Baked Chocolate Cake Doughnuts
Soft and fluffy, Baked Chocolate Cake Doughnuts are a delightful treat that suits any occasion. Whether you’re looking for a sweet breakfast option, an afternoon snack, or a dessert to impress guests, these doughnuts deliver. With their rich chocolate flavor and light texture, they’re perfect for sharing at parties or enjoying during quiet moments at home.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick to prepare: With only 16 minutes from start to finish, you can easily whip up these doughnuts in no time.
- Healthier alternative: Baked instead of fried, these doughnuts offer a lighter option without sacrificing flavor.
- Versatile treat: Perfect for breakfast, dessert, or snacks, they fit seamlessly into any meal plan.
- Easy customization: Feel free to experiment with different glazes or toppings to make them uniquely yours.
- Family-friendly: Kids will love helping you mix ingredients and decorate the doughnuts!
Tools and Preparation
Having the right tools makes baking enjoyable and efficient. Gather the following essentials before you start making your Baked Chocolate Cake Doughnuts.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Doughnut pan
- Mixing bowls
- Whisk
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Cooling rack
Importance of Each Tool
- Doughnut pan: This unique pan shapes your doughnuts perfectly for that classic look.
- Whisk: A great tool for mixing ingredients thoroughly to ensure a smooth batter.
Ingredients
Soft and fluffy chocolate cake doughnuts dipped in a vanilla glaze.
For the Doughnuts
- 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
For the Glaze
- 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
Grease your doughnut pan lightly with cooking spray or oil. This prevents sticking and helps achieve a nice finish.
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 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 mixed well.
Step 5: Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures
Pour the wet ingredients into the dry mixture. Stir gently until just combined; be careful not to overmix.
Step 6: Fill the Doughnut Pan
Use a piping bag or spoon to fill each mold in the doughnut pan about two-thirds full with batter.
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 and Glaze
Remove from oven and let cool on a rack for about 5 minutes before transferring them out of the pan. In the meantime, mix the glaze ingredients together until smooth.
Dip each cooled doughnut into the glaze, allowing 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 served in various ways. Whether enjoyed for breakfast or as a snack, these doughnuts can be paired with different toppings and drinks for an enhanced experience.
With a Vanilla Glaze
- A simple vanilla glaze adds a sweet touch. Mix confectioners’ sugar with milk and vanilla extract for a smooth finish.
Topped with Sprinkles
- Colorful sprinkles create a fun and festive look. They are perfect for celebrations or kids’ parties.
Accompanied by Fresh Berries
- Serve with fresh strawberries or blueberries. The tartness of the berries complements the sweetness of the doughnuts beautifully.
With Whipped Cream
- A dollop of whipped cream adds creaminess. This is ideal for enjoying your doughnut as a dessert item.
Paired with Coffee
- Enjoy your baked chocolate cake doughnuts alongside a cup of coffee. The rich flavors of coffee enhance the chocolate taste.
How to Perfect Baked Chocolate Cake Doughnuts
Making the perfect baked chocolate cake doughnuts requires attention to detail. Here are some tips to ensure they turn out fluffy and delicious.
- Use fresh ingredients – Ensure your baking powder and soda are fresh for optimal rise.
- Check the oven temperature – Use an oven thermometer to make sure it’s accurate; this helps in even baking.
- Don’t overmix the batter – Mix just until combined to keep the doughnuts light and airy.
- Grease the pan well – To prevent sticking, use non-stick spray or butter generously on the pan.
- Let them cool before glazing – Allowing them to cool prevents the glaze from melting off.
- Experiment with flavors – Feel free to add spices like cinnamon or nutmeg for an extra kick.
Best Side Dishes for Baked Chocolate Cake Doughnuts
Baked chocolate cake doughnuts can be complemented with various side dishes that enhance their flavor profile. Here are some great suggestions:
-
Fruit Salad
A mix of seasonal fruits adds freshness and balances out the sweetness of the doughnuts. -
Yogurt Parfait
Layer yogurt with granola and fruit for a creamy and crunchy side that pairs well. -
Nut Butter Spread
Almond or peanut butter spread on top makes for a protein-packed addition that enhances flavor. -
Chocolate Milkshake
A rich milkshake pairs perfectly, creating a decadent dessert experience. -
Chai Tea
The spices in chai tea complement chocolate nicely, providing warmth and comfort. -
Savory Muffins
Cheddar or herb muffins offer a savory contrast, making it an interesting brunch option. -
Granola Bars
For an on-the-go pairing, granola bars add crunch and fiber without overpowering the doughnuts. -
Ice Cream Scoops
Top with vanilla or chocolate ice cream for an indulgent dessert treat that kids will love!
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When making Baked Chocolate Cake Doughnuts, it’s easy to make a few common mistakes. Here are some tips to ensure your doughnuts turn out perfectly.
- Overmixing the batter: Mixing too much can lead to dense doughnuts. Mix just until combined for a lighter texture.
- Ignoring room temperature ingredients: Using cold ingredients can affect the rise and texture. Allow eggs and buttermilk to reach room temperature before mixing.
- Not measuring flour correctly: Scooping flour directly from the bag can lead to excess flour. Use the spoon-and-level method for accurate measurements.
- Skipping the cooling period: Removing the doughnuts from the pan too soon can cause them to break. Let them cool in the pan for a few minutes before transferring them.
- Using stale leavening agents: Expired baking powder or baking soda won’t provide enough lift. Always check the expiration dates before baking.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Keep Baked Chocolate Cake Doughnuts in an airtight container.
- They will stay fresh for up to 3 days in the refrigerator.
Freezing Baked Chocolate Cake Doughnuts
- Place cooled doughnuts in a freezer-safe bag or container.
- They can be frozen for up to 2 months.
Reheating Baked Chocolate Cake Doughnuts
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and heat for about 5-7 minutes until warmed through.
- Microwave: Heat one doughnut at a time on high for about 10-15 seconds.
- Stovetop: Place on a skillet over low heat, flipping occasionally until warmed.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some frequently asked questions about Baked Chocolate Cake Doughnuts that might help you.
Can I substitute cocoa powder in Baked Chocolate Cake Doughnuts?
You can use Dutch-process cocoa powder instead of regular cocoa powder for a deeper flavor, but avoid substituting with unsweetened chocolate.
What toppings work well with Baked Chocolate Cake Doughnuts?
You can top these doughnuts with sprinkles, nuts, or even chocolate chips for added flavor and texture.
How do I know when my Baked Chocolate Cake Doughnuts are done?
Insert a toothpick into the center; if it comes out clean or with a few crumbs, they’re ready!
Can I customize the glaze for my Baked Chocolate Cake Doughnuts?
Absolutely! You can add flavors like almond extract or citrus zest to the glaze for a unique twist.
Final Thoughts
These Baked Chocolate Cake Doughnuts offer a delightful treat that’s both soft and fluffy. With their versatile nature, you can easily customize them with different glazes or toppings. Give this recipe a try and enjoy a comforting treat that everyone will love!
Baked Chocolate Cake Doughnuts
- Total Time: 21 minutes
- Yield: Makes approximately 6 servings 1x
Description
Indulge in the delightful experience of Baked Chocolate Cake Doughnuts, a soft and fluffy treat that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you want a sweet breakfast, a satisfying snack, or an impressive dessert for guests, these doughnuts are sure to please. With rich chocolate flavor and a light texture, they can be customized with various glazes and toppings to make them uniquely yours. Not only are they quick to prepare in just 16 minutes, but being baked rather than fried makes them a healthier alternative without compromising on taste. Share them at parties or savor them during quiet moments at home – these doughnuts are versatile enough to fit seamlessly into your meal plan.
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
- 2 tbsp milk
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- pinch salt
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 180°C (350°F) and grease the doughnut pan.
- In one bowl, whisk together dry ingredients: flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
- In another bowl, mix wet ingredients: melted butter, brown sugar, buttermilk, egg, vanilla extract, and nutmeg until smooth.
- Combine wet and dry mixtures gently until just combined; do not overmix.
- Fill the doughnut pan two-thirds full with batter and bake for about 11 minutes.
- Allow cooling for 5 minutes before glazing with a mixture of confectioners' sugar, milk, vanilla extract, and salt.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 11 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 170
- Sugar: 10g
- Sodium: 100mg
- Fat: 7g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 23g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 25mg
