Pumpkin Dreams

Pumpkin Dreams - Delicious Doughnuts with Pumpkin Puree

If you are looking for a quick and tasty dessert that will bring a smile to your face and fill your soul with joy, then the Pumpkin Dreams recipe is exactly what you need! These fluffy doughnuts, known as Sonhos de Abóbora, are a traditional delicacy inspired by Portuguese cuisine and enriched with the warm flavors of pumpkin. They are usually filled with various creams or enjoyed plain, but their taste is simply irresistible!

Preparation time: 30 minutes
Baking time: 20 minutes
Total time: 50 minutes
Number of servings: 12 doughnuts

Ingredients

- 30 g fresh yeast
- 0.5 dl lukewarm milk
- 500 g pumpkin puree (preferably homemade)
- 1 egg
- 1 tablespoon Port wine
- Juice from half an orange
- 80 g sugar
- 200 g flour
- Oil for frying
- Powdered sugar and cinnamon for decoration

Recipe History

Pumpkin Dreams is a recipe that evokes memories of autumn when pumpkin is in full season and its sweet, spiced aroma fills the air. These doughnuts were popularized in Brazil, where they are often found on the beach, but their roots share traditions with Portuguese customs. Doughnuts are often served with various fillings, but the pumpkin version adds a burst of flavor and a soft texture, perfect for a seasonal snack.

Step by step - Preparing Pumpkin Dreams

1. Preparing the pumpkin: Start by peeling the pumpkin and cutting it into cubes. Boil it in salted water with a cinnamon stick until it becomes soft. This step will add a wonderful aroma to your doughnuts. Once boiled, drain the pumpkin well and mash it to obtain a fine puree. Let it cool.

2. Activating the yeast: In a small bowl, mix the fresh yeast with the lukewarm milk. Make sure the milk is not too hot, otherwise, the yeast will not ferment properly. Wait a few minutes until the mixture becomes frothy.

3. Mixing the ingredients: In a large bowl, add the pumpkin puree, egg, Port wine, orange juice, and sugar. Mix well until the ingredients are fully integrated.

4. Adding the flour: Start gradually adding the flour, mixing constantly. It is important not to add all the flour at once to control the dough's consistency. When the dough becomes homogeneous, cover it with a towel and let it rise in a warm place for about 45 minutes, or until it doubles in volume.

5. Frying the doughnuts: In a deep pan, heat the oil to the right temperature for frying (about 180°C). Use a spoon to take portions of the dough and drop them into the hot oil. Fry the doughnuts until they are golden on all sides, about 3-4 minutes on each side. Remove them onto a paper towel to absorb the excess oil.

6. Decorating: In a small bowl, mix the sugar with the powdered cinnamon. When the doughnuts are still warm, roll them in the sugar and cinnamon mixture so that they are evenly coated.

Useful tips

- For a delicious pumpkin puree: You can bake the pumpkin in the oven instead of boiling it. Cut it in half, remove the seeds, and bake it at 200°C for 30-40 minutes. This will intensify the pumpkin's flavor and sweetness.
- Vegan option: You can replace the egg with a mixture of flaxseeds and water (1 tablespoon of ground flaxseeds with 2 tablespoons of water, left to sit for a few minutes until gelatinous).
- Fillings: If you want to experiment, you can fill the doughnuts with fruit creams or chocolate, adding a delicious twist to the recipe.

Frequently asked questions

- Can I use dry yeast? Yes, you can use dry yeast. Use about 10 g of dry yeast and follow the same instructions for activation.
- How can I store the doughnuts? These doughnuts are best served fresh. If you have leftovers, you can store them in an airtight container at room temperature for 1-2 days. Warm them slightly in the microwave before consuming.
- Can I freeze them? Yes, unfilled doughnuts can be frozen. Make sure they are completely cool before placing them in a freezer bag.

Serving combinations

Pumpkin Dreams pair perfectly with a fragrant coffee or hot tea, making them an ideal dessert for cool autumn evenings. You can also enjoy them alongside vanilla ice cream or an orange-flavored cream cheese for a delicious contrast.

Calories and nutritional benefits

Each serving of Pumpkin Dreams contains approximately 150-200 calories, depending on the serving size and the amount of oil used for frying. Pumpkin is rich in fiber, vitamins A and C, as well as antioxidants, making it a nutritious ingredient beneficial for health.

Now you have all the information you need to prepare these delicious and fluffy doughnuts! Let yourself be carried away by the aromas of autumn and enjoy every bite full of flavor. Enjoy your meal!