Description
Fall Pumpkin Fritters
Celebrate fall with these easy Pumpkin Fritters! Golden and delicious, these fritters have just the right hint of pumpkin and spice, topped with a sweet glaze. Give it a go and share your creation!
Ingredients:
1 cup pumpkin puree
1 cup all-purpose flour
1/4 cup sugar
1/2 tsp baking powder
1 tsp pumpkin spice
Pinch of salt
Oil for frying
Powdered sugar for glaze
Instructions:
In a mixing bowl, combine pumpkin puree, flour, sugar, baking powder, spice, and salt.
Heat oil in a pan and spoon batter into the oil.
Fry until golden brown, then remove and drain.
Glaze with powdered sugar mixed with a bit of milk.
#FallFritterFun
Step-by-Step Guide
Follow these detailed instructions for perfect fritters every time.
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the pumpkin puree and sugar until smooth.
- In a separate bowl, sift the flour, baking powder, pumpkin spice, and salt. This ensures no lumps and even distribution of leavening.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet pumpkin mixture. Stir until just combined; a slightly lumpy batter is okay. Overmixing leads to tough fritters.
- Heat about 1 inch of neutral oil (like canola or vegetable) in a heavy-bottomed skillet or Dutch oven over medium heat to 350°F (175°C). Use a thermometer for accuracy.
- Carefully drop heaping tablespoons of batter into the hot oil. Do not overcrowd the pan. Fry for 2-3 minutes per side until deeply golden brown.
- Remove fritters with a slotted spoon and drain on a wire rack set over a paper towel-lined tray. This keeps them crispy.
- For the glaze, whisk 1 cup of powdered sugar with 1-2 tablespoons of milk or cream until smooth and drizzle over warm fritters.
Serving Suggestions
These versatile fritters can be enjoyed in many ways. Serve them warm as a breakfast treat with a dollop of whipped cream or a side of maple syrup for dipping. For a decadent dessert, pair them with a scoop of vanilla ice cream and a sprinkle of toasted pecans. They also make a fantastic addition to a fall brunch spread alongside coffee or hot apple cider.
How-to Summary
Mix wet and dry ingredients separately, then combine. Fry tablespoon-sized portions in 350°F oil until golden brown. Drain on a wire rack and glaze with a simple powdered sugar icing.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I bake these instead of frying? Yes. For a healthier version, drop batter onto a parchment-lined baking sheet, spray with oil, and bake at 375°F (190°C) for 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway.
My batter is too runny/wet. What happened? Pumpkin puree moisture can vary. If batter is too wet to scoop, add flour one tablespoon at a time until it holds its shape.
Can I make the batter ahead of time? It’s best used immediately. Letting it sit can activate the baking powder too early and result in denser fritters.
How do I store leftovers? Store cooled, unglazed fritters in an airtight container at room temperature for 1 day or refrigerate for up to 3 days. Reheat in an oven or toaster oven to restore crispness.
What can I use instead of pumpkin spice? Make your own blend: combine 1/2 tsp cinnamon, 1/4 tsp ginger, 1/8 tsp nutmeg, and 1/8 tsp allspice or cloves.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Overmixing the batter: This develops gluten, making fritters chewy instead of tender.
- Incorrect oil temperature: Oil that’s too cool makes fritters greasy; too hot burns the outside before the inside cooks. Use a thermometer.
- Crowding the pan: Adding too many fritters at once drops the oil temperature drastically.
- Draining on paper towels only: This can trap steam and make the bottom soggy. Always use a wire rack.
- Adding glaze too early: Glazing piping hot fritters will cause the icing to melt and slide off. Let them cool for a few minutes first.
Conclusion
These Pumpkin Fritters are the essence of fall in a bite-sized, delicious package. With a crispy exterior, soft spiced interior, and sweet glaze, they are surprisingly simple to master. By following the step-by-step guide and heeding the common pitfalls, you can create an impressive treat perfect for any autumn gathering. Enjoy the process and the delicious results!