Why You’ll Love this Sweet Potato Doughnuts With Maple Icing Recipe
Sweet potato doughnuts with maple icing are a delightful twist on a classic treat that I absolutely adore. The moment I take a bite, the warm, fluffy texture paired with the sweet, rich maple icing makes my taste buds dance.
These doughnuts aren’t just delicious; they’re also a bit healthier thanks to the sweet potatoes, which add moisture and flavor. Plus, they’re perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a cozy breakfast or a festive gathering.
I can’t resist sharing them with friends and family, and I know you’ll love them just as much as I do!
Ingredients of Sweet Potato Doughnuts With Maple Icing
When it comes to making sweet potato doughnuts with maple icing, the first step is gathering your ingredients. This is where the magic begins. You’ll need a mix of pantry staples and a few special items that elevate these doughnuts to a whole new level.
I can already picture the fluffy, sweet doughnuts with that glossy maple icing just waiting to be devoured. So, let’s dive right into what you’ll need for this scrumptious recipe.
Here’s a handy list of ingredients for your sweet potato doughnuts with maple icing:
- 3 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup sugar
- 2 teaspoons baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 2 large eggs, lightly beaten
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1 cup cooked mashed sweet potato (about 1 medium potato)
- 1 cup finely chopped pecans
- Vegetable oil, for frying
- 2 2/3 cups confectioners’ sugar
- 3-4 tablespoons milk
- 1/4 teaspoon maple extract
Now, as you gather these ingredients, keep in mind that freshness matters. For instance, using freshly baked sweet potatoes can really enhance the flavor of your doughnuts.
And don’t skimp on the maple extract—it’s what brings that sweet, rich essence that pairs perfectly with the doughnut’s fluffy texture. If you’re not a fan of pecans, you can easily swap them for another nut or even omit them for a nut-free version.
Just imagine the warm doughnuts, their sugary glaze glistening, begging to be enjoyed. What’s not to love?
How to Make Sweet Potato Doughnuts With Maple Icing
Making sweet potato doughnuts with maple icing is a delightful adventure that’s not just about following a recipe; it’s about creating something special. So, let’s roll up those sleeves and dive right in.
First, you’ll want to grab a medium bowl and combine 3 1/2 cups of all-purpose flour, 1 cup of sugar, 2 teaspoons of baking powder, 1/2 teaspoon of baking soda, 1/2 teaspoon of ground cinnamon, and 1/2 teaspoon of salt. Mixing these dry ingredients together is like uniting a group of friends for a fun day out. Make sure they’re well combined because you want every bite of your doughnut to be as tasty as the last.
Now, let’s move on to the wet ingredients. In a large bowl, combine 2 large eggs (lightly beaten), 1 cup of sour cream, and 1 cup of cooked mashed sweet potato (about one medium potato). When you mix these, it should feel like you’re making a little magic potion.
Gradually add the flour mixture to the wet ingredients, stirring gently until they come together. The dough will be a bit sticky, so don’t be shy to sprinkle a little extra flour on your hands as you turn it out onto a heavily floured surface. Knead the dough lightly and then roll it out to about a 1/2-inch thickness. Use a 2 1/4-inch round cutter to cut out your doughnuts and a smaller 3/4-inch cutter for the holes. And honestly, if you find yourself munching on the doughnut holes, I won’t judge; they’re practically a chef’s snack, right?
Next comes the fun part—frying! In a Dutch oven, heat some vegetable oil over medium heat until it reaches 360 degrees F. Carefully drop in your doughnut shapes, frying them for about 2 minutes on each side until they’re lightly browned and beautiful.
Once they’re done, let them drain on some paper towels while you whip up that luscious maple icing. In a small bowl, combine 2 2/3 cups of confectioners’ sugar with 3 tablespoons of milk, stirring until it’s smooth. Add a splash more milk if you like it a bit thinner, and don’t forget to mix in 1/4 teaspoon of maple extract.
Now, ice the tops of your warm doughnuts and sprinkle with finely chopped pecans if you’re feeling fancy. There you have it, a batch of sweet potato doughnuts that are bound to impress family and friends—if you manage to keep them from disappearing first.
Sweet Potato Doughnuts With Maple Icing Substitutions & Variations
Doughnuts can be a canvas for creativity, and I love experimenting with substitutions and variations for sweet potato doughnuts with maple icing.
For a healthier twist, I’ve swapped out some all-purpose flour for whole wheat flour or almond flour. You can also replace sour cream with Greek yogurt for a lighter option.
If you’re not a fan of pecans, walnuts or chocolate chips work beautifully. For a fun flavor kick, try adding nutmeg or ginger to the dough.
You can even experiment with different extracts, like vanilla or cinnamon, in the icing for a unique touch. Enjoy the creativity!
What to Serve with Sweet Potato Doughnuts With Maple Icing
What pairs perfectly with sweet potato doughnuts drizzled in maple icing?
I love serving them alongside a steaming cup of coffee or a warm chai latte. The spices in the chai complement the cinnamon in the doughnuts beautifully.
For a revitalizing twist, try a glass of freshly squeezed orange juice; its citrusy notes balance the sweetness perfectly.
If I’m hosting a brunch, I often add a fruit platter with seasonal berries and sliced apples to brighten the table.
Finally, a scoop of vanilla ice cream makes for a delightful dessert twist, especially when served warm!
Additional Tips & Notes
While preparing these sweet potato doughnuts, I’ve found a few tips that can elevate your baking experience.
First, make certain your sweet potato is thoroughly cooked and mashed for a smooth texture.
Don’t skip chilling the dough briefly; it helps with handling.
When frying, maintain the oil temperature to guarantee even cooking.
For a richer flavor, experiment with adding spices like nutmeg or vanilla to the dough.
Finally, be generous with the maple icing—it’s the star of the show!
Enjoy these doughnuts fresh, but if you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container to keep them soft.