Step 1

Mix the yeast, brown sugar, and warm cider in the bowl of a stand mixer fitted with the dough hook. Let sit for 5 minutes and allow the yeast to proof, it will foam up. Then add the eggs, salt, buttermilk, melted butter, pumpkin, vanilla, 2 1/2 cups flour, and 1 1/2 teaspoons cinnamon, mix on medium until combined. Continue slowly adding the remaining 1/2 cup of flour until it is all incorporated. The dough will be sticky. At this point begin adding 1 tablespoon of flour at a time until the dough pulls away from the sides and forms a smooth ball (about 4-6 minutes).

Step 2

Spray a bowl with cooking spray and place the dough inside, cover with some plastic wrap on top. Let rise for 1-2 hours in a warm spot, or until doubled in size.

Step 3

Turn the dough onto a floured work surface. Roll the dough out into a large rectangle, about an 1/8 inch thick. Use a knife or pastry cutter to cut into 3×3 inch squares (about 50 squares).Scoop out a scant teaspoon of Nutella and place in the middle of a square. Gently place another square on top and pinch the sides together. Fold each side in about 1/4 inch and pinch again. It is VERY important that the beignet is well sealed. If not, it could pop open while it fries and all the filling will spill out!

Step 4

Place a deep, heavy bottom pot on the stove and add enough oil to fill the pot about 1 to 1 1/2 inches deep. Turn the burner to medium and preheat the oil to 350 degrees F. Fry 4-6 beignets at a time depending on the size of your pot. Use a slotted spoon to flip them over every 30 seconds. Fry for 2-3 minutes or until golden brown on both sides. If they are taking longer than 3 minutes to brown you need to turn your burner up and make sure your oil is at the correct temperature. Remove with the slotted spoon and place on paper towels to drain. Repeat with remaining squares.

Step 5

In a small bowl, combine the remaining 1 tablespoon cinnamon and powdered sugar. Dust the warm beignets with powdered sugar on both sides.