Save to Pinterest Festive, pillowy donuts decorated to resemble Santas iconic red suit—perfect for holiday breakfasts or parties.
Ingredients
- 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:
- Vegetable oil for frying:
- 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.
Save to Pinterest 
Save to Pinterest This festive recipe is a joyful holiday treat that brings Santa charm to your table.
Recipe FAQs
- → What oil is best for frying these donuts?
Vegetable oil is recommended for frying due to its neutral flavor and high smoke point, ensuring golden, crispy results.
- → How do I achieve the vibrant red glaze?
Whisk powdered sugar with milk for a smooth glaze, then add red gel food coloring until you reach a bright, festive hue.
- → Can I prepare these donuts ahead of time?
You can fry the donuts in advance and store them cooled. Decorate just before serving to maintain freshness and glaze shine.
- → What alternatives exist for the chocolate belts?
Mini chocolate chips or melted dark chocolate piped across the donuts create the belt effect, while yellow candies or fondant mimic the buckle.
- → How do I add extra holiday flavor?
Incorporate a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg into the batter to enhance the festive aroma and taste.