Honestly, there’s just something magical about the smell of freshly baked donuts wafting through the house—especially when they’re infused with that warm, spiced goodness of eggnog. I’ve made countless batches of these eggnog donuts over the years, and I swear they never get old. Every bite feels like a little hug from the holidays, even if it’s in the middle of July. The best part? They’re surprisingly simple to whip up, and you don’t need fancy equipment or crazy ingredients. Just good old-fashioned baking love and a little sprinkle of holiday cheer. My kids actually ask for these all the time, especially around Christmas, but I don’t think I’ve ever met anyone who didn’t fall head over heels for their cozy, cinnamon-scented flavor. Honestly, these are my secret weapon when I want to impress friends—or just treat myself after a long day. Trust me on this one—you’re going to want to keep a batch in the freezer at all times. You’ll thank me later!
Thank you for reading this post, don't forget to subscribe!What is Eggnog Donuts?
Eggnog donuts are wonderfully soft, tender donuts infused with the rich flavors of classic eggnog—a holiday staple that’s pretty much synonymous with cozy winter mornings. Think of it as a cross between your favorite spiced latte and that indulgent, creamy drink we all love during December. These donuts are essentially a soft, pillowy treat made with a batter that’s flavored with nutmeg, cinnamon, and a splash of eggnog. They’re fried or baked until golden and then glazed with a sugary, eggnog-based icing that takes them over the top. The name pretty much says it all—these are donuts that taste like little bites of winter magic, perfect for breakfast, brunch, or even dessert. I love that they’re versatile enough to serve any time of day, and they bring back all those nostalgic holiday memories—especially the smell of cinnamon and vanilla waving through the house.
Why you’ll love this recipe?
What I love most about these eggnog donuts is how effortlessly cozy they make my kitchen feel. The aroma alone—that mix of nutmeg, cinnamon, and sweet eggnog—has everyone wandering into the kitchen, nose in the air. The flavor? Pure holiday in every bite. It’s sweet, spicy, and just a little creamy, without feeling heavy or overly rich. Plus, these donuts are remarkably easy to make. You can whip up the batter in under 10 minutes, and if you’re feeling lazy, you can even bake them instead of frying—both work beautifully. Budget-wise, they’re a win: simple pantry ingredients you probably already have, with a splash of eggnog adding all that festive flavor. And the best part? So many ways to enjoy them! Toss them in cinnamon sugar, dip them in chocolate, or go full festive with a whipped cream topping. I’ve made these countless times—and trust me, they disappear in minutes at my house, especially when I add that homemade glaze. They’re just such a crowd-pleaser, and I honestly think they’ll become your new favorite way to celebrate the season.
How do you make Eggnog Donuts?
Quick Overview
This recipe is all about simplicity and flavor. It starts with mixing a few basic ingredients like flour, sugar, and spices, then folding in eggnog to add that rich, seasonal warmth. You can fry these donuts until golden and crispy on the outside while staying soft inside, or bake them for a healthier, equally delicious alternative. Once they’re cooled just slightly, a quick dip in a spiced glaze makes them shine. Honestly, the whole process takes under an hour, and it’s perfect for when those holiday baking cravings hit but you don’t want to fuss too much. Plus, I love making the batter the night before—sometimes I even freeze it… that way, I can have these ready in no time on busy mornings or when friends pop by unexpectedly. It’s comfort food at its best, with a little extra holiday magic poured in.
Ingredients
For the Main Batter:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour (I always opt for unbleached because it’s a bit heartier)
- ¾ cup granulated sugar (trust me, don’t skimp—it makes them delightfully sweet)
- 1 tablespoon baking powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- ½ teaspoon nutmeg (freshly grated if possible—you truly notice the difference)
- ½ cup unsalted butter, melted (or coconut oil for a dairy-free version)
- 2 large eggs
- 1 cup eggnog (the real deal—whole milk eggnog if you can find it)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
For the Filling:
- Optional: Cream cheese or mascarpone for a richer filling
- Can also add chocolate chips or chopped nuts for extra texture
For the Glaze:
“New family favorite! This Creamy Holiday Donuts A Simple Treat was so flavorful and ridiculously easy. Crowd-pleaser for sure.”
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 2-3 tablespoons eggnog (more if you want a thinner glaze)
- ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
- A pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg for garnish
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Preheat & Prep Pan
If frying, preheat your oil to 350°F (175°C). If baking, line a donut pan with non-stick spray or butter generously. I always do this first so I can focus on mixing without rushing—remember, temperature control is key for perfect donuts!
Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients
In a large bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg. This step ensures even distribution of spices and leavening agents, which is crucial for that airy crumb we’re aiming for.
Step 3: Mix Wet Ingredients
In a separate bowl, beat eggs, then add melted butter, eggnog, and vanilla. I like to do this with a whisk until everything’s smooth and slightly frothy—makes the batter nice and homogenous. I’ve tested this with almond milk and a splash of rum—it’s fantastic if you want a twist!
Step 4: Combine
Pour the wet mixture into the dry and gently fold until just combined—don’t overmix or the donuts might be dense. The batter will be somewhat thick but still pourable. If you see clumps, just smush them gently with your spatula.
Step 5: Prepare Filling
If using filling, mix softened cream cheese with a little powdered sugar and vanilla. You can pipe this into the middle of the donuts once baked—or swirl it into the batter before baking for a marbled effect.
Step 6: Layer & Swirl
If layering fillings, fill a piping bag with the cream cheese mixture, cut a small hole, and gently insert into the middle of each batter-filled donut. Swirling is optional but adds a pretty marbled look that’s as tasty as it is beautiful.
Step 7: Bake or Fry
For baked donuts, bake at 375°F (190°C) for about 12-15 minutes until golden and a toothpick comes out clean. For fried, carefully drop donuts into the hot oil, frying in batches until golden and puffed—about 2-3 minutes per side. Keep an eye on them so they don’t brown too quickly!
Step 8: Cool & Glaze
Let donuts cool slightly on a wire rack—this prevents the glaze from sliding right off. Mix the powdered sugar with eggnog and vanilla for a smooth, pourable glaze. Dip or drizzle generously while still warm; the glaze will set beautifully as they cool.
“The Creamy Holiday Donuts A Simple Treat turned out amazing. My kids asked for seconds. Saving this one!”
Step 9: Slice & Serve
If you want perfectly round, neat slices, wait until they’re completely cooled, then slice with a serrated knife. Serve warm or at room temperature—these are best enjoyed fresh, but I’ve found they keep surprisingly well in an airtight container for a day or two. They even reheat nicely in the oven or microwave.
What to Serve It With
These eggnog donuts are a treat on their own, but I love pairing them with a steaming cup of coffee or a glass of hot mulled wine. For brunch, I serve them alongside some crisp bacon or a fresh fruit salad—they balance the richness perfectly. When the kids are around, I like to top them with whipped cream and a sprinkle of extra cinnamon. And during holiday dinners, they make a festive finale—cut in half and layered with whipped mascarpone and sliced strawberries, they feel like mini holiday trifle sandwiches. Honestly, I’ve also tried making mini versions for after-school snacks—just bake in mini muffin tins, and they’re adorable and equally delicious. The warmth from the spices and the sweetness of the glaze make them a hit anywhere you serve them. They’re versatile, comforting, and guaranteed to bring a smile—especially when you add your favorite festive toppings.
Top Tips for Perfecting Your Eggnog Donuts
Over the years, I’ve learned a few tricks that make these donuts turn out even better every time. For one, if you want that extra fluffy texture, don’t skip the step of sifting your dry ingredients—nothing beats a super light crumb. When mixing the wet and dry, fold gently—stirring too vigorously can activate gluten and make the donuts dense. For the filling, I’ve found that softening the cream cheese ahead of time really helps achieve a smooth, creamy swirl—trust me, a lumpy filling isn’t cute or tasty. If you prefer a brighter Christmas look, add a few drops of red or green food coloring to the glaze—it’s just a fun visual twist! Baking versus frying is totally up to you; I love baking for a healthier but still incredibly tasty option. A tip: if you’re baking, keep a close eye on the oven—donuts can go from perfect to overdone in a heartbeat. The glaze’s consistency is key: if it’s too runny, add more powdered sugar; if it’s too thick, splash in a little more eggnog or milk. I tested different ratios until I got that perfect smooth drizzle that coats without dripping too much. Oh, and a little extra sprinkle of cinnamon on top before the glaze sets makes all the difference. The little lessons here have come from lots of experimenting, but honestly, every batch makes me smile even more than the last.
Storing and Reheating Tips
These donuts are best enjoyed fresh, but I get it—life happens! If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a day. Just keep in mind that the glaze might soften a bit if it’s humid out. For longer storage, pop them in the fridge—just let them sit out for a few minutes before eating to take the chill off. Want to keep them even longer? Freeze them—wrap tightly in plastic wrap and then foil; they’ll stay good for about a month. When you’re ready to enjoy, microwave for about 10-15 seconds, or reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 8-10 minutes. Keep the glaze separate until just before serving—if you re-glaze after reheating, it’ll look and taste just as fresh. A tip: If the glaze gets too thick after sitting, stir in a splash of eggnog or milk to loosen it up. Trust me—that little extra effort makes all the difference in keeping them tasting their best.
Frequently Asked Questions
Final Thoughts
If there’s one thing I hope you take away from this, it’s that eggnog donuts aren’t just a holiday treat—they’re a warm, comforting reminder of home, family, and seasonal joy. Whether you’re baking these for a cozy Sunday morning, a festive gathering, or just because you’re craving something sweet and spiced, they make everything feel just a little brighter. I’ve tested this recipe more times than I can count, and it brings me as much happiness now as it did my first attempt. The combination of spices, the soft crumb, and that lovely eggnog glaze—trust me, it’s magic in every bite. I’d love to hear how yours turn out! Feel free to leave a comment, share your own twists, or just tell me your favorite way to enjoy a slice of holiday cheer. Happy baking, friends—these eggnog donuts are sure to become a cherished tradition in your kitchen too!
eggnog donuts
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 15.25 oz yellow cake mix
- 2 large eggs eggs
- 0.75 cup eggnog
- 0.25 cup vegetable oil
- 1 tsp rum extract
- 0.5 tsp nutmeg
- 2 cups powdered sugar
- 0.25 cup eggnog
- 1 tbsp unsalted butter melted
- 0.5 tsp nutmeg for garnish
Instructions
Preparation Steps
- Preheat oven to 350°F. Grease a donut pan with cooking spray.
- In a large mixing bowl, stir together yellow cake mix, eggs, vegetable oil, eggnog, rum extract, and nutmeg.
- Using a cookie scoop, carefully add batter to the donut pan about half full.
- Bake for 12 minutes. Let sit in pan for 5 minutes before transferring donuts to a cooling rack.
- To make the glaze, stir together powdered sugar, eggnog, and melted butter. Dip the top of the cooled donuts in the glaze mixture and return to the cooling rack. Sprinkle the top with nutmeg.
- Let sit for 1 hour or until the glaze is hardened and not sticky.
