Pumpkin Rice Krispie Donuts Recipe
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
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
- 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.
- 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.
- Incorporate the cereal: Quickly fold in the Rice Krispies cereal until every piece is thoroughly coated with the pumpkin marshmallow mixture.
- Prepare the donut pan: Lightly coat a donut pan with nonstick spray or grease your hands with butter if shaping donuts by hand.
- Shape the donuts: Press the warm Rice Krispie mixture firmly into the donut molds to ensure they hold together well.
- Cool the donuts: Allow the donuts to cool completely in the pan so they can set before gently popping them out.
- Make the glaze: Whisk together powdered sugar, milk, cinnamon, and salt until smooth. Adjust consistency with additional milk if needed.
- 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