Soft and fluffy, Baked Chocolate Cake Doughnuts are a delightful treat perfect for breakfast, dessert, or a snack. With a rich chocolate flavor and a sweet vanilla glaze, these doughnuts are incredibly easy to make. They are ideal for sharing with friends and family at gatherings or enjoying on a cozy morning. What sets them apart is their light texture combined with indulgent taste, making every bite satisfying.

Jump to:
- Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Tools and Preparation
- Essential Tools and Equipment
- Importance of Each Tool
- Ingredients
- For the Doughnuts
- For the Glaze
- How to Make Baked Chocolate Cake Doughnuts
- Step 1: Preheat the Oven
- Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients
- Step 3: Combine Wet Ingredients
- Step 4: Combine Mixtures
- Step 5: Fill the Pan
- Step 6: Bake
- Step 7: Cool and Glaze
- How to Serve Baked Chocolate Cake Doughnuts
- Breakfast Delight
- Sweet Snack
- Dessert Treat
- Party Platter
- How to Perfect Baked Chocolate Cake Doughnuts
- Best Side Dishes for Baked Chocolate Cake Doughnuts
- Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Storage & Reheating Instructions
- Refrigerator Storage
- Freezing Baked Chocolate Cake Doughnuts
- Reheating Baked Chocolate Cake Doughnuts
- Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I use gluten-free flour for Baked Chocolate Cake Doughnuts?
- How do I make my Baked Chocolate Cake Doughnuts more chocolatey?
- Are Baked Chocolate Cake Doughnuts healthy?
- How long do Baked Chocolate Cake Doughnuts last?
- Final Thoughts
- 📖 Recipe Card
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick to Prepare: These doughnuts can be whipped up in just 16 minutes, making them perfect for busy mornings.
- Healthier Option: Baked instead of fried, they offer a lighter alternative without sacrificing taste.
- Versatile Delight: Enjoy them as breakfast or dessert; they fit any occasion perfectly.
- Kid-Friendly: Fun and easy to make, kids will love helping out in the kitchen!
- Customizable Toppings: Feel free to experiment with various glazes or toppings to suit your taste.
Tools and Preparation
To create delicious Baked Chocolate Cake Doughnuts, you’ll need some essential tools. Having the right equipment makes the process smoother 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 specialized pan ensures your doughnuts have the perfect shape and cook evenly.
- Mixing bowls: Having different sizes allows for easy mixing of both dry and wet ingredients.
- Whisk: A whisk helps combine ingredients smoothly, ensuring there are no lumps in your batter.
Ingredients
Soft and fluffy chocolate cake doughnuts dipped in a vanilla glaze.
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: 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 together until fully blended.
Step 3: Combine Wet Ingredients
In another bowl, mix:
1. Melted unsalted butter
2. Light brown sugar
3. Buttermilk
4. Egg
5. Vanilla extract
6. Nutmeg
Whisk until smooth.
Step 4: Combine Mixtures
Gradually add the dry mixture into the wet mixture while stirring continuously until just combined.
Step 5: Fill the Pan
Pour the batter into a greased doughnut pan, filling each cavity about halfway to allow room for rising.
Step 6: Bake
Bake in the preheated oven for about 11 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
Step 7: Cool and Glaze
Once baked, remove the doughnuts from the oven and let them cool on a cooling rack. Meanwhile, prepare the glaze by mixing confectioners’ sugar, milk, vanilla extract, and pinch of salt until smooth.
Dip each cooled doughnut into the glaze before serving! Enjoy your delicious homemade Baked Chocolate Cake Doughnuts!
How to Serve Baked Chocolate Cake Doughnuts
Baked Chocolate Cake Doughnuts are versatile treats perfect for various occasions. Whether you’re serving them at breakfast, as a dessert, or during a snack time, there are plenty of delightful ways to enjoy these delicious doughnuts.
Breakfast Delight
- Serve with a side of fresh fruit for a balanced meal.
- Pair with a hot cup of coffee or tea to start your day right.
Sweet Snack
- Enjoy them plain for a quick afternoon pick-me-up.
- Dip in your favorite nut butter for added protein and flavor.
Dessert Treat
- Top with whipped cream and sprinkles for a festive touch.
- Serve alongside ice cream for an indulgent dessert experience.
Party Platter
- Arrange on a decorative plate for an eye-catching dessert table.
- Drizzle with chocolate sauce or caramel for extra sweetness.

How to Perfect Baked Chocolate Cake Doughnuts
To achieve the best Baked Chocolate Cake Doughnuts, follow these helpful tips. Each step ensures that your doughnuts turn out soft, fluffy, and irresistibly tasty.
- Use room temperature ingredients: Bringing eggs and buttermilk to room temperature helps create a smoother batter.
- Do not overmix: Mix until just combined to prevent tough doughnuts; overmixing leads to density.
- Preheat your oven: An adequately heated oven ensures even baking and the best texture.
- Cool before glazing: Allow doughnuts to cool completely before dipping in glaze for better adherence.
- Experiment with flavors: Add spices like cinnamon or vanilla extract variations for unique twists on the classic recipe.
Best Side Dishes for Baked Chocolate Cake Doughnuts
Pairing side dishes with your Baked Chocolate Cake Doughnuts enhances the overall experience. Here are some great options that complement this sweet treat beautifully.
- Fresh Fruit Salad: A mix of seasonal fruits adds freshness and balances the sweetness.
- Greek Yogurt Parfait: Layer yogurt with granola and berries for a nutritious option.
- Coffee or Tea: The warmth of beverages pairs perfectly with chocolate flavors.
- Nut Butter Spread: Almond or peanut butter adds protein and richness when spread on half-doughnut pieces.
- Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of ice cream creates a delightful dessert combination when served warm.
- Chocolate Milkshake: A creamy shake enhances the chocolate flavor and is fun for all ages.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Baking Baked Chocolate Cake Doughnuts can be a delightful experience, but it’s essential to avoid common pitfalls. Here are some mistakes to watch out for:
-
Ignoring Room Temperature Ingredients: Using cold eggs or buttermilk can lead to uneven mixing. Make sure all your ingredients are at room temperature for the best results.
-
Overmixing the Batter: Mixing too much can make your doughnuts dense. Stir until just combined to keep them light and fluffy.
-
Skipping the Glaze: The glaze is what makes these doughnuts special. Don’t skip it! A simple vanilla glaze adds flavor and visual appeal.
-
Not Preheating the Oven: Baking in a cold oven can affect baking time and texture. Always preheat your oven before placing the doughnuts inside.
-
Using Stale Baking Powder: Check the expiration date on your baking powder. Fresh leavening agents are crucial for a fluffy rise.

Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store in an airtight container.
- Keeps fresh for up to 3 days in the refrigerator.
Freezing Baked Chocolate Cake Doughnuts
- Place in a freezer-safe bag or container.
- Can be frozen for up to 2 months for optimal freshness.
Reheating Baked Chocolate Cake Doughnuts
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and warm for about 5-7 minutes.
- Microwave: Heat one doughnut at a time for about 10-15 seconds.
- Stovetop: Use a skillet over low heat, cover, and warm for a few minutes.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about Baked Chocolate Cake Doughnuts that might help you out!
Can I use gluten-free flour for Baked Chocolate Cake Doughnuts?
Yes, you can substitute all-purpose flour with gluten-free flour. Ensure it’s a blend designed for baking.
How do I make my Baked Chocolate Cake Doughnuts more chocolatey?
To enhance the chocolate flavor, you can add chocolate chips to the batter or increase the cocoa powder slightly.
Are Baked Chocolate Cake Doughnuts healthy?
While they contain sugar and butter, they are baked rather than fried, making them a lighter option compared to traditional doughnuts.
How long do Baked Chocolate Cake Doughnuts last?
When stored properly, these doughnuts will last up to 3 days in the refrigerator or up to 2 months in the freezer.
Final Thoughts
Baked Chocolate Cake Doughnuts are not only soft and fluffy but also incredibly versatile. You can customize them by adding different flavors like peppermint or spices. Try this recipe today for a delightful treat that brings joy to any breakfast or snack time!
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Baked Chocolate Cake Doughnuts
- Total Time: 21 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 12 servings 1x
Description
Baked Chocolate Cake Doughnuts are an irresistible treat that combines a soft, fluffy texture with rich chocolate flavor, all topped with a sweet vanilla glaze. Perfect for breakfast, dessert, or a delightful snack, these baked goodies offer a lighter alternative to fried doughnuts without compromising on taste. Easy to prepare and customizable with various toppings, they make an excellent choice for family gatherings or cozy mornings at home. Treat yourself to these delicious doughnuts and enjoy the joy they bring with every bite!
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
- For the glaze: 125 grams confectioners' sugar
- 2 tbsp milk
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- pinch salt
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt until well blended.
- In another bowl, mix the melted butter, brown sugar, buttermilk, egg, vanilla extract, and nutmeg until smooth.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture while stirring gently until just combined.
- Grease a doughnut pan and pour batter into each cavity halfway full.
- Bake for about 11 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
- Let cool on a rack before dipping in a glaze made from mixing 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 serving
- Calories: 150
- Sugar: 12g
- Sodium: 160mg
- Fat: 6g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 22g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 30mg