Banana Caramel Pecan Doughnuts (gourdoughs copycat)

Looking for a sweet treat that combines the rich flavors of banana, caramel, and pecans? Look no further! These Banana Caramel Pecan Doughnuts are a delightful twist on the classic fried doughnut that will have your friends and family begging for more. Using simple ingredients, including refrigerated biscuits, these doughnuts are easy to whip up and are sure to impress with their decadent flavor. Let’s dive into why this recipe works every time and how you can make your own batch of these heavenly doughnuts.

Why It Works Every Time

The beauty of this Banana Caramel Pecan Doughnuts (gourdoughs copycat) recipe lies in its simplicity and the use of refrigerated biscuits. The biscuits provide a fluffy, yet crispy texture when fried, ensuring that each bite is satisfying. The addition of cream cheese and butter in the glaze brings a rich creaminess that perfectly complements the sweetness of the caramel and the crunch of the pecans. By using fresh bananas and graham cracker crumbs as toppings, you get an extra layer of flavor and texture that makes these doughnuts truly irresistible.

Ingredient Checklist

• 1 can refrigerated biscuits (either small or large, 8-10 count)
• Vegetable oil (for frying)
• 4 ounces cream cheese (room temperature)
• 1/4 cup butter (room temperature)
• 2 cups powdered sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla
• 1 graham cracker sheet (mooshed to make crumbs)
• 1 banana (sliced thin)
• Caramel ice cream topping (about 1/4-1/2 cup)
• Chopped pecans

Must-Have Equipment

• Deep fryer or heavy-bottomed pot – for frying the doughnuts evenly.
• Slotted spoon – to safely remove the doughnuts from the hot oil.
• Mixing bowls – for preparing the glaze and mixing ingredients.
• Cooling rack – to let the doughnuts cool and drain excess oil.

The Method for Banana Caramel Pecan Doughnuts (gourdoughs copycat)

Step 1: Prepare the Oil

In a deep fryer or heavy-bottomed pot, heat vegetable oil to 350°F (175°C). Make sure there’s enough oil to fully submerge the doughnuts.

Step 2: Shape the Doughnuts

Open the can of refrigerated biscuits and carefully separate each biscuit. If you’re using large biscuits, you may want to cut them in half to create smaller doughnuts. Use your fingers to gently poke a hole in the center of each biscuit to form a classic doughnut shape.

Step 3: Fry the Doughnuts

Once the oil is hot, carefully drop the shaped biscuits into the oil, a few at a time. Fry for about 1-2 minutes on each side until they are golden brown. Use a slotted spoon to remove the doughnuts and place them on a cooling rack lined with paper towels to absorb excess oil.

Step 4: Make the Glaze

In a mixing bowl, combine the room temperature cream cheese, butter, powdered sugar, and vanilla. Mix until smooth and creamy. You can use a hand mixer or a whisk for this step.

Step 5: Assemble the Doughnuts

Once the doughnuts have cooled slightly, dip the tops of each doughnut into the cream cheese glaze. Allow any excess glaze to drip off, then place the glazed doughnuts on a serving plate.

Step 6: Add the Toppings

While the glaze is still wet, sprinkle the graham cracker crumbs over the top. Follow with thin slices of banana and drizzle caramel ice cream topping over each doughnut. Finally, finish with a generous sprinkle of chopped pecans.

International Equivalents

• 1 can refrigerated biscuits – 1 can of dough (similar to croissant or scone dough).
• Powdered sugar – icing sugar or confectioner’s sugar.
• Butter – margarine can be used as an alternative.
• Caramel topping – dulce de leche or a homemade caramel sauce.

Steer Clear of These

When making your Banana Caramel Pecan Doughnuts (gourdoughs copycat), avoid the following:

• Using cold cream cheese – it won’t incorporate smoothly into the glaze.
• Overcrowding the frying pot – this can lead to uneven cooking and soggy doughnuts.
• Skipping the cooling step – glazing hot doughnuts can make the glaze melt instead of set.

Storage Pro Tips

To keep your Banana Caramel Pecan Doughnuts fresh and delicious:

• Store leftover doughnuts in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days.
• For longer storage, place them in the refrigerator, but be aware that they may lose some of their crispiness.
• Reheat in the microwave for a few seconds if you prefer them warm.

Common Questions

Can I bake these doughnuts instead of frying them?

Yes, you can bake them! Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C), place the shaped doughnuts on a baking sheet, and bake for about 10-12 minutes or until golden brown. Baking will result in a different texture, but they will still be delicious!

Can I use a different type of nut?

Absolutely! If pecans aren’t your favorite, feel free to substitute with walnuts or almonds for a similar crunch.

Can I make the glaze in advance?

Yes, you can prepare the cream cheese glaze ahead of time. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Just give it a good stir before using it on your doughnuts.

What can I do with leftover doughnuts?

If you have any doughnuts left, try slicing them in half and making a doughnut sandwich with nut butter and more banana slices, or simply enjoy them as they are!

Make It Tonight

Now that you have the ultimate guide to making Banana Caramel Pecan Doughnuts (gourdoughs copycat), it’s time to get in the kitchen! With just a few ingredients and some simple steps, you can create these indulgent treats that are perfect for any occasion. Whether for a cozy family breakfast, a sweet afternoon snack, or a dessert for your next gathering, these doughnuts are sure to be a hit. So grab your biscuits, heat up that oil, and get ready to enjoy these delicious doughnuts that are bursting with flavor.

Transform your kitchen into a mini bakery tonight and treat yourself to the delightful combination of banana, caramel, and pecans. You won’t regret it!