I’ve been making this chocolate donut baked recipe for years, and it’s always a hit with my family. My kids love helping me in the kitchen, and this recipe is one of their favorites.
We make it for special occasions like birthdays and holidays, but also for everyday treats. The best part is that it’s relatively healthy compared to traditional fried donuts, so I feel good about what we’re putting in our bodies.
The combination of dark chocolate and whole wheat flour makes it a nutritious treat that we can all enjoy. I love how the recipe comes together in just a few minutes, making it perfect for a quick breakfast or snack.
The aroma of fresh-baked donuts fills our home, and everyone knows that a batch is on the way. It’s become a staple in our household, and I’m excited to share the recipe with you.
Baked Chocolate Donuts
4.8 from 1655 votes
These baked chocolate donuts are rich, moist, and full of deep cocoa flavor. Topped with a glossy chocolate glaze, they are a perfect treat for any chocolate lover.
2Lightly grease a 12-cavity donut pan with nonstick cooking spray to ensure the donuts release easily after baking.
3In a large bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, unsweetened cocoa powder, granulated sugar, brown sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt until evenly combined.
4Make a well in the center of the dry ingredients.
5Add the egg, buttermilk, vegetable oil, and vanilla extract to the well.
6Stir the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients until just combined, being careful not to overmix.
7Pour in the hot water and stir gently until the batter is smooth and thin.
8Transfer the batter to a piping bag or a zip-top bag with a corner snipped off.
9Pipe the batter evenly into the prepared donut pan, filling each cavity about 2/3 full to allow room for rising.
10Bake the donuts for 10 to 12 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of a donut comes out clean.
11The tops should spring back when lightly touched.
12Let the donuts cool in the pan for 5 minutes, then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely.
13While the donuts cool, prepare the chocolate glaze.
14In a microwave-safe bowl, combine the semisweet chocolate chips, unsalted butter, and light corn syrup.
15Microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring after each, until the mixture is smooth and fully melted.
16Stir in the vanilla extract.
17Once the donuts are completely cool, dip the top of each donut into the glaze, allowing any excess to drip off.
18Place the glazed donuts back on the wire rack and let the glaze set for about 15 minutes before serving.
For a dairy-free version, substitute buttermilk with a mixture of 1/2 cup non-dairy milk plus 1/2 tablespoon lemon juice. Let it sit for 5 minutes before using. The glaze can be made with dairy-free chocolate chips and vegan butter.
Watch Video Of How Baked Chocolate Donuts Works
For storage keep these donuts in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. If you want to keep them longer you can freeze them in a zip top bag for up to two months.
Just thaw them at room temperature or warm them in the microwave for about 15 seconds. To reheat place them in a 350 degree oven for five minutes to bring back that fresh baked texture.
These donuts are perfect for any occasion from a casual breakfast to a holiday brunch. They work well for family gatherings because they are easy to make ahead and everyone loves them.
I often bring a batch to potlucks or school events and they disappear fast. This recipe is a keeper that you will come back to again and again.
❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Baked Chocolate Donuts
Q1: What type of flour should I use for this recipe?
You can use either all-purpose or whole wheat flour for this recipe. If you prefer a more indulgent treat, use all-purpose flour. For a healthier option, use whole wheat flour. Either way, make sure to use unbleached flour for the best flavor.
Q2: Can I substitute dark chocolate with milk chocolate?
While you can use milk chocolate instead of dark chocolate, keep in mind that it will change the flavor profile of the donuts. If you prefer a milder taste, use milk chocolate. For a more intense chocolate experience, stick with dark chocolate.
Q3: How long do these donuts stay fresh?
These donuts are best consumed within 24 hours of baking. Store them in an airtight container at room temperature to preserve freshness.
Q4: Can I make these donuts ahead of time?
Yes, you can make the dough ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator overnight or freeze it for up to 2 weeks. Allow the dough to come to room temperature before baking.
Q5: Why do these donuts have a hole in the middle?
This recipe uses a piping bag to create the hole in the center of each donut. The hole helps with even baking and prevents the centers from becoming too dense.
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