Pumpkin Rice Krispie Donuts Recipe

Introduction

These Pumpkin Rice Krispie Donuts are a fun twist on a classic treat, combining the comforting flavors of pumpkin and warm spices with the crispy texture of Rice Krispies. Perfect for fall gatherings or a festive snack, they’re easy to make and sure to delight both kids and adults.

Ingredients

• 3 tablespoons butter
• 1 (10 oz) bag mini marshmallows
• 1/2 cup canned pumpkin purée (not pumpkin pie filling)
• 1 teaspoon pumpkin pie spice
• Pinch of salt
• 6 cups Rice Krispies cereal
• Nonstick spray or butter (for hands and donut pan)
• A few drops of orange food coloring (optional)
• 3/4 cup powdered sugar
• 2 tablespoons milk (more if needed to thin)
• 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
• Pinch of salt

Instructions

1. Step 1: In a large pot over medium-low heat, melt the butter. Stir in the mini marshmallows and continue stirring until they are almost completely melted.
2. Step 2: Add the pumpkin purée, pumpkin pie spice, pinch of salt, and orange food coloring if using. Stir until the mixture is smooth and fully melted. Remove from heat.
3. Step 3: Quickly fold in the Rice Krispies cereal, ensuring every piece is coated with the pumpkin-marshmallow mixture.
4. Step 4: Lightly coat a donut pan with nonstick spray or grease your hands if shaping by hand.
5. Step 5: Press the warm cereal mixture firmly into the donut molds or shape donuts by hand.
6. Step 6: Let the donuts cool completely in the pan. Once set, gently remove them from the molds.
7. Step 7: Whisk together powdered sugar, milk, cinnamon, and a pinch of salt until smooth to make the glaze. Add more milk if needed to reach a dipping consistency.
8. Step 8: Dip the tops of each donut into the glaze or spoon it over. Let the glaze set for at least 15 minutes before serving.

Tips & Variations

• For extra pumpkin flavor, sprinkle a little additional pumpkin pie spice on the glaze before it sets.
• If you don’t have a donut pan, shape the mixture into rings by hand and place on a greased baking sheet to cool.
• Add chopped nuts or mini chocolate chips to the cereal mixture for extra texture and sweetness.
• Use clear or white food coloring if you prefer to keep the glaze traditional instead of orange-tinted.

Storage

Store the pumpkin Rice Krispie donuts in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. To keep the glaze from becoming sticky, store in a single layer with parchment paper between layers if stacking. They’re best enjoyed fresh but can be briefly warmed in the microwave for a few seconds to soften.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use fresh pumpkin instead of canned purée?

Yes, you can use cooked and mashed fresh pumpkin. Just be sure to cook and puree it well so it has a smooth consistency similar to canned pumpkin purée.

Will these donuts hold together well without a donut pan?

Yes, you can shape the mixture by hand into donut rings on a greased surface. Just press firmly to ensure they stick together, and allow them to cool completely so they set before moving.

Pumpkin Rice Krispie Donuts Recipe

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These Pumpkin Rice Krispie Donuts are a festive twist on a classic treat, combining the warm flavors of pumpkin and pumpkin pie spice with the crispy texture of Rice Krispies cereal. Coated with a sweet cinnamon glaze, they make a perfect seasonal snack or dessert that’s easy to make and delightful to enjoy.

• Author: Ruby
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 10 minutes
• Total Time: 25 minutes
• Yield: 12 donuts 1x
• Category: Snack
• Method: Stovetop
• Cuisine: American
• Diet: Vegetarian

Ingredients

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Donut Mixture

• 3 tablespoons butter
• 1 (10 oz) bag mini marshmallows
• 1/2 cup canned pumpkin purée (not pumpkin pie filling)
• 1 teaspoon pumpkin pie spice
• Pinch of salt
• 6 cups Rice Krispies cereal
• Nonstick spray or butter (for hands and donut pan)
• A few drops of orange food coloring (optional)

Glaze

• 3/4 cup powdered sugar
• 2 tablespoons milk (more if needed to thin)
• 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
• Pinch of salt

Instructions

1. Make the pumpkin mixture: In a large pot over medium-low heat, melt the butter. Stir in the mini marshmallows and continue stirring until they are nearly completely melted and smooth.
2. Add pumpkin and spices: Stir in the pumpkin purée, pumpkin pie spice, salt, and a drop or two of orange food coloring if using. Continue stirring until the mixture is smooth and fully combined, then remove from heat.
3. Incorporate the cereal: Quickly fold in the Rice Krispies cereal until every piece is thoroughly coated with the pumpkin marshmallow mixture.
4. Prepare the donut pan: Lightly coat a donut pan with nonstick spray or grease your hands with butter if shaping donuts by hand.
5. Shape the donuts: Press the warm Rice Krispie mixture firmly into the donut molds to ensure they hold together well.
6. Cool the donuts: Allow the donuts to cool completely in the pan so they can set before gently popping them out.
7. Make the glaze: Whisk together powdered sugar, milk, cinnamon, and salt until smooth. Adjust consistency with additional milk if needed.
8. Glaze the donuts: Dip the tops of each donut into the glaze or spoon it over the top. Let the glaze set for at least 15 minutes before serving to ensure a nice finish.

Notes

• Use canned pumpkin purée, not pumpkin pie filling, for the best flavor and consistency.
• Orange food coloring is optional but enhances the festive look of the donuts.
• Press the mixture firmly into molds to prevent crumbling.
• If you don’t have a donut pan, shape donuts by hand and allow extra time to set.
• Store donuts in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days.
• For a dairy-free version, substitute butter and milk with dairy-free alternatives.

Keywords: Pumpkin donuts, Rice Krispie treats, pumpkin recipes, fall desserts, Halloween treats, easy snacks