Pin It Festive, pillowy donuts decorated to resemble Santas iconic red suit perfect for holiday breakfasts or parties.
These donuts always remind me of joyful mornings spent with family during the holidays
Ingredients
- For the Donuts: 2 cups all-purpose flour 1/2 cup granulated sugar 2 tsp baking powder 1/2 tsp salt 1/2 cup whole milk 2 large eggs 1/4 cup unsalted butter melted 1 tsp vanilla extract
- For Frying: Vegetable oil for frying
- For Decoration: 2 cups powdered sugar 2–3 tbsp milk Red gel food coloring 1/2 cup mini chocolate chips or melted dark chocolate 8 yellow chocolate candies (such as M&Ms) or yellow fondant for belt buckles
Instructions
- Step 1:
- In a large bowl whisk together flour granulated sugar baking powder and salt
- Step 2:
- In a separate bowl mix milk eggs melted butter and vanilla extract
- Step 3:
- Add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients and stir until just combined (do not overmix)
- Step 4:
- Heat 2 inches of vegetable oil in a deep pan to 350°F (175°C)
- Step 5:
- Using lightly floured hands shape dough into 8 balls Flatten slightly and use a floured bottle cap or small cutter to create holes in the center
- Step 6:
- Fry donuts in batches 1–2 minutes per side until golden brown Drain on paper towels and cool completely
- Step 7:
- For the glaze whisk powdered sugar with 2–3 tbsp milk until smooth Tint with red food coloring until vibrant
- Step 8:
- Dip cooled donuts into red glaze and set on a rack Let set 10 minutes
- Step 9:
- For Santas belt pipe or draw a horizontal line of melted chocolate or arrange mini chocolate chips across each donut Add a yellow candy or fondant square in the center as the belt buckle
- Step 10:
- Allow decorations to set before serving
Pin It My family looks forward to these donuts every holiday morning—it has become our sweet tradition
Notes
For a shortcut use store-bought plain donuts and focus on decorating Add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the batter for extra holiday flavor Pair with hot cocoa or coffee for a cozy treat
Required Tools
Mixing bowls Whisk Deep frying pan or Dutch oven Slotted spoon Cooling rack Piping bag or zip-top bag (for decorating)
Allergen Information
Contains: Wheat (gluten) eggs milk and possible soy (in chocolate products) Check all decorations for nut traces if allergies are a concern
Pin It These donuts bring festive cheer with every bite and are sure to impress your holiday guests
Recipe Questions & Answers
- → What oil is best for frying these donuts?
Vegetable oil is recommended due to its neutral flavor and high smoke point, ensuring even golden frying without overpowering the taste.
- → Can I prepare the donuts ahead of time?
Yes, donuts can be fried and cooled in advance; decorate just before serving to maintain the bright glaze and crisp texture.
- → How do I achieve the vibrant red glaze color?
Use gel food coloring for an intense hue without thinning the glaze, mixing it gradually until the desired shade is reached.
- → Are there any tips for shaping the donuts?
Lightly flour your hands and use a small cutter or bottle cap to create uniform holes, ensuring even frying and classic shape.
- → What alternatives exist for the belt buckle decoration?
Yellow chocolate candies or fondant squares work well, providing a bright and festive accent on each donut.