Fall in Love with Baking: Spiced Pumpkin Crunch Knots with Pumpkin Butter Filling
As the leaves start to don their vibrant hues of orange and crimson, I find myself drawn to the kitchen, ready to embrace the comforting flavors of autumn. Today, I’m thrilled to share with you a recipe that encapsulates all the warmth and spice of the season – Spiced Pumpkin Crunch Knots with Pumpkin Butter Filling. Trust me, the moment these treats hit the oven, your home will be filled with a smell so delightful, it’s like getting a warm hug from fall itself!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
These pumpkin knots aren’t just delicious; they’re a perfect blend of soft, spicy, and sweet. Each knot, with its rich pumpkin butter heart and a crispy, sugary topping, is a small tribute to the quintessential flavors of fall. Plus, they’re incredibly fun to bake! Whether you are a seasoned baker or a newcomer, it’s a joy to twist these little delights into shape.
Taste a Bite of Autumn
Imagine biting into a soft, fluffy pillow of dough with a heart of creamy, spiced pumpkin butter. Now add to that a sweet crunch in every bite. Is your mouth watering yet? This delightful combo makes my spiced pumpkin crunch knots a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.
Health Benefits
Pumpkins are a powerhouse of nutrients, packed with vitamins A and C, which are great for your skin and immunity. They also provide a good amount of fiber, keeping you full longer. So, these knots aren’t just tasty but also nourish your body.
Ingredients
Dough:
– 500g all-purpose flour
– 10g instant yeast
– 50g granulated sugar
– 5g salt
– 250ml warm milk
– 50g unsalted butter, melted
– 1 large egg
– 120g pumpkin puree
Pumpkin Butter Filling:
– 200g pumpkin puree
– 50g brown sugar
– 1 tsp ground cinnamon
– 1/2 tsp ground nutmeg
– 1/4 tsp ground cloves
– 30g unsalted butter, softened
Crunch Topping:
– 100g all-purpose flour
– 75g granulated sugar
– 1 tsp ground cinnamon
– 50g cold unsalted butter, diced
Egg Wash:
– 1 large egg, beaten with 1 tbsp water
Necessary Tools for Preparation
– Stand mixer with a dough hook
– Oven
– Baking sheets
– Parchment paper
Ingredient Additions or Substitutions
If you’re looking to tweak the recipe, consider adding a tsp of vanilla extract to the filling for a deeper flavor profile. Vegan? No problem! Substitute the egg with a flax egg and use plant-based milk and butter substitutes.
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prepare the Dough: In your stand mixer, whisk together flour, yeast, sugar, and salt. Add warm milk, melted butter, egg, and pumpkin puree. Knead until smooth, then let it rise until doubled.
2. Make the Pumpkin Butter: Blend the pumpkin puree, brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves, and butter until smooth.
3. Shape the Knots: Divide the dough into 16 pieces. Flatten, fill, and knot!
4. Let Rise Again: Place your knots on a prepared baking sheet and cover for a second rise.
5. Preheat and Prep Topping: Mix your topping ingredients and preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F).
6. Bake to Perfection: Sprinkle your knots with the topping, give them an egg wash, and bake until golden.
What to Serve with Pumpkin Knots
These knots pair beautifully with a cup of hot cider or a pumpkin spice latte. They also make a fantastic side to a creamy autumn soup.
Tips for Perfect Knots
Ensure your milk is warm, not hot, to avoid killing the yeast. Also, give your knots plenty of space on the baking sheet as they will expand during baking.
Storage Instructions
Your pumpkin knots will stay fresh in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or in the fridge for up to 7 days. FAQs
Q: Can I make these knots gluten-free?
A: Absolutely! Just swap out the regular flour for your favorite gluten-free blend.
Q: Can I prepare the dough ahead of time?
A: Yes, prepare the dough, cover tightly, and refrigerate overnight. Let it come to room temperature before proceeding with the filling.
Wrap-Up
Delight in the flavors of the season with these deliciously spiced pumpkin crunch knots. Perfect for cozy evenings, holiday gatherings, or simply as a treat to sweeten your day.
Try More Like This!
If you loved this, don’t miss out on other fall favorites like our “Caramel Apple Galettes” or “Chai-Spiced Pear Bread”. Dive into the season of baking and warm delights!
Share Your Creations!
Tried this recipe? Share your delicious photos and experiences on Pinterest! And if you’re looking for more delicious recipes delivered straight to your inbox, don’t forget to subscribe!
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
– Calories: 210
– Protein: 4g
– Carbohydrates: 34g
– Fat: 7g
Happy Baking! Enjoy the essence of autumn wrapped in each bite of these delightful pumpkin knots.
