Pumpkin Doughnut Drops
Sweet and spiced pumpkin doughnut drops with warm cinnamon and nutmeg flavors, perfect for fall gatherings or a cozy treat for pumpkin lovers.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Sift flour, baking powder, nonfat dry milk, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg.
- In a large bowl, with a mixer at medium speed or with a spoon, beat eggs well.
- Beat in shortening, sugar, then pumpkin and vanilla.
- Add the flour mixture, alternating with orange juice; beat just until smooth.
- Refrigerate for 1 hour or longer.
Tips & Substitutions
For a lighter texture, be sure to sift the dry ingredients thoroughly to incorporate air. If you don't have nonfat dry milk, you can substitute regular milk, adjusting the liquid content slightly. Adding a pinch of ginger can enhance the spices. If you prefer a more decadent treat, consider glazing the doughnut drops with a simple icing made from powdered sugar and orange juice, which complements the flavors wonderfully.
Serving Suggestions
Serve these delicious pumpkin doughnut drops warm, dusted with powdered sugar or drizzled with a sweet glaze. They pair perfectly with a warm beverage like spiced chai or coffee. For a festive touch, consider serving them alongside Eileen'S Custard Rice Pudding for a delightful dessert spread during gatherings.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover doughnut drops in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, place them in the refrigerator for up to a week. To reheat, simply pop them in a microwave for 10-15 seconds or warm them in an oven at 350°F for about 5 minutes for a freshly baked taste.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Pumpkin Doughnut Drops contains roughly 815 calories, with 17g protein, 118g carbohydrates, and 31g fat. It is an excellent source of calcium (37% of the Daily Value), protein (35% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (31% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1001mg per serving (44% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use fresh pumpkin instead of canned pumpkin?
Yes, you can use fresh pumpkin. Just make sure to cook and puree it until smooth. One cup of fresh pumpkin puree is equivalent to one cup of canned pumpkin. This adds a fresh flavor to your doughnuts, but ensure it's well-drained to avoid excess moisture in the batter.
What can I substitute for shortening?
If you're looking for a healthier alternative, you can substitute shortening with unsalted butter or coconut oil. Both will add a rich flavor to the doughnuts. Keep in mind that using butter will enhance the taste, while coconut oil might impart a slight coconut flavor.
How do I know when the doughnut drops are done?
The doughnut drops are done when they are golden brown and spring back when lightly touched. You can also insert a toothpick into the center; if it comes out clean, they are ready. Be careful not to overbake, as they can dry out quickly.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).