Pumpkin Rice Krispie Donuts

These Pumpkin Rice Krispie Donuts are the perfect fall treat, combining the delightful flavors of pumpkin and warm spices with a fun twist. Ideal for Halloween parties or cozy gatherings, these no-bake donuts are easy to make and come together in just 30 minutes. With their gooey texture and sweet maple glaze, they’re sure to be a hit among family and friends.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to Prepare: The entire process takes only 30 minutes, making it easy to whip up a batch for any occasion.
• Festive Flavor: Enjoy the delightful combination of pumpkin and spice that captures the essence of fall.
• No Baking Required: Simply mix, shape, and enjoy—no oven needed!
• Customizable: Add your favorite toppings or colors to make these donuts uniquely yours.
• Vegan-Friendly: Made with vegan marshmallows, this recipe is suitable for a variety of dietary preferences.

Tools and Preparation

To make these delicious donuts, you’ll need some essential tools in your kitchen. Having the right equipment will ensure your preparation goes smoothly.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Nonstick donut pan
• Large mixing bowl
• Saucepan
• Rubber spatula
• Measuring cups and spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Nonstick donut pan: This ensures that your donuts come out easily without sticking, preserving their shape.
• Large mixing bowl: A spacious bowl allows you to mix ingredients thoroughly without making a mess.
• Rubber spatula: Perfect for scraping down the sides of bowls and ensuring every bit of marshmallow goodness is incorporated into the mixture.

Ingredients

These Pumpkin Rice Krispie Donuts are made with simple ingredients that bring out the best flavors of fall. Gather everything you need before you start!

For the Donuts

• 3 tablespoons butter
• 1 10 oz bag mini vegan 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 + donut pan)
• A few drops of orange food coloring (optional)

For the Maple Cinnamon Glaze

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

How to Make Pumpkin Rice Krispie Donuts

Step 1: Prepare Your Pan

Start by greasing your nonstick donut pan with nonstick spray or butter. This will help ensure your donuts release easily after they set.

Step 2: Melt Butter and Marshmallows

In a saucepan over low heat, melt the butter. Once melted, add in the mini vegan marshmallows. Stir constantly until fully melted and smooth.

Step 3: Mix in Pumpkin and Spices

Remove the saucepan from heat. Stir in the pumpkin purée, pumpkin pie spice, and a pinch of salt until well combined.

Step 4: Combine with Rice Krispies

Gradually fold in the Rice Krispies cereal until all pieces are coated with the marshmallow mixture. If using orange food coloring, add it now until you reach your desired color.

Step 5: Shape into Donuts

Using your hands or a spatula coated with butter or nonstick spray, portion out the mixture into the prepared donut pan. Press firmly to ensure each donut holds its shape.

Step 6: Cool and Set

Let the donuts cool at room temperature for about 10 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to finish cooling completely.

Step 7: Prepare the Maple Cinnamon Glaze

In a small bowl, whisk together powdered sugar, milk, cinnamon, and a pinch of salt until smooth. If too thick, add more milk gradually until it reaches your desired consistency.

Step 8: Glaze Your Donuts

Once cooled, dip each donut into the glaze or drizzle it over top for an extra sweet touch. Enjoy!

How to Serve Pumpkin Rice Krispie Donuts

These delightful Pumpkin Rice Krispie Donuts are perfect for any fall occasion. Whether it’s a festive gathering or a cozy treat at home, here are some creative serving suggestions to enjoy them.

Pair with Coffee

• A warm cup of coffee complements the sweet and spiced flavors of the donuts perfectly.

Add Whipped Coconut Cream

• Top your donuts with a dollop of whipped coconut cream for extra richness and flavor.

Serve with Hot Chocolate

• Enjoy these treats alongside a mug of hot chocolate for a comforting fall dessert.

Plate with Fresh Fruit

• Fresh apple slices or pear halves add a refreshing contrast to the sweetness of the donuts.

How to Perfect Pumpkin Rice Krispie Donuts

Making the perfect Pumpkin Rice Krispie Donuts is easy with just a few tips. Here’s how you can elevate your donut-making game.

• Use fresh pumpkin purée – This enhances the flavor and gives your donuts a vibrant color.
• Melt butter gradually – Slowly melting the butter prevents it from burning and ensures smooth mixing with marshmallows.
• Spray hands and pan – Prevent sticking by using nonstick spray or butter on your hands and donut pan.
• Adjust glaze consistency – If your glaze is too thick, add more milk gradually to achieve your desired pourable texture.
• Add food coloring carefully – Use only a few drops of orange food coloring to achieve a beautiful pumpkin hue without overpowering the flavor.
• Allow cooling time – Let the donuts cool completely before glazing to prevent the glaze from melting away.

Best Side Dishes for Pumpkin Rice Krispie Donuts

Pairing side dishes with your Pumpkin Rice Krispie Donuts can enhance your dessert experience. Here are some great ideas to consider:

1. Apple Cider – A classic fall beverage that adds tartness and pairs well with sweet treats.
2. Spiced Nuts – A crunchy snack that offers a savory balance to the sweetness of the donuts.
3. Caramel Dipping Sauce – Drizzle this rich sauce on top or serve it on the side for added indulgence.
4. Pumpkin Soup – A warm bowl of pumpkin soup makes for a cozy, complementary dish during fall gatherings.
5. Cheese Platter – Include mild cheeses like brie or goat cheese for a delightful contrast in flavors.
6. Granola Parfait – Layer yogurt, granola, and fruit for a nutritious option next to your donuts.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Making the donuts too sticky: If your mixture is too sticky, add more Rice Krispies gradually until it holds together without sticking to your hands.
• Not using nonstick spray: Grease your donut pan or your hands well to prevent the donuts from sticking and ensure easy removal after setting.
• Ignoring pumpkin purée quality: Always choose pure pumpkin purée, not pumpkin pie filling, for the best flavor and texture in your Pumpkin Rice Krispie Donuts.
• Skipping the food coloring: If you want vibrant orange donuts, don’t forget to add a few drops of food coloring. It enhances the festive look without affecting taste.
• Underestimating cooling time: Allow the donuts to set properly before removing them from the pan. This prevents breakage and helps maintain their shape.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container: This keeps them fresh for up to 5 days.
• Place parchment paper between layers: This prevents sticking if you stack them.

Freezing Pumpkin Rice Krispie Donuts

• Use freezer-safe bags or containers: They can last up to 2 months in the freezer.
• Thaw in the refrigerator: For best results, let them thaw overnight before serving.

Reheating Pumpkin Rice Krispie Donuts

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and warm for about 5-7 minutes for a soft texture.
• Microwave: Heat on medium power for about 10-15 seconds; check frequently to avoid overheating.
• Stovetop: Cover with a lid and warm on low heat for a few minutes until softened.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are Pumpkin Rice Krispie Donuts?

Pumpkin Rice Krispie Donuts are no-bake treats made with crispy rice cereal, vegan marshmallows, and pumpkin purée, shaped into donuts.

How do I make these donuts gluten-free?

You can use gluten-free rice cereal in place of traditional Rice Krispies to make Pumpkin Rice Krispie Donuts gluten-free.

Can I customize my Pumpkin Rice Krispie Donuts?

Absolutely! You can add chocolate chips, nuts, or dried fruit for extra flavor and texture.

How long do these donuts last?

When stored properly, Pumpkin Rice Krispie Donuts can last up to 5 days in the refrigerator or 2 months in the freezer.

Final Thoughts

These Pumpkin Rice Krispie Donuts are a delightful fall treat that combines gooeyness with seasonal flavors. Perfect for any gathering, they offer flexibility for customization while being quick and simple to make. Try adding your favorite mix-ins or toppings to make them truly yours!