Introduction
Imagine biting into a soft, pillowy donut coated in a sweet, glossy pink glaze that melts in your mouth. Pink Party Donuts are the ultimate celebration treat, perfect for birthdays, baby showers, or any festive gathering. Their vibrant color and tender texture make them as delightful to the eyes as they are to the taste buds. Each bite delivers a balance of fluffy dough and sugary glaze that keeps everyone coming back for more. You’ll learn how to make these irresistible donuts from scratch, with simple steps and insider tips to elevate your baking game.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
What makes Pink Party Donuts so special is their combination of texture, flavor, and visual appeal. The donuts are soft on the inside with a delicate, golden-brown crust, while the pink glaze adds a sweet, smooth finish that creates the perfect contrast. The slight chewiness of the dough paired with the melt-in-your-mouth glaze delivers a sensory experience unlike any other. They’re quick to make, requiring only basic ingredients and minimal equipment. Even novice bakers will find success thanks to foolproof instructions and helpful tips. These donuts are versatile, fun, and perfect for creating memorable moments, whether for a casual brunch or a themed party.
Ingredients
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2 ¼ tsp active dry yeast (1 packet)
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¾ cup warm milk (110°F/43°C)
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¼ cup granulated sugar
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3 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
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1 tsp vanilla extract
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1 large egg
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2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
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½ tsp salt
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Vegetable oil (for frying)
For the Pink Glaze:
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1 ½ cups powdered sugar
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3–4 tbsp milk
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½ tsp vanilla extract
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Pink food coloring (optional, for a bright party pink)
Pro Tips
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Activate the yeast properly: Make sure your milk is warm, not hot, to avoid killing the yeast. Mix with sugar and let it foam for 5–10 minutes. This ensures a light, airy donut texture.
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Don’t over-flour the dough: Too much flour will make your donuts dense. Add flour gradually, just until the dough is soft and slightly sticky.
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Maintain oil temperature: Frying at 350°F (175°C) ensures even browning without greasy donuts. Use a thermometer and adjust heat as needed.
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the dough
In a large mixing bowl, combine warm milk, sugar, and yeast. Let sit for 5–10 minutes until foamy. Add melted butter, vanilla, and egg. Mix until combined. Gradually incorporate flour and salt, kneading until the dough is smooth and elastic, about 5–7 minutes. Cover with a clean towel and let rise in a warm spot for 1–2 hours until doubled in size.
Step 2: Shape the donuts
Lightly flour your work surface. Roll the dough to about ½-inch thickness. Use a donut cutter or two round cutters (one large, one small) to cut out donuts and holes. Place on a parchment-lined tray, cover with a towel, and let rise for 30 minutes.
Step 3: Fry the donuts
Heat vegetable oil in a deep skillet or fryer to 350°F (175°C). Carefully lower donuts into the oil using a slotted spoon, cooking 1–2 minutes per side until golden brown. Fry holes for 30–60 seconds. Remove and drain on paper towels.
Step 4: Prepare the pink glaze
In a medium bowl, whisk powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla until smooth. Add pink food coloring until desired shade is reached. Dip warm donuts into glaze, letting excess drip off. Place on a wire rack to set.
Step 5: Serve and enjoy
Serve the donuts fresh for the softest texture, or store as described below. Sprinkle with festive decorations or edible glitter for an extra party touch.
Variations
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Chocolate Pink Party Donuts: Add cocoa powder to the dough for a chocolate twist while keeping the pink glaze.
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Vegan Version: Replace milk with almond or oat milk, and use a flax egg (1 tbsp flax + 3 tbsp water) instead of a regular egg.
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Filled Donuts: Inject your favorite jam, custard, or Nutella for a decadent surprise inside.
Storage and Serving
Store Pink Party Donuts in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. For longer storage, freeze unglazed donuts for up to 1 month and glaze after thawing. Serve them as a centerpiece at birthday parties, brunch gatherings, or with a cup of coffee for a sweet morning treat. Garnish with sprinkles, edible glitter, or mini candies to enhance the festive appeal.
FAQs
Q1: Can I bake these donuts instead of frying?
Yes! Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C), bake for 10–12 minutes, and then glaze. Texture will be slightly less crisp.
Q2: Why didn’t my donuts rise?
Check your yeast for freshness and ensure the milk isn’t too hot or cold. Rising time may also vary depending on room temperature.
Q3: Can I make the glaze ahead of time?
Absolutely, but store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. Stir before using.
Q4: Can I use a different color glaze?
Yes! Change the food coloring to match any theme—blue, yellow, or even rainbow for special occasions.
Q5: How do I prevent greasy donuts?
Maintain oil at the correct temperature (350°F / 175°C) and drain donuts on paper towels immediately after frying.
Conclusion
This Pink Party Donuts recipe is celebration food at its finest — soft, sweet, and irresistibly colorful. It’s the kind of treat that brings joy to any occasion, from birthday parties to casual brunches. Whether shared with friends or family, these donuts elevate any gathering and create lasting memories. You’ll enjoy the process as much as the delicious outcome, making every bite a fun and festive experience.
Print
Pink Party Donuts
- Total Time: 45 minutes
Description
Celebrate every occasion with these soft, fluffy Pink Party Donuts topped with a sweet, glossy pink glaze. Perfect for birthdays, brunches, or any festive treat table!
Ingredients
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2 ¼ tsp active dry yeast (1 packet)
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¾ cup warm milk (110°F/43°C)
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¼ cup granulated sugar
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3 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
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1 tsp vanilla extract
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1 large egg
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2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
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½ tsp salt
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Vegetable oil (for frying)
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1 ½ cups powdered sugar
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3–4 tbsp milk
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½ tsp vanilla extract
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Pink food coloring (optional)
Instructions
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Combine warm milk, sugar, and yeast in a large bowl and let sit for 5–10 minutes until foamy.
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Add melted butter, vanilla, and egg; mix well. Gradually add flour and salt, kneading until smooth. Cover and let rise 1–2 hours.
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Roll dough to ½-inch thickness, cut donuts and holes, cover, and let rise 30 minutes.
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Heat oil to 350°F (175°C). Fry donuts 1–2 minutes per side, donuts holes 30–60 seconds. Drain on paper towels.
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Whisk powdered sugar, milk, vanilla, and pink food coloring for the glaze. Dip donuts and let excess drip. Place on wire rack to set.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: cooking
- Cuisine: American