanksgiving Brioche Doughnuts
Step 1: Prepare the Brioche Dough
Begin by mixing the bread flour, granulated sugar, and salt in a large bowl. In a separate bowl, combine warm milk and active dry yeast, allowing it to sit for about 5 minutes until frothy. Gradually add the milk mixture, softened butter, and room temperature eggs into the flour mixture. Knead for about 10 minutes until the dough is smooth and elastic. Place it in a greased bowl, cover with plastic wrap, and let it rise in a warm place until doubled in size, roughly 1 to 1.5 hours.
Step 2: Shape the Doughnuts
Once the brioche dough has risen, gently punch it down to release the air. Turn it out onto a floured surface and roll it out to about 1-inch thickness. Use a doughnut cutter or two round cutters to create doughnut shapes, ensuring that you maintain the center hole. Place the shaped doughnuts on a parchment-lined baking sheet, cover them with a clean towel, and allow them to rise for another 30-45 minutes until puffy.
Step 3: Prepare the Fillings
While the doughnuts are rising, take the time to prepare your selected fillings. For the pumpkin cheesecake filling, combine softened cream cheese, pumpkin puree, powdered sugar, and pumpkin pie spice in a bowl, mixing until smooth. To make the chocolate filling, whisk together the chocolate pudding mix with milk until thickened. For the spiced apple filling, mix apple pie filling with cinnamon and nutmeg. Set each filling aside ready for doughnut assembly.
Step 4: Heat the Oil
In a deep pot or fryer, heat oil to 190°F (90°C). Use a candy thermometer to ensure accuracy—this temperature is crucial for achieving that golden, crispy texture on your Thanksgiving doughnuts. Once the oil is ready, prepare to fry the doughnuts by creating a workspace with a slotted spoon and a cooling rack lined with paper towels.
Step 5: Fry the Doughnuts
Carefully place a few doughnuts into the hot oil, ensuring not to overcrowd the pot. Fry for about 2-3 minutes on each side, or until they turn a beautiful golden brown. Remove the doughnuts with a slotted spoon and drain them on the paper towel-lined rack, allowing excess oil to drip away. Repeat this process until all the doughnuts are fried, adjusting the heat as necessary to maintain consistent frying temperature.
Step 6: Cool and Fill
Once the fried doughnuts have cooled slightly, use a pastry bag fitted with a filling tip to inject your desired fillings into each doughnut. For the pumpkin cheesecake and chocolate pudding varieties, pipe enough filling until you feel a gentle resistance. If using apple pie filling, consider cutting a small slit in the side of the doughnut to spoon in the filling. Ensure each doughnut is generously filled to delight every bite!
Step 7: Glaze and Top
To finish off your Thanksgiving doughnuts, prepare the glaze by reducing apple cider in a small saucepan until syrupy. Allow it to cool slightly and then mix in powdered sugar until smooth. Dip the top of each doughnut in the glaze or drizzle it over for a sweet, tangy finish. If desired, roll the still-warm doughnuts in cinnamon sugar or sprinkle with chopped pecans for added texture and flavor.
Step 8: Serve and Savor
Your Thanksgiving Brioche Doughnuts are now ready for everyone to enjoy! Arrange them on a festive serving platter, and watch as smiles light up your kitchen. These delightful treats are perfect for sharing, making your holiday gatherings a little sweeter and filled with seasonal joy.
What to Serve with Thanksgiving Brioche Doughnuts?
As the aroma of freshly fried doughnuts fills your kitchen, it’s time to think about delightful pairings that elevate your meal even further!
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Warm Spiced Apple Cider: A comforting drink that captures the essence of fall, perfectly balancing sweetness with a hint of spice. Its warmth complements the doughnuts beautifully.
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Cinnamon Sugar Roasted Nuts: Crunchy and slightly sweet, these nuts add texture and a delightful contrast to the soft brioche doughnuts. A great finger food for casual gatherings!
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Maple Glazed Bacon: Savory meets sweet in this irresistible combination. The crispy bacon enhances the richness of the doughnut flavors, making your breakfast truly indulgent.
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Pumpkin Spice Latte: This seasonal favorite pairs wonderfully, enriching your experience with that quintessential autumn flavor. Sip and savor as you enjoy each bite of your doughnuts!
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Vanilla Bean Ice Cream: A scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream brings a cool and velvety touch that plays beautifully against the warm doughnuts, creating a delightful contrast of temperatures.
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Whipped Cream with a Dash of Nutmeg: Light, fluffy, and aromatic, this whipped cream adds a lovely finish. Serve on the side for guests to dollop on their doughnuts.
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Chocolate Sauce Drizzle: For those chocolate-loving friends, a silky drizzle over the doughnuts heightens their sweetness and adds an extra layer of richness—a decadent touch for holiday celebrations!
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Homemade Marshmallow Dip: Creamy and fluffy, this dip pairs surprisingly well with your doughnuts, giving a playful twist to your dessert experience. It’s ideal for dipping!
How to Store and Freeze Thanksgiving Doughnuts
Room Temperature: Store leftover Thanksgiving doughnuts in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days to maintain their freshness.
Fridge: If you prefer a longer storage time, place the doughnuts in the fridge for up to 5 days. Just remember to tightly wrap each one to prevent them from drying out.
Freezer: For optimal storage, freeze the doughnuts unglazed in a single layer on a baking sheet. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag for up to 2 months.
Reheating: To enjoy your frozen Thanksgiving doughnuts, reheat them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes, or until warmed through. For best results, glaze them after reheating for a fresh taste!
Make Ahead Options
These Thanksgiving Brioche Doughnuts are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time while still impressing family and friends! You can prepare the brioche dough up to 24 hours in advance; simply knead and let it rise, then refrigerate overnight. When you’re ready to cook the doughnuts, roll and shape them after letting them come to room temperature. Additionally, the fillings can be made up to 3 days ahead; just store them in an airtight container in the fridge to maintain their freshness. When you’re ready to fry, follow the final steps of heating the oil and frying until golden brown, ensuring you enjoy these delectable Thanksgiving doughnuts just as delicious as if made fresh that day!
Thanksgiving Doughnuts: Customization Ideas
Feel free to let your creativity shine as you customize these delightful doughnuts to suit your taste buds and preferences!
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Dairy-Free: Substitute the cream cheese with a dairy-free cream cheese alternative for a vegan option that’s just as creamy.
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Pumpkin Spice Twist: Enhance the pumpkin cheesecakes further by adding a swirl of maple syrup for a richer flavor that makes each bite even more decadent.
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Chocolate Indulgence: For an intense chocolate experience, use a dark chocolate ganache instead of pudding—your chocolate-loving guests will applaud!
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Spiced Rum Infusion: Add a splash of spiced rum to your apple filling for a delightful kick that gives a nod to classic holiday desserts.
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Cinnamon Sugar Coating: After frying, roll your doughnuts in a cinnamon sugar mixture, but why not also include a pinch of nutmeg to surprise your taste buds?
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Gluten-Free Alternative: Use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend in the brioche to make these doughnuts accessible for gluten-sensitive friends and family members.
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Heavenly Maple Glaze: Swap out the apple cider glaze for a maple glaze using maple syrup and powdered sugar—perfect for that quintessential Thanksgiving flavor.
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Bourbon Chocolate Drizzle: For a splash of adult-only fun, mix in a tablespoon of bourbon into melted chocolate for drizzling on your chocolate-filled doughnuts.
With these variations, you can create a tempting spread of Thanksgiving Doughnuts that will surely gather everyone around the table. And don’t forget, a cozy cup of spiced apple cider pairs splendidly with these treats!
Expert Tips for Thanksgiving Doughnuts
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Perfect Dough: Ensure your brioche dough rises fully for maximum fluffiness. Watch for it to double in size—this is key to light, airy doughnuts!
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Filling Technique: When filling, use a pastry bag for even distribution. Avoid over-filling, as this can cause the doughnuts to burst during frying.
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Oil Temperature: Maintain the oil at 190°F (90°C) for frying. Using an instant-read thermometer helps prevent undercooking or burning your Thanksgiving doughnuts.
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Cool Time: Let the doughnuts cool slightly before glazing. This allows the glaze to adhere better and creates a delightful contrast between warm doughnuts and cool glaze.
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Flavor Variations: Don’t hesitate to experiment! Each filling can be customized—try adding a splash of vanilla or a pinch of nutmeg for a personal twist on these delightful treats.
Thanksgiving Doughnuts Recipe FAQs
How do I choose the right pumpkin puree for my doughnuts?
Absolutely! Look for 100% pure pumpkin puree without added sugars or spices. The consistency should be thick and smooth, without excess liquid. If you want to enhance the flavor, heat on the stove to reduce the moisture content—this concentrates the flavor beautifully.
What is the best way to store leftovers?
For maximum freshness, store leftover Thanksgiving doughnuts in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. If you need more time, wrap each doughnut tightly and place them in the fridge for up to 5 days. Just remember, the fresher, the better!
Can I freeze Thanksgiving doughnuts?
Yes, you can! To freeze them, place the unglazed doughnuts in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Then, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag. They can be stored in the freezer for up to 2 months. When ready to enjoy, reheat them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes—glaze them afterward for that freshly made taste.
What should I do if my doughnuts are too dense?
Ah, the classic concern! If your doughnuts are too dense, it may be due to over-kneading or not allowing enough time for the dough to rise. Ensure that your brioche dough doubles in size before shaping. If they seem too dense after frying, check your oil temperature—if too low, the doughnuts can absorb excess oil, leading to a heavy texture.
Are there any dietary considerations I should keep in mind?
Very! If you’re baking for those with dietary restrictions, consider using gluten-free flour blends for the brioche dough. For fillings, substitute with dairy-free cream cheese and coconut milk for the pudding. Always check ingredient labels for allergens, especially with pre-made items like pie filling or pudding mixes. It’s great to accommodate everyone!
What’s the best way to ensure my doughnuts are filled perfectly?
For ideal filling, use a pastry bag fitted with a filling tip to inject your favorite fillings into each donut. Fill until you feel a slight resistance to ensure an ample amount without bursting the doughnuts. If you’re using a chunkier filling, create a small slit in the side to spoon it in neatly. Enjoy experimenting!
Delicious Thanksgiving Doughnuts: Five Cozy, Flavored Variations
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Mix bread flour, sugar, and salt. Combine warm milk and yeast, let sit. Add to flour mix with butter and eggs. Knead until smooth. Let rise until doubled, about 1 to 1.5 hours.
- Punch down dough, roll to 1-inch thickness. Cut into doughnut shapes, place on a baking sheet and let rise for 30-45 minutes.
- Prepare fillings: Mix cream cheese, pumpkin puree, powdered sugar, and spice for pumpkin filling. Whisk pudding mix with milk for chocolate. Mix apple filling with spices.
- Heat oil to 190°F (90°C). Ensure accuracy with a candy thermometer.
- Fry doughnuts for 2-3 minutes until golden brown. Drain on paper towels.
- Cool slightly, fill each doughnut with fillings as desired.
- Mix apple cider and powdered sugar for glaze. Dip or drizzle glaze over doughnuts. Add toppings if desired.
- Serve on a platter and enjoy with family!