Name: Pumpkin Rice Krispie Donuts Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Cuisine: American
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

Jump to Recipe· 3.9 from 57 reviews

If you’ve been looking for a playful twist on a classic treat, this Pumpkin Rice Krispie Donuts Recipe is just the ticket. Combining the nostalgic crispiness of Rice Krispies with the warm, cozy flavors of pumpkin and pumpkin pie spice, these donuts bring a delightful autumn vibe to your snack time or dessert table. Soft, sweet, and just a little bit chewy, they’re a feast for both the eyes and the palate, perfect for sharing with family and friends or simply indulging yourself on a crisp fall day.

Ingredients You'll Need

The image shows eight clear glass bowls placed on a white marbled surface. The largest bowl in the center right is filled with pale, crunchy rice cereal, while just below it and to the left is a large bowl filled with white mini marshmallows. Below these bowls, there is a smaller bowl with white powdered sugar and another with white milk. To the right of the marshmallows, a small bowl holds three scoops of pale yellow butter. Above the cereal bowl, there are two small bowls each with a small pile of brown spices and salt. To the left of these, a small bowl contains bright orange pumpkin puree, and just below that is another small bowl with a dark brown liquid, likely vanilla extract. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Gathering the right ingredients for this Pumpkin Rice Krispie Donuts Recipe is a breeze, and each one plays a vital role in crafting that perfect balance of flavor, texture, and festive color. From the buttery richness to the spice-kissed pumpkin purée, this simple list promises a fun and rewarding baking session.

3 tablespoons butter: This gives the treats a luscious, rich base and helps bind everything together.

1 10 oz bag mini marshmallows: Essential for that classic sticky, gooey texture that holds the donuts in shape.
½ cup canned pumpkin purée: Not pumpkin pie filling—this adds moisture and authentic pumpkin flavor.
1 teaspoon pumpkin pie spice: Brings warmth and aromatic depth, the hallmark of pumpkin treats.

Pinch of salt: Balances sweetness and enhances the spice notes.
6 cups Rice Krispies cereal: The crisp kernel base that delivers the enjoyable crunch.
Nonstick spray or butter: For greasing hands and the donut pan to make shaping easy.

A few drops of orange food coloring (optional): Adds a festive pumpkin-hued glow.
¾ cup powdered sugar: Used in the luscious glaze for a sweet, silky finish.
2 tablespoons milk: To thin out the glaze just right for dipping or drizzling.

½ teaspoon cinnamon: Joins the glaze for added warmth and a hint of spice.
Pinch of salt: A subtle touch to balance the sweetness in the glaze.

How to Make Pumpkin Rice Krispie Donuts Recipe

Step 1: Make the Pumpkin Mixture

Start by gently melting butter in a large pot over medium-low heat. As it softens, add the mini marshmallows and stir constantly, patiently coaxing them until they melt almost completely into a smooth, sticky base. Then, blend in the canned pumpkin purée, pumpkin pie spice, a pinch of salt, and if you want an extra autumnal pop, add a few drops of orange food coloring. Stir everything until it’s smooth and fully melded together—this fragrant, velvety mixture becomes the heart of your donuts.

Step 2: Combine with Rice Krispies

Remove the pumpkin-marshmallow mixture from heat quickly and fold in the Rice Krispies cereal. The goal is to coat every nugget with that sticky, spiced blend, making sure the crunch and softness will harmonize well once cooled. Take your time folding gently but thoroughly for that perfect, airy texture.

Step 3: Shape the Donuts

Lightly coat your donut pan with nonstick spray or butter to prevent sticking. For a hands-on approach, grease your hands well and prepare to shape the donuts by hand if you prefer a rustic look. Firmly press the warm Rice Krispie mixture into each mold, packing it tightly so each donut holds together beautifully. Allow them to cool completely right in the pan—that moment when they set is key for maintaining shape when you remove them.

Step 4: Make the Glaze and Finish

While the donuts cool, whisk the powdered sugar, milk, cinnamon, and pinch of salt together until smooth. This glaze offers a sweet, spiced finishing touch that complements the pumpkin flavors perfectly. Once your donuts have cooled, dip the tops into the glaze or spoon it gently over each one. Let the glaze set for at least 15 minutes before serving to ensure a tender, glossy finish that invites you in with every bite.

How to Serve Pumpkin Rice Krispie Donuts Recipe

A silver metal pot filled with a mixture of puffed rice cereal coated in a shiny golden brown syrup, showing a sticky texture as the cereal clumps together evenly. The pot sits on a white marbled surface, with some light reflections on the metal inside the pot. No other layers or ingredients are visible in the image, just the cereal mixture tightly packed inside the pot. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

Adding garnishes can turn these festive donuts into showstoppers. Consider sprinkling a little extra pumpkin pie spice or cinnamon on top of the glaze for added warmth and visual appeal. For crunch and color, chopped toasted pecans or a dusting of finely grated nutmeg can complement the pumpkin’s richness beautifully.

Side Dishes

These Pumpkin Rice Krispie Donuts pair wonderfully with a variety of drinks and light accompaniments. A warm mug of spiced chai tea, a cup of creamy latte, or even a refreshing glass of apple make perfect partners. If you want to create a more substantial spread, serve alongside a fresh fruit salad or a dollop of whipped cream to balance the sweetness.

Creative Ways to Present

For a festive table, arrange your donuts on a rustic wooden board surrounded by mini pumpkins, cinnamon sticks, and fall leaves. Wrap them individually in cellophane tied with twine for gifting or party favors. Alternatively, stack them in a towering donut cake for a playful centerpiece that’s both charming and delicious.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

You can keep any leftover Pumpkin Rice Krispie Donuts Recipe treats fresh by storing them in an airtight container at room temperature. They’ll maintain their chewy texture and flavor for up to three days—perfect for snacking on the go or satisfying a sudden sweet craving.

Freezing

If you want to enjoy these donuts later, they freeze quite well. Wrap each donut individually in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. They’ll hold their quality in the freezer for up to one month. Just be sure to thaw at room temperature before enjoying to restore their original texture.

Reheating

To bring back that freshly made softness, give your frozen or refrigerated donuts a quick zap in the microwave for 10 to 15 seconds. This little trick warms the marshmallow and pumpkin mixture within, reviving the gooey, comforting texture that makes this Pumpkin Rice Krispie Donuts Recipe so irresistible.

FAQs

Can I use fresh pumpkin instead of canned pumpkin purée?

While fresh pumpkin can be used, it’s important to cook and puree it well before adding. Canned pumpkin purée is preferred for its smooth texture and consistent moisture, which helps your donuts hold together perfectly.

Is it possible to make these donuts without a donut pan?

Absolutely! You can shape the mixture by hand into donut shapes or press it into muffin tins for a different look. Just make sure to grease your hands or the pan well to prevent sticking.

What can I use if I don’t have pumpkin pie spice?

You can make a simple substitute by mixing cinnamon, nutmeg, ground ginger, and a pinch of cloves or allspice. This mix will replicate the cozy flavor profile that pumpkin pie spice provides.

How do I prevent the donuts from sticking to the pan?

Thoroughly grease your donut pan with nonstick spray or butter before pressing in the mixture. Letting the donuts cool completely in the pan also makes removing them easier without breaking.

Are these donuts gluten-free?

The recipe is naturally gluten-free as Rice Krispies are typically gluten-free, but be sure to check the packaging because some brands may contain flavoring derived from barley.

Final Thoughts

There’s something truly special about sinking your teeth into soft, spiced Pumpkin Rice Krispie Donuts Recipe creations that combine childhood memories with seasonal flair. They’re easy, fun, and downright delicious—whether you’re making them for a festive gathering or a cozy night in. So grab your ingredients, get mixing, and treat yourself to this charming autumn snack that’s sure to become a new favorite.

Pumpkin Rice Krispie Donuts Recipe

Ingredients You'll Need