Baked Chocolate Cake Doughnuts
Baked Chocolate Cake Doughnuts are the perfect treat for any occasion. Their soft and fluffy texture, coupled with a delicious vanilla glaze, makes them irresistible. Whether you’re enjoying them at breakfast, as a snack, or serving them at a gathering, these doughnuts offer a delightful chocolatey flavor that everyone will love. Plus, they’re easy to prepare in just 16 minutes!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: With a total time of just 16 minutes, you can whip up these doughnuts in no time.
- Deliciously Decadent: The rich chocolate flavor combined with the sweet vanilla glaze creates a heavenly treat.
- Versatile Treat: Perfect for breakfast, snacks, or dessert, these doughnuts fit any occasion.
- Healthier Alternative: Baked instead of fried, these doughnuts offer a lighter option without sacrificing taste.
- Fun to Make: Enjoy making this recipe with family or friends for a fun baking experience.
Tools and Preparation
Before diving into the recipe, gather your tools to ensure a smooth baking process. Having the right equipment makes all the difference.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Doughnut pan
- Mixing bowls
- Whisk
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Cooling rack
Importance of Each Tool
- Doughnut pan: This specialized pan shapes your doughnuts perfectly without frying.
- Mixing bowls: Essential for combining ingredients efficiently and avoiding spills during preparation.
- Whisk: Helps to mix your ingredients thoroughly for a smooth batter.
Ingredients
For these delectable Baked Chocolate Cake Doughnuts, you will need:
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
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). Greasing your doughnut pan is essential to prevent sticking later.
Step 2: 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 evenly mixed.
Step 3: Combine Wet Ingredients
In another bowl, mix together:
1. Melted butter
2. Light brown sugar
3. Buttermilk
4. Egg
5. Vanilla extract
6. Nutmeg
Stir until fully combined.
Step 4: Combine Mixtures
Gradually add the dry ingredient mixture to the wet ingredients. Stir until just combined; do not overmix.
Step 5: Fill the Doughnut Pan
Spoon or pipe the batter into each cavity of your prepared doughnut pan, filling them about two-thirds full.
Step 6: Bake
Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for about 11 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
Step 7: Cool and Glaze
Allow the doughnuts to cool in the pan for about 5 minutes before transferring them to a cooling rack. Once cooled, prepare the glaze by whisking together confectioners’ sugar, milk, vanilla extract, and salt until smooth.
Step 8: Dip in Glaze
Dip each doughnut into the glaze and let excess drip off before placing it back on the cooling rack.
Enjoy your delicious Baked Chocolate Cake Doughnuts!
How to Serve Baked Chocolate Cake Doughnuts
Serving baked chocolate cake doughnuts can be as delightful as making them. These treats are perfect for breakfast, dessert, or a sweet snack any time of day. Here are some creative serving suggestions to enhance your experience.
With Coffee
- Pair your doughnuts with a hot cup of coffee for a classic breakfast combo. The rich flavors of chocolate and coffee complement each other perfectly.
Ice Cream Sandwich
- Create an indulgent dessert by sandwiching a scoop of vanilla ice cream between two doughnuts. This is a fun treat for warm days.
Fresh Fruit
- Serve with sliced strawberries or bananas. The freshness of the fruit balances out the sweetness of the doughnuts beautifully.
Whipped Cream
- Top your doughnuts with a dollop of whipped cream for added creaminess. You can even add sprinkles for extra flair!
Chocolate Drizzle
- Drizzle melted chocolate over the glazed doughnuts to intensify their chocolaty goodness. This adds an elegant touch to your presentation.
Nuts and Sprinkles
- Garnish with chopped nuts or colorful sprinkles for added texture and visual appeal. This makes them more festive for special occasions.

How to Perfect Baked Chocolate Cake Doughnuts
To achieve the perfect baked chocolate cake doughnuts, consider these helpful tips. They will guide you in creating delicious, fluffy treats every time.
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Use room temperature ingredients: Ensure that eggs and buttermilk are at room temperature for better mixing and fluffiness.
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Don’t overmix: Gently mix the batter until just combined. Overmixing can lead to dense doughnuts.
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Preheat your oven: Always preheat the oven to ensure even baking and the right texture.
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Use a piping bag: For easy filling of the doughnut pan, use a piping bag to neatly distribute the batter.
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Check doneness carefully: Use a toothpick. If it comes out clean, your doughnuts are ready; avoid overbaking them.
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Cool before glazing: Let the doughnuts cool on a wire rack before dipping them in glaze to ensure it sets properly.
Best Side Dishes for Baked Chocolate Cake Doughnuts
Baked chocolate cake doughnuts can shine even more when paired with complementary side dishes. Here are some ideas that go well with these sweet treats:
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Fruit Salad: A light and refreshing fruit salad provides contrast to the rich doughnuts, enhancing their flavor.
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Yogurt Parfait: Layer yogurt with granola and berries for a nutritious side that balances sweetness.
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Scrambled Eggs: The savory nature of scrambled eggs makes them an excellent breakfast companion alongside sweet doughnuts.
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Oatmeal: Serve a bowl of oatmeal topped with honey and nuts for a wholesome side that adds fiber.
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Smoothie: A berry or banana smoothie adds a refreshing drink option that complements your sweet treat well.
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Cheese Platter: Offer a selection of cheeses like brie or goat cheese for those who enjoy sweet and savory pairings.
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Granola Bars: Homemade granola bars provide an easy grab-and-go option that pairs nicely with coffee and tea.
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Chocolate Milkshake: For ultimate indulgence, serve a thick chocolate milkshake on the side—perfect for chocoholics!
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Making Baked Chocolate Cake Doughnuts can be simple, but some common mistakes may hinder your success. Here are a few pitfalls to watch out for:
- Overmixing the Batter: Mixing too much can lead to tough doughnuts. Stir just until combined for a tender texture.
- Incorrect Oven Temperature: Baking at the wrong temperature can affect the rise and texture. Always preheat your oven and use an oven thermometer for accuracy.
- Not Using Room Temperature Ingredients: Cold ingredients can prevent proper mixing and rising. Ensure your eggs and buttermilk are at room temperature before starting.
- Skipping the Glaze: A glaze adds flavor and moisture. Don’t skip it! Use a vanilla glaze for that extra sweetness.
- Using Unsalted Butter: Using salted butter can alter the taste of your doughnuts. Always use unsalted butter to control the salt content.

Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store in an airtight container.
- They will stay fresh for up to 3 days in the fridge.
Freezing Baked Chocolate Cake Doughnuts
- Wrap each doughnut individually in plastic wrap.
- Place them in a freezer-safe bag or container for up to 3 months.
Reheating Baked Chocolate Cake Doughnuts
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and heat for about 5-7 minutes until warm.
- Microwave: Heat one doughnut at a time for about 10-15 seconds for a soft treat.
- Stovetop: Place on a skillet over low heat, flipping occasionally until warmed through.
Frequently Asked Questions
If you have questions about making Baked Chocolate Cake Doughnuts, you’re not alone! Here are some common inquiries:
How do I know when my doughnuts are done?
Baked Chocolate Cake Doughnuts are ready when they spring back lightly when touched. You can also insert a toothpick; it should come out clean.
Can I make these doughnuts gluten-free?
Yes! Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend to enjoy gluten-free Baked Chocolate Cake Doughnuts.
What toppings can I add to my doughnuts?
Feel free to customize with sprinkles, chocolate chips, or nuts on top of the glaze for extra flair.
How should I store leftover doughnuts?
To keep them fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days or refrigerate them.
Final Thoughts
Baked Chocolate Cake Doughnuts are a delightful treat perfect for breakfast or dessert. Their soft texture and sweet vanilla glaze make them irresistible. Don’t hesitate to customize with your favorite toppings or flavors to make this recipe truly your own!

Baked Chocolate Cake Doughnuts
- Total Time: 21 minutes
- Yield: About 12 servings 1x
Description
Indulge in the delightfully soft and fluffy Baked Chocolate Cake Doughnuts, an irresistible treat perfect for any occasion. These doughnuts are not only quick to prepare in just 16 minutes, but they also feature a rich chocolate flavor complemented by a sweet vanilla glaze. Whether enjoyed for breakfast, as a snack, or served at gatherings, these baked goodies promise to please chocolate lovers of all ages. With their light texture and delectable taste, these doughnuts make for a healthier alternative to traditional fried versions.
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 (for glaze)
- 1 tsp vanilla extract (for glaze)
- pinch salt (for glaze)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease your doughnut pan.
- In one bowl, whisk together the dry ingredients: flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
- In another bowl, mix the wet ingredients: melted butter, brown sugar, buttermilk, egg, vanilla extract, and nutmeg until combined.
- Gradually fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture until just combined; avoid overmixing.
- Fill each cavity of the prepared doughnut pan two-thirds full with batter.
- Bake for about 11 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
- Let cool in the pan for five minutes before transferring to a cooling rack.
- Prepare the glaze by whisking together confectioners' sugar, milk, vanilla extract, and salt until smooth. Dip cooled doughnuts into glaze.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 11 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 190
- Sugar: 10g
- Sodium: 150mg
- Fat: 7g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 29g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 30mg