Description
Soft, spiced pumpkin fritter bites with a light, crispy exterior and a tender interior, perfect for a cozy fall treat.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup canned pumpkin puree
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/4 cup milk
**For Coating:**
– 1/4 cup powdered sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
Directions:
1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a bowl, mix together pumpkin puree, flour, sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, baking powder, salt, vanilla extract, and milk until a thick batter forms.
3. Use a spoon to drop spoonfuls of the batter onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing them evenly.
4. Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the fritters are golden brown and cooked through.
5. Mix powdered sugar and cinnamon for the coating. Once the fritter bites are cool enough to handle, toss them in the sugar mixture and serve.
Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cooking Time: 15 minutes | Total Time: 25 minutes | Servings: 18 | Calories: 80 per fritter
Step-by-Step Guide
Follow these detailed instructions for perfect fritters every time. First, ensure your pumpkin puree is not watery; if it is, blot it with a paper towel. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the dry ingredients: flour, sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, baking powder, and salt. In a separate bowl, combine the wet ingredients: pumpkin puree, vanilla extract, and milk. Pour the wet mixture into the dry ingredients and stir until just combined; do not overmix. The batter will be thick and slightly sticky.
Using two spoons or a small cookie scoop, drop rounded tablespoonfuls of batter onto the prepared sheet, spacing them about 1 inch apart. Bake for 12-15 minutes. The fritters are done when they are puffed, spring back lightly to the touch, and the bottoms are golden. Let them cool on the sheet for 5 minutes before coating.
Serving Suggestions
These versatile fritter bites can be enjoyed in many ways. For a decadent dessert, serve them warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream and a drizzle of caramel sauce. For a festive breakfast, pair them with a dollop of maple-sweetened whipped cream or Greek yogurt. They also make a delightful addition to a brunch platter alongside fresh fruit and coffee. For a fun presentation, serve the cinnamon-sugar coating on the side for dipping.
How-to Summary
In short: Mix dry and wet ingredients separately, then combine. Scoop batter onto a parchment-lined sheet. Bake at 375°F for 12-15 minutes until golden. Toss warm fritters in a mix of powdered sugar and cinnamon.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use fresh pumpkin instead of canned? Yes, but ensure it is cooked, pureed, and drained very well to match the thick consistency of canned puree.
Can I make these fritters ahead of time? They are best served the day they are made. You can prepare the batter and keep it covered in the fridge for up to 2 hours before baking.
Why are my fritters dense or gummy? This is often due to overmixing the batter or using pumpkin puree with too much moisture. Mix until just combined and ensure your puree is thick.
Can I fry these instead of baking? Absolutely. Drop spoonfuls into 350°F oil and fry for 2-3 minutes per side until deep golden brown. Drain on paper towels before coating.
How should I store leftovers? Store cooled fritters in an airtight container at room temperature for 1 day. Reheat briefly in a toaster oven or air fryer to refresh the texture.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Overmixing the batter, which develops gluten and leads to tough fritters.
- Using runny pumpkin puree, resulting in flat, wet fritters.
- Overcrowding the baking sheet, which causes steaming instead of proper browning.
- Coating the fritters while they are too hot, as the sugar mixture will melt and become sticky instead of powdery.
- Underbaking, leaving a raw, doughy center. Use a toothpick to test for doneness.
Conclusion
These baked pumpkin fritter bites are the essence of a simple, satisfying autumn treat. With their warm spices, tender interior, and sweet cinnamon-sugar coating, they are sure to become a seasonal favorite. By following the step-by-step guide and avoiding common pitfalls, you can effortlessly create a crowd-pleasing snack or dessert. Enjoy the cozy flavors of fall in every bite.