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Chocolate Donuts

Chocolate Donuts are a decadent treat that offers rich, velvety chocolate goodness, perfect for satisfying chocolate cravings.
Prep Time20 minutes
Cook Time12 minutes
Total Time32 minutes
Course: Dessert, Snack
Cuisine: American
Keyword: Baking, Chocolate Desserts, Chocolate Donuts, Dessert Recipe, Donuts
Servings: 12 donuts
Calories: 225kcal

Ingredients

Donut Batter

  • 1 cup all-purpose flour Gives the perfect structure.
  • 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder Adds that deep chocolate flavor.
  • 1/2 cup granulated sugar Sweetens while keeping the donuts light and fluffy.
  • 1/4 cup brown sugar Brings in moisture and a hint of caramel flavor.
  • 1 tsp baking powder Aids in rising for soft, fluffy donuts.
  • 1/2 tsp baking soda Works with the acids in the dough for a perfect rise.
  • 1/4 tsp salt Enhances all the wonderful flavors.
  • 1/2 cup buttermilk Adds richness and tang.
  • 1/4 cup melted butter Imparts a lovely moistness.
  • 2 large eggs Binds the ingredients for a perfect texture.
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract A must-have for added warmth and flavor.
  • 1/3 cup mini chocolate chips For delightful bursts of chocolate in every bite.

Chocolate Glaze

  • 1/2 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips For that irresistible chocolate coating.
  • 2 tbsp butter Adds shine and smoothness.
  • 2 tbsp corn syrup or heavy cream Makes the glaze luscious and thick.
  • 1/4 tsp vanilla extract To elevate the flavor further.

Optional Toppings

  • to taste extra mini chocolate chips For those extra chocolatey bites.
  • to taste chocolate drizzle or curls For an elegant decorative touch.
  • to taste shaved dark chocolate Adds a sophisticated flair.

Instructions

Make the Batter

  • Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease your donut pan thoroughly.
  • In a large bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, cocoa powder, granulated sugar, brown sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt until well combined.
  • In a separate bowl, whisk the buttermilk, melted butter, eggs, and vanilla extract together until smooth and homogenous.
  • Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and mix just until combined—be careful not to over-mix. Gently fold in the mini chocolate chips.

Bake the Donuts

  • Spoon or pipe the batter into each cavity of the prepared donut pan, filling them about 3/4 full.
  • Bake in the preheated oven for 10–12 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of a donut comes out clean.
  • Allow the donuts to cool in the pan for about 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Make the Glaze

  • In a microwave-safe bowl, melt the chocolate chips and butter until smooth, stirring every 30 seconds to prevent burning.
  • Stir in the corn syrup and vanilla extract. Let the glaze cool slightly until it thickens.

Glaze & Decorate

  • Dip the tops of the cooled donuts into the warm glaze, allowing any excess to drip off.
  • While the glaze is still soft, sprinkle extra mini chocolate chips, chocolate drizzle, or curls on top.

Notes

To ensure your donuts are soft and moist, avoid over-mixing the batter. You can replace the buttermilk with yogurt or a dairy-free alternative for variations. Adding a pinch of espresso powder can enhance the chocolate flavor.