Description
These Pumpkin Rice Krispie Donuts are a festive twist on the classic treat, combining the creamy sweetness of pumpkin purée and pumpkin pie spice with crispy Rice Krispies cereal. Topped with a cinnamon-spiced glaze, these donuts are easy to make, perfect for fall celebrations, and no baking required!
Ingredients
Donut Base
- 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
- Make the pumpkin mixture: In a large pot over medium-low heat, melt the butter completely. Stir in the mini marshmallows and continue stirring until they are almost entirely melted and smooth.
- Add pumpkin and spices: Stir in the canned pumpkin purée, pumpkin pie spice, a pinch of salt, and optional drops of orange food coloring. Continue stirring until the mixture is smooth and fully melted together. Remove the pot from heat promptly.
- Incorporate Rice Krispies: Quickly fold in the Rice Krispies cereal, ensuring every piece is thoroughly coated with the pumpkin-marshmallow mixture before it sets.
- Prepare the donut pan: Lightly coat a donut pan with nonstick spray or grease your hands if molding the donuts by hand.
- Shape the donuts: Press the warm Rice Krispie mixture firmly and evenly into the donut molds. Make sure to compact well so the donuts hold their shape.
- Cool the donuts: Allow the donuts to cool completely in the pan, letting them set before gently popping them out to avoid breakage.
- Make the glaze: In a small bowl, whisk together the powdered sugar, milk, cinnamon, and a pinch of salt until smooth and slightly runny. Add more milk if needed to achieve the desired consistency.
- Glaze the donuts: Dip the tops of each donut into the glaze or spoon the glaze over the top evenly. Let the donuts sit for at least 15 minutes to allow the glaze to set before serving.
Notes
- If you do not have a donut pan, you can shape the donuts by hand on a parchment-lined tray, but be sure to press firmly.
- Orange food coloring is optional and mainly for enhancing the pumpkin color.
- Use canned pumpkin purée, not pumpkin pie filling, which contains added sugars and spices that may affect the texture and taste.
- Store glazed donuts in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days for best freshness.
- For a dairy-free version, substitute the butter and milk with plant-based alternatives.
