What makes these donuts festive?

The bright red glaze paired with chocolate chips and yellow candy mimics Santa’s iconic suit, adding holiday cheer.

How do I achieve the perfect donut texture?

Use fresh ingredients and avoid overmixing the batter. Frying at 350°F ensures a golden, fluffy result.

Yes, donuts can be fried ahead and decorated just before serving to maintain freshness and appearance.

Adding a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the batter enhances warmth and holiday spice notes.

Hot cocoa or a fresh morning coffee perfectly complement the sweet and soft donuts for a cozy treat.

A zip-top bag with a small corner cut or simple piping bags work well for applying chocolate and other decorations.

Festive, pillowy donuts decorated to resemble Santas iconic red suit—perfect for holiday breakfasts or parties.

I remember making these with my family every holiday season which made our mornings extra special.

2 cups all-purpose flour: Base for the donuts
1/2 cup granulated sugar: Adds sweetness
2 tsp baking powder: Helps donuts rise
1/2 tsp salt: Balances flavors
1/2 cup whole milk: Moistens dough
2 large eggs: Binds ingredients
1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted: Adds richness
1 tsp vanilla extract: Flavor enhancer
Vegetable oil, for frying: Frying medium
2 cups powdered sugar: For glaze
2–3 tbsp milk: For glaze consistency
Red gel food coloring: For festive glaze color
1/2 cup mini chocolate chips or melted dark chocolate: For Santas belt decoration
8 yellow chocolate candies (such as M&Ms) or yellow fondant for belt buckles: Final decorative detail

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.

This recipe always brings the family together, sharing laughter and sweet bites every holiday.

Make sure not to overmix the dough to keep donuts light. Use a thermometer to maintain oil temperature for even frying.

Store donuts in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. For longer storage, freeze and thaw before decorating.

Try different glazes or sprinkle with powdered sugar. Add cinnamon or nutmeg to the batter for extra holiday flavor.

These Santa Belly Donuts add festive cheer to any gathering and impress guests with their fun look and delicious taste.

→ What makes these donuts festive?: The bright red glaze paired with chocolate chips and yellow candy mimics Santa’s iconic suit, adding holiday cheer.
→ How do I achieve the perfect donut texture?: Use fresh ingredients and avoid overmixing the batter. Frying at 350°F ensures a golden, fluffy result.
→ Can I prepare these donuts in advance?: Yes, donuts can be fried ahead and decorated just before serving to maintain freshness and appearance.
→ Are there any flavor variations recommended?: Adding a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the batter enhances warmth and holiday spice notes.
→ What are good beverage pairings?: Hot cocoa or a fresh morning coffee perfectly complement the sweet and soft donuts for a cozy treat.
→ How can I decorate if I lack frosting tools?: A zip-top bag with a small corner cut or simple piping bags work well for applying chocolate and other decorations.