Heart-Shaped Sugar Donuts

WANT TO SAVE THIS RECIPE?

These heart-shaped sugar donuts are a delightful treat, perfect for special occasions like Valentine’s Day, anniversaries, or simply when you want to spread a little extra love. With their soft, fluffy texture and sweet, crunchy sugar coating, they are irresistible to both kids and adults alike. The light golden dough pairs beautifully with a generous dusting of pink and red sugar crystals, making them as visually stunning as they are delicious.

Making homemade donuts might sound intimidating, but this recipe is simple and fun, even for beginners. The dough is airy yet rich, fried to perfection, and then coated in sparkling sugar for that perfect bite. Whether you enjoy them with a cup of coffee in the morning or as a sweet snack in the afternoon, these heart-shaped treats are sure to bring smiles all around.

---

Ingredients for Heart-Shaped Sugar Donuts

For the dough:

• 2 ¾ cups all-purpose flour
• ¼ cup granulated sugar
• 2 ¼ teaspoons (1 packet) active dry yeast
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ¾ cup warm milk (about 110°F)
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
• 1 large egg
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

For frying:

• 4 cups vegetable oil (for deep frying)

For the sugar coating:

• 1 cup granulated sugar
• Pink and red sugar crystals (for decoration)

---

Step 1: Prepare the Dough

In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, yeast, and salt. In a separate small bowl, combine the warm milk, butter, egg, and vanilla extract. Gradually add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients, stirring until a sticky dough forms.

Transfer the dough onto a lightly floured surface and knead for about 8-10 minutes, or until smooth and elastic. Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with a clean kitchen towel, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 to 1.5 hours, or until it doubles in size.

---

Step 2: Shape the Donuts

Once the dough has risen, punch it down to release air bubbles. Roll it out on a floured surface to about ½-inch thickness. Use a heart-shaped cookie cutter to cut out donut shapes. If desired, use a smaller round cutter to make a hole in the center of each heart.

Place the cut-out dough pieces on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Cover lightly with a towel and let them rise again for about 30 minutes.

---

Step 3: Fry the Donuts

In a deep, heavy-bottomed pot or fryer, heat the vegetable oil to 350°F (175°C). Carefully add a few donuts at a time, frying for about 1-2 minutes per side or until golden brown. Use a slotted spoon to remove them and place them on a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.

---

Step 4: Coat with Sugar

While the donuts are still warm, roll them in granulated sugar until fully coated. For extra decoration, sprinkle pink and red sugar crystals over the top for a festive touch. Let them cool slightly before serving.

---

Storage Instructions

To keep your heart-shaped sugar donuts fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. If you need to store them longer, place them in the refrigerator for up to a week. For the best texture, warm them slightly before serving.

If you want to store them for an extended period, freeze the donuts in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag. They will stay fresh for up to 2 months. To enjoy, simply thaw at room temperature or warm in the oven for a few minutes.

---

Estimated Nutrition

Per donut (approximate values):

• Calories: 250
• Carbohydrates: 35g
• Protein: 4g
• Fat: 10g
• Saturated Fat: 3g
• Cholesterol: 20mg
• Sodium: 100mg
• Sugar: 12g

Nutritional values may vary based on portion size and ingredients used.

---

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I bake these donuts instead of frying?

Yes! If you prefer a healthier option, bake them at 375°F (190°C) for about 10-12 minutes or until golden brown. They won’t be as crispy, but they’ll still taste great.

2. What if I don’t have a heart-shaped cutter?

You can use a round cookie cutter or a drinking glass and shape the dough into hearts by hand.

3. Can I use instant yeast instead of active dry yeast?

Yes, but reduce the rising time slightly since instant yeast works faster.

4. How do I make the sugar coating stick better?

Roll the donuts in sugar while they’re still warm so the coating adheres properly.

5. Can I fill these donuts with jam or cream?

Definitely! Use a piping bag to inject jam, custard, or cream into the donuts before rolling them in sugar.

6. What’s the best oil for frying?

Use neutral oils like vegetable, canola, or peanut oil for the best results.

7. How do I know when the oil is ready for frying?

Use a thermometer to check for 350°F (175°C). If you don’t have one, drop a small piece of dough in—if it sizzles and rises to the top, it’s ready.

8. Can I make the dough ahead of time?

Yes! Prepare the dough, cover it, and store it in the fridge overnight. Let it come to room temperature before rolling and frying.

---

Print