Baked Chocolate Cake Doughnuts

Soft and fluffy, Baked Chocolate Cake Doughnuts are the perfect treat for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a brunch, celebrating a birthday, or simply satisfying your sweet tooth, these doughnuts will impress everyone. Their rich chocolate flavor combined with a delightful vanilla glaze makes them irresistible. Plus, they are baked rather than fried, making them a lighter option without sacrificing taste.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to Prepare: With just 5 minutes of prep time, you can whip up these delicious doughnuts in no time.
• Irresistible Flavor: The combination of cocoa powder and vanilla creates a rich taste that chocolate lovers crave.
• Versatile Treat: Perfect for breakfast, snacks, or dessert, these doughnuts fit any occasion.
• Healthier Option: Baked instead of fried, they offer a lighter alternative to traditional doughnuts.
• Easy to Customize: Feel free to add toppings or flavors according to your preference for a unique twist.

Tools and Preparation

To make these scrumptious Baked Chocolate Cake Doughnuts, you’ll need some essential kitchen tools. Having the right equipment on hand ensures a smooth baking process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Doughnut pan
• Mixing bowls
• Whisk
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Cooling rack

Importance of Each Tool

• Doughnut pan: This specialized pan gives your doughnuts their signature shape and helps them bake evenly.
• Mixing bowls: Essential for combining ingredients without making a mess in your kitchen.
• Whisk: A handy tool for mixing dry ingredients and ensuring everything is well blended.
• Cooling rack: Allows doughnuts to cool evenly after baking, preventing sogginess.

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 350°F (175°C). This ensures that your doughnuts bake evenly.

Step 2: Prepare the Doughnut Pan

Lightly grease the doughnut pan with cooking spray or butter to prevent sticking.

Step 3: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a mixing bowl, combine the dry ingredients:
1. Whisk together the flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and kosher salt until well blended.

Step 4: Mix Wet Ingredients

In another bowl:
1. Combine the melted butter and light brown sugar. Stir until smooth.
2. Add the buttermilk, egg, vanilla extract, and nutmeg. Mix until fully incorporated.

Step 5: Combine Mixtures

Gently fold the wet ingredients into the dry mixture:
1. Stir until just combined; be careful not to overmix.

Step 6: Fill the Doughnut Pan

Spoon the batter into each cavity of the prepared doughnut pan:
1. Fill each cavity about two-thirds full to allow space for rising.

Step 7: Bake

Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for about 11 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.

Step 8: Cool

Once baked:
1. Remove from oven and let cool in the pan for a few minutes before transferring to a cooling rack.

Step 9: Prepare the Glaze

While the doughnuts cool:
1. In a small bowl, mix together confectioners’ sugar, milk, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt until smooth.

Step 10: Glaze Doughnuts

Dip each cooled doughnut into the glaze:
1. Allow excess glaze to drip off before placing on wax paper or cooling rack.

Enjoy your homemade Baked Chocolate Cake Doughnuts fresh or store them for later indulgence!

How to Serve Baked Chocolate Cake Doughnuts

Serving baked chocolate cake doughnuts can elevate your breakfast or dessert experience. Here are some delightful ways to enjoy them.

With Coffee

• Rich Brew: Pair your doughnuts with a cup of freshly brewed coffee for a classic combination that enhances the flavors.

Ice Cream Sandwich

• Decadent Treat: Place a scoop of vanilla ice cream between two doughnuts for an indulgent dessert that’s sure to impress.

Fruit Compote

• Fruity Contrast: Serve with a warm fruit compote, like raspberry or blueberry, to add a tangy sweetness that complements the chocolate.

Sprinkles and Toppings

• Fun Decorations: Top your doughnuts with colorful sprinkles or crushed nuts for added texture and visual appeal.

Breakfast Platter

• Variety Delight: Include baked chocolate cake doughnuts on a breakfast platter alongside fresh fruits and yogurt for a balanced meal.

Pin for later!

How to Perfect Baked Chocolate Cake Doughnuts

To make the best baked chocolate cake doughnuts, keep these tips in mind for perfect results every time.

• Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Make sure your butter, eggs, and buttermilk are at room temperature. This helps create a smoother batter and fluffier doughnuts.

• Don’t Overmix the Batter: Gently mix the ingredients until just combined. Overmixing can lead to dense doughnuts instead of fluffy ones.

• Grease Your Pan Well: Ensure your doughnut pan is properly greased to prevent sticking. You can also use parchment paper for easy removal.

• Check Doneness Early: Start checking your doughnuts a minute or two before the recommended baking time. They are done when a toothpick comes out clean.

Best Side Dishes for Baked Chocolate Cake Doughnuts

Baked chocolate cake doughnuts can be paired with various side dishes to create a more satisfying meal. Here are some great options:

1. Fresh Fruit Salad: A mix of seasonal fruits adds brightness and freshness that balances the richness of the doughnuts.

2. Greek Yogurt Parfait: Layer Greek yogurt with granola and berries for an extra protein kick alongside your sweet treat.

3. Maple Syrup Drizzle: A light drizzle of maple syrup adds natural sweetness and pairs wonderfully with chocolate flavors.

4. Whipped Cream: Serve with a dollop of whipped cream for an airy contrast that makes each bite memorable.

5. Chocolate Sauce: For true chocoholics, serve with warm chocolate sauce for dipping, elevating the indulgence factor.

6. Chai Latte: The spiced flavors of chai complement the chocolate perfectly, creating a cozy drink option alongside your doughnuts.

7. Almond Milk Smoothie: Blend almond milk, banana, and spinach for a nutritious beverage that pairs well without overpowering the doughnut flavor.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Baking can be tricky, and making Baked Chocolate Cake Doughnuts is no exception. Avoid these common mistakes to ensure your doughnuts turn out perfectly every time.

• Boldly using old ingredients: Always check the expiration dates on your baking powder and buttermilk. Fresh ingredients make a big difference in texture and taste.

• Skipping room temperature ingredients: Using cold eggs or buttermilk can lead to uneven mixing. Make sure all your ingredients are at room temperature before you start.

• Overmixing the batter: Mixing too much can create dense doughnuts. Stir just until combined for a light and fluffy texture.

• Not preheating the oven: Baking in an unheated oven can alter cooking times and textures. Always preheat your oven to ensure even baking.

• Ignoring the cooling time: Letting your doughnuts cool for a few minutes before glazing helps the glaze set better. Don’t rush this step!

Pin for later!

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Keep the glaze separate if possible to maintain texture.

Freezing Baked Chocolate Cake Doughnuts

• Freeze in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag for up to 2 months.
• Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before use.

Reheating Baked Chocolate Cake Doughnuts

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and warm for about 5-7 minutes for fresh taste.
• Microwave: Heat on low power in 10-second intervals until warmed through; avoid overheating.
• Stovetop: Place in a skillet over low heat, covering with a lid until warmed, which keeps them soft.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Baked Chocolate Cake Doughnuts that might help you out.

What makes Baked Chocolate Cake Doughnuts different from fried ones?

Baked chocolate cake doughnuts are lighter and fluffier than fried versions, which tend to be denser due to the frying process. The baked method offers a healthier alternative without sacrificing flavor.

Can I customize my Baked Chocolate Cake Doughnuts?

Absolutely! You can add chocolate chips, nuts, or even spices like cinnamon or espresso powder for extra flavor. Get creative with toppings like sprinkles or various flavored glazes too!

How do I know when my doughnuts are done?

Your Baked Chocolate Cake Doughnuts are done when they spring back lightly when touched or when a toothpick inserted comes out clean.

Can I use gluten-free flour for Baked Chocolate Cake Doughnuts?

Yes! You can substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend that measures cup-for-cup. This will allow you to enjoy delicious doughnuts while accommodating dietary needs.

Final Thoughts

These Baked Chocolate Cake Doughnuts are not only delightful but also versatile enough for any occasion. Feel free to experiment with flavors and toppings to make them uniquely yours. Enjoy these treats as breakfast, dessert, or even an afternoon snack!