Christmas Doughnuts

Prep: 30 min Cook: 15 min Serves: 12 Cuisine: American

Festive and flavorful, these Christmas doughnuts feature a rich yeast dough infused with vanilla and spices, perfect for holiday celebrations and sharing with loved ones.

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Ingredients

  • 1 pkg. active dry yeast
  • 1/4 c. warm water
  • 2 eggs
  • 1 c. whipping cream
  • 1 tsp. vanilla
  • 1/3 c. sugar
  • 3 1/2 c. all-purpose flour
  • 3 tsp. baking powder
  • 1/4 tsp. ground cinnamon
  • 1 tsp. salt
  • 1/4 tsp. ground nutmeg
  • vegetable oil

Instructions

  1. Dissolve yeast in warm water in a large bowl.
  2. Beat eggs, whipping cream, vanilla, and sugar until light and fluffy.
  3. Stir the egg mixture into the yeast mixture.
  4. Add the remaining ingredients except oil and stir until the dough is soft and easy to handle.

Tips & Substitutions

For best results, ensure the water is warm but not hot, as high temperatures can kill the yeast. If you’d like a lighter texture, consider substituting half the all-purpose flour with cake flour. You can also add a pinch of lemon zest for a hint of brightness. Always allow the dough to rise in a warm, draft-free place for optimal yeast activity.

Serving Suggestions

These Christmas doughnuts are delightful when dusted with powdered sugar or drizzled with a simple glaze. They pair beautifully with a hot cup of coffee or a festive spiced tea. For a special touch, serve alongside Eleanore Alborano'S Sugar-Free Apple Pie for a delicious dessert spread.

Storage & Reheating

Store leftover doughnuts in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. For longer storage, you can freeze them in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer bag, where they will last for up to a month. To reheat, bake in a preheated oven at 350°F until warm.

Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)

Each serving of Christmas Doughnuts contains roughly 435 calories, with 5g protein, 46g carbohydrates, and 26g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (56% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium and iron. It also contributes 16g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.

435 kcal 22% DV
Protein Fat Carbs

Macronutrients

Protein 5.4g 11% DV
Total Fat 26.1g 33% DV
Carbs 46.5g 17% DV
Fiber 15.8g 56% DV
Sugar 2.7g 5% DV

Electrolytes

Sodium 352.9mg 15% DV
Potassium 329.4mg 7% DV
Cholesterol 17.4mg 6% DV

Vitamins & Minerals

Vitamin A 9mcg 1% DV
Vitamin C 5.2mg 6% DV
Calcium 252.7mg 19% DV
Iron 2.7mg 15% DV
Diet fit High-fiber
Contains Milk Egg Wheat/Gluten

Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.

* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make the doughnuts ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the dough in advance and let it rise overnight in the refrigerator. Just allow it to come to room temperature before rolling and frying. This method can enhance the flavors and save time on the day you plan to serve them.

What should I do if my dough doesn't rise?

If your dough doesn't rise, it may be due to inactive yeast or a too-cool environment. Check the yeast's expiration date and ensure that you dissolved it in warm water (about 110°F). You can also try placing the bowl in a slightly warm oven to encourage rising.

Can I use a different type of oil for frying?

Yes, you can use other neutral oils like canola or sunflower oil for frying. However, avoid oils with strong flavors, such as olive oil, which can alter the taste of the doughnuts. Ensure the oil is hot enough before frying to avoid greasy results.

Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).

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