Baked Chocolate Cake Doughnuts
Baked Chocolate Cake Doughnuts are a delightful treat that combines the best of cake and doughnut worlds. These soft and fluffy doughnuts, dipped in a luscious vanilla glaze, are perfect for breakfast, dessert, or a sweet snack. Their rich chocolate flavor and easy preparation make them a favorite for any occasion, from cozy family mornings to festive gatherings.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick Preparation: With just 5 minutes of prep time, you can whip up these delicious doughnuts in no time.
- Irresistible Flavor: The rich chocolate and subtle nutmeg create a flavor profile that’s hard to resist.
- Versatile Treat: Ideal for breakfast, dessert, or an afternoon snack, these doughnuts fit any occasion.
- Healthier Alternative: Baked instead of fried, they offer a lighter option without sacrificing taste.
- Kid-Friendly Fun: Involve your little ones in the kitchen for a fun activity that results in tasty treats!
Tools and Preparation
Before you start making your Baked Chocolate Cake Doughnuts, gather the right tools. Having everything ready will make the process smoother and more enjoyable.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Doughnut pan
- Mixing bowls
- Whisk
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Silicone spatula
Importance of Each Tool
- Doughnut pan: This specialized tool ensures your doughnuts have the perfect shape and texture.
- Mixing bowls: Having multiple sizes allows you to mix dry and wet ingredients separately for better results.
- Whisk: A good whisk helps achieve a smooth batter by thoroughly blending ingredients.
Ingredients
To make these delicious Baked Chocolate Cake Doughnuts, you’ll need the following ingredients.
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 350°F (175°C). This ensures that your doughnuts bake evenly.
Step 2: Prepare the Doughnut Pan
Grease your doughnut pan with cooking spray or melted butter to prevent sticking.
Step 3: Mix Dry Ingredients
In a mixing bowl, combine the following dry ingredients:
1. All purpose flour
2. Cocoa powder
3. Baking powder
4. Baking soda
5. Kosher salt
6. Nutmeg
Whisk them together until well combined.
Step 4: Combine Wet Ingredients
In another bowl, mix these wet ingredients:
1. Melted unsalted butter
2. Light brown sugar
3. Buttermilk
4. Egg
5. Vanilla extract
Whisk until smooth.
Step 5: Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures
Pour the wet mixture into the dry ingredients bowl. Stir gently until just combined; do not overmix.
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 the Doughnuts
Place the filled pan in the preheated oven and bake for about 11 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
Step 8: Prepare the Glaze
While the doughnuts cool, mix confectioners’ sugar, milk, vanilla extract, and salt in a bowl until smooth.
Step 9: Glaze the Doughnuts
Once cooled slightly, dip each doughnut into the glaze until coated. Allow excess glaze to drip off before placing on a wire rack.
Enjoy your homemade Baked Chocolate Cake Doughnuts! They’re sure to be a hit at any gathering or as an indulgent treat just for you!
How to Serve Baked Chocolate Cake Doughnuts
Baked Chocolate Cake Doughnuts are a delightful treat that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you’re serving them for breakfast, dessert, or a snack, these doughnuts are sure to impress.
With Fresh Fruit
- Sliced Strawberries – The sweet and tangy flavor of strawberries pairs perfectly with chocolate.
- Banana Slices – Creamy bananas add a nice texture contrast to the rich doughnuts.
- Mixed Berries – A colorful medley of berries enhances the visual appeal and flavor.
With Beverages
- Coffee – A hot cup of coffee complements the sweetness of the doughnuts beautifully.
- Milk – For a classic pairing, serve with cold milk to balance the richness.
- Hot Chocolate – Double down on chocolate indulgence with a warm cup of hot cocoa.
With Toppings
- Sprinkles – Add some fun and color by topping your doughnuts with sprinkles.
- Chopped Nuts – Crushed almonds or walnuts provide a crunchy texture and nutty flavor.
- Coconut Flakes – Sweetened coconut flakes add an exotic twist to your doughnuts.
How to Perfect Baked Chocolate Cake Doughnuts
Perfecting your Baked Chocolate Cake Doughnuts is all about attention to detail. These helpful tips will elevate your baking game.
- Use Room Temperature Ingredients – Ensuring your butter, eggs, and buttermilk are at room temperature helps achieve a smoother batter.
- Don’t Overmix the Batter – Gently mix until just combined to keep your doughnuts light and fluffy.
- Preheat Your Oven – Always preheat for even cooking; this step is crucial for achieving that perfect rise.
- Cool Before Glazing – Allow your doughnuts to cool slightly before dipping in glaze for a better finish.
- Experiment with Flavors – Try adding spices like cinnamon or variations of extracts for unique twists on flavor.
Best Side Dishes for Baked Chocolate Cake Doughnuts
Baked Chocolate Cake Doughnuts can shine even brighter when paired with delicious side dishes. Here are some great options to consider.
- Yogurt Parfait – Layer yogurt, granola, and fruit for a refreshing complement to the sweetness of the doughnut.
- Granola Bars – A chewy granola bar provides a healthy crunch alongside your chocolate treat.
- Fruit Salad – A light fruit salad adds freshness and balances the richness of the doughnut.
- Ice Cream Scoop – Serving with vanilla ice cream creates an indulgent dessert experience.
- Cheese Platter – Some mild cheeses can provide a savory contrast that enhances the overall flavor profile.
- Smoothie Bowl – A smoothie bowl topped with nuts and seeds can offer health benefits along with sweetness.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Making Baked Chocolate Cake Doughnuts can be easy, but avoiding common mistakes will ensure they turn out perfect every time. Here are some pitfalls to watch for:
- Mixing Too Much: Overmixing the batter can lead to dense doughnuts. Mix just until combined for a light texture.
- Skipping Room Temperature Ingredients: Using cold eggs or buttermilk can affect the batter’s consistency. Ensure all ingredients are at room temperature.
- Not Measuring Accurately: Incorrect measurements can ruin your doughnuts. Use a kitchen scale for precision, especially for flour and cocoa powder.
- Ignoring Baking Time: Every oven is different; check your doughnuts a minute or two before the suggested baking time. This helps prevent overbaking.
- Forgetting to Cool Before Glazing: Dipping hot doughnuts in glaze can cause it to melt off. Let them cool for a few minutes before glazing.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store Baked Chocolate Cake Doughnuts in an airtight container.
- They will stay fresh for up to 3 days in the fridge.
Freezing Baked Chocolate Cake Doughnuts
- Place cooled doughnuts in a freezer-safe bag or container.
- They can be frozen for up to 2 months, maintaining their deliciousness.
Reheating Baked Chocolate Cake Doughnuts
- Oven: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake for about 5-7 minutes until warmed through.
- Microwave: Heat on high for about 10-15 seconds per doughnut for a quick warm-up.
- Stovetop: Place in a pan on low heat, covering with a lid until warmed, about 3-4 minutes.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about making Baked Chocolate Cake Doughnuts.
How do I make Baked Chocolate Cake Doughnuts fluffy?
To achieve fluffy doughnuts, mix the dry ingredients separately from the wet ones and combine them gently without overmixing.
Can I use dark cocoa powder instead of regular cocoa powder?
Yes! Using dark cocoa powder will give your Baked Chocolate Cake Doughnuts a richer flavor and deeper color.
What toppings can I add to my Baked Chocolate Cake Doughnuts?
Feel free to customize with sprinkles, crushed nuts, or even shredded coconut on top of the glaze for added texture and flavor.
How long do Baked Chocolate Cake Doughnuts last?
When stored correctly, these doughnuts stay fresh in the refrigerator for about 3 days and can be frozen for up to 2 months.
Final Thoughts
Baked Chocolate Cake Doughnuts are not only soft and fluffy but also incredibly versatile. You can easily customize them with various glazes or toppings to suit your taste. Whether it’s breakfast or dessert, these delightful treats are sure to satisfy your cravings. Give this recipe a try!
Baked Chocolate Cake Doughnuts
- Total Time: 16 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 12 servings 1x
Description
Baked Chocolate Cake Doughnuts are a delightful fusion of cake and doughnut that will satisfy your sweet cravings any time of day. These soft, fluffy treats are perfectly complemented by a luscious vanilla glaze that adds a touch of elegance to your breakfast or dessert table. With their rich chocolate flavor and easy preparation, these doughnuts are perfect for cozy family mornings or festive gatherings. In just 5 minutes of prep time, you can whip up a batch that’s sure to impress friends and family alike. Plus, they’re baked instead of fried, making them a lighter alternative without sacrificing taste!
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 350°F (175°C) and grease your doughnut pan.
- In one bowl, whisk together flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and nutmeg.
- In another bowl, combine melted butter, brown sugar, buttermilk, egg, and vanilla extract until smooth.
- Gently mix wet ingredients into the dry mixture until just combined; avoid overmixing.
- Fill each doughnut cavity about two-thirds full with batter.
- Bake for approximately 11 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
- While cooling, prepare the glaze by mixing confectioners' sugar with milk, vanilla extract, and salt until smooth.
- Dip cooled doughnuts in glaze and allow excess to drip off before placing on a wire rack.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 11 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 205
- Sugar: 12g
- Sodium: 200mg
- Fat: 9g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 29g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 25mg
