Even though I was stuck to the computer all weekend, I did make some donuts. That has to count for something, right? And I didn’t even make regular donuts, I made some red velvet donuts!

They turned out perfect. Soft and chewy without being too cakey and just enough sweetness with the cream cheese frosting drizzled over top. Yum!

Too bad they didn’t last in my house more than an hour or I would go up and get one right now, my mouth is watering just thinking about them.

What are Red Velvet Donuts?

Red velvet is more than just a color; it’s a flavor profile that combines the subtle taste of cocoa with a hint of tanginess, often achieved through the use of vinegar and buttermilk. The origins of red velvet are somewhat mysterious, with some tracing it back to the Victorian era when “velvet” cakes were popular for their soft texture. Over time, the addition of red food coloring became a hallmark of this beloved dessert.

Why You’ll Love this Recipe

These red velvet donuts are not only visually stunning but also incredibly delicious. The combination of cocoa and vanilla creates a depth of flavor that is both comforting and indulgent. Plus, the cream cheese frosting adds a creamy, tangy finish that perfectly complements the sweetness of the donuts. They’re baked, not fried, making them a slightly healthier option without sacrificing taste.

Ingredients

• All-Purpose Flour: Provides the structure and base for the donuts, ensuring they have the perfect balance of fluffiness and density.
• Baking Soda: Acts as a leavening agent, helping the donuts rise and achieve a light, airy texture.
• Salt: Enhances the flavors of the other ingredients, balancing sweetness and adding depth.
• Unsweetened Cocoa Powder: Adds a subtle chocolate flavor, giving the red velvet its signature taste.
• Granulated Sugar: Sweetens the donuts and contributes to their tender crumb.
• Milk: Adds moisture and richness, creating a smooth batter.
• Canola Oil: Keeps the donuts moist and soft, while also adding a subtle richness.
• Large Egg: Binds the ingredients together and adds structure to the donuts.
• Red Food Coloring: Provides the vibrant red hue that makes red velvet so visually appealing.
• Vanilla Extract: Adds a warm, sweet aroma and enhances the overall flavor profile.
• Distilled White Vinegar: Reacts with the baking soda to help the donuts rise, while also adding a slight tanginess.

Frosting

• Powdered Sugar: Sweetens the frosting and provides a smooth, creamy texture.
• Cream Cheese: Adds a tangy richness, balancing the sweetness of the powdered sugar.
• Vanilla Extract: Complements the cream cheese and enhances the flavor of the frosting.
• Milk: Adjusts the consistency of the frosting, making it easy to pipe and spread.

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Substitutions & Additions

• Gluten-Free Flour: Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend to make the donuts suitable for those with gluten sensitivities. Ensure the blend contains xanthan gum for proper texture.
• Coconut Oil: Replace canola oil with coconut oil for a subtle coconut flavor and added richness. This can also cater to those preferring plant-based oils.
• Almond Milk: Use almond milk instead of regular milk for a dairy-free option, which will add a slight nutty flavor to the donuts.
• Beet Juice: For a natural alternative to red food coloring, use beet juice. It provides the same vibrant color without artificial additives.
• Apple Cider Vinegar: Swap distilled white vinegar with apple cider vinegar for a slightly sweeter tang, which can enhance the overall flavor profile.
• Maple Syrup: Add a tablespoon of maple syrup to the frosting for a hint of maple flavor, which pairs beautifully with the cream cheese.

Equipment Needed for Red Velvet Donuts

Stand Mixer

Donut Pan

Mixing Bowl Set

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How to Make this Recipe

Preheat and Prepare: Preheat your oven to 350°F. Prepare your donut pan by spraying it with non-stick cooking spray and set it aside.

Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl or stand mixer, combine the flour, baking soda, salt, cocoa powder, and sugar.

Add Wet Ingredients: Add the milk, oil, egg, red food coloring, vanilla, and vinegar to the dry ingredients. Mix until the batter is smooth and well combined.

Pipe and Bake: Pour the batter into a gallon-sized Ziploc bag and cut off a small triangle from the corner. Pipe the batter into the prepared donut pan until each cavity is about half full. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until the donuts are set.

Cool and Frost: Let the donuts cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. While the donuts are cooling, prepare the frosting by mixing the powdered sugar, cream cheese, vanilla, and milk until smooth. Decorate the donuts with the frosting using a Ziploc bag or icing bag.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

• Ingredient Quality: Use high-quality cocoa powder for the best flavor.
• Food Coloring: Gel food coloring can be used for a more vibrant color.
• Frosting Consistency: If the frosting is too thick, add a little more milk; if it’s too thin, add more powdered sugar.

Serving Suggestions

These donuts are perfect for breakfast, brunch, or dessert. Serve them with a cup of coffee or a glass of milk for a delightful treat. For an extra touch, sprinkle some crushed nuts or chocolate chips on top of the frosting.

Storage Suggestions

Store any leftover donuts in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To enjoy them warm, simply microwave for a few seconds before serving.

Recipe FAQ

Can I use a different type of oil? Yes, you can substitute canola oil with vegetable oil or melted coconut oil.

Can I make these donuts gluten-free? Yes, use a gluten-free flour blend in place of all-purpose flour.

Can I freeze these donuts? Yes, freeze them without frosting for up to two months. Thaw and frost before serving.

These red velvet donuts are a delightful twist on a classic dessert, offering a perfect balance of flavors and textures. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or a novice in the kitchen, this recipe is easy to follow and sure to impress. Enjoy the process of making these beautiful donuts and savor every bite!

Red Velvet Donuts

4.55 from 53 votes

Beautiful red velvet donuts made from scratch, baked, and topped with a cream cheese frosting – perfect weekend breakfast!

Yield 12 donuts

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Prep Time 10 minutes mins

Cook Time 10 minutes mins

Total Time 20 minutes mins

Cook ModePrevent your screen from going dark

Ingredients

  

1x2x3x

• 1 ¼ cup all-purpose flour
• ½ tsp baking soda
• ½ tsp salt
• 1 ½ tsp unsweetened cocoa powder
• ¾ cup granulated sugar
• ½ cup milk
• ½ cup canola oil
• 1 large egg
• 1 Tbsp red food coloring
• ½ tsp vanilla extract
• ½ tsp distilled white vinegar

Frosting:

• 1 cup powdered sugar
• 2 oz cream cheese room temperature
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 1 Tbsp milk

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Instructions

 

• Preheat oven to 350° F. Prepare donut pan by spraying with non-stick cooking spray; set aside.
• In large bowl, or stand mixer, mix together all-purpose flour, baking soda, salt, cocoa powder, and sugar until combined. Add milk, oil, egg, red food coloring, vanilla, and vinegar. Mix until combined and batter is smooth.
• Pour batter into gallon-sized ziploc bag and cut off small triangle from the corner. Pipe batter into prepared donut pan until about 1/2 full.
• Bake at 350° F for 10-12 minutes or until donuts are set. Pull out of oven and let cool in pan for about 10 minutes then transfer to wire rack to cool completely.
• While donuts are cooking and cooling, mix powdered sugar, cream cheese, vanilla, and milk in small bowl until combined.
• Add frosting to another ziploc bag with corner cut off (or icing bag) and decorate donuts using back and forth motion, or as you would like to.
• Serve immediately.

Equipment

Stand Mixer

Donut Pan

Mixing Bowl Set

Tried this recipe?Snap a photo and mention @JenniferMeyering