Pumpkin Donuts
These spiced pumpkin donuts are fried to golden perfection, offering a light, airy texture and a rich autumn flavor. Chill the spiced buttermilk and pumpkin dough before cutting out the shapes and frying them in small batches. Transfer them to paper towels and finish with a dusting of sweet confectioners' sugar.
My favorite pan for frying donuts is my handy dandy cast iron skillet, given to me by one of my best buds years and years ago. Second choice is my trusty, non-stick French skillet; its high sides work well for frying. Make sure you choose a skillet with deep sides, as the oil will bubble up as it heats.
Moving on to donut cutters: these come in several shapes and sizes. I prefer to use two separate round cutters from a round biscuit/cookie cutter set. I get more bang for my buck that way. However, it's easy to find doughnut cutters in either two-piece or one-piece models.
The Heart of the Table
These warm, sugar-dusted donuts bring a sense of playful indulgence to the table, putting a smile on everyone's face. The rich aroma of pumpkin pie spice evokes the cozy feelings of home, creating a cheerful, relaxed environment.
The Art of the Host
- a solid copper balloon whisk to perfectly aerate ingredients
- a wide, copper-plated wire cooling rack to ensure perfect airflow
- a pair of professional-grade stainless steel locking kitchen tongs
- a well-seasoned 12-inch cast-iron skillet with dual pour spouts
- a seamless, high-heat resistant silicone spatula in a soft slate gray
Neighborly Grace
- THE PRESENTATION: Pile the donuts and donut holes high on a footed ceramic cake plate, placing a bowl of extra powdered sugar nearby for dipping.
- THE POUR: Pair with a hot cup of apple-cinnamon tea or a rich, dark-roast coffee.
- THE VIBE: Fireside Gathering. The crackle of the hearth and the sweet scent of fried dough create a warm, cozy sanctuary for sharing stories.