Valentine Donuts with Pink Glaze

Name: Valentine Donuts with Pink Glaze
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 12 donuts
Ingredients: 2 cups all-purpose flour; 1 cup granulated sugar; 1 tablespoon baking powder; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1/2 cup whole milk; 2 large eggs; 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1 cup powdered sugar; 2 tablespoons milk; 1 tablespoon beet juice (for color); 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract

Highlighted under: Classic Baking Collection

I absolutely love making these Valentine Donuts with Pink Glaze! They not only look stunning with their vibrant color but also taste heavenly. Every bite brings a sweet and soft sensation that pairs wonderfully with the delicate flavor of vanilla. These donuts are perfect for sharing with loved ones on Valentine’s Day, or just as a delightful treat for yourself. The glaze adds a lovely finish, making them irresistibly attractive. When I'm in the kitchen, creating these doughy wonders always brings a smile to my face!

Created by

Nola Patterson

Last updated on 2026-01-08T12:13:37.325Z

Making these Valentine Donuts was a delightful adventure! I initially experimented with different flavors, but settled on a classic vanilla for that sweet nostalgia. The light and fluffy texture is achieved by ensuring the dough isn't over-kneaded. I learned that letting the dough rest is crucial for that perfect rise!

The bright pink glaze, made with natural beet juice, not only adds color but packs it with a slightly earthy sweetness. I always add a splash of vanilla extract for depth in flavor—it transforms these donuts from ordinary to extraordinary.

        Why You'll Love These Donuts
        Vibrant pink glaze that brightens any occasion
Soft, fluffy texture with a delightful vanilla taste
Perfect for sharing with loved ones on Valentine’s Day

      

Mastering the Donut Batter

When combining the dry ingredients, make sure to thoroughly whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt, as this helps to distribute the leavening agents evenly. Uneven distribution can lead to some donuts rising more than others, resulting in an inconsistent texture. To achieve that perfect fluffy bite, be cautious not to overmix the batter once the wet ingredients are added—stir until just combined for the best results.

Using fresh ingredients is essential for achieving the lightness you desire in your donuts. For instance, check the expiration date on your baking powder, as old leavening agents may fail to give your donuts the lift they need. Additionally, feel free to substitute whole milk with almond or oat milk for a dairy-free version; just ensure the alternative milk has a similar fat content for optimal texture.

Frying Techniques for Perfect Donuts

Frying your donuts might seem daunting, but maintaining the right oil temperature is crucial for achieving that ideal golden brown color. A kitchen thermometer will help you keep the oil at a steady 350°F (175°C). If your oil is too cool, the donuts will absorb more oil, resulting in a greasy finish, while overly hot oil can cause them to cook too quickly on the outside, leaving the inside raw. Adjust the heat as necessary during frying to maintain even temperatures.

Consider the size of your donut shapes when frying. The larger the circles, the longer they will take to cook thoroughly. Generally, a 3-inch diameter donut will take about 2 to 3 minutes per side. Look for a medium, golden color around the edges and a puffed appearance, which indicates they are ready to be drained on paper towels. Letting them cool briefly before glazing not only aids in setting the glaze but also enhances their texture.

Creating the Perfect Pink Glaze

To achieve a brighter pink glaze, adjust the beet juice based on your personal preference. Start with 1 tablespoon, but feel free to add more for a deeper hue—just be cautious not to overdo it, as it can affect the consistency. The glaze should be thick yet pourable; if it seems too thin, adding more powdered sugar can help thicken it. Remember, the glaze will also set slightly firmer once it comes into contact with the cool surface of the donuts.

Glazing isn’t just about looks; the vanilla extract adds a flavor dimension that complements the sweetness of the donuts beautifully. For an unexpected twist, consider mixing in a touch of almond extract to the glaze for a nutty depth. If you’re feeling creative, sprinkle some edible glitter or heart-shaped sprinkles on top of the glaze before it sets for an appealing Valentine’s Day presentation!

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to start making your Valentine donuts.

Donut Ingredients

2 cups all-purpose flour
1 cup granulated sugar
1 tablespoon baking powder
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/2 cup whole milk
2 large eggs
1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Pink Glaze Ingredients

1 cup powdered sugar
2 tablespoons milk
1 tablespoon beet juice (for color)
1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract

Now that you have everything, let’s get started on these delicious treats!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create your Valentine donuts.

Prepare the Donut Batter

In a large bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt. In another bowl, combine milk, eggs, melted butter, and vanilla extract. Gradually add wet ingredients to dry ingredients and stir until just combined. Do not overmix.

Fry the Donuts

Heat oil in a deep fryer or heavy pot to 350°F (175°C). Pipe the donut batter into the hot oil in circular shapes. Fry for about 2-3 minutes on each side until golden brown. Drain on paper towels.

Make the Pink Glaze

In a small bowl, mix powdered sugar, milk, beet juice, and vanilla until smooth. It should be a thick consistency.

Glaze the Donuts

Once the donuts are cool, dip the top of each donut into the glaze, letting the excess drip off. Place on a cooling rack to set.

Enjoy your beautiful Valentine donuts with a cup of coffee or tea!

Pro Tips

For an extra touch, sprinkle some colorful sprinkles on top of the glaze before it sets.

Serving Suggestions

These Valentine Donuts are best enjoyed fresh, but they can also be served alongside a variety of toppings. Consider pairing them with a bowl of mixed berries and whipped cream for a delightful contrast in textures and flavors. Alternatively, serve them with a side of coffee or hot chocolate to enhance the sweetness with a complementary beverage.

To elevate the romantic aspect, arrange the donuts on a decorative plate, garnished with edible flowers or a drizzle of chocolate sauce. This simple presentation can transform a casual treat into a visually stunning centerpiece for a Valentine’s Day brunch.

Storage Tips

If you have leftover donuts, it's best to store them in an airtight container at room temperature. They will remain fresh for about 2-3 days, but be aware that the glaze may soften slightly over time. If you wish to keep them longer, consider freezing them without the glaze; they will maintain their quality for up to 2 months. Thaw them at room temperature before glazing for the best results.

To reheat donuts, place them in a warm oven set to 350°F (175°C) for about 5-7 minutes. This will refresh the texture, making them taste almost freshly made. Remember to let them cool a bit before glazing if you've opted to freeze them; the excess moisture could affect the glaze's consistency.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If your donuts turn out dense and heavy, the likely culprit is overmixing the batter or using too much flour. Make sure to measure your flour correctly, using the spoon-and-level method rather than scooping directly from the bag. If in doubt, a food scale can help ensure accuracy — about 120 grams per cup of flour.

In case your donuts absorb too much oil while frying, this is often due to low frying temperatures. Ensure your oil is hot enough before adding the batter, and fry in small batches to avoid dropping the temperature. If necessary, test a sample donut first to gauge cooking times and achieve that perfectly crispy exterior with a soft interior.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I bake these donuts instead of frying?

Yes! Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake for about 12-15 minutes in a donut pan until golden.

→ What can I substitute for beet juice?

You can use food coloring instead; however, beet juice is a natural option that adds flavor.

→ How do I store leftover donuts?

Keep them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days, or refrigerate for up to a week.

→ Can I make the donut dough ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can refrigerate the dough for up to 24 hours before frying.