Soft and fluffy, Baked Chocolate Cake Doughnuts are a delightful treat perfect for breakfast, dessert, or a snack. These doughnuts combine rich chocolate flavor with a light texture, making them irresistible. Whether you’re hosting a brunch, celebrating a special occasion, or simply indulging yourself, these doughnuts will impress everyone. Their unique vanilla glaze adds an extra touch of sweetness that perfectly complements the chocolatey goodness.

Jump to:
- Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Tools and Preparation
- Essential Tools and Equipment
- Importance of Each Tool
- Ingredients
- Dry Ingredients
- Wet Ingredients
- Glaze Ingredients
- 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: Prepare the Glaze
- Step 8: Glaze the Doughnuts
- How to Serve Baked Chocolate Cake Doughnuts
- Breakfast Delight
- Afternoon Snack
- Dessert Extravaganza
- 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
- What are Baked Chocolate Cake Doughnuts?
- How do I know when my Baked Chocolate Cake Doughnuts are done?
- Can I customize my Baked Chocolate Cake Doughnuts?
- How should I store leftovers of Baked Chocolate Cake Doughnuts?
- Final Thoughts
- 📖 Recipe Card
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Easy to Make: With just 16 minutes from start to finish, you can whip up these delicious treats in no time.
- Rich Flavor: The combination of cocoa powder and nutmeg offers a deep chocolate taste with a hint of warmth.
- Versatile Treat: Perfect as a breakfast item or an afternoon snack, these doughnuts fit any occasion.
- Healthier Option: Baked instead of fried, these doughnuts have fewer calories while still being deliciously satisfying.
- Customizable Glaze: Feel free to experiment with different flavors or toppings for the glaze to suit your taste.
Tools and Preparation
Before diving into making these delicious doughnuts, gather your tools and equipment. Having everything ready will make the process smooth and enjoyable.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Doughnut pan
- Mixing bowls
- Whisk
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Cooling rack
Importance of Each Tool
- Doughnut pan: Essential for creating the perfect shape; it helps ensure even baking.
- Mixing bowls: Necessary for combining ingredients efficiently without spills.
- Whisk: Ideal for blending wet ingredients smoothly before adding dry ones.
Ingredients
To create these mouthwatering Baked Chocolate Cake Doughnuts, you’ll need the following ingredients:
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) and grease your doughnut pan to prevent sticking.
Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients
In a mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and kosher salt. Whisk until well-blended.
Step 3: Combine Wet Ingredients
In another bowl, mix together the melted butter, light brown sugar, buttermilk, egg, vanilla extract, and nutmeg. Stir until smooth.
Step 4: Combine Mixtures
Gradually add the dry ingredients into the wet mixture. Stir gently until just combined; be careful not to overmix.
Step 5: Fill the Pan
Using a piping bag or spoon, fill each doughnut cavity about halfway with batter.
Step 6: Bake
Bake in the preheated oven for about 11 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean. Allow them to cool slightly before transferring them to a cooling rack.
Step 7: Prepare the Glaze
While the doughnuts cool, whisk together confectioners’ sugar, milk, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt in a small bowl until smooth.
Step 8: Glaze the Doughnuts
Dip each cooled doughnut into the glaze and allow excess to drip off. Place them back on the cooling rack to set.
Enjoy your homemade Baked Chocolate Cake Doughnuts!
How to Serve Baked Chocolate Cake Doughnuts
Serving baked chocolate cake doughnuts is a delightful experience that can be customized for any occasion. Whether you prefer them for breakfast, dessert, or a special treat, these doughnuts can be enjoyed in various ways.
Breakfast Delight
- Pair with coffee: The rich chocolate flavor complements a hot cup of coffee perfectly.
- Serve with fresh fruit: A side of berries or banana slices adds freshness and balances the sweetness.
Afternoon Snack
- Enjoy with tea: A light herbal tea can enhance the indulgent experience of the doughnuts.
- Add yogurt: A dollop of Greek yogurt on the side offers creaminess and a tangy contrast.
Dessert Extravaganza
- Top with ice cream: A scoop of vanilla or chocolate ice cream transforms your doughnut into a decadent dessert.
- Create a sundae: Drizzle hot fudge over a warmed doughnut and add whipped cream for an extra special treat.
Party Platter
- Arrange on a platter: Presenting them with colorful sprinkles or toppings makes them perfect for parties.
- Serve with dipping sauces: Consider chocolate sauce, caramel, or raspberry coulis for an interactive treat.

How to Perfect Baked Chocolate Cake Doughnuts
To achieve the best baked chocolate cake doughnuts, it’s essential to follow some key tips. These simple suggestions will elevate your baking game.
- Use room temperature ingredients: Allow eggs and buttermilk to sit at room temperature for better mixing and texture.
- Don’t overmix: Gently combine wet and dry ingredients to keep the doughnuts light and fluffy.
- Check doneness: Insert a toothpick into the center; it should come out clean when they are done baking.
- Cool before glazing: Allow the doughnuts to cool completely to prevent the glaze from melting off.
Best Side Dishes for Baked Chocolate Cake Doughnuts
Baked chocolate cake doughnuts pair well with various side dishes that complement their rich flavor. Here are some great options:
- Fresh Fruit Salad: A mix of seasonal fruits adds brightness and freshness.
- Creamy Yogurt Parfait: Layer yogurt with granola and berries for a balanced snack.
- Nut Butter Spread: Serve with almond or peanut butter for added protein and flavor.
- Whipped Cream: A dollop of homemade whipped cream elevates their dessert status.
- Chocolate Milkshake: Blend ice cream and milk for a creamy shake that pairs wonderfully.
- Hot Coffee or Tea: The warmth of your favorite beverage enhances the enjoyment of each bite.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When making Baked Chocolate Cake Doughnuts, it’s easy to overlook a few key details. Here are some common mistakes to avoid for the best results.
- Using cold ingredients: Cold butter and eggs can affect the texture of your doughnuts. Always use room temperature ingredients for a soft and fluffy doughnut.
- Overmixing the batter: Overmixing can lead to tough doughnuts. Mix just until combined to keep them light and airy.
- Not greasing the pan properly: A well-greased doughnut pan prevents sticking. Use cooking spray or oil to ensure easy removal after baking.
- Skipping the glaze: The vanilla glaze adds flavor and moisture that enhances your doughnuts. Don’t skip this step; it makes all the difference!
- Ignoring baking times: Each oven is different, so check your doughnuts a minute or two early. Overbaking can lead to dry results.

Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Keep away from direct sunlight or heat sources.
Freezing Baked Chocolate Cake Doughnuts
- Freeze for up to 2 months in an airtight container or freezer bag.
- Make sure they are completely cool before freezing to prevent ice crystals.
Reheating Baked Chocolate Cake Doughnuts
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and warm for about 5 minutes for a fresh taste.
- Microwave: Heat one doughnut at a time for 10-15 seconds; be careful not to overheat as they can become tough.
- Stovetop: Warm on low heat in a skillet, covered, for about 3-4 minutes.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are Baked Chocolate Cake Doughnuts?
Baked Chocolate Cake Doughnuts are soft, fluffy treats made in a doughnut pan instead of fried, offering a lighter alternative without sacrificing flavor.
How do I know when my Baked Chocolate Cake Doughnuts are done?
Your doughnuts should spring back when touched lightly, and a toothpick inserted into the center should come out clean.
Can I customize my Baked Chocolate Cake Doughnuts?
Yes! You can add chocolate chips, nuts, or even swap out the vanilla glaze for different flavors like chocolate or caramel.
How should I store leftovers of Baked Chocolate Cake Doughnuts?
Keep them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days or freeze them for later enjoyment.
Final Thoughts
These Baked Chocolate Cake Doughnuts are not only delicious but also incredibly versatile. You can easily customize them with different glazes or toppings based on your preferences. Give this recipe a try for breakfast, dessert, or even as a snack!
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Baked Chocolate Cake Doughnuts
- Total Time: 21 minutes
- Yield: Makes approximately 6 servings 1x
Description
Baked Chocolate Cake Doughnuts are a delightful blend of soft, fluffy texture and rich chocolate flavor, making them an irresistible treat for breakfast or a sweet snack.
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
- 2 tbsp milk
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- pinch salt
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease your doughnut pan.
- In one bowl, whisk together the flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
- In another bowl, combine melted butter, brown sugar, buttermilk, egg, vanilla extract, and nutmeg until smooth.
- Gradually fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture until just combined; avoid overmixing.
- Fill each doughnut cavity halfway with batter.
- Bake for about 11 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean; let cool slightly before transferring to a rack.
- For the glaze, whisk together confectioners' sugar, milk, vanilla extract, and salt until smooth and dip cooled doughnuts.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 11 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 149
- Sugar: 9g
- Sodium: 98mg
- Fat: 6.5g
- Saturated Fat: 3.8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2.7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Fiber: 0.6g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 22mg