Baked Chocolate Cake Doughnuts

Soft and fluffy, Baked Chocolate Cake Doughnuts are the perfect treat for any occasion. Whether you’re serving them at breakfast, as a dessert, or for a delightful snack, these doughnuts will impress with their rich chocolate flavor and a creamy vanilla glaze. They stand out not only for their taste but also for their baked nature, making them a lighter option compared to traditional fried doughnuts.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: This recipe requires minimal ingredients and just a few simple steps, making it perfect for bakers of all skill levels.
• Deliciously Chocolatey: With rich cocoa powder and a buttery texture, these doughnuts are sure to satisfy your chocolate cravings.
• Versatile Treat: Enjoy them as breakfast, an afternoon snack, or a sweet dessert after dinner.
• Quick Preparation: Ready in just 16 minutes from start to finish, you can whip them up whenever the craving strikes.
• Perfectly Glazed: The vanilla glaze adds an extra layer of sweetness and makes these doughnuts visually appealing.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the baking process, gather the necessary tools to ensure a smooth experience.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Doughnut pan
• Mixing bowls
• Whisk
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Cooling rack

Importance of Each Tool

• Doughnut pan: This specialized tool shapes your doughnuts perfectly while they bake.
• Mixing bowls: Having multiple sizes helps in efficiently mixing different batter components without mess.
• Whisk: Essential for properly combining ingredients and achieving a light texture in your batter.

Ingredients

Soft and fluffy chocolate cake doughnuts dipped in a vanilla glaze.

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 350°F (175°C). This ensures that your doughnuts bake evenly.

Step 2: Prepare Your Doughnut Pan

Grease your doughnut pan lightly with cooking spray or butter. This will help prevent the doughnuts from sticking.

Step 3: Mix the Dry Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, combine:
1. All purpose flour
2. Cocoa powder
3. Baking powder
4. Baking soda
5. Kosher salt

Whisk together until well blended.

Step 4: Combine the Wet Ingredients

In another bowl, mix:
1. Melted unsalted butter
2. Light brown sugar
3. Buttermilk
4. Egg
5. Vanilla extract
6. Nutmeg

Stir until fully combined.

Step 5: Combine Both Mixtures

Pour the wet mixture into the dry ingredients bowl. Stir gently until just combined; do not overmix.

Step 6: Fill the Doughnut Pan

Spoon the batter into each mold of your prepared doughnut pan, filling each about two-thirds full.

Step 7: Bake the Doughnuts

Place the pan in your preheated oven and bake for about 11 minutes or until they spring back when touched lightly.

Step 8: Cool and Glaze

Once baked, remove from the oven and let cool on a cooling rack for about 5 minutes before transferring them out of the pan.

For glazing:
1. In a small bowl, whisk together confectioners’ sugar, milk, vanilla extract, and pinch of salt until smooth.
2. Dip each cooled doughnut top into the glaze ensuring even coverage.
3. Allow excess glaze to drip off before setting them on the rack to dry completely.

Enjoy your delicious Baked Chocolate Cake Doughnuts!

How to Serve Baked Chocolate Cake Doughnuts

Serving your Baked Chocolate Cake Doughnuts can elevate the experience. Here are some creative suggestions to enjoy them.

With a Vanilla Glaze

• This classic glaze adds sweetness and enhances the chocolate flavor of the doughnuts.

Topped with Sprinkles

• Colorful sprinkles make your doughnuts festive and fun, perfect for celebrations or special occasions.

Paired with Fresh Fruit

• Fresh berries or banana slices add a refreshing contrast to the rich chocolate taste.

Served with Coffee or Tea

• A warm beverage complements the flavors and makes for a delightful breakfast or snack time treat.

Dusted with Powdered Sugar

• Lightly dusting with confectioners’ sugar brings an elegant touch to your doughnuts without overpowering their taste.

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How to Perfect Baked Chocolate Cake Doughnuts

To create the ultimate Baked Chocolate Cake Doughnuts, consider these helpful tips.

• Use room temperature ingredients: Let eggs and buttermilk sit out before baking. This ensures better mixing and a fluffier texture.

• Don’t overmix the batter: Stir just until combined to keep the doughnuts soft. Overmixing can lead to dense results.

• Preheat your oven: Ensure your oven reaches the proper temperature before baking. This will help achieve that perfect rise.

• Use a piping bag: For neat filling into the doughnut pan, use a piping bag. This helps create evenly shaped doughnuts.

• Keep an eye on baking time: Bake just until a toothpick comes out clean. Overbaking can dry them out, ruining their soft texture.

Best Side Dishes for Baked Chocolate Cake Doughnuts

Complement your Baked Chocolate Cake Doughnuts with these delicious side dishes that enhance the overall meal experience.

1. Greek Yogurt: Creamy and tangy, it balances sweet flavors while adding protein.

2. Scrambled Eggs: Fluffy scrambled eggs provide a savory contrast, making for a hearty breakfast.

3. Mimosas: A refreshing blend of orange juice and champagne elevates brunch when served alongside doughnuts.

4. Fruit Salad: A colorful mix of seasonal fruits adds freshness and vibrancy to your meal.

5. Nut Butter Spread: Almond or peanut butter can be spread on top for added creaminess and healthy fats.

6. Chocolate Milk: Keep it simple yet indulgent with a nostalgic glass of chocolate milk that pairs perfectly with chocolate treats.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Baking can be tricky, especially when making Baked Chocolate Cake Doughnuts. Here are some common mistakes to avoid for the best results.

• Using Cold Ingredients: Using cold eggs or buttermilk can hinder the cake’s rise. Always bring your ingredients to room temperature before mixing.
• Overmixing the Batter: Overmixing can make your doughnuts dense. Mix just until combined for a light and fluffy texture.
• Not Preheating the Oven: Failing to preheat your oven can affect baking time and texture. Always preheat for even cooking.
• Skipping the Glaze: A delicious glaze enhances flavor and presentation. Don’t skip this step if you want that sweet finish!
• Not Greasing the Pan: Even non-stick pans need a little grease. Ensure your pan is greased to prevent sticking.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• Baked Chocolate Cake Doughnuts will last up to 3 days in the fridge.

Freezing Baked Chocolate Cake Doughnuts

• Wrap each doughnut individually in plastic wrap.
• Place 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). Heat doughnuts for about 5 minutes for a fresh taste.
• Microwave: Heat one doughnut at a time for 10-15 seconds for a quick warm-up.
• Stovetop: Place on a skillet over low heat, covering with a lid until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about Baked Chocolate Cake Doughnuts.

How do I achieve a soft texture in my Baked Chocolate Cake Doughnuts?

Using room temperature ingredients and avoiding overmixing will help keep your doughnuts soft and fluffy.

Can I customize the toppings for Baked Chocolate Cake Doughnuts?

Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with different glazes, sprinkles, or even chocolate chips mixed into the batter.

What is the best way to store leftover Baked Chocolate Cake Doughnuts?

Store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days or freeze them for longer storage.

Are Baked Chocolate Cake Doughnuts healthier than fried ones?

Yes, baked doughnuts typically have fewer calories and less fat than their fried counterparts, making them a lighter option!

Final Thoughts

Baked Chocolate Cake Doughnuts are not only easy to make but also versatile enough to suit any occasion. Whether enjoyed as breakfast or dessert, they are sure to delight! Feel free to customize with different flavors or toppings to make them uniquely yours.