Pampoenkoekies
South African Pumpkin Fritters
Deliciously sweet and warmly spiced pumpkin fritters, a beloved South African comfort food. These golden-brown delights are perfect for a treat any time of day.
🧂 Ingredients
- 2 cups Pumpkin puree(Ensure it's unsweetened and well-drained if homemade. Canned pumpkin puree works well.)
- 1 cup All-purpose flour
- 2 Large eggs
- 2 tablespoons Granulated sugar(Optional, for a sweeter batter. Adjust to taste.)
- 1 teaspoon Baking powder(For a lighter, fluffier fritter.)
- 1 teaspoon Ground cinnamon(Plus more for dusting.)
- 1/4 teaspoon Salt
- for frying Vegetable oil or other neutral oil(About 2-3 inches deep in the pot.)
- for dusting Cinnamon sugar(Mix equal parts granulated sugar and ground cinnamon.)
👨🍳 Instructions
- 1
Prepare the batter: In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, granulated sugar (if using), baking powder, cinnamon, and salt. In a separate bowl, lightly beat the eggs, then whisk in the pumpkin puree until well combined and smooth.
⏱️ 5 minutes - 2
Combine wet and dry ingredients: Pour the wet pumpkin mixture into the dry ingredients. Stir gently with a spoon or spatula until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; a few small lumps are okay. The batter should be thick but scoopable.
⏱️ 2 minutes - 3
Heat the oil: Pour vegetable oil into a heavy-bottomed pot or Dutch oven to a depth of about 2-3 inches. Heat the oil over medium-high heat until it reaches 175°C (350°F). You can test the oil by dropping a tiny bit of batter in; it should sizzle immediately and float to the surface.
⏱️ 10 minutes - 4
Fry the fritters: Carefully drop rounded tablespoons of batter into the hot oil, being careful not to overcrowd the pot. Fry for 3-4 minutes per side, or until deep golden brown and cooked through. Use a slotted spoon to turn them and to remove them from the oil.
⏱️ 15-20 minutes - 5
Drain and dust: Transfer the cooked pampoenkoekies to a wire rack set over a baking sheet or to a plate lined with paper towels to drain excess oil. While still warm, generously dust them with the prepared cinnamon sugar.
⏱️ 3 minutes - 6
Serve: Pampoenkoekies are best served warm, either on their own or with a dusting of extra cinnamon sugar.
💡 Pro Tips
- ✓For a lighter fritter, ensure your baking powder is fresh.
- ✓Don't overcrowd the pot when frying; this will lower the oil temperature and result in greasy fritters.
- ✓Adjust the amount of cinnamon in the batter and dusting to your preference.
- ✓These are best enjoyed fresh, but leftovers can be stored in an airtight container for a day or two and reheated gently.
✨ Twist Ideas
Inspiration for your own version of this recipe
- Add 1/4 teaspoon of ground nutmeg or ginger to the dry ingredients for an extra spice kick.
- Serve with a dollop of whipped cream or a drizzle of honey.
- For a savory twist, omit the sugar in the batter and serve with a side of chutney.