Get ready to elevate your fall baking game with these irresistible Spiced Pumpkin Crunch Knots filled with a luscious pumpkin butter! Perfectly soft and bursting with warm spices, these delightful treats will have your kitchen smelling like autumn in no time. Whether you're hosting a cozy gathering or simply indulging in a sweet snack, these knots are sure to impress. With just a few simple ingredients and easy-to-follow steps, you'll be serving up a batch of these mouthwatering delights that are not only a feast for the eyes but also a comforting hug for your taste buds. Don’t miss out on the chance to make your kitchen the go-to spot for seasonal treats—let's dive into this scrumptious recipe!
Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup pumpkin puree
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1/4 teaspoon ground ginger
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 egg
- 1 cup pumpkin butter
Instructions
- In a large mixing bowl, combine all-purpose flour, salt, ground cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and cloves. Whisk together thoroughly to ensure even spice distribution.
- In a separate bowl, cream together softened butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar until light and fluffy, using an electric mixer on medium speed for about 3-4 minutes.
- Add the pumpkin puree and egg to the butter-sugar mixture, mixing until completely incorporated and smooth.
- Gradually add the dry ingredient mixture to the wet ingredients, stirring until a soft, cohesive dough forms. If the dough feels too sticky, refrigerate for 15-20 minutes to firm up.
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and line two baking sheets with parchment paper.
- On a lightly floured surface, roll out the dough to approximately 1/4 inch thickness. Cut the dough into 3-inch squares.
- Place a small dollop (about 1 tablespoon) of pumpkin butter in the center of each square.
- To create the knot shape, fold each square diagonally to form a triangle, then twist the ends and pinch them together, creating a knot-like appearance.
- Arrange the knots on the prepared baking sheets, leaving about 1 inch of space between each.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 22-25 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown and the pastry looks crisp.
- Remove from oven and let cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
- Optional: Dust with powdered sugar or drizzle with a light glaze made from powdered sugar and milk before serving.
Tips
- Chill the Dough: If your dough feels too sticky while handling, don’t hesitate to chill it in the refrigerator for 15-20 minutes. This will make it easier to work with and help maintain the shape of your knots.
- Perfect Pumpkin Butter: Using homemade pumpkin butter can elevate the flavor of your knots. If you have time, try making your own by simmering pumpkin puree with spices and sugar!
- Even Baking: Make sure to leave enough space between each knot on the baking sheet to allow for even baking and expansion. This will help them achieve that perfect golden-brown color.
- Experiment with Spices: Feel free to adjust the spice levels to your preference. Adding a pinch of cardamom or allspice can give your knots a unique twist!
- Serving Suggestions: These knots are delicious on their own, but you can also serve them with a side of cream cheese frosting or a warm caramel dip for an extra indulgent treat.
- Storage Tips: Store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days or in the refrigerator for up to a week. They can also be frozen for up to a month—just reheat in the oven before serving!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 250kcal
Carbohydrates: 35g
Protein: 3g
Fat: 12g
Saturated Fat: 7g
Cholesterol: 45mg
