If you’re dreaming of a festive treat that combines warmth, spice, and a little holiday magic, you’re going to adore this Christmas Doughnuts Recipe. These doughnuts are light, fluffy, and infused with the cozy flavors of cinnamon and nutmeg to bring that unmistakable Christmas cheer right to your kitchen. Whether you want a fun activity to do with family or a sweet way to celebrate the season, this recipe offers everything you need to create doughnuts that look as joyful as they taste.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering the right ingredients is key, but don’t be daunted! Each component in this Christmas Doughnuts Recipe plays a vital role, delivering the perfect balance of texture, flavor, and that classic doughnut softness that everyone loves.
- 2 cups all-purpose flour: The foundation for a tender, fluffy dough, making sure your doughnuts rise perfectly.
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar: Adds subtle sweetness and helps with browning during frying.
- 2 teaspoons baking powder: Gives your doughnuts the necessary lift for a light, airy crumb.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt: Enhances all the flavors and balances sweetness.
- 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg: Adds a warm, slightly nutty, and festive hint to your doughnuts.
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon: Classic holiday spice that makes every bite cozy and flavorful.
- 2 large eggs: Bind the ingredients and help create structure and richness.
- 3/4 cup milk: Keeps the dough moist and tender for the perfect soft bite.
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract: Adds aromatic sweetness and depth to the doughnuts.
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted: Adds richness and helps keep the doughnut dough soft.
- Vegetable oil for frying: Essential for achieving that perfect golden, crispy exterior.
- 1 1/2 cups powdered sugar: Base for the glaze, giving a sweet, smooth finish.
- 2 tablespoons milk: Creates the perfect glaze consistency.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: For the glaze, adding an extra pop of flavor.
- Red and green sprinkles (for garnish): Festive touches that bring your doughnuts joy and Christmas spirit.
How to Make Christmas Doughnuts Recipe
Step 1: Mix Dry Ingredients
Start by whisking together your flour, sugar, baking powder, salt, nutmeg, and cinnamon in a large bowl. Combining the spices with the flour now ensures every doughnut gets that evenly distributed festive flavor we all crave this season.
Step 2: Combine Wet Ingredients
In a separate bowl, beat your eggs and then add in the milk, vanilla extract, and melted butter. Mixing these wet ingredients thoroughly creates a rich, smooth base that will make your doughnuts tender yet cakey. When you combine the wet ingredients with the dry, do it gradually and stir just until combined—overmixing can make doughnuts tough, and we want soft, fluffy delights!
Step 3: Prepare the Frying Oil
Pour vegetable oil into a deep pan or fryer—it’s important to have enough for the doughnuts to float while frying. Heat the oil to 350°F (175°C) for the best golden, crispy finish. Use a candy thermometer if you have one—temperature control is crucial here!
Step 4: Shape and Fry the Doughnuts
Using a spoon or a small scoop, carefully drop spoonfuls of your dough into the hot oil. Fry a few at a time to avoid crowding, turning after about 1-2 minutes when golden brown. The other side will need another 1-2 minutes to cook through. Once done, transfer to a paper towel-lined plate to drain any excess oil—this keeps them light, not greasy.
Step 5: Make the Vanilla Glaze
Whisk together powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract until smooth and glossy. This simple glaze melts perfectly on warm doughnuts, giving that irresistible sweet coating with just a hint of vanilla that makes these Christmas doughnuts truly special.
Step 6: Glaze and Decorate
Dip each doughnut into the glaze or drizzle it on top, then sprinkle with red and green sprinkles while the glaze is still wet. This final step transforms your doughnuts into holiday treats that are as fun to look at as they are to eat.
How to Serve Christmas Doughnuts Recipe
Garnishes
The red and green sprinkles are classic and festive, but don’t stop there—powdered sugar dusting or a sprinkle of edible glitter can bring your doughnuts to the next level. Fresh mint leaves or small cranberries on the side add lovely color and a fresh burst of flavor to each bite.
Side Dishes
Serve these Christmas doughnuts with a cup of hot cocoa, mulled cider, or a warm spiced latte for a cozy holiday experience. A side of fresh fruit salad or whipped cream also pairs wonderfully, balancing out sweetness and adding a refreshing twist.
Creative Ways to Present
Arrange your doughnuts on a festive platter layered with pine branches or holly for an eye-catching centerpiece. You can also stack them into a donut tower tied with a ribbon to impress guests or package them individually in cute boxes for thoughtful holiday gifts.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store leftover doughnuts in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. This keeps them soft and prevents them from drying out, but you’ll definitely want to enjoy them fresh since doughnuts are at their best right after frying.
Freezing
To freeze, place cooled and unglazed doughnuts on a baking sheet, freeze until solid, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag. Frozen doughnuts keep well for up to one month. When you’re ready, thaw at room temperature before glazing and decorating.
Reheating
Reheat doughnuts in a microwave for about 15 seconds or pop them in a warm oven (around 325°F) for 5 minutes. This refreshes their soft texture perfectly. Avoid prolonged heating to maintain the doughnuts’ tender crumb.
FAQs
Can I bake these doughnuts instead of frying?
Absolutely! You can bake the doughnuts at 375°F for about 10-12 minutes until golden. The texture will be lighter and less crispy but still deliciously flavored and festive.
Can I substitute the milk with a non-dairy option?
Yes, any plant-based milk like almond, oat, or soy milk works perfectly in this recipe without compromising the doughnut’s taste or texture.
Why does the recipe use nutmeg and cinnamon?
Nutmeg and cinnamon are traditional holiday spices that add warmth and depth, evoking the cozy feelings associated with Christmas flavors, making the doughnuts special and seasonal.
How do I know when the oil is at the right temperature?
The oil should be at about 350°F for frying. Using a thermometer is best, but if you don’t have one, drop a small piece of dough—if it sizzles and rises immediately without browning too fast, the temperature is just right.
What’s the best way to get the glaze smooth?
Slowly add milk to the powdered sugar and whisk continuously to avoid lumps. If the glaze is too thick, add a teaspoon more milk at a time; if too thin, add more powdered sugar until you get a smooth, pourable consistency perfect for coating.
Final Thoughts
This Christmas Doughnuts Recipe is a wonderful way to infuse your holidays with fun, flavor, and festive spirit. I encourage you to roll up your sleeves, gather your loved ones, and dive into making these delightful doughnuts that are sure to bring joy, smiles, and the warmest memories. Trust me, once you try these, they’ll become a treasured holiday tradition.
Print
Christmas Doughnuts Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 12 doughnuts
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: American
Description
Celebrate the holidays with festive Christmas Doughnuts that are fluffy, spiced with cinnamon and nutmeg, and topped with a sweet vanilla glaze and colorful red and green sprinkles. These homemade doughnuts are fried to golden perfection and perfect for sharing during holiday gatherings.
Ingredients
Doughnuts
- 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
Glaze & Garnish
- 1 1/2 cups powdered sugar
- 2 tablespoons milk
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Red and green sprinkles (for garnish)
Instructions
- Prepare Dry Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, baking powder, salt, ground nutmeg, and ground cinnamon until evenly combined. This step ensures your doughnuts have a balanced spice and rise.
- Mix Wet Ingredients: In another bowl, beat the eggs, then add milk, vanilla extract, and melted unsalted butter. Whisk these ingredients together until smooth and well combined.
- Combine Ingredients: Gradually pour the wet mixture into the dry ingredients, stirring gently until just combined. Avoid overmixing to keep the doughnuts light and fluffy.
- Heat Oil: In a deep skillet or heavy pot, heat vegetable oil to 350°F (175°C). Use a thermometer to maintain a steady temperature which is crucial for proper frying without soggy or burnt doughnuts.
- Fry Doughnuts: Carefully drop spoonfuls of dough into the hot oil, frying a few at a time to avoid crowding. Fry each doughnut for about 1-2 minutes per side until golden brown, flipping them halfway through for even cooking. Use a slotted spoon to remove them and drain excess oil on paper towels.
- Make Glaze and Decorate: While the doughnuts cool slightly, whisk powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract in a bowl until smooth to create the vanilla glaze. Dip the top of each warm doughnut in the glaze, then sprinkle with festive red and green sprinkles for a holiday touch. Allow the glaze to set before serving.
Notes
- Maintain oil temperature around 350°F to prevent greasy doughnuts.
- Do not overmix the batter; a few lumps are okay to keep doughnuts tender.
- You can substitute milk with a dairy-free alternative to make this recipe lactose-free.
- Let doughnuts cool slightly before glazing to avoid melting the glaze completely.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 2 days; reheat gently before serving.
