Baked Chocolate Cake Doughnuts

Baked Chocolate Cake Doughnuts are a delightful treat that can easily brighten up your mornings or serve as a sweet snack any time of day. These soft and fluffy doughnuts are not only simple to make, but they also offer a rich chocolate flavor complemented by a delicious vanilla glaze. Perfect for breakfast, dessert, or a cozy afternoon pick-me-up, this recipe is sure to impress friends and family alike.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: With minimal prep and cook time, you can whip these doughnuts up in just 16 minutes!
• Rich Flavor: The combination of cocoa powder and vanilla creates an irresistible taste that chocolate lovers will adore.
• Versatile Treat: Enjoy them as a breakfast item, dessert, or snack at any gathering.
• Healthier Option: Baked instead of fried, these doughnuts cut down on fat while still delivering on texture and flavor.
• Fun for All Ages: Kids and adults alike will enjoy helping out in the kitchen with this simple recipe.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into making your Baked Chocolate Cake Doughnuts, gather the necessary tools. Having everything ready can streamline the process and make baking even more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Doughnut pan
• Mixing bowls
• Whisk
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Rubber spatula

Importance of Each Tool

• Doughnut pan: This specialized pan gives your doughnuts their classic shape, ensuring even baking.
• Mixing bowls: Using separate bowls helps keep your ingredients organized for a smooth mixing process.
• Whisk: A whisk is essential for combining dry ingredients thoroughly, leading to better texture in your doughnuts.

Ingredients

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

Base 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

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 the Doughnut Pan

Lightly grease your doughnut pan with non-stick spray or butter. This will help prevent sticking when you remove the doughnuts later.

Step 3: Mix Dry Ingredients

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

This step is crucial for ensuring that all dry ingredients are evenly distributed.

Step 4: Combine Wet Ingredients

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

Stir well until fully combined.

Step 5: Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures

Pour the wet mixture into the dry mixture bowl. Use a rubber spatula to gently fold until just combined; be careful not to overmix.

Step 6: Fill the Doughnut Pan

Spoon the batter into the prepared doughnut pan, filling each cavity about halfway full.

Step 7: Bake

Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake 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 about 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. While cooling, prepare your glaze by whisking together confectioners’ sugar, milk, vanilla extract, and pinch of salt until smooth. Dip each cooled doughnut into the glaze before serving.

Now you have delicious Baked Chocolate Cake Doughnuts ready to enjoy!

How to Serve Baked Chocolate Cake Doughnuts

Baked chocolate cake doughnuts are a versatile treat that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you’re serving them at breakfast, as a snack, or for dessert, these doughnuts are sure to please everyone.

With a Sweet Glaze

• A vanilla glaze adds a delightful sweetness and complements the rich chocolate flavor of the doughnuts.
• Simply mix confectioners’ sugar with milk and a splash of vanilla extract for a quick glaze.

Topped with Sprinkles

• Colorful sprinkles make your baked chocolate cake doughnuts more fun and festive.
• They are perfect for parties or special occasions, bringing joy to both kids and adults alike.

Served with Fresh Berries

• Fresh berries like strawberries or raspberries provide a tart contrast to the sweetness of the doughnuts.
• Serve them on the side for a light and refreshing touch.

Accompanied by Coffee or Tea

• Pairing these delicious doughnuts with coffee or tea makes for a perfect afternoon treat.
• The warmth of the beverages enhances the chocolate flavor, creating a cozy experience.

Dusted with Cocoa Powder

• For an extra touch of chocolate, dust cocoa powder over the top before serving.
• This simple addition elevates their appearance and flavor profile.

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How to Perfect Baked Chocolate Cake Doughnuts

To achieve the ultimate baked chocolate cake doughnuts, consider these helpful tips. With just a few adjustments, you can ensure your doughnuts turn out perfectly every time.

• Use room temperature ingredients: Ingredients like butter and eggs blend better when they are at room temperature, resulting in fluffier doughnuts.
• Don’t overmix: Combine your ingredients just until they are moistened. Overmixing can lead to dense doughnuts instead of light and fluffy ones.
• Fill pans correctly: Fill each cavity about two-thirds full to allow space for rising without overflowing.
• Check doneness early: Start checking your doughnuts a few minutes before the recommended baking time to avoid overbaking.
• Cool completely before glazing: Let your doughnuts cool fully so that the glaze adheres better without sliding off.
• Experiment with flavors: Feel free to add spices like cinnamon or even flavored extracts for unique variations on your baked chocolate cake doughnuts.

Best Side Dishes for Baked Chocolate Cake Doughnuts

Baked chocolate cake doughnuts pair well with many side dishes that complement their rich taste. Here are some excellent options to consider:

1. Yogurt Parfait: Layer yogurt with granola and fruits for a nutritious balance alongside your sweet treats.
2. Fruit Salad: A mix of seasonal fruits provides freshness and acidity to cut through the richness of the doughnuts.
3. Scrambled Eggs: Savory scrambled eggs add protein and make for a hearty breakfast when served alongside these sweet bites.
4. Nut Butter Dip: Offering almond or peanut butter as a dip adds creaminess and an extra layer of flavor to your dessert experience.
5. Cheese Platter: A selection of cheeses can create an interesting contrast with the sweetness of the doughnut.
6. Smoothie Bowl: A thick smoothie topped with nuts and seeds offers nutrition and pairs well with chocolate flavors.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Baked Chocolate Cake Doughnuts can be a delight, but some common mistakes can affect your results. Here are a few to watch out for:

• Skipping the Sifting: Not sifting the flour and cocoa powder can lead to clumps. Always sift these ingredients to ensure a smooth batter.
• Using Cold Ingredients: Cold butter or eggs can affect the doughnut’s texture. Make sure all ingredients are at room temperature for best results.
• Overmixing the Batter: Mixing too much creates dense doughnuts. Mix just until combined for light and fluffy treats.
• Ignoring Oven Temperature: Not preheating your oven can lead to uneven baking. Always preheat to the right temperature before baking.
• Forgetting to Grease the Pan: Not greasing the doughnut pan can cause sticking. Use cooking spray or butter to prevent this issue.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Keep in a cool, dry place for optimal freshness.

Freezing Baked Chocolate Cake Doughnuts

• Freeze in a single layer on a baking sheet before transferring them to an airtight container.
• They can be frozen for up to 2 months.

Reheating Baked Chocolate Cake Doughnuts

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and heat for about 5-7 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat individually on medium power for about 10-15 seconds.
• Stovetop: Warm in a skillet over low heat for a couple of minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some frequently asked questions about 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 result in denser doughnuts.

How do I customize my Baked Chocolate Cake Doughnuts?

You can add chocolate chips, nuts, or different spices like cinnamon to enhance flavor.

What should I do if my doughnuts are too dry?

If they turn out dry, consider reducing the baking time slightly or adding more buttermilk next time.

Can I make these doughnuts gluten-free?

Absolutely! Use a gluten-free flour blend that measures cup-for-cup as a substitute.

Final Thoughts

These Baked Chocolate Cake Doughnuts are soft, fluffy, and perfect for any occasion. Their versatility allows customization with various toppings and flavors. Whether you’re enjoying them for breakfast or as a delightful snack, give this recipe a try!