Baked Chocolate Cake Doughnuts
Baked Chocolate Cake Doughnuts are the perfect treat for any occasion. These soft and fluffy doughnuts, dipped in a rich vanilla glaze, offer delightful flavors that everyone will love. They are quick to make and ideal for breakfast, snacks, or dessert. Whether you’re hosting a brunch or simply craving something sweet, these baked treats are sure to impress.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Easy to Make: With just a few simple steps, you can whip up these delicious doughnuts in under 20 minutes.
- Healthier Option: Baked instead of fried, these doughnuts provide a lighter alternative without sacrificing flavor.
- Versatile Treat: Perfect for breakfast, dessert, or an afternoon snack—these doughnuts fit any occasion.
- Flavorful Indulgence: The combination of chocolate and vanilla glaze creates a rich taste that satisfies sweet cravings.
- Customizable Toppings: Add sprinkles or nuts on top of the glaze for extra texture and visual appeal.
Tools and Preparation
To make your Baked Chocolate Cake Doughnuts, you’ll need a few essential tools. Having the right equipment will ensure your baking experience is smooth and enjoyable.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Doughnut pan
- Mixing bowls
- Whisk
- Measuring cups and spoons
Importance of Each Tool
- Doughnut pan: This specialized pan gives your doughnuts their signature shape and ensures even baking.
- Mixing bowls: Having multiple sizes allows for efficient mixing of dry and wet ingredients separately before combining.
- Whisk: A whisk helps incorporate air into the batter, resulting in lighter doughnuts.
Ingredients
Soft and fluffy chocolate cake doughnuts dipped in a vanilla glaze.
Dry Ingredients
- 125 grams all purpose flour
- 25 grams cocoa powder
- ½ tsp baking powder
- ½ tsp baking soda
- ½ tsp kosher salt
Wet Ingredients
- 56 grams unsalted butter (melted)
- 106 grams light brown sugar
- 113 ml buttermilk (room temperature)
- 1 egg (room temperature)
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- ¼ tsp nutmeg
Glaze Ingredients
- 125 grams confectioners’ sugar
- 2 tbsp milk
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- Pinch salt
How to Make Baked Chocolate Cake Doughnuts
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 175°C (350°F). This ensures that your doughnuts bake evenly from the start.
Step 2: Prepare the Doughnut Pan
Grease your doughnut pan with non-stick spray or a little melted butter. This prevents sticking and makes it easier to release the doughnuts after baking.
Step 3: Mix Dry Ingredients
In a mixing bowl, combine the following dry ingredients:
1. All-purpose flour
2. Cocoa powder
3. Baking powder
4. Baking soda
5. Kosher salt
Whisk them together until well combined.
Step 4: Mix Wet Ingredients
In another bowl, mix together:
1. Melted unsalted butter
2. Light brown sugar
Beat in buttermilk, egg, vanilla extract, and nutmeg until smooth.
Step 5: Combine Mixtures
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture. Stir gently until just combined; do not overmix.
Step 6: Fill the Pan
Using a piping bag or spoon, fill each cavity of the doughnut pan about two-thirds full with batter.
Step 7: Bake
Place in preheated oven and bake for about 11 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
Step 8: Make the Glaze
While the doughnuts cool, make your glaze by whisking together confectioners’ sugar, milk, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt.
Step 9: Glaze the Doughnuts
Once cooled, dip each doughnut into the glaze. Allow excess glaze to drip off before serving.
Enjoy your delicious Baked Chocolate Cake Doughnuts!
How to Serve Baked Chocolate Cake Doughnuts
Baked Chocolate Cake Doughnuts are a delightful treat that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether paired with a morning beverage or served as a dessert, these doughnuts will surely impress.
With Coffee
- A warm cup of coffee complements the rich chocolate flavor perfectly, enhancing the overall experience.
As Breakfast
- Serve them alongside fresh fruit for a balanced breakfast, adding a refreshing contrast to the sweetness of the doughnuts.
Dipped in Glaze
- Elevate your doughnut experience by dipping them in vanilla glaze. This adds an extra layer of sweetness and creaminess.
With Ice Cream
- Enjoy your baked chocolate cake doughnuts as a dessert by topping them with a scoop of vanilla or chocolate ice cream for a decadent treat.
Garnished with Nuts
- Sprinkle chopped nuts on top for added texture and flavor. Almonds or hazelnuts work particularly well.
How to Perfect Baked Chocolate Cake Doughnuts
Perfecting your Baked Chocolate Cake Doughnuts is simple with a few helpful tips. Follow these guidelines for the best results.
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Use room temperature ingredients – This ensures better mixing and helps achieve the perfect texture.
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Don’t overmix the batter – Overmixing can lead to dense doughnuts. Mix just until combined for light and fluffy results.
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Preheat your oven – Ensure your oven is fully preheated before baking to achieve even cooking.
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Adjust baking times – Every oven is different. Check your doughnuts a minute or two early to prevent overbaking.
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Cool completely before glazing – Letting them cool allows the glaze to set nicely without melting away.
Best Side Dishes for Baked Chocolate Cake Doughnuts
Pairing side dishes with Baked Chocolate Cake Doughnuts enhances their enjoyment. Here are some great options to consider.
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Fresh Fruit Salad – A mix of seasonal fruits adds freshness and balances the sweetness of the doughnuts.
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Greek Yogurt – Creamy Greek yogurt provides a tangy contrast and can be flavored with honey or vanilla.
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Scrambled Eggs – Adding scrambled eggs creates a satisfying breakfast combo full of protein.
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Smoothie Bowl – A vibrant smoothie bowl can serve as a refreshing side, packed with vitamins and minerals.
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Nut Butter Toast – Whole grain toast spread with almond or peanut butter offers healthy fats and complements the chocolate flavor.
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Chia Seed Pudding – This nutritious pudding can be flavored with cocoa or vanilla for an extra chocolatey side dish.
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Coffee or Hot Chocolate – A warm beverage pairs beautifully, making every bite even more enjoyable.
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Oatmeal – A bowl of oatmeal topped with fruits can round out your meal, offering fiber and heartiness.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Baking Baked Chocolate Cake Doughnuts can be simple, but there are common pitfalls to watch out for. Here are some mistakes to avoid:
- Not measuring ingredients accurately – Using the wrong measurements can lead to dense or dry doughnuts. Always use a kitchen scale or measuring cups for precision.
- Overmixing the batter – Overmixing can create tough doughnuts instead of fluffy ones. Mix just until combined for a lighter texture.
- Skipping the cooling period – Not allowing the doughnuts to cool before glazing can cause the glaze to melt off. Let them cool completely on a wire rack.
- Using cold ingredients – Cold eggs and buttermilk can affect how well your doughnuts rise. Ensure all ingredients are at room temperature before mixing.
- Not preheating the oven – Baking in an unheated oven can lead to uneven baking. Always preheat your oven to ensure even cooking.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store in an airtight container.
- Enjoy within 3 days for optimal freshness.
Freezing Baked Chocolate Cake Doughnuts
- Place in a freezer-safe bag or container.
- They can be frozen for up to 2 months.
Reheating Baked Chocolate Cake Doughnuts
- Oven – Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and warm for about 5-7 minutes for a fresh taste.
- Microwave – Heat individually on high for 10-15 seconds until warm.
- Stovetop – Use a skillet on low heat, flipping occasionally until warmed through.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about Baked Chocolate Cake Doughnuts that might help you along the way.
How do I make Baked Chocolate Cake Doughnuts healthier?
You can substitute whole wheat flour and reduce sugar. Additionally, consider using unsweetened applesauce instead of butter for a lighter version.
Can I use different types of flour?
Yes, you can experiment with almond flour or gluten-free flour blends. The texture may vary slightly, so adjustments might be needed.
What if I don’t have buttermilk?
You can easily make a substitute by mixing milk with vinegar or lemon juice. Let it sit for about 5 minutes before using.
How long do Baked Chocolate Cake Doughnuts last?
When stored properly, they last about 3 days in the refrigerator and up to 2 months in the freezer.
Final Thoughts
Baked Chocolate Cake Doughnuts are a delightful treat perfect for breakfast or dessert. Their soft texture and rich chocolate flavor make them irresistible! You can customize these doughnuts with toppings or fillings of your choice, making them truly versatile. Give this recipe a try and enjoy every bite!
Baked Chocolate Cake Doughnuts
- Total Time: 21 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 12 servings 1x
Description
Baked Chocolate Cake Doughnuts are a delightful treat that combines the rich flavors of chocolate with a light and fluffy texture, perfect for any occasion. These easy-to-make doughnuts are baked instead of fried, making them a healthier option that doesn’t compromise on taste. Dipped in a smooth vanilla glaze, they are not only irresistible but also customizable with various toppings like sprinkles or nuts. Whether you’re enjoying them as a breakfast indulgence, an afternoon snack, or a dessert at your next gathering, these baked treats are sure to impress family and friends alike.
Ingredients
- 125 grams all-purpose flour
- 25 grams cocoa powder
- ½ tsp baking powder
- ½ tsp baking soda
- ½ tsp kosher salt
- 56 grams unsalted butter (melted)
- 106 grams light brown sugar
- 113 ml buttermilk (room temperature)
- 1 egg (room temperature)
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- ¼ tsp nutmeg
- 125 grams confectioners' sugar (for glaze)
- 2 tbsp milk
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- Pinch salt
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 175°C (350°F) and grease a doughnut pan.
- In one bowl, whisk together dry ingredients: flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
- In another bowl, mix melted butter and brown sugar until smooth; then add buttermilk, egg, vanilla extract, and nutmeg.
- Combine the wet and dry ingredients gently until just mixed.
- Fill the doughnut pan two-thirds full with batter and bake for about 11 minutes.
- While cooling, prepare the glaze by mixing confectioners' sugar, milk, vanilla extract, and salt.
- Dip cooled doughnuts in glaze before serving.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 11 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 doughnut (45g)
- Calories: 185
- Sugar: 10g
- Sodium: 150mg
- Fat: 8g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 26g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 30mg
