Santa Belly Festive Donuts

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

This recipe became a family favorite that we enjoy decorating together each year.

Ingredients

• 2 cups all-purpose flour: main dry ingredient for the donuts
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar: adds sweetness
• 2 tsp baking powder: leavening agent
• 1/2 tsp salt: enhances flavor
• 1/2 cup whole milk: moisture for dough
• 2 large eggs: binds mixture
• 1/4 cup unsalted butter melted: richness
• 1 tsp vanilla extract: flavoring
• Vegetable oil for frying: frying medium
• 2 cups powdered sugar: for glaze
• 2 3 tbsp milk: to adjust glaze consistency
• Red gel food coloring: festive glaze color
• 1/2 cup mini chocolate chips or melted dark chocolate: decorative belt
• 8 yellow chocolate candies or yellow fondant: 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.

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My kids love helping decorate with the chocolate and candies which makes this a joyful holiday tradition.

Notes

For a shortcut, use store-bought plain donuts and focus on decorating Add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the batter for extra holiday flavor Pair with hot cocoa or coffee for a cozy treat.

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.

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These Santa Belly Donuts bring holiday cheer and delicious fun with every bite.

Recipe FAQ

→ What type of flour works best?

All-purpose flour provides the ideal balance for a soft yet sturdy donut texture.

→ How do I achieve the red glaze color?

Use red gel food coloring mixed into a powdered sugar glaze for a vibrant, smooth finish.

→ Can I bake instead of fry these?

While frying yields the classic texture and color, baking at high heat can be a lighter alternative but may alter the crust.

→ How to shape the donuts with holes?

Form dough balls, flatten slightly, then use a floured cap or small cutter to create the center hole before frying.

→ What decorations create the Santa belt effect?

Pipe melted chocolate or place mini chocolate chips horizontally across the donut, topped with a yellow candy or fondant buckle.