Pumpkin Fritters (Pampoenkoekies) recipes

Pumpkin fritters, also known as "pampoenkoekies" in Afrikaans, are a delicious South African treat made from pumpkin, flour, sugar, and spices. They are fried until golden brown and often enjoyed as a sweet dessert or a delightful snack. Here are two recipes for making pumpkin fritters:

Recipe 1: Classic Pumpkin Fritters

Ingredients:

• 2 cups cooked and mashed pumpkin (canned pumpkin can be used)
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
• Pinch of salt
• 2 large eggs, lightly beaten
• 1/4 cup milk (adjust as needed for desired batter consistency)
• Vegetable oil, for frying
• Powdered sugar, for dusting (optional)

Instructions:

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the mashed pumpkin, all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, baking powder, ground cinnamon, ground nutmeg, and a pinch of salt. Mix well until everything is evenly incorporated.
2. Add the lightly beaten eggs to the pumpkin mixture and stir until smooth.
3. Gradually add the milk, a little at a time, and stir until you have a smooth and thick batter. The consistency should be similar to pancake batter.
4. Heat vegetable oil in a frying pan or deep fryer to about 180°C (350°F).
5. Carefully drop spoonfuls of the pumpkin batter into the hot oil. Fry the fritters in batches, being careful not to overcrowd the pan.
6. Fry the fritters until they are golden brown on both sides, about 2-3 minutes per side.
7. Use a slotted spoon to remove the fritters from the oil and place them on a plate lined with paper towels to drain any excess oil.
8. Dust the warm pumpkin fritters with powdered sugar, if desired, and serve them immediately. Enjoy their crispy exterior and tender, spiced interior!

Recipe 2: Pumpkin Fritters with Cinnamon Sugar Coating

Ingredients:

• 2 cups cooked and mashed pumpkin (canned pumpkin can be used)
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• Pinch of salt
• 2 large eggs, lightly beaten
• Vegetable oil, for frying

For the Cinnamon Sugar Coating:

• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon

Instructions:

1. Follow steps 1 to 4 from the previous recipe to make the pumpkin fritter batter.
2. Heat vegetable oil in a frying pan or deep fryer to about 180°C (350°F).
3. Carefully drop spoonfuls of the pumpkin batter into the hot oil. Fry the fritters in batches, being careful not to overcrowd the pan.
4. Fry the fritters until they are golden brown on both sides, about 2-3 minutes per side.
5. Use a slotted spoon to remove the fritters from the oil and drain them on a plate lined with paper towels to remove any excess oil.
6. In a separate bowl, mix together the granulated sugar and ground cinnamon for the coating.
7. While the fritters are still warm, roll them in the cinnamon sugar mixture until they are evenly coated.
8. Serve the pumpkin fritters with cinnamon sugar coating while they are still warm and enjoy their delightful sweetness!

Pumpkin fritters are a delightful treat, and you can enjoy them in different ways depending on your preference. Whether you prefer them dusted with powdered sugar or coated in cinnamon sugar, these pampoenkoekies are sure to be a hit!