Name: Christmas Doughnuts
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 cups all-purpose flour; 1/2 cup granulated sugar; 2 teaspoons baking powder; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg; 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon; 2 large eggs; 3/4 cup milk; 2 teaspoons vanilla extract; 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted; Vegetable oil for frying; 1 1/2 cups powdered sugar; 2 tablespoons milk; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; Red and green sprinkles (for garnish)

These festive Christmas doughnuts are a delightful holiday treat. With their soft and fluffy base, sweet glaze, and colorful sprinkles, they’re perfect for brightening up any holiday morning or gathering. Whether you’re sharing them with family or enjoying them alongside a cozy cup of cocoa, these doughnuts are sure to become a favorite holiday tradition.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

They’re quick and easy to make, with a total prep and cook time of just 30 minutes.

The combination of warm spices like nutmeg and cinnamon gives the doughnuts a festive, comforting flavor.

The vibrant red and green sprinkles add a cheerful holiday touch that kids and adults will adore.

You can customize the glaze and toppings to suit your preferences.

They’re perfect for sharing, making them ideal for parties, brunches, or gifting.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

For the Doughnuts:

2 cups all-purpose flour

1/2 cup granulated sugar

1/2 teaspoon salt

2 teaspoons baking powder

1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg

1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon

2 large eggs

3/4 cup milk

2 teaspoons vanilla extract

1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted

Vegetable oil for frying

For the Glaze:

1 1/2 cups powdered sugar

2 tablespoons milk

1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Red and green sprinkles (for garnish)

Directions

Prepare the Doughnuts
In a large bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, salt, nutmeg, and cinnamon.
In a separate bowl, beat eggs, milk, vanilla extract, and melted butter until combined. Gradually add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients, stirring until just combined. The dough should be thick but slightly sticky.

Shape the Doughnuts
Lightly flour your hands and a surface to roll out the dough. Roll the dough to about 1/2 inch thick. Use a doughnut cutter or two round cookie cutters (one large and one small for the hole) to cut out the doughnuts.

Fry the Doughnuts
Heat 2 inches of vegetable oil in a deep pan or fryer to 350°F (175°C). Carefully drop the doughnuts into the oil, a few at a time, frying for 2-3 minutes per side until golden brown. Remove and drain on a paper towel-lined plate.

Make the Glaze
In a small bowl, whisk powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract until smooth. Adjust the consistency by adding milk if needed.

Glaze the Doughnuts
Dip the warm doughnuts into the glaze, coating them generously. Immediately garnish with red and green sprinkles.

Serve
Allow the glaze to set before serving. Enjoy!

Servings and Timing

Servings: 12 doughnuts

Prep Time: 15 minutes

Cooking Time: 15 minutes

Total Time: 30 minutes

Calories: Approximately 220 kcal per doughnut

Variations

Chocolate Lovers: Add a tablespoon of cocoa powder to the glaze for a chocolate twist.

Spice It Up: Incorporate a pinch of ground cloves or ginger for extra holiday warmth.

Decorative Options: Use gold and silver sprinkles or mini edible stars for an elegant touch.

Baked Doughnuts: Skip the frying and bake the doughnuts at 375°F (190°C) for 10-12 minutes instead.

Filled Doughnuts: Pipe in a little jam or custard for a surprise center.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Store the doughnuts in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days.

Freezing: Freeze unglazed doughnuts for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature and glaze before serving.

Reheating: Warm in the microwave for 10-15 seconds or in an oven at 300°F (150°C) for a few minutes.

Related Recipes:

Perfect Yeast Doughnuts

FAQs

How can I tell if the oil is the right temperature for frying?

I like to use a thermometer to ensure the oil is at 350°F (175°C). If you don’t have one, drop a small piece of dough into the oil—it should sizzle and rise to the surface immediately.

Can I make the doughnuts ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the dough a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Bring it to room temperature before shaping and frying.

Why is my glaze too thin?

If the glaze is too thin, add more powdered sugar a tablespoon at a time until it thickens to the desired consistency.

Can I use other toppings instead of sprinkles?

Absolutely! Crushed candy canes, chopped nuts, or shredded coconut work wonderfully.

Do I need special equipment to make these doughnuts?

While a doughnut cutter is handy, two round cookie cutters (or even the rim of a glass and a bottle cap) work just as well.

Conclusion

These Christmas doughnuts are a delightful way to celebrate the holiday season. With their soft texture, warm spices, and festive toppings, they’re sure to be a hit. I love how versatile they are, making it easy to customize them for any occasion. Serve them fresh and warm, and watch them disappear in no time!

📖 Recipe: