Copycat Dunkin Donuts Christmas Donuts Recipe

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One of the best parts of the holidays is walking into a Dunkin’ and being greeted by the smell of freshly baked Dunkin Donuts Christmas Donuts. From the vibrant red-and-green sprinkles to the rich, comforting flavors that instantly feel like Christmas, Dunkin Donuts’ holiday creations are pure magic.

How to make Dunkin Donuts Christmas Donuts

Dunkin’ Donuts Christmas Donuts are limited-time, holiday-themed donuts sold by Dunkin’ during the Christmas season, typically decorated with festive icing, colors, shapes, or seasonal flavors to celebrate the holidays.

Ingredients

For the Donut Dough:

• 2 ¾ cups all-purpose flour (plus extra for dusting)
• 2 ¼ tsp active dry yeast (equivalent to one packet)
• ¼ cup warm milk (about 110°F or warm to the touch)
• ⅓ cup granulated sugar
• ½ tsp salt
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 3 large egg yolks
• ⅓ cup unsalted butter (softened and at room temperature)
• ½ cup warm water

For the Glaze:

• 2 cups powdered sugar
• 3-4 tbsp milk (adjust for desired thickness)
• 1 tsp vanilla extract or almond extract for added flavor
• Few drops of red and green food coloring (to make festive Christmas glazes)

For Decoration:

• Holiday-themed sprinkles (red, green, gold, white, or star-shaped)
• White chocolate shavings (optional)
• Crushed candy canes for a peppermint twist

Instructions

Step 1: Make the Dough

1. In a small bowl, combine the warm milk, 1 tablespoon of the sugar, and active dry yeast. Let it sit for 5-10 minutes until it froths—it means the yeast is activated!
2. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, remaining sugar, and salt.
3. Add the yeast mixture, egg yolks, vanilla, warm water, and softened butter to the dry ingredients. Mix until the dough begins to form.
4. Knead the dough on a floured surface for 8-10 minutes, or until smooth and elastic. Alternatively, use a stand mixer with a dough hook for about 5-6 minutes.
5. Place the dough in a lightly greased bowl, cover with a clean towel, and let it rise in a warm place for 1-1.5 hours, or until doubled in size.

Step 2: Shape the Donuts

1. Once the dough has risen, punch it down to release the air.
2. Roll out the dough to about ½ inch thickness on a floured surface.
3. Use a donut cutter (or a large round cutter with a smaller round cutter for the center hole) to shape donuts. Save the centers to make donut holes (or munchkins!).
4. Place the donuts and donut holes on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Cover again with a clean towel and let them rise for another 30-45 minutes until puffy.

Step 3: Fry the Donuts

1. Heat oil in a deep fryer or large pot to 350°F (175°C). Use a kitchen thermometer to ensure the oil stays at the right temperature.
2. Carefully drop in 2-3 donuts at a time, frying for about 1-2 minutes per side or until golden brown. Use a slotted spoon to flip the donuts and remove them when done.
3. Transfer the fried donuts to a plate lined with paper towels to drain excess oil.

Step 4: Make the Glaze

1. In a medium mixing bowl, whisk together the powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract until smooth and slightly runny.
2. Divide the glaze into separate bowls and color each with festive red and green food coloring to make the donuts shine with Christmas spirit!

Step 5: Decorate the Donuts

1. Once the donuts have cooled slightly, dip the top of each one into the glaze and let the excess drip off.
2. While the glaze is still wet, sprinkle holiday sprinkles, crushed candy canes, or even drizzle with white chocolate for added flair.
3. Let the decorated donuts sit on a wire rack until the glaze sets.

Tips for Success

• Proofing the Dough: Always ensure your milk and water are warm (not hot!)—around 110°F. If it’s too hot, it will kill the yeast. If it’s too cold, the yeast won’t activate.
• Cutting the Donuts: Gently press the cutters and avoid overhandling the dough to keep them light and fluffy after frying.
• Frying Temperature Matters: Maintain consistent oil temperature to avoid greasy or undercooked donuts. Too hot, and they’ll burn on the outside!
• Glazing Tip: Glaze while donuts are still warm (but not hot!), so the glaze sets beautifully.
• Add Flavors: You can add festive flavors like cinnamon or nutmeg to your dough for extra holiday warmth.

What to serve with

There’s nothing quite as joyful as indulging in freshly made, festive Dunkin Donuts Christmas Donuts during the holiday season.

1. Classic Hot Coffee: Dunkin’ and donuts go hand in hand, so why not brew fresh coffee at home? Opt for holiday-inspired flavors like peppermint mocha, gingerbread coffee, or just a bold, dark roast with cream and sugar.

2. Hot Chocolate Bar: Serve your donuts with a rich, creamy hot chocolate for the ultimate Christmas morning feel.

3. Eggnog: This creamy, festive beverage goes beautifully with sweet donuts. Serve warm or chilled, with a dash of nutmeg on top, or even spike it with a little rum for adult gatherings.

4. Spiced Chai Tea or Holiday Teas: The warm, spicy flavors of chai (think cinnamon, cardamom, and cloves) pair wonderfully with sugary Dunkin Donuts Christmas Donuts. Holiday-themed teas like cranberry spice or cinnamon orange are also delightful options.

5. Mulled Wine or Mocktail: For a cozy evening treat, pair your donuts with a warm cup of spiced mulled wine or a non-alcoholic apple cider mocktail infused with cinnamon sticks and orange slices. It balances the sweetness of the donuts with fruity, spiced undertones.

Final Thoughts

Your Dunkin Donuts Christmas Donuts are now ready to wow your family, friends, or even just yourself! These festive delights are perfect for holiday breakfast spreads, cozy coffee breaks, or edible gifting.

More Dunkin’ Recipes:

• Copycat Dunkin’ Chipotle Wrap Recipe