Red Velvet Donuts with Glaze

If you’re a fan of classic red velvet cake, you’re going to love these Red Velvet Donuts with Glaze. They combine the rich, velvety flavor we adore with the delightful shape of donuts. Perfect for breakfast, a sweet snack, or a special occasion, these donuts are sure to impress. With their vibrant color and luscious glaze, they’re not just delicious but also a feast for the eyes. Get ready to dive into a world of flavor and fun with this easy-to-follow recipe!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

These Red Velvet Donuts with Glaze are soft, fluffy, and bursting with a hint of cocoa flavor. The red hue is not only eye-catching but also adds a festive touch to any gathering. Whether you’re serving them at a brunch, birthday party, or just treating yourself, these donuts will be a hit. Plus, the glaze is creamy and sweet, making each bite an indulgent experience. Trust me when I say that once you try these donuts, they’ll become a favorite in your baking repertoire.

What Goes In

To make these delectable donuts, you’ll need the following ingredients:

• 2 packages active dry yeast (1/4-ounce)
• 1/4 cup warm water
• 1 1/2 cups lukewarm milk
• 1/2 cup sugar
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 2 large eggs
• 1/3 cup vegetable shortening
• 5 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 tablespoon unsweetened cocoa powder
• 1 tablespoon red liquid food color
• Vegetable oil (for frying)
• 2 cups confectioners’ sugar
• 2 tablespoons milk
• 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract

Equipment & Tools

Before you start, gather the following equipment and tools:

• Mixing bowls – For combining your ingredients.
• Whisk – To mix the dry ingredients and liquids.
• Rolling pin – For rolling out the donut dough.
• Donut cutter – Essential for shaping your donuts.
• Deep fryer or heavy pot – For frying the donuts.
• Cooling rack – To cool the donuts after frying.
• Measuring cups and spoons – For accurate measurements.

Build Red Velvet Donuts with Glaze Step by Step

Now that you have your ingredients and tools ready, let’s get started on making these scrumptious Red Velvet Donuts with Glaze.

Step 1: Activate the Yeast

In a small bowl, combine the warm water and active dry yeast. Allow it to sit for about 5-10 minutes until it becomes frothy. This step is crucial as it activates the yeast, ensuring your donuts rise beautifully.

Step 2: Mix the Wet Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, combine the lukewarm milk, sugar, salt, eggs, and vegetable shortening. Whisk together until smooth. Once the yeast mixture is frothy, add it to this bowl and mix well.

Step 3: Combine Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, cocoa powder, and red liquid food color. Gradually add this mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing until a dough forms.

Step 4: Knead the Dough

Turn the dough out onto a floured surface and knead for about 5-7 minutes until it is smooth and elastic. Be careful not to add too much flour, as you want the dough to be soft.

Step 5: First Rise

Place the kneaded dough in a greased bowl, cover it with a clean kitchen towel, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1-1.5 hours, or until it doubles in size.

Step 6: Shape the Donuts

Once the dough has risen, punch it down to release the air. Roll it out to about 1/2 inch thickness. Use a donut cutter to cut out shapes, placing them on a floured surface as you go.

Step 7: Second Rise

Cover the shaped donuts with a kitchen towel and let them rise again for about 30 minutes. This helps them become light and fluffy.

Step 8: Heat the Oil

In a deep fryer or heavy pot, heat vegetable oil to 350°F (175°C). Be sure to use enough oil for the donuts to float while frying.

Step 9: Fry the Donuts

Carefully place the donuts in the hot oil, a few at a time, ensuring not to overcrowd the pan. Fry for about 2-3 minutes on each side until they are golden brown. Remove them with a slotted spoon and place them on a cooling rack.

Step 10: Prepare the Glaze

In a medium bowl, whisk together the confectioners’ sugar, milk, and vanilla extract until smooth. Adjust the consistency by adding more milk or sugar as needed.

Step 11: Glaze the Donuts

Once the donuts are cool, dip the tops into the glaze, allowing any excess to drip off. Place them back on the cooling rack to set.

Tailor It to Your Diet

If you have dietary restrictions or preferences, here are some ways to tailor this recipe:

• Gluten-free: Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend.
• Dairy-free: Use almond milk or any plant-based milk in place of regular milk.
• Lower sugar: Reduce the sugar in the glaze or use a sugar substitute.
• Vegan: Replace eggs with flax eggs (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 2.5 tablespoons water per egg) and use vegan shortening.

Mistakes That Ruin Red Velvet Donuts with Glaze

Creating the perfect Red Velvet Donuts with Glaze can be tricky if you make common mistakes. Here’s what to watch out for:

• Not letting the dough rise enough can lead to dense donuts.
• Overkneading the dough may result in tough donuts.
• Frying at incorrect temperatures can cause greasy or undercooked donuts.
• Skipping the glaze can leave the donuts tasting flat and less indulgent.

Storage Pro Tips

To keep your Red Velvet Donuts with Glaze fresh and delicious, consider the following storage tips:

• Store leftover donuts in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days.
• For longer storage, refrigerate them for up to a week.
• You can freeze unglazed donuts. Just thaw and glaze them when you’re ready to enjoy.
• Reheat in the microwave for a few seconds for a freshly baked feel.

Common Qs About Red Velvet Donuts with Glaze

Can I make these donuts ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the dough and shape the donuts a day in advance. Just refrigerate the shaped donuts and bring them to room temperature before frying.

What can I use instead of vegetable shortening?

You can replace vegetable shortening with unsalted butter or coconut oil for a different flavor profile.

How do I know when my donuts are done frying?

Donuts are done when they are a deep golden brown on both sides. You can also use a thermometer to check the oil temperature; it should remain around 350°F (175°C).

Can I add sprinkles to the glaze?

Absolutely! Sprinkles are a fun way to add color and texture. Just sprinkle them on the glaze while it’s still wet for the best adhesion.

Reader Favorites

If you’re looking for more delicious recipes, you might enjoy these reader favorites:

• Chocolate Chip Cookies
• Best Banana Bread
• Simple Vegan Chocolate Cake

The Last Word

These Red Velvet Donuts with Glaze are a delightful treat that’s sure to brighten anyone’s day. With their soft texture, rich flavor, and beautiful appearance, they’re perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or just starting, this recipe is straightforward and rewarding. Enjoy the process, and don’t forget to share with friends and family—after all, homemade donuts are best enjoyed together!