12 Heart-Shaped Donut Ideas to Sweeten Up Your Day

Finding the perfect dessert just got easier—and more fun.

Heart-shaped donuts are the ultimate fusion of taste and style, making them ideal for an Engagement Party Cake alternative or a dreamy Valentines Day Desserts spread.

From crispy Heart Waffles inspired by Scandinavian Waffles recipes to the sweet charm of Bread Braids, these creations are perfect for elevating your holiday baking game.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe List:

• Each recipe is beginner-friendly and achievable in your own kitchen.
• Healthy(ish) options and irresistible flavors the whole family will enjoy.
• Beautiful and yummy recipes perfect for any special occasion—or just because!
• Don’t miss out on these creative ideas—you’ll love adding heart-shaped charm to your desserts!

1. Raspberry Rose Jelly-Filled Heart Donuts
2. Pistachio Cream-Filled Heart Donuts with Edible Gold Dust
3. Honey-Lavender Heart Donuts with Pressed Edible Flowers
4. Sparkling Lemon Earl Grey Heart Donuts with Crystal Sugar
5. Matcha White Chocolate Swirl Heart Donuts
6. Strawberry Milk Heart Donuts with Drip Frosting
7. Nordic Heart Waffle Donuts with Cloudberry Jam Drizzle
8. Beignet-Inspired Baked Heart Donuts with Cinnamon Sugar
9. Pumpkin Spice Heart Donuts with Vanilla Cream Glaze
10. Scandinavian Cardamom-Laced Heart Donuts with Almond Topping
11. Crispy Vanilla Waffle Heart Donuts with Maple Glaze
12. Valentine’s Red Velvet Bread Braid Donuts Shaped Like Hearts“`html

Raspberry Rose Jelly-Filled Heart Donuts

These Raspberry Rose Jelly-Filled Heart Donuts are perfect for anyone who loves a sweet, floral twist. The delicate rose flavor pairs beautifully with the tartness of the raspberry jelly, making each bite feel like a little celebration. Shaped like hearts, they’re great for Valentine’s Day or any occasion where you want to show some love. Best of all, they’re baked instead of fried, so they’re a bit lighter than your typical donut!

Serving Size: 6 servings

Time Needed: 45 minutes

Ingredients

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar
• 1 tsp baking powder
• 1/4 tsp salt
• 1/2 cup milk
• 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
• 1 large egg
• 1/2 cup raspberry jelly
• 1/2 tsp rosewater (optional, for floral flavor)
• Powdered sugar, for dusting

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a donut pan with heart-shaped molds.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk the milk, melted butter, and egg until smooth. Gradually add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients, mixing until just combined.
4. Spoon the batter into the prepared molds, filling each about 2/3 full. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until golden and springy to the touch.
5. Let the donuts cool completely, then use a piping bag fitted with a small round tip to inject raspberry jelly into the center of each donut. Add a drop of rosewater to the jelly before filling for a floral twist.
6. Dust the donuts with powdered sugar before serving.

Quick Pros of the Recipe

• Beautiful heart shape perfect for special occasions.
• Light and airy texture due to being baked, not fried.
• Unique combination of raspberry and rose flavors.
• Easy to customize with different fillings.

Ingredient Substitutions or Customization Ideas: Swap raspberry jelly for strawberry or apricot jam for a different fruity flavor. If you’re not a fan of rosewater, leave it out or replace it with vanilla extract for a classic taste.

Cooking Tips and Tricks: For even baking, avoid overfilling the molds. Use a toothpick to test doneness—if it comes out clean, your donuts are ready!

Pistachio Cream-Filled Heart Donuts with Edible Gold Dust

If you’re looking for a donut that feels luxurious, these Pistachio Cream-Filled Heart Donuts are the way to go. They’re rich, creamy, and topped with a sprinkle of edible gold dust, making them perfect for engagement parties or other special moments. The pistachio cream filling is nutty and smooth, adding a gourmet touch to this heart-shaped treat. Trust me, these donuts are as fun to make as they are to eat!

Serving Size: 6 servings

Time Needed: 1 hour

Ingredients

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar
• 1 tsp baking powder
• 1/4 tsp salt
• 1/2 cup milk
• 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
• 1 large egg
• 1/2 cup pistachio paste
• 1/4 cup heavy cream
• Edible gold dust, for decoration

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and prepare a heart-shaped donut pan by greasing it lightly.
2. In a mixing bowl, combine the flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt. In another bowl, whisk together the milk, melted butter, and egg.
3. Mix the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients until just combined. Spoon the batter into the prepared pan, filling each mold about 2/3 full.
4. Bake for 12-15 minutes, then let the donuts cool completely.
5. For the pistachio cream, whisk the pistachio paste and heavy cream together until smooth. Use a piping bag to fill the cooled donuts with the pistachio cream.
6. Lightly dust the tops of the donuts with edible gold dust for a glamorous finish.

Quick Pros of the Recipe

• Elegant and fancy presentation with edible gold dust.
• Rich, nutty pistachio flavor in every bite.
• Heart shape makes it perfect for celebrations like engagements.
• Customizable filling options for different tastes.

Ingredient Substitutions or Customization Ideas: Replace pistachio paste with almond butter or hazelnut cream for a different nutty filling. You can also skip the gold dust and use crushed pistachios for a more rustic look.

Cooking Tips and Tricks: To make the pistachio cream extra smooth, sift the pistachio paste before mixing. Chill the filled donuts briefly before serving to let the cream set properly.

Honey-Lavender Heart Donuts with Pressed Edible Flowers

These Honey-Lavender Heart Donuts are a feast for the eyes and the taste buds! The subtle floral notes from the lavender blend beautifully with the sweetness of honey, creating a donut that’s light and aromatic. Topped with pressed edible flowers, they’re almost too pretty to eat—but you won’t want to resist. They’re surprisingly simple to make, and they’re sure to impress at any gathering.

Serving Size: 6 servings

Time Needed: 50 minutes

Ingredients

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar
• 1 tsp baking powder
• 1/4 tsp salt
• 1/2 cup milk
• 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
• 1 large egg
• 1/4 cup honey
• 1/2 tsp dried lavender (food-grade)
• Pressed edible flowers, for decoration

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a heart-shaped donut pan.
2. In a large bowl, mix the flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt. In a separate bowl, whisk together the milk, melted butter, egg, and honey.
3. Add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients and stir until just combined. Gently fold in the dried lavender.
4. Spoon the batter into the prepared pan, filling each mold about 2/3 full. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until golden brown.
5. Let the donuts cool completely, then decorate with pressed edible flowers. To make them stick, lightly brush the tops with a bit of honey before placing the flowers.

Quick Pros of the Recipe

• Stunning presentation with pressed edible flowers.
• Unique combination of honey and lavender for a floral, sweet flavor.
• Great for tea parties or spring-themed events.
• Simple and easy to prepare.

Ingredient Substitutions or Customization Ideas: Swap dried lavender with lemon zest for a citrusy twist. If edible flowers aren’t available, use a light glaze and sprinkle with sanding sugar for decoration.

Cooking Tips and Tricks: Be careful not to overmix the batter to keep the donuts light and fluffy. Use food-grade lavender to ensure it’s safe to eat.

“`

Sparkling Lemon Earl Grey Heart Donuts with Crystal Sugar

These heart-shaped donuts are an elegant treat that combines the zesty tang of lemon with the subtle, floral notes of Earl Grey tea. The crystal sugar topping adds a delightful crunch and a sparkling finish, making them perfect for special occasions like an **engagement party cake** alternative or for **Valentine’s Day desserts**. The balance of sweet and citrusy flavors is refreshing, and the heart shape adds a whimsical touch that’s sure to impress. Plus, these donuts are baked, not fried, so they’re a bit lighter and easier to make in your own kitchen!

Serving Size: 6 servings

Time Needed: 45 minutes

Ingredients

• 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• ¼ teaspoon baking soda
• Pinch of salt
• ½ cup granulated sugar
• 1 Earl Grey tea bag (contents only)
• ½ cup milk
• ¼ cup unsalted butter, melted
• 1 large egg
• 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
• Zest of 1 lemon
• Crystal sugar for topping

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a heart-shaped donut pan lightly with butter or cooking spray.
2. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, granulated sugar, and the contents of the Earl Grey tea bag.
3. In a separate bowl, combine the milk, melted butter, egg, lemon juice, and lemon zest. Mix well until smooth.
4. Gradually add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients, stirring gently until just combined. Avoid overmixing to keep the donuts soft and fluffy.
5. Spoon the batter into the prepared heart-shaped donut pan, filling each cavity about ¾ full.
6. Bake for 10–12 minutes, or until the donuts spring back when lightly touched. Let them cool in the pan for 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack.
7. Once the donuts are completely cool, sprinkle crystal sugar generously over the top for a sparkling finish.

Quick Pros of the Recipe

• Elegant combination of zesty lemon and floral Earl Grey tea flavors.
• Light and fluffy texture, thanks to the baked preparation.
• Crystal sugar topping adds a delightful crunch and visual appeal.
• Perfect for special celebrations or as a unique Valentine’s Day dessert.

Ingredient Substitutions or Customization Ideas: Swap Earl Grey tea with chamomile or lavender tea for a different floral profile. For a vegan option, use almond milk and a flaxseed egg substitute.

Cooking Tips and Tricks: Steep the Earl Grey tea in warm milk for a few minutes before mixing to enhance the tea’s flavor. Use a piping bag to fill the donut pan cavities neatly and evenly.

—

Matcha White Chocolate Swirl Heart Donuts

These donuts are a matcha lover’s dream, with the earthy bitterness of matcha perfectly balanced by the creamy sweetness of white chocolate. The swirl design not only looks stunning but also ensures that every bite has a bit of both flavors. These heart-shaped treats are as fun to make as they are to eat, making them a great project for **Valentine’s baking** or a cozy weekend activity. Whether you’re a matcha enthusiast or just curious to try it, this recipe is a must-try!

Serving Size: 8 servings

Time Needed: 50 minutes

Ingredients

• 1 ¾ cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• ½ teaspoon baking soda
• Pinch of salt
• ¾ cup granulated sugar
• 1 teaspoon matcha powder
• ½ cup milk
• ¼ cup unsalted butter, melted
• 2 large eggs
• ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 cup white chocolate chips, melted

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a heart-shaped donut pan with cooking spray or butter.
2. In one bowl, mix the flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and sugar. Divide the mixture evenly into two separate bowls.
3. In the first bowl, add matcha powder and half of the milk. Stir until smooth. In the second bowl, combine the remaining milk, melted butter, eggs, and vanilla extract.
4. Alternate spooning the matcha and vanilla batters into the donut pan cavities to create a swirl effect. Use a toothpick to gently swirl the batters together for a marbled look.
5. Bake for 12–15 minutes, or until the donuts are firm and spring back when touched. Cool the donuts on a wire rack before decorating.
6. Drizzle the melted white chocolate over the cooled donuts to complete the look and add a touch of sweetness.

Quick Pros of the Recipe

• Beautiful swirl design makes these donuts Instagram-worthy.
• Perfect balance of earthy matcha and sweet white chocolate.
• Fun to make as a creative baking project.
• Heart shape adds a romantic or playful touch for any occasion.

Ingredient Substitutions or Customization Ideas: Use dark chocolate instead of white chocolate for a less sweet topping. You can also add crushed pistachios or coconut flakes for extra texture.

Cooking Tips and Tricks: Sift the matcha powder to avoid clumps in the batter. Be patient when swirling the batters to achieve a clean marbled effect.

—

Strawberry Milk Heart Donuts with Drip Frosting

These donuts are inspired by the nostalgic flavor of strawberry milk, making them a sweet and playful treat for kids and adults alike. The vibrant pink frosting with a dripping effect is absolutely adorable and perfect for a **Valentine’s Day dessert** or a fun party snack. The donuts are baked, which makes them easier to prepare and slightly healthier than their fried counterparts. With their soft texture and fruity flavor, these heart-shaped donuts are sure to win hearts!

Serving Size: 6 servings

Time Needed: 40 minutes

Ingredients

• 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• ¼ teaspoon baking soda
• Pinch of salt
• ½ cup granulated sugar
• ½ cup strawberry milk (store-bought or homemade)
• ¼ cup unsalted butter, melted
• 1 large egg
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 cup powdered sugar
• 2 tablespoons strawberry milk (for frosting)
• Pink food coloring (optional)

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease a heart-shaped donut pan.
2. In a bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and sugar.
3. In another bowl, combine the strawberry milk, melted butter, egg, and vanilla extract. Stir until smooth.
4. Gradually mix the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients, stirring until just combined. Avoid overmixing to keep the donuts tender.
5. Spoon the batter into the heart-shaped donut pan, filling each cavity about ¾ full. Bake for 10–12 minutes, or until the donuts are set and spring back when touched.
6. While the donuts cool, prepare the frosting by whisking together powdered sugar, strawberry milk, and a few drops of pink food coloring. Drizzle the frosting over the cooled donuts for a fun, dripping effect.

Quick Pros of the Recipe

• Bright, playful design with a delicious strawberry milk flavor.
• Quick and simple to prepare, even for beginner bakers.
• Perfect for kids’ parties or Valentine’s Day celebrations.
• Baked, not fried, for a slightly healthier treat.

Ingredient Substitutions or Customization Ideas: Replace strawberry milk with regular milk and add a teaspoon of strawberry extract for a similar flavor. For a dairy-free version, use almond or oat milk.

Cooking Tips and Tricks: Use a piping bag to neatly fill the donut pan cavities. Allow the donuts to cool completely before adding the frosting to prevent it from melting off.

Nordic Heart Waffle Donuts with Cloudberry Jam Drizzle

These Nordic Heart Waffle Donuts are a delightful fusion of crispy waffles and soft donuts, making them a standout treat. The addition of **cloudberry jam drizzle** gives them a tart-sweet kick that’s both unique and irresistible. Inspired by **Scandinavian waffles**, these heart-shaped beauties are perfect for breakfast or dessert. They’re easy to whip up, and the waffle-donut combo adds a fun twist to traditional heart-shaped treats!

Serving Size: 6 servings

Time Needed: 40 minutes

Ingredients

• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar
• 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 cup whole milk
• 1 large egg
• 1/4 cup melted butter
• 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/4 cup cloudberry jam (or substitute with apricot jam)
• Powdered sugar for dusting (optional)

Instructions

1. Preheat your heart-shaped waffle iron and lightly grease it with non-stick spray or a thin layer of melted butter.
2. In a mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a separate bowl, combine the milk, egg, melted butter, and vanilla extract. Mix well.
4. Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and stir until just combined. Be careful not to overmix to keep the batter light and fluffy.
5. Spoon the batter into the preheated waffle iron, filling each heart-shaped section evenly. Close the lid and cook for 3–4 minutes or until golden brown and slightly crispy.
6. Once done, carefully remove the waffle donuts and let them cool slightly on a wire rack.
7. Warm the cloudberry jam in the microwave for 10–15 seconds to make it easier to drizzle.
8. Drizzle the jam over the waffle donuts and dust with powdered sugar if desired. Serve warm and enjoy!

Quick Pros of the Recipe

• Combines the best of donuts and waffles in one recipe.
• The cloudberry jam adds a unique Nordic flavor.
• Simple to prepare with easy-to-find ingredients.
• Perfect for Valentine’s Day breakfast or dessert.

Ingredient Substitutions or Customization Ideas: If you don’t have cloudberry jam, apricot or raspberry jam works just as well. You can also add a sprinkle of crushed nuts or white chocolate chips for extra texture and flavor.

Cooking Tips and Tricks: Make sure the waffle iron is preheated and greased well to prevent sticking. For extra crispiness, leave the waffle donuts in the iron for an additional minute.

—

Beignet-Inspired Baked Heart Donuts with Cinnamon Sugar

If you love **beignets** but want something a little easier and less messy, these baked heart donuts are for you! They’re soft, fluffy, and coated in a generous layer of cinnamon sugar for that classic flavor. Since they’re baked instead of fried, they’re lighter and less oily, making them a healthier option. These donuts are perfect for a cozy evening treat or as a fun addition to a special event like an **engagement party cake** table.

Serving Size: 8 servings

Time Needed: 35 minutes

Ingredients

• 1 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/4 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 cup buttermilk
• 1 large egg
• 1/4 cup melted butter
• 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/4 cup cinnamon sugar mixture for coating

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a heart-shaped donut pan generously with butter or non-stick spray.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, and salt.
3. In another bowl, mix the buttermilk, egg, melted butter, and vanilla extract until well combined.
4. Gradually add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients, stirring until the batter is smooth and lump-free.
5. Spoon the batter into the prepared donut pan, filling each heart cavity about 2/3 full.
6. Bake for 12–15 minutes, or until the donuts are golden and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
7. Let the donuts cool slightly before removing them from the pan. While still warm, toss them in the cinnamon sugar mixture until evenly coated.
8. Serve warm for the best flavor and texture!

Quick Pros of the Recipe

• Baking instead of frying makes them lighter and healthier.
• Coated in cinnamon sugar for the ultimate comfort food vibe.
• Easy to make and requires no special frying equipment.
• Perfect for any heart-shaped food-themed celebration.

Ingredient Substitutions or Customization Ideas: Swap buttermilk with regular milk and a teaspoon of vinegar if needed. For a fun twist, add a pinch of nutmeg or a drizzle of caramel sauce on top.

Cooking Tips and Tricks: Don’t overfill the donut molds to avoid spilling over the edges. Coat the donuts in cinnamon sugar while they’re still warm to help the sugar stick better.

—

Pumpkin Spice Heart Donuts with Vanilla Cream Glaze

These Pumpkin Spice Heart Donuts are the ultimate fall-inspired treat, but they’re just as delightful year-round. The warm spices and soft, moist texture pair beautifully with the **vanilla cream glaze**, giving you a cozy and indulgent dessert. They’re baked instead of fried, so you get all the sweetness without the extra heaviness. These donuts make a wonderful addition to your **Valentine’s Day desserts** or even a fun **February inspiration** baking session!

Serving Size: 6 servings

Time Needed: 45 minutes

Ingredients

• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
• 1 teaspoon pumpkin pie spice
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 cup canned pumpkin puree
• 1/4 cup vegetable oil
• 1 large egg
• 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/2 cup powdered sugar
• 2 tablespoons heavy cream
• 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract (for glaze)

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a heart-shaped donut pan with non-stick spray or butter.
2. In a bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, pumpkin pie spice, and salt.
3. In a separate bowl, mix the pumpkin puree, oil, egg, and vanilla extract until smooth.
4. Gradually combine the wet ingredients with the dry ingredients, stirring until the batter is well mixed.
5. Fill the donut molds about 3/4 full with the batter and smooth the tops with a spoon.
6. Bake for 15–18 minutes or until the donuts spring back when lightly touched.
7. While the donuts cool, prepare the glaze by whisking the powdered sugar, heavy cream, and vanilla extract until smooth.
8. Dip the top of each donut into the glaze and let it set for a few minutes before serving.

Quick Pros of the Recipe

• Perfectly spiced for fall or winter baking.
• The vanilla cream glaze adds a luxurious touch.
• Baked, not fried, for a lighter dessert option.
• Great for Valentine’s Day or cozy celebrations.

Ingredient Substitutions or Customization Ideas: Replace pumpkin puree with mashed sweet potato or banana for a different flavor. Add a handful of chocolate chips or chopped nuts for extra texture.

Cooking Tips and Tricks: Use a piping bag to fill the donut molds for a cleaner finish. Let the donuts cool completely before glazing to avoid melting the icing.

Scandinavian Cardamom-Laced Heart Donuts with Almond Topping

These Scandinavian-inspired heart-shaped donuts are a delightful blend of warm, aromatic cardamom and the crunch of toasted almonds. The subtle spice from the cardamom makes these donuts feel extra cozy, perfect for chilly mornings or a special Valentine’s treat. The texture is soft and pillowy, with just the right amount of chew, and they’re topped with a sweet almond glaze that ties everything together beautifully. If you love Nordic dishes or Scandinavian waffles, you’ll adore this unique twist on heart-shaped donuts!

Serving Size: 6 servings

Time Needed: 1 hour 15 minutes

Ingredients

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cardamom
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 cup warm milk
• 1 large egg
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
• 1 teaspoon active dry yeast
• 1/2 cup powdered sugar
• 2 tablespoons milk (for glaze)
• 1/4 teaspoon almond extract
• 1/4 cup sliced almonds, toasted

Instructions

1. In a small bowl, activate the yeast by mixing it with the warm milk and a pinch of sugar. Let it sit for 5–10 minutes until foamy.
2. In a large bowl, combine the flour, granulated sugar, cardamom, and salt. Add in the egg, melted butter, and the foamy yeast mixture. Mix until a soft dough forms.
3. Knead the dough on a floured surface for about 8 minutes until smooth and elastic. Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover, and let it rise for 45 minutes or until doubled in size.
4. Roll out the dough to about 1/2-inch thickness and cut out heart shapes using a cookie cutter. Place the shapes on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and let them rise for another 15 minutes.
5. Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 12–15 minutes or until lightly golden. Let them cool slightly.
6. For the glaze, whisk together powdered sugar, milk, and almond extract. Drizzle the glaze over the donuts and sprinkle with toasted almonds.

Quick Pros of the Recipe

• The fragrant cardamom adds a unique Nordic twist to the donuts.
• The toasted almonds provide a satisfying crunch.
• Perfect for pairing with coffee or tea for a cozy treat.
• Simple ingredients make it accessible for most home bakers.

Ingredient Substitutions or Customization Ideas: Swap cardamom with cinnamon for a warmer, more familiar flavor. For a nut-free version, skip the almonds and try a simple vanilla glaze instead.

Cooking Tips and Tricks: Toast the almonds in a dry skillet over low heat for 3–4 minutes, stirring often, to bring out their flavor. Make sure to let the donuts cool slightly before glazing to prevent the glaze from sliding off completely.

—

Crispy Vanilla Waffle Heart Donuts with Maple Glaze

These crispy vanilla waffle heart donuts are the perfect cross between a waffle and a donut, offering a crunchy exterior and soft, fluffy inside. The maple glaze adds a sweet, buttery layer that makes each bite feel indulgent and comforting. Inspired by heart waffles and Nordic waffle recipes, these donuts are a fun twist on classic Scandinavian treats. They’re perfect for breakfast, dessert, or even a festive Valentine’s Day brunch!

Serving Size: 4 servings

Time Needed: 40 minutes

Ingredients

• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 cup milk
• 1 large egg
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/2 cup powdered sugar
• 2 tablespoons maple syrup
• 1–2 tablespoons milk (for glaze)

Instructions

1. Preheat your waffle iron and grease it lightly with cooking spray or melted butter.
2. In a bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt. In another bowl, mix the milk, egg, melted butter, and vanilla extract.
3. Combine the wet and dry ingredients, stirring until just combined. Be careful not to overmix.
4. Pour the batter into the waffle iron, filling each heart-shaped section evenly. Cook according to the waffle iron’s instructions until crispy and golden brown.
5. For the glaze, whisk together powdered sugar, maple syrup, and milk until smooth. Drizzle the glaze over the waffle donuts and serve warm.

Quick Pros of the Recipe

• Crispy exterior with a soft, fluffy interior.
• The maple glaze complements the vanilla perfectly.
• Quick to whip up for a festive breakfast or dessert.
• Fun heart shapes make it visually appealing for special occasions.

Ingredient Substitutions or Customization Ideas: Replace maple syrup with honey or caramel for a different flavor twist. Add a pinch of cinnamon to the batter for extra warmth.

Cooking Tips and Tricks: Make sure your waffle iron is properly preheated to ensure crispy edges. Don’t overfill the iron to avoid batter spilling out during cooking.

—

Valentine’s Red Velvet Bread Braid Donuts Shaped Like Hearts

These red velvet bread braid donuts are as stunning as they are delicious, making them the ultimate Valentine’s Day dessert. The soft, rich bread is lightly sweetened and braided into charming heart shapes, perfect for impressing your loved ones. With their vibrant red color and a touch of cocoa, they’re like a love letter in dessert form. They’re surprisingly fun to make and will be the star of any Valentine’s baking spread!

Serving Size: 6 servings

Time Needed: 2 hours

Ingredients

• 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar
• 1 tablespoon cocoa powder
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 cup warm milk
• 1 large egg
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
• 1 teaspoon active dry yeast
• Red food coloring (as needed)
• 1/2 cup powdered sugar
• 2 tablespoons milk (for glaze)
• 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract

Instructions

1. In a small bowl, activate the yeast by mixing it with warm milk and a pinch of sugar. Let it sit for 5–10 minutes until foamy.
2. In a large bowl, combine the flour, sugar, cocoa powder, and salt. Add in the egg, softened butter, red food coloring, and the yeast mixture. Mix until a dough forms.
3. Knead the dough on a floured surface for about 8 minutes until smooth. Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover, and let it rise for 1 hour or until doubled in size.
4. Divide the dough into equal portions, roll into ropes, and braid them into heart shapes. Place them on a parchment-lined baking sheet and let them rise for another 30 minutes.
5. Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 15–18 minutes or until set. Once cooled, mix powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract to make the glaze. Drizzle over the bread braids and serve.

Quick Pros of the Recipe

• Eye-catching red and heart-shaped design perfect for Valentine’s Day.
• Rich cocoa flavor pairs beautifully with the sweet glaze.
• Fun and creative braiding process for bakers of all levels.
• Can double as both a dessert and a decorative centerpiece.

Ingredient Substitutions or Customization Ideas: Use beet puree instead of red food coloring for a natural option. Add a cream cheese glaze for a more classic red velvet pairing.

Cooking Tips and Tricks: Don’t skip the second rise—it ensures the bread braids stay fluffy. Use a light hand when braiding to keep the heart shapes intact during baking.

FAQ

How can I make these recipes healthier?

To make these recipes healthier, consider swapping refined sugar with natural sweeteners like honey or maple syrup. For frying, use oils with a high smoke point like avocado oil, or try baking instead of frying for options like the Beignet-Inspired Baked Heart Donuts. You can also incorporate whole-grain flours or gluten-free alternatives where possible, especially for items like the Pumpkin Spice Donuts with a Vanilla Cream Glaze.

Can I prepare any of these in advance for an event like an engagement party cake spread?

Absolutely! Many of these recipes can be prepped in advance. For example, the Valentine’s Red Velvet Bread Braid Donuts can be made early and stored in an airtight container. Similarly, the Nordic Heart Waffle Donuts with Cloudberry Jam Drizzle can be pre-made and reheated just before serving, making them a great addition to your dessert table for celebrations.

Where can I find these unique flavor ingredients like cloudberry jam, edible flowers, or cardamom?

Specialty ingredients like cloudberry jam, edible flowers, and cardamom can typically be found at gourmet food stores or online retailers that carry Nordic and Scandinavian products. For the Nordic Heart Waffle Donuts or Scandinavian Cardamom-Laced Heart Donuts, check out stores that specialize in Nordic Dishes or Norwegian Waffles Recipes.

Are the waffles mentioned in some donuts the same as traditional waffles?

Not exactly! The waffles used in recipes like the Crispy Vanilla Waffle Heart Donuts and Nordic Heart Waffle Donuts are often inspired by traditional Scandinavian Waffles or a Nordic Waffle Recipe. They tend to be thinner and crispier than American-style waffles, lending a wonderful texture to the heart-shaped designs.

Can I substitute fillings like Pistachio Cream and Raspberry Rose Jelly?

Of course! You can substitute with any jam, cream, or custard of your choice. For instance, swap out the pistachio cream in the Pistachio Cream-Filled Heart Donuts with hazelnut spread or chocolate ganache for a different flavor. Similarly, replace the raspberry rose jelly with a more traditional strawberry or apricot jam.

What makes these recipes perfect for Valentine’s Day or themed events?

Each recipe is designed to be visually stunning, delicious, and full of creative flavors that embody the spirit of the occasion. The heart shapes, romantic touches like edible gold dust and flowers, and festive ingredients like red velvet and pumpkin spice make them ideal for Valentine’s Day Desserts, Heart Shaped Food, or any February Inspiration moment.

Are bread braids difficult to make?

Not at all! Bread braids like in the Valentine’s Red Velvet Bread Braid Donuts may look intricate, but they’re surprisingly simple with some practice. Start with a basic dough recipe, roll it out, braid it, and bake. They make wonderful Heart-Shaped Food with an artisanal feel.

Conclusion

This delightful roundup of heart-shaped donuts showcases the incredible creativity and indulgence that such treats can bring to the table—literally!

Whether you’re savoring the aromatic Raspberry Rose Jelly-Filled Heart Donuts, the luxurious Pistachio Cream-Filled Heart Donuts adorned with edible gold dust, or the floral beauty of Honey-Lavender Heart Donuts with pressed edible flowers, each recipe is a unique experience.

These recipes are perfect for creating memories, one sweet bite at a time. Save this article to revisit these amazing flavors, from Scandinavian Waffles to classic pumpkin spice donuts.

Share it with friends and family who love creative baking, and be sure to let us know in the comments: Which recipe are you most excited to try? Your adventure in Valentines Baking awaits—so grab your aprons and dive into these lovingly crafted recipes!

Disclaimer: The recipes shared on this blog are based on personal preferences and are provided for informational purposes only. I strive to ensure accuracy and relevance, but cannot guarantee that the information will always be up to date or error-free. They should not be considered as medical or health advice. If you have any health issues, dietary restrictions, or allergies, please consult with a specialist or healthcare provider before trying any recipe. I do not accept responsibility for any adverse effects that may arise from the preparation or consumption of the dishes featured on this site. Also, the final outcome of the recipes can look different depending on a lot of factors, including the cooking temperature, process, utensils you use, spices, etc. Enjoy responsibly!