BUTTERNUT SQUASH DOUGHNUTS

Butternut Squash Doughnuts are a unique and delicious twist on the classic doughnut, incorporating the natural sweetness and creamy texture of roasted butternut squash. These doughnuts are soft, tender, and lightly spiced, offering a comforting flavor that’s perfect for autumn or any time you crave something a little different. The butternut squash adds moisture and a subtle richness, while a dusting of cinnamon sugar or a drizzle of glaze elevates these doughnuts to a delightful treat. Whether enjoyed with a morning coffee or as an afternoon snack, Butternut Squash Doughnuts are a warm, inviting indulgence that brings a taste of fall to your table.

Ingredients:

For the Doughnuts:

• 1 cup roasted butternut squash puree
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 1/4 cup brown sugar, packed
• 2 large eggs
• 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
• 1/4 cup milk
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 2 teaspoons baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
• 1/4 teaspoon ground ginger

For the Topping:

• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• Optional: powdered sugar glaze (1 cup powdered sugar + 2-3 tablespoons milk)

Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a doughnut pan or line a baking sheet with parchment paper if making doughnut holes.
2. Prepare the doughnut batter: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the roasted butternut squash puree, granulated sugar, brown sugar, eggs, melted butter, milk, and vanilla extract until smooth and well combined.
3. Mix the dry ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger.
4. Combine wet and dry ingredients: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring until just combined. Be careful not to overmix.
5. Fill the doughnut pan: Spoon the batter into the prepared doughnut pan, filling each mold about 3/4 full. If making doughnut holes, drop spoonfuls of batter onto the parchment-lined baking sheet.
6. Bake the doughnuts: Bake in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes, or until the doughnuts are golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
7. Prepare the topping: While the doughnuts are baking, mix together the granulated sugar and cinnamon in a shallow bowl. If making a glaze, whisk together the powdered sugar and milk until smooth.
8. Coat or glaze the doughnuts: Once the doughnuts are baked and slightly cooled, either dip them in the cinnamon-sugar mixture or drizzle them with the powdered sugar glaze.
9. Serve: Enjoy the Butternut Squash Doughnuts warm or at room temperature. Store any leftovers in an airtight container for up to two days.

Butternut Squash Doughnuts are a delightful and unexpected treat that combines the flavors of fall with the classic comfort of a doughnut. Perfect for cozy mornings or as a sweet snack, these doughnuts are sure to become a seasonal favorite!