Baked Chocolate Cake Doughnuts
Soft and fluffy, Baked Chocolate Cake Doughnuts are a delightful treat perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re serving them at breakfast, as a snack, or for dessert, these doughnuts are sure to impress. With their rich chocolate flavor and luscious vanilla glaze, they stand out as an irresistible choice. Plus, these baked treats offer a healthier twist compared to traditional fried doughnuts.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick Preparation: These doughnuts can be made in just 16 minutes from start to finish!
- Decadent Flavor: Enjoy the rich taste of chocolate paired with a sweet vanilla glaze for an indulgent experience.
- Versatile Treat: Perfect for breakfast, snacks, or even as a dessert at gatherings or celebrations.
- Healthier Option: Baked instead of fried, they provide a lighter alternative without compromising on taste.
- Easy to Customize: Feel free to add toppings like sprinkles or nuts for added texture and fun!
Tools and Preparation
To create your delicious Baked Chocolate Cake Doughnuts, you will need some essential tools that make the process easier and more enjoyable.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Doughnut pan
- Mixing bowls
- Whisk
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Cooling rack
Importance of Each Tool
- Doughnut pan: This special pan gives your doughnuts their characteristic shape while ensuring even baking.
- Mixing bowls: Having multiple sizes helps in efficiently mixing ingredients without any spills.
- Whisk: A good whisk ensures that your batter is smooth and well combined for the best texture.
Ingredients
For the Baked Chocolate Cake Doughnuts, gather 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 eggs (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
Lightly grease your doughnut pan with cooking spray or butter. This prevents sticking and makes removal easier.
Step 3: Mix Dry Ingredients
In a mixing bowl, combine:
1. 125 grams all-purpose flour
2. 25 grams cocoa powder
3. ½ tsp baking powder
4. ½ tsp baking soda
5. ½ tsp kosher salt
Whisk together until well blended.
Step 4: Combine Wet Ingredients
In another bowl, mix:
1. 56 grams unsalted butter (melted)
2. 106 grams light brown sugar
Stir until smooth, then add:
3. 113 ml buttermilk (room temperature)
4. 1 egg (room temperature)
5. 1 tsp vanilla extract
6. ¼ tsp nutmeg
Mix until fully combined.
Step 5: Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures
Gradually add the dry mixture into the wet mixture. Stir gently until just combined; do not overmix.
Step 6: Fill the Doughnut Pan
Using a piping bag or a spoon, fill each cavity of the doughnut pan about halfway with batter.
Step 7: Bake the Doughnuts
Bake in the preheated oven for about 11 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
Step 8: Cool and Glaze
Let the doughnuts cool in the pan for a few minutes before transferring them to a cooling rack. While they cool, prepare your glaze by whisking together:
1. 125 grams confectioners’ sugar
2. 2 tbsp milk
3. 1 tsp vanilla extract
4. A pinch of salt
Dip each cooled doughnut into the glaze and let it set before serving.
Enjoy your homemade 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 serve them for breakfast, dessert, or a snack, these doughnuts are versatile and sure to please everyone.
With a Vanilla Glaze
- A simple vanilla glaze enhances the sweetness of the doughnuts. Just mix confectioners’ sugar with milk and vanilla extract until smooth.
Topped with Sprinkles
- Add fun and color by topping your glazed doughnuts with colorful sprinkles. They make any occasion festive!
Served with Fresh Berries
- Pair your doughnuts with fresh strawberries or raspberries for a refreshing contrast. The tartness complements the sweetness perfectly.
Accompanied by Coffee
- Enjoy these doughnuts with a cup of coffee or tea. The rich chocolate flavor pairs beautifully with a warm beverage.
On a Dessert Platter
- Arrange your baked chocolate cake doughnuts on a platter alongside other treats like cookies or pastries for an impressive dessert display.
How to Perfect Baked Chocolate Cake Doughnuts
To ensure your Baked Chocolate Cake Doughnuts turn out perfectly every time, consider these helpful tips.
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Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensuring your buttermilk and eggs are at room temperature helps create a fluffier texture.
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Don’t Overmix the Batter: Mix just until combined to avoid dense doughnuts. Overmixing can lead to tough results.
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Check Oven Temperature: Use an oven thermometer to verify your oven’s temperature. Accurate baking ensures even cooking.
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Grease Your Pan Well: Properly greasing the doughnut pan prevents sticking and makes it easier to remove the doughnuts after baking.
Best Side Dishes for Baked Chocolate Cake Doughnuts
Baked Chocolate Cake Doughnuts can be complemented by various side dishes that enhance their enjoyment. Here are some great options:
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Fruit Salad: A mix of seasonal fruits adds freshness and balance to the sweetness of the doughnuts.
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Yogurt Parfait: Layer yogurt with granola and fruits for a creamy side that contrasts nicely with the cake-like texture of the doughnuts.
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Chocolate Milk: This classic drink pairs perfectly with chocolate-flavored treats, making for a nostalgic combination.
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Whipped Cream: A dollop of whipped cream on the side creates an indulgent treat that’s light and fluffy.
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Nut Butter Dip: Serve almond or peanut butter as a dip for added protein and flavor contrast.
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Ice Cream Scoop: Add a scoop of vanilla or chocolate ice cream for an over-the-top dessert experience perfect for special occasions.
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Cinnamon Sugar Dusting: A light dusting of cinnamon sugar adds warmth and spice, enhancing the overall flavor profile.
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Herbal Tea: For a lighter option, serve herbal tea alongside your doughnuts for a soothing pairing that balances sweetness with subtle flavors.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Baking can be tricky, especially when making Baked Chocolate Cake Doughnuts. Here are some common mistakes to watch out for.
- Using cold ingredients: Cold butter or eggs can affect the batter’s texture. Always use room temperature ingredients for better mixing and fluffiness.
- Overmixing the batter: This can lead to dense doughnuts. Mix until just combined to keep them soft and airy.
- Skipping the glaze: The glaze adds sweetness and flavor. Don’t skip it; it completes the deliciousness of your doughnuts!
- Not measuring accurately: Baking requires precision. Use a kitchen scale or measuring cups to ensure you get the right quantities.
- Underbaking or overbaking: Timing is key. Check your doughnuts a minute or two before the suggested time to avoid dryness.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Keep away from strong-smelling foods to avoid odor absorption.
Freezing Baked Chocolate Cake Doughnuts
- Freeze in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag for up to 2 months.
- Label bags with dates for easy tracking.
Reheating Baked Chocolate Cake Doughnuts
- Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Place doughnuts on a baking sheet and heat for about 5-7 minutes.
- Microwave: Heat one doughnut at a time for about 10 seconds. Be careful not to overheat, as they may become tough.
- Stovetop: Place a pan over low heat and cover with a lid. Heat for about 1-2 minutes, checking frequently.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions regarding Baked Chocolate Cake Doughnuts.
Can I use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour?
Yes, you can substitute whole wheat flour, but it may alter the texture slightly. Expect denser doughnuts with this change.
How do I make these doughnuts gluten-free?
Use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend in place of regular flour. Ensure your baking powder is also gluten-free.
How can I customize my Baked Chocolate Cake Doughnuts?
Feel free to add chocolate chips, nuts, or spices like cinnamon for different flavors. You can also experiment with different glazes!
What should I do if my doughnuts come out too dry?
Overbaking is often the culprit. Make sure to follow the baking time carefully and check on them early.
Can I double this recipe?
Absolutely! Just double each ingredient and bake them in batches if your pan doesn’t fit all at once.
Final Thoughts
These Baked Chocolate Cake Doughnuts are an irresistible treat that combines softness with rich chocolate flavor. They make for a delightful breakfast or snack option that everyone will love. Don’t hesitate to customize them with your favorite toppings or flavors!
Baked Chocolate Cake Doughnuts
- Total Time: 21 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings 1x
Description
Indulge in the delightful flavors of Baked Chocolate Cake Doughnuts, a scrumptious treat that elevates any occasion. These soft and fluffy doughnuts are baked to perfection, offering a healthier alternative to traditional fried versions. Dipped in a luscious vanilla glaze, each bite bursts with rich chocolate goodness that’s sure to impress family and friends. Perfect for breakfast, snack time, or dessert at gatherings, these doughnuts are easy to make and even easier to customize with your favorite toppings. Get ready to enjoy a deliciously sweet experience with this simple recipe!
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 a bowl, whisk together flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
- In another bowl, combine melted butter and brown sugar until smooth; add buttermilk, egg, vanilla extract, and nutmeg.
- Gradually mix wet ingredients into dry ingredients until just combined.
- Fill each cavity of the doughnut pan halfway with batter.
- Bake for 11 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
- Allow cooling briefly 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 doughnut (50g)
- Calories: 175
- Sugar: 12g
- Sodium: 150mg
- Fat: 6g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 28g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 25mg
