The combination of gingerbread spices, a donut-like texture, and the conventional bear claw shape creates a scrumptious and festive deal with best for the vacation season or any time you crave something candy and highly spiced. This recipe will guide you through making Gingerbread Donut Bear Claws and a unique twist on the traditional bear claw pastry with a rich gingerbread flavor and a delightful glaze.
Gingerbread Donut Bear Claw Recipe
| Course | Cuisine | Difficulty | Servings | Prep Time | Cooking Time | Total Time | Calories |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Breakfast, Dessert | American | Easy | 12 servings | 20 minutes | 12 minutes | 32 minutes | 220 kcal |
Ingredients
For the Dough:
- Three and a half cups all-reason flour
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 packet (2 1/four tablespoons) of active dry yeast
- Half of a tablespoon salt
- Half of a tablespoon floor cinnamon
- 1/2 tablespoon floor ginger
- 1/4 tablespoon ground cloves
- 1/4 tablespoon ground nutmeg
- 1/2 cup heated milk (about a 110°F)
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1/4 cup molasses
- 2 big eggs
For the Filling:
- Half of a cup of brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon floor cinnamon
- 1/four tablespoon ground ginger
- 1/4 tablespoon floor cloves
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
- 1/4 cup finely chopped nuts (elective, which include pecans or walnuts)
For the Glaze:
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 2 tablespoons milk or water
- 1/2 tablespoon vanilla extract
For Garnish (optionally available):
- A sprinkle of cinnamon sugar
- Crushed nuts or crystallized ginger
Instructions
Prepare the Dough
Activate the Yeast: In a small bowl combine warm milk and yeast and stir lightly to permit it to take a seat for approximately five minutes until the yeast becomes frothy. This suggests that the yeast is active and ready to use.
Mix the Dry Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl whisk together the flour, sugar, salt, cinnamon, ginger, cloves, and nutmeg. These spices are the spine of the gingerbread taste.
Combine Wet Ingredients: In a separate bowl whisk collectively the melted butter, molasses, and eggs until properly combined.
Make the Dough: Pour the yeast aggregate and the moist components into the dry elements. Mix until a soft dough bureaucracy. If the dough is simply too sticky, regularly add a bit more flour, one tablespoon at a time until it is plausible. Knead the dough on a gently floured floor for approximately 5 to 7 minutes until it is miles easy and elastic.
Let the Dough Rise: Place the dough in a greased bowl cover it with an easy kitchen towel and then allow it upward to push in a warm area for approximately 1 to 2 hours or till it has doubled in length.
Prepare the Filling
Make the Filling: In a small bowl blend together the brown sugar, cinnamon, ginger, cloves, and softened butter. If you are the usage of chopped nuts mix them in as well.
Shape the Bear Claws
Roll out the Dough: Once the dough has risen, punch it down to launch the air. Turn it out onto a gently floured surface and roll it right into a huge rectangle approximately 1/4 inch thick.
Spread the Filling: Spread the cinnamon sugar filling calmly over the dough which leaves a small border around the rims.
Fold and Cut: Fold the dough over lengthwise so that the filling is enclosed. Using a sharp knife or pizza cutter, slice the dough into strips, approximately 4 to 5 inches. Then make 3 to 4 small cuts alongside the threshold of every strip to create the claws.
Shape the Bear Claws: Gently fan out the sections wherein you made the cuts to form the bear claw form. Place the shaped endure claws on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
Second Rise: Cover the undergo claws with a kitchen towel and let them push upward once more for about 30 minutes.
Bake the Bear Claws
Fry the Bear Claws: Heat oil in a deep fryer or massive pot to 350°F (175°C). Carefully locate a few endure claws into the new oil which is making sure now not to overcrowd the pot. Fry for approximately 2 to 3 minutes on each aspect or until golden brown and cooked through.
Glaze the Bear Claws
Make the Glaze: Whisk together powdered sugar, milk (or water), and vanilla extract until smooth while the bear claws are barely cooling.
FAQs
1. What is the difference between a gingerbread donut and a bear claw?
A gingerbread donut is a soft, spiced pastry with ginger, cinnamon, and molasses flavors, while a bear claw is a traditional pastry shaped like a bear’s claw, often filled with nuts or sweet fillings. A Gingerbread Donut Bear Claw combines the best of both: the gingerbread flavors in the bear claw’s iconic shape.
2. Can I make Gingerbread Donut Bear Claws without a donut cutter?
Yes, you don’t need a donut cutter. You can shape the dough manually into a claw-like form by cutting slits into one end of the dough and spreading them slightly to resemble claws.
3. How do I store leftover Gingerbread Donut Bear Claws?
Store leftover Gingerbread Donut Bear Claws in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. For longer storage, you can refrigerate them for up to 5 days or freeze them for up to 2 months.
4. What is the best way to reheat Gingerbread Donut Bear Claws?
Reheat the bear claws in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5-7 minutes to restore their crispiness. Alternatively, you can microwave them for 15-20 seconds for a quicker option, but the texture may be softer.
5. Can I use a different spice mix in Gingerbread Donut Bear Claws?
Yes, you can adjust the spice mix to your preference. Besides ginger and cinnamon, you can add nutmeg, cloves, or allspice for extra warmth and flavor. You can also reduce the amount of spice if you prefer a milder flavor.
6. Can I make Gingerbread Donut Bear Claws gluten-free?
Yes, you can make them gluten-free by using a gluten-free flour blend. Be sure to use a blend that is suitable for baking, and double-check that your other ingredients, like baking powder, are also gluten-free.
7. What type of glaze works best for Gingerbread Donut Bear Claws?
A simple powdered sugar glaze with a hint of vanilla or cinnamon is perfect for Gingerbread Donut Bear Claws. You can also make a molasses glaze or drizzle melted white chocolate for a richer topping.
8. Are Gingerbread Donut Bear Claws a breakfast or dessert item?
Gingerbread Donut Bear Claws can be enjoyed as both a breakfast and a dessert. They’re perfect for a holiday breakfast treat or a sweet snack to accompany your coffee or tea.
9. How long does it take to make Gingerbread Donut Bear Claws?
The entire process takes about 32 minutes: 20 minutes for preparation and 12 minutes for cooking. They’re a quick and easy treat to whip up!
10. Can I make the dough for Gingerbread Donut Bear Claws ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the dough in advance and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking or frying. This is a great option if you want to save time or prepare them fresh for an event.
11. Do Gingerbread Donut Bear Claws contain any nuts?
Traditional Gingerbread Donut Bear Claws don’t contain nuts, but you can add chopped nuts like almonds or pecans to the filling or topping for added crunch and flavor.
12. Are Gingerbread Donut Bear Claws kid-friendly?
Yes, kids will love the sweet, spiced flavor of these bear claws. You can also involve them in shaping the dough into bear claws, making it a fun activity!