Baked Chocolate Cake Doughnuts
Baked Chocolate Cake Doughnuts are the perfect treat for any occasion. These delightful doughnuts are soft, fluffy, and dipped in a creamy vanilla glaze, making them irresistible. Whether you’re hosting a brunch or simply craving something sweet, these baked chocolate doughnuts will impress everyone. Their unique texture and rich chocolate flavor set them apart from traditional fried doughnuts, while also offering a lighter option to enjoy.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Easy to Make: With just a few simple steps, you’ll have delicious doughnuts ready in no time.
- Healthier Option: These baked chocolate cake doughnuts contain less fat compared to their fried counterparts.
- Versatile Flavors: Feel free to experiment with flavors by adding spices or different glazes.
- Perfect for Any Occasion: Ideal for breakfast, dessert, or as an afternoon snack.
- Kid-Friendly: A fun recipe that kids can help with, making it a great family activity.
Tools and Preparation
Before you start baking your Baked Chocolate Cake Doughnuts, gather your tools. Having everything ready will make the process smooth and enjoyable.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Doughnut pan
- Mixing bowls
- Whisk
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Rubber spatula
Importance of Each Tool
- Doughnut pan: This tool shapes your doughnuts perfectly while baking, giving them that classic look.
- Mixing bowls: Essential for combining ingredients thoroughly; having multiple sizes helps manage different mixes.
- Whisk: A must-have for blending dry ingredients and ensuring even texture in your batter.
Ingredients
To make these delicious Baked Chocolate Cake Doughnuts, you’ll need the following ingredients:
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 the doughnuts bake evenly.
Step 2: Prepare the Doughnut Pan
Grease your doughnut pan lightly with cooking spray or butter to prevent sticking.
Step 3: Mix Dry Ingredients
In a mixing bowl, combine the following:
1. All purpose flour
2. Cocoa powder
3. Baking powder
4. Baking soda
5. Kosher salt
Whisk these ingredients together until well blended.
Step 4: Combine Wet Ingredients
In another bowl, mix together:
1. Melted unsalted butter
2. Light brown sugar
Stir until smooth. Then add buttermilk, egg, vanilla extract, and nutmeg. Mix until combined.
Step 5: Combine Dry and Wet Mixtures
Gradually add the dry mixture into the wet mixture. Stir gently until just combined; do not overmix.
Step 6: Fill the Doughnut Pan
Spoon the batter into each cavity of the doughnut pan, filling about two-thirds full.
Step 7: Bake
Place the pan in your preheated oven and bake for about 11 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
Step 8: Cool and Glaze
Once baked, allow them to cool for a few minutes before transferring to a wire rack. Prepare the glaze by mixing confectioners’ sugar, milk, vanilla extract, and salt in a bowl until smooth. Dip each doughnut in the glaze before serving.
Enjoy your homemade Baked Chocolate Cake Doughnuts!
How to Serve Baked Chocolate Cake Doughnuts
Baked Chocolate Cake Doughnuts are not just a treat on their own; they can be enhanced with various serving suggestions. Here are some delightful ways to enjoy these doughnuts.
With Coffee
- Pair your doughnuts with a cup of freshly brewed coffee for a perfect breakfast combo. The rich chocolate flavor complements the bitterness of the coffee.
Topped with Fresh Berries
- Add a handful of fresh berries on the side, like strawberries or raspberries. Their tartness balances the sweetness of the doughnuts beautifully.
Drizzled with Chocolate Sauce
- For an extra indulgent treat, drizzle warm chocolate sauce over the top. This adds another layer of chocolate goodness that any chocoholic will love.
Served Warm
- Enjoy your doughnuts warm right out of the oven. They are soft and fluffy when fresh, making them an irresistible delight.
With Whipped Cream
- A dollop of whipped cream on top or on the side can elevate your dessert experience. It adds a light and airy texture that pairs well with rich chocolate.
Dusted with Powdered Sugar
- Lightly dust your baked doughnuts with powdered sugar for a sweet finish. This simple touch makes them look enticing and adds a hint of sweetness.
How to Perfect Baked Chocolate Cake Doughnuts
Perfecting Baked Chocolate Cake Doughnuts is all about attention to detail and technique. Here are some tips to ensure your doughnuts turn out perfectly every time.
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Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure your eggs and buttermilk are at room temperature before mixing. This helps create a smooth batter and contributes to a fluffy texture.
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Don’t Overmix: When combining your dry and wet ingredients, mix until just combined to avoid tough doughnuts.
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Preheat Your Oven: Always preheat your oven before baking to ensure even cooking. A hot oven helps achieve that perfect rise.
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Check for Doneness: Insert a toothpick into one of the doughnuts; it should come out clean when they’re done baking. Overbaking can lead to dry doughnuts.
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Cool Before Glazing: Allow your doughnuts to cool slightly before glazing them. This helps the glaze stick better and enhances flavor absorption.
Best Side Dishes for Baked Chocolate Cake Doughnuts
When serving Baked Chocolate Cake Doughnuts, consider pairing them with complementary side dishes for a more satisfying meal. Here are some great options:
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Fresh Fruit Salad: A colorful mix of seasonal fruits adds freshness and balances the sweetness of the doughnuts.
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Yogurt Parfait: Layer yogurt with granola and fruit for a creamy contrast that pairs nicely with chocolate flavors.
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Scrambled Eggs: Fluffy scrambled eggs provide protein that makes this breakfast feel complete while balancing sweetness.
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Crispy Bacon: The salty crunch of bacon offers a delightful contrast to the soft, sweet doughnut texture.
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Oatmeal: A warm bowl of oatmeal topped with nuts or fruits provides heartiness alongside your sweet treat.
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Ice Cream: For dessert lovers, serving warm doughnuts with ice cream turns this dish into an unforgettable dessert experience.
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Chocolate Milkshake: A rich chocolate milkshake enhances the chocolate theme and creates a fun pairing for kids and adults alike.
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Chai Tea: Spicy chai tea offers warmth and depth, making it an excellent beverage choice alongside these delicious treats.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When making Baked Chocolate Cake Doughnuts, it’s essential to avoid common pitfalls that can affect the texture and flavor of your treats.
- Ingredient Measurements: Using incorrect measurements can lead to doughnuts that are either too dry or too wet. Always use a kitchen scale for precision.
- Oven Temperature: Not preheating your oven can cause uneven baking. Make sure to preheat it to the correct temperature before placing the doughnuts in.
- Mixing Technique: Overmixing the batter can result in dense doughnuts. Mix until just combined for a light and fluffy texture.
- Cooling Time: Skipping the cooling step before glazing can make the glaze slide off. Let your doughnuts cool completely on a wire rack.
- Glaze Consistency: Making the glaze too thick or too runny will affect how it adheres to the doughnuts. Adjust with milk or confectioners’ sugar for the right consistency.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Keep them at room temperature for optimal taste and texture.
Freezing Baked Chocolate Cake Doughnuts
- Place in a freezer-safe bag or container for up to 2 months.
- Ensure they are fully cooled before freezing to prevent ice crystals.
Reheating Baked Chocolate Cake Doughnuts
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and warm for about 5-7 minutes.
- Microwave: Heat on medium power for about 15-20 seconds. Watch closely to avoid overheating.
- Stovetop: Warm in a covered pan over low heat for a few minutes until heated through.
Frequently Asked Questions
What makes Baked Chocolate Cake Doughnuts different from fried ones?
Baked Chocolate Cake Doughnuts are lighter and healthier compared to their fried counterparts, which tend to be denser and more oily.
Can I use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose?
Yes, you can substitute whole wheat flour, but it may alter the texture slightly. Expect a denser doughnut with a nuttier flavor.
How do I make these Baked Chocolate Cake Doughnuts gluten-free?
To make gluten-free doughnuts, replace all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend and ensure other ingredients are also gluten-free.
Can I add toppings to my Baked Chocolate Cake Doughnuts?
Absolutely! You can sprinkle nuts, chocolate chips, or sprinkles on top of the glaze for added flavor and texture.
Final Thoughts
These Baked Chocolate Cake Doughnuts are not just delightful but also versatile treats perfect for breakfast or dessert. With simple adjustments, you can customize them with various flavors and toppings, making them an enjoyable experience every time you bake. Give this recipe a try and indulge in these soft, fluffy treats!
Baked Chocolate Cake Doughnuts
- Total Time: 26 minutes
- Yield: Makes approximately 12 servings 1x
Description
Baked Chocolate Cake Doughnuts are a delightful twist on traditional treats, offering a soft and fluffy texture that’s both satisfying and indulgent. These oven-baked goodies are dipped in a creamy vanilla glaze that perfectly complements the rich chocolate flavor. Ideal for breakfast, brunch, or as an afternoon snack, these doughnuts are not only easy to make but also provide a lighter option compared to their fried counterparts. With simple ingredients and straightforward preparation steps, you can whip up a batch in no time. Whether you’re treating yourself or impressing guests, these Baked Chocolate Cake Doughnuts will surely be a hit!
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 (for glaze)
- pinch salt (for glaze)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 175°C (350°F) and lightly grease your doughnut pan.
- In one bowl, whisk together the flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
- In another bowl, mix melted butter and brown sugar until smooth. Stir in buttermilk, egg, vanilla extract, and nutmeg.
- Gradually combine the dry ingredients with the wet mixture until just blended.
- Fill the doughnut pan two-thirds full with batter and bake for about 11 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
- Allow to cool slightly before glazing with a mixture of confectioners' sugar, milk, vanilla extract, and salt.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 11 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 180
- Sugar: 8g
- Sodium: 160mg
- Fat: 7g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 26g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 35mg
