Baked Chocolate Cake Doughnuts
Soft and fluffy, Baked Chocolate Cake Doughnuts are the perfect treat for breakfast, dessert, or a snack. These delightful doughnuts are not only easy to make but also offer a rich chocolate flavor that will please any crowd. Whether you’re hosting a brunch or simply indulging yourself, these doughnuts stand out with their light texture and sweet vanilla glaze. They are a fantastic option for various occasions, making your baking experience both enjoyable and rewarding.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick Preparation: With just 5 minutes of prep time, you can whip up these delicious doughnuts without much hassle.
- Healthier Alternative: Baked instead of fried, these doughnuts provide a lighter option while still being incredibly satisfying.
- Versatile Flavor: The chocolate base pairs beautifully with different toppings, allowing you to customize each batch to your liking.
- Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a holiday brunch or an afternoon snack, these doughnuts fit right in.
- Kid-Friendly: Easy to make and fun to decorate, kids will love helping in the kitchen!
Tools and Preparation
Having the right tools makes baking easier and more enjoyable. Gather the following essential equipment before you start making your Baked Chocolate Cake Doughnuts.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Doughnut pan
- Mixing bowls
- Whisk
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Spatula
Importance of Each Tool
- Doughnut pan: This specialized pan ensures your doughnuts have the perfect shape and texture.
- Mixing bowls: Using different sized bowls helps keep ingredients organized during preparation.
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 180°C (350°F). This ensures that your doughnuts bake evenly.
Step 2: Prepare the Doughnut Pan
Lightly grease your doughnut pan with cooking spray or melted butter to prevent sticking.
Step 3: Mix Dry Ingredients
In a mixing bowl, combine:
1. All purpose flour
2. Cocoa powder
3. Baking powder
4. Baking soda
5. Kosher salt
Whisk them together until well combined.
Step 4: Combine Wet Ingredients
In another bowl, whisk together:
1. Melted butter
2. Light brown sugar
3. Buttermilk
4. Egg
5. Vanilla extract
6. Nutmeg
Ensure everything is smoothly blended.
Step 5: Combine Mixtures
Gradually add the dry mixture into the wet mixture, stirring gently until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; some lumps are okay.
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
Bake in the preheated oven for about 11 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
Step 8: Cool and Glaze
Allow the doughnuts to cool in the pan for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack. While they cool, prepare your glaze by mixing confectioners’ sugar, milk, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt until smooth.
Step 9: Dip in Glaze
Once cooled, dip each doughnut into the glaze and let excess 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 you want a sweet breakfast or a fun snack, these doughnuts can fit any occasion.
With a Vanilla Glaze
- A simple vanilla glaze adds sweetness and complements the chocolate flavor.
- Drizzle or dip each doughnut in the glaze for a beautiful finish.
Topped with Sprinkles
- Colorful sprinkles make these doughnuts festive.
- Perfect for parties or celebrations, they add a fun touch to your dessert table.
Served with Fresh Berries
- Fresh strawberries or raspberries pair wonderfully with the rich chocolate.
- Serve on the side for a refreshing contrast and added nutrition.
Accompanied by Coffee
- A warm cup of coffee enhances the chocolate flavor.
- Ideal for breakfast or mid-afternoon breaks.
With Whipped Cream
- Top your doughnuts with a dollop of whipped cream for extra indulgence.
- This creamy addition makes them feel like a special dessert.
As Part of a Brunch Spread
- Include baked chocolate cake doughnuts in your brunch menu alongside other pastries.
- They are sure to impress guests at any gathering.
How to Perfect Baked Chocolate Cake Doughnuts
Creating the ultimate baked chocolate cake doughnuts is easy with some helpful tips. Follow these suggestions for the best results.
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Use room temperature ingredients: Ensure your eggs and buttermilk are at room temperature. This helps create a smooth batter and ensures even baking.
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Don’t overmix: Mix just until combined. Overmixing can lead to dense doughnuts rather than light and fluffy ones.
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Preheat your oven: Make sure your oven is fully preheated before baking. This ensures that the doughnuts cook evenly and rise properly.
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Grease your pan well: To avoid sticking, thoroughly grease your doughnut pan. You can also use parchment paper for easier removal.
Best Side Dishes for Baked Chocolate Cake Doughnuts
Baked chocolate cake doughnuts pair well with various side dishes. Here are some great options to enjoy alongside them:
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Fruit Salad: A mix of seasonal fruits adds freshness and balances the sweetness of the doughnuts.
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Yogurt Parfait: Layer yogurt with granola and berries for a nutritious pairing that complements the dessert.
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Savory Breakfast Hash: A hearty potato or vegetable hash provides a savory contrast to the sweet doughnuts, making it perfect for brunch.
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Oatmeal: A warm bowl of oatmeal topped with nuts or fruit offers another comforting option that pairs nicely with chocolate flavors.
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Cheese Platter: Include soft cheeses like cream cheese or ricotta to add richness to your meal, balancing out the sweetness of the doughnuts.
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Cinnamon Rolls: For an indulgent treat, serve baked chocolate cake doughnuts alongside cinnamon rolls for an extra sweet breakfast spread.
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Smoothie Bowl: A thick smoothie topped with nuts and seeds can provide nutrients while complementing the rich flavor of chocolate.
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Coffee Cake: Pairing with coffee cake brings together two classic breakfast treats that everyone will love!
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When making Baked Chocolate Cake Doughnuts, it’s easy to run into some common pitfalls. Here are a few mistakes to watch out for:
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ingredients measurement: Using incorrect measurements can ruin the texture. Always weigh your ingredients for accuracy.
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skipping room temperature: Using cold eggs or buttermilk can affect the batter’s consistency. Allow these ingredients to reach room temperature before mixing.
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overmixing the batter: Overmixing can lead to dense doughnuts. Mix until just combined to keep them fluffy.
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ignoring baking time: Opening the oven too early can cause doughnuts to collapse. Stick to the recommended baking time for best results.
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incorrect cooling method: Skipping cooling on a wire rack may lead to soggy bottoms. Always cool doughnuts on a wire rack for even air circulation.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Ensure the doughnuts are completely cooled before sealing.
Freezing Baked Chocolate Cake Doughnuts
- Freeze in a single layer on a baking sheet for 1-2 hours.
- Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag 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.
- Microwave: Heat individually in short bursts of 10-15 seconds until warm.
- Stovetop: Use a non-stick skillet over low heat, cover, and warm for about 5 minutes.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about Baked Chocolate Cake Doughnuts that you may find helpful:
How do I make Baked Chocolate Cake Doughnuts from scratch?
To make these doughnuts, mix dry ingredients in one bowl and wet ingredients in another. Combine them gently, pour into a greased doughnut pan, and bake!
Can I customize my Baked Chocolate Cake Doughnuts?
Absolutely! You can add chocolate chips, nuts, or spices like cinnamon for extra flavor. The glaze can also be flavored with different extracts.
How do I store leftover Baked Chocolate Cake Doughnuts?
Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or freeze them for longer storage.
What is the best way to reheat Baked Chocolate Cake Doughnuts?
Reheat in an oven or microwave as outlined above. This will help maintain their softness and flavor.
Final Thoughts
Baked Chocolate Cake Doughnuts are not just delicious; they offer versatility that makes them perfect for any occasion. Whether enjoyed as breakfast or dessert, these doughnuts can be customized with various toppings or flavors. Give this recipe a try – you won’t be disappointed!
Baked Chocolate Cake Doughnuts
- Total Time: 16 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 12 servings 1x
Description
Indulge in the delightful experience of Baked Chocolate Cake Doughnuts, a soft and fluffy treat perfect for breakfast, dessert, or a sweet snack. These baked doughnuts are not only easy to make but also offer a rich chocolate flavor that appeals to all ages. Topped with a sweet vanilla glaze, they provide a light and satisfying alternative to traditional fried options. Ideal for various occasions, from leisurely brunches to fun family gatherings, these doughnuts are sure to become a favorite.
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
- 125 grams confectioners' sugar
- 2 tbsp milk
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- pinch salt
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F).
- Grease your doughnut pan lightly.
- In one bowl, whisk together flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
- In another bowl, mix melted butter with brown sugar, buttermilk, egg, vanilla extract, and nutmeg until smooth.
- Combine dry and wet ingredients gently until just mixed.
- Fill each cavity of the doughnut pan about two-thirds full with batter.
- Bake for approximately 11 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
- Let cool slightly before glazing with the prepared mixture of confectioners' sugar, milk, vanilla extract, and salt.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 11 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 162
- Sugar: 10g
- Sodium: 206mg
- Fat: 6g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 25g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 18mg
