If warm, soft, and irresistibly festive treats are what you crave this holiday season, then you absolutely must try the Baked Eggnog Donuts with Holiday Spices and Eggnog Glaze Recipe. These donuts perfectly capture the magic of the holidays by blending classic holiday spices and creamy eggnog into a light, tender baked donut. Finished off with a sweet and spiced eggnog glaze, they bring together warmth and sweetness in every bite, making them a standout addition to your Christmas morning or any cozy winter gathering. Trust me, once you taste these, they’ll become an instant favorite you want to make year after year.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity and the careful choice of ingredients that each play a key role in crafting those iconic holiday flavors and that perfect soft texture. From the warm cinnamon and nutmeg that make your kitchen smell heavenly to the creamy richness of eggnog tying it all together, every ingredient is essential for bringing this festive delight to life.
- All-purpose flour: Provides the tender crumb and structure for the donuts.
- Granulated sugar: Adds just the right amount of sweetness to balance the spices.
- Baking powder: Helps the donuts rise and stay light and fluffy.
- Ground nutmeg: Infuses that quintessential holiday warmth and spice.
- Cinnamon: Works alongside nutmeg to enhance the festive flavor profile.
- Salt: Balances sweetness and enhances the overall taste.
- Eggnog: The star ingredient that brings creamy richness and unmistakable holiday charm.
- Large egg: Adds richness and helps bind the ingredients together.
- Melted butter or oil: Keeps the donuts moist and tender.
- Vanilla extract: Rounds out the flavor with a subtle hint of warmth.
- Powdered sugar: Forms the base of the luscious eggnog glaze.
- Additional eggnog for glaze: Creates a smooth, pourable consistency and deepens the festive flavor.
- Pinch of nutmeg (optional for glaze): Adds a pretty finishing touch with extra spice.
How to Make Baked Eggnog Donuts with Holiday Spices and Eggnog Glaze Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Pan
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (180°C). While it heats up, generously grease your donut pan so your beautiful baked donuts slide right out without a hitch. A well-greased pan ensures those perfectly shaped donuts with soft edges.
Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients
In a mixing bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, baking powder, ground nutmeg, cinnamon, and salt. Combining the dry ingredients first helps distribute those holiday spices evenly throughout the batter, so every bite sings with flavor.
Step 3: Incorporate the Wet Ingredients
Next, pour in the eggnog, crack in the large egg, add the melted butter (or oil), and drizzle in the vanilla extract. Stir gently until just combined—be careful not to overmix, or your donuts might turn dense instead of delightfully light.
Step 4: Fill and Bake Your Donuts
Using a piping bag or spoon, fill each donut well about three-quarters full with the batter. This ensures the donuts have room to rise while keeping their signature shape. Pop the pan into your preheated oven and bake for 9 to 11 minutes. You’ll know they’re ready when you gently press the top, and the donut springs back.
Step 5: Cool and Prepare for Glazing
Let your heavenly donuts cool in the pan for about 5 minutes to firm up slightly, then transfer them to a cooling rack. This step is important because dipping the donuts while warm might cause the glaze to slide right off.
Step 6: Whip Up the Eggnog Glaze
While your donuts cool, whisk together powdered sugar and enough eggnog to create a smooth, pourable glaze. If you like a touch of extra spice, sprinkle in a pinch of nutmeg. This glaze is sweet, creamy, and packs that signature eggnog flavor that makes these donuts unforgettable.
Step 7: Glaze the Donuts
Dip each cooled donut into the eggnog glaze, letting the excess drip off before placing them back on the rack to set. This final touch adds a shiny, sweet layer that perfectly complements the warm spices inside.
How to Serve Baked Eggnog Donuts with Holiday Spices and Eggnog Glaze Recipe
Garnishes
For a visually stunning and flavorful finishing touch, sprinkle a light dusting of extra ground nutmeg or a sprinkle of crushed pistachios over the glazed donuts. A few festive sprinkles or edible gold glitter can also turn these donuts into stunning holiday showstoppers that look as good as they taste.
Side Dishes
Pair these donuts with a hot cup of spiced coffee, chai latte, or even a glass of cold eggnog for a double dose of holiday cheer. Fresh fruit like cranberry compote or orange slices can add brightness and a refreshing punch balancing the donut’s rich flavors.
Creative Ways to Present
Arrange your donuts on a festive platter dusted with powdered sugar or place them in a decorative box tied with a ribbon as a delightful homemade gift. You can even serve mini donuts skewered on sticks for easy party munching or fill a tiered dessert stand for an elegant holiday brunch display.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once your Baked Eggnog Donuts with Holiday Spices and Eggnog Glaze Recipe are cooled and glazed, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. This keeps them soft and fresh, though they are best enjoyed the day they are made for that perfect tender crumb and freshly glazed taste.
Freezing
If you want to prepare ahead for a busy holiday morning, freeze unglazed donuts in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag for up to two months. When ready to serve, just thaw and dip in the eggnog glaze for that fresh baked feel.
Reheating
To revive leftover donuts, warm them gently in a toaster oven or microwave for about 10 seconds. Be careful not to overheat or they may dry out. If you froze them, let them thaw fully before reheating and glazing.
FAQs
Can I make these donuts dairy-free?
Absolutely! Use a dairy-free version of eggnog and swap the butter for vegan butter or oil. The batter still turns out wonderfully moist and flavorful, making this recipe great for those with dairy restrictions.
What is the best way to fill the donut pan?
A piping bag works like a charm for evenly filling each well without making a mess. If you don’t have one, use two spoons to carefully scoop the batter into the pan so you can control the amount better.
Can I use regular milk instead of eggnog?
You can, but the eggnog is what truly makes these donuts special. If you don’t have eggnog on hand, milk with a little extra vanilla and spices added can work in a pinch, but try to get genuine eggnog for that unbeatable holiday flavor.
How do I prevent the donuts from sticking to the pan?
Generous greasing is key—use baking spray with flour or brush the donut pan with melted butter before adding batter. Letting the donuts cool slightly in the pan also helps them release easily.
Can I make mini versions of these donuts?
Yes! Just adjust the baking time to about 6-7 minutes, watching closely so they don’t overbake. Mini donuts are perfect for sharing and make pretty party bites.
Final Thoughts
The Baked Eggnog Donuts with Holiday Spices and Eggnog Glaze Recipe is such a joyful way to bring traditional holiday flavors into a fun and easy treat that everyone will love. These donuts are perfect for sharing, gifting, or simply making your own winter mornings a little brighter and cozier. I can’t wait for you to try this recipe and see how it adds that extra dose of magic to your holiday celebrations!
