Name: Red Velvet Cake Donuts with Cream Cheese Icing Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 11 min
Total time: 21 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: ½ cup granulated sugar; ⅓ cup vegetable oil (or other neutral oil); 1 large egg (room temperature); ⅓ cup Lifeway Plain Lowfat Kefir; ¼-½ teaspoon red food coloring (gel or liquid); 1 cup all-purpose flour (weighed in grams or spooned and leveled); 3 tablespoons cocoa powder; 1 teaspoon baking powder; ¼ teaspoon salt; 2 tablespoons hot water; 2 ounces cream cheese (room temperature); 2 tablespoons unsalted butter (room temperature); 1 cup powdered sugar; 2-4 tablespoons milk (adjust to preferred consistency); ½ teaspoon vanilla extract; sprinkles (optional)

Print Recipe·4 from 9 reviews

If you’re on the lookout for a show-stopping treat that perfectly balances indulgence and charm, look no further than this Red Velvet Cake Donuts with Cream Cheese Icing Recipe. These donuts are the epitome of velvety softness infused with that classic red velvet flavor, all crowned with a luscious cream cheese icing that is just the right amount of tangy-sweet. Whether you’re making them for a special occasion or just to satisfy your sweet tooth, this recipe will quickly become your go-to for homemade donut bliss.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The image shows a stack of three red velvet cakes with thick white frosting layers between them, topped with pink and red sprinkles. The top cake has a bite taken out, revealing a moist, dark red interior. Surrounding the stack are more single-layer cakes with the same white frosting and colorful sprinkles, all placed on a light brown surface. In the background, there is a bottle labeled Lifeway Kefir and a glass container with milk, and the scene is set against a soft peach-colored wall. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

The magic behind these Red Velvet Cake Donuts with Cream Cheese Icing Recipe lies in its simple, everyday ingredients. Each one plays a crucial role in creating that tender crumb, rich color, and that irresistible frosting texture you’ll want to devour right away.

Granulated sugar: Sweetens the donuts while helping to create a tender crumb.
Vegetable oil: Keeps the donuts moist and soft without overpowering the flavor.
Large egg: Adds structure and richness to the batter for a fluffy bite.
Lifeway Plain Lowfat Kefir: Provides tanginess and moisture, enhancing the red velvet profile.
Red food coloring: Gives the donuts their signature vibrant red hue that’s visually stunning.
All-purpose flour: The backbone of the donuts, giving them structure without heaviness.
Cocoa powder: Delivers that subtle chocolate undertone classic to red velvet treats.
Baking powder: Helps the donuts rise beautifully, keeping each bite light.
Salt: Balances the sweetness and enriches the overall flavors.
Hot water: Activates ingredients for a smooth and cohesive batter.
Cream cheese: The heart of the icing, providing creamy tang and richness.
Unsalted butter: Adds smoothness and body to the cream cheese icing.
Powdered sugar: Sweetens and thickens the icing for the perfect spreadable texture.
Milk: Adjusts the consistency of the icing for a dreamy finish.
Vanilla extract: Elevates the flavor to a warmly sweet depth.
Sprinkles (optional): A fun, colorful touch that adds a pop of whimsy and texture.

How to Make Red Velvet Cake Donuts with Cream Cheese Icing Recipe

Step 1: Prepare Your Donut Pan

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F and give your donut pan a generous coating of non-stick spray. This small step ensures your donuts will be easy to pop out once baked and keeps everything mess-free.

Step 2: Mix Wet Ingredients

In a large bowl, whisk together the granulated sugar, vegetable oil, egg, Lifeway kefir, and red food coloring until everything is silky and combined. This mixture not only creates moisture but also builds the beautiful red canvas your donuts will become.

Step 3: Combine Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl, sift together the all-purpose flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, and salt. This dry mix is essential for that gentle cocoa flavor and the right rise and texture in every bite.

Step 4: Bring Wet and Dry Together

Gently fold half of the dry ingredient mixture into the wet ingredients, then add your hot water and continue stirring just until everything is combined. This careful mixing keeps the batter light and ready for baking without overworking gluten.

Step 5: Fill the Donut Pan and Bake

Pipe or spoon the batter into your prepared donut pan, aiming to fill each cavity about three-quarters full. Bake for around 9 to 11 minutes or until the donuts spring back when lightly pressed—be careful not to overbake so they stay tender and moist.

Step 6: Cool Before Icing

Allow the donuts to cool in the pan briefly, then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely. This step is key for your cream cheese icing to glide on smoothly without melting off.

Step 7: Make the Cream Cheese Icing

Whip together the cream cheese and unsalted butter until silky smooth. Gradually mix in powdered sugar, milk, and a splash of vanilla extract until your icing reaches that perfectly thick but spreadable consistency that invites indulgence.

Step 8: Ice and Decorate

Slather the cream cheese icing generously over your cooled donuts and sprinkle with colorful sprinkles for a festive touch. The icing is tangy and sweet, a perfect counterpoint to the rich red velvet flavor underneath.

How to Serve Red Velvet Cake Donuts with Cream Cheese Icing Recipe

A group of small round chocolate donuts, some with creamy white frosting spread thickly on top and bright pink, red, and white sprinkles scattered over the frosting. One plain chocolate donut without frosting sits in the center on light brown parchment paper. To the left, there is a white bowl with smooth white frosting inside and a metal spatula with a wooden handle resting on the edge. A small light brown bowl filled with matching colorful sprinkles sits to the right. The scene is set on a white marbled surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

Elevate your donuts with a sprinkle of rainbow sprinkles, crushed freeze-dried strawberries, or even a dusting of edible glitter. These little extras make your Red Velvet Cake Donuts with Cream Cheese Icing Recipe extra special and inviting.

Side Dishes

Pair these decadent donuts with a cup of freshly brewed coffee, creamy hot chocolate, or even a bright berry smoothie. The richness of the donuts complements warm drinks beautifully, turning any moment into a cozy celebration.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve your donuts on a tiered dessert tray for parties, or stack a few atop one another for a playful “donut tower.” Wrapping them in colorful parchment paper with a matching ribbon makes for a delightful homemade gift that will wow friends and family.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store your Red Velvet Cake Donuts with Cream Cheese Icing Recipe in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. Keeping them sealed preserves their softness and keeps the icing fresh.

Freezing

You can freeze the plain donuts before icing by wrapping them individually in plastic wrap and placing them in an airtight freezer bag. Freeze for up to one month, then thaw completely before icing to maintain the perfect texture.

Reheating

Warm your donuts slightly in the microwave for 10-15 seconds to bring back that fresh-baked softness—avoid overheating, which can dry them out. Add the cream cheese icing fresh after warming for the best experience.

FAQs

Can I use buttermilk instead of kefir?

Absolutely! Buttermilk is a great alternative and will provide a similar tangy flavor and moisture to the donuts.

Do I have to use red food coloring?

Red food coloring is key for the iconic red velvet look, but if you prefer a more natural option, beet juice or powder can be used as a substitute.

What if I don’t have a donut pan?

No worries if you don’t own a donut pan—muffin tins can work as a substitute, just note that the shape and baking time will differ slightly.

Can I make these donuts gluten-free?

To make them gluten-free, swap the all-purpose flour for a gluten-free blend that includes xanthan gum. The texture will be slightly different but still delicious.

How long will the cream cheese icing keep?

The icing lasts about 3-4 days refrigerated in an airtight container. Give it a quick stir before spreading if it thickens too much.

Final Thoughts

There’s something truly joyful about making and sharing this Red Velvet Cake Donuts with Cream Cheese Icing Recipe. From the tender red velvet crumb to that dreamy cream cheese frosting, each bite promises comfort and happiness. Whether for breakfast, a snack, or dessert, these donuts are sure to delight and become a beloved staple in your baking repertoire—so go ahead, treat yourself and those you love!