Easy Snowball Donuts That Melt in Your Mouth

Snowball donuts are one of those cozy treats that instantly feel special. Soft on the inside, lightly golden, and rolled in a snowy blanket of powdered sugar, they truly melt in your mouth with every bite.

I love how easy snowball donuts are to make at home. You don’t need fancy tools or complicated steps, and they turn out bakery-worthy every single time. They’re perfect for holidays, weekend baking, or when you just want something sweet and comforting.

If you’re craving a simple dessert that looks adorable and tastes irresistible, these snowball donuts are about to become a favorite in your kitchen.

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INGREDIENTS

Here’s everything you need to make soft, fluffy snowball donuts at home:

• 2 cups (250 g) All-purpose flour
• ⅓ cup (65 g) Granulated sugar
• 2 teaspoons Baking powder
• ¼ teaspoon Salt
• ½ cup (120 ml) Milk
• 2 large Eggs (about 100 g without shells)
• 3 tablespoons (45 g) Unsalted butter, melted
• 1 teaspoon Vanilla extract (5 ml)

For coating:

• 1 cup (120 g) Powdered sugar, for rolling

Optional:

• ½ teaspoon Cinnamon (1 g), for a warm flavor
• Vegetable oil, for frying (about 4 cups / 950 ml)

INSTRUCTIONS

Follow these simple steps to make soft, fluffy snowball donuts every time:

1. In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt until well combined.
2. In a separate bowl, whisk the milk, eggs, melted butter, and vanilla extract until smooth.
3. Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and gently mix until a soft dough forms. Do not overmix, or the donuts will turn dense.
4. Lightly flour a clean surface and roll the dough to about ½ inch (1.25 cm) thickness.
5. Cut the dough into small rounds using a cookie cutter or glass.
6. Heat vegetable oil in a deep pot to 350°F (175°C). Keep the oil temperature steady for even frying.
7. Carefully fry the donuts in batches for 1–2 minutes per side, until lightly golden.
8. Transfer the donuts to a paper towel-lined plate to drain slightly.
9. While still warm, roll the donuts generously in powdered sugar until fully coated.

TIPS & VARIATIONS

• Keep the oil temperature steady: Always fry snowball donuts at 350°F (175°C) to keep them light and fluffy, not greasy.
• Don’t overmix the dough: Mix just until combined. Overmixing makes donuts dense instead of soft.
• Extra snowy coating: Roll the donuts in powdered sugar twice—once warm and once cooled—for that classic snowball look.
• Baked option: Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 10–12 minutes, then brush with melted butter and roll in powdered sugar.
• Flavor twist: Add lemon zest, orange zest, or a pinch of nutmeg for a cozy seasonal flavor.
• Storage tip: Store snowball donuts in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days.

SERVING IDEAS

Snowball donuts are incredibly versatile and perfect for so many moments:

• Serve snowball donuts warm with a cup of coffee, tea, or hot chocolate for a cozy treat.
• Arrange them on a dessert platter for holidays, winter parties, or family gatherings.
• Dust with extra powdered sugar right before serving for a fresh, snowy look.
• Pair snowball donuts with fresh berries for a light contrast to their sweetness.
• Add them to a brunch table alongside fruit, yogurt, and pastries for an easy crowd-pleaser.
• Package snowball donuts in small boxes or bags for gifting during holidays or special occasions.

FAQs

Recipe

Yield: 24 mini donuts

Snowball Donuts

Print

Soft, fluffy snowball donuts coated in a generous layer of powdered sugar. These easy homemade donuts melt in your mouth and are perfect for holidays, brunch, or cozy sweet cravings.

Prep Time: 15 minutes

Cook Time: 10 minutes

Total Time: 25 minutes

Ingredients

• 2 cups (250 g) All-purpose flour
• ⅓ cup (65 g) Granulated sugar
• 2 teaspoons Baking powder
• ¼ teaspoon Salt
• ½ cup (120 ml) Milk
• 2 large Eggs (about 100 g without shells)
• 3 tablespoons (45 g) Unsalted butter, melted
• 1 teaspoon Vanilla extract (5 ml)
• Vegetable oil for frying, about 4 cups (950 ml)

For coating:

• 1 cup (120 g) Powdered sugar

Instructions

1. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
   
2. In another bowl, whisk milk, eggs, melted butter, and vanilla extract until smooth.
   
3. Combine wet and dry ingredients and mix gently until a soft dough forms.
   
4. Roll the dough on a lightly floured surface to ½ inch (1.25 cm) thickness.
   
5. Cut into rounds using a small cutter or glass.
   
6. Heat oil to 350°F (175°C) in a deep pot.
   
7. Fry donuts in batches for 1–2 minutes per side until lightly golden.
   
8. Drain briefly on paper towels.
   
9. While warm, roll donuts generously in powdered sugar.

Notes

Keep oil temperature steady at 350°F (175°C) for best results.

For a baked version, bake at 375°F (190°C) for 10–12 minutes, brush with butter, and coat in powdered sugar.

Roll donuts twice in powdered sugar for an extra snowy finish.

Nutrition Information:

Yield: 6 Serving Size: 4 donuts
Amount Per Serving: Calories: 280Total Fat: 12gCarbohydrates: 38gProtein: 6g

Nutrition information is estimated and may vary based on ingredients used.

These snowball donuts are one of those recipes that feel simple yet special. They’re soft, sweet, and coated in the prettiest snowy layer that makes everyone reach for just one more. Whether you’re baking for the holidays, a weekend treat, or a cozy moment at home, this recipe always delivers comfort and joy.

If you try these snowball donuts, don’t forget to save the recipe for later and share it on Pinterest so you can come back to it anytime. I’d love to hear how they turned out for you, so feel free to leave a comment or share your favorite variations.

Happy baking, friend ❄️🍩💖