Pin it Festive, pillowy donuts decorated to resemble Santas iconic red suit perfect for holiday breakfasts or parties.
I love making these donuts every holiday season since they bring joy and smiles to the whole family.
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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
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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 This recipe always brings the family together for a fun decorating session before the holidays.
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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.
Nutritional Information
310 calories, 12 g total fat, 47 g carbohydrates, 5 g protein per donut.
Pin it 
Santas Belly Donuts make for a festive treat that is both fun to make and delicious to eat.
Common Questions
- → What is the best oil for frying these donuts?
Vegetable oil works best due to its high smoke point, ensuring even frying and a golden crust without burning.
- → How do I keep the donuts pillowy and light?
Mix the batter until just combined to avoid overworking the dough, which helps maintain a soft and tender texture.
- → Can I prepare the glaze ahead of time?
Yes, the powdered sugar glaze can be mixed and tinted in advance but should be kept covered to prevent drying out.
- → How do I make the Santa belt decorations stay on?
Use melted chocolate or mini chocolate chips as adhesive before placing the yellow candy or fondant; allow time to set before serving.
- → Are there any seasoning options to enhance flavor?
Adding a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the batter adds warm, festive notes that complement the sweetness and richness.
