These Chocolate Glazed Donuts are a chocolate lover’s dream. Soft, fluffy, and covered in a rich chocolate glaze, they’re the perfect treat for any time of the day. Whether you’re serving them with coffee in the morning or as a sweet afternoon snack, these donuts are sure to impress. Plus, they’re easy to make at home with simple ingredients you likely already have in your pantry. Top them with a sprinkle of powdered sugar or enjoy them as is—either way, you’re in for a delicious treat.
If you’re in the mood for a sweet treat, these Chocolate Glazed Donuts are a perfect choice. Soft and rich with a decadent chocolate glaze, they’re a delightful homemade dessert that’s surprisingly easy to make. With a hint of cinnamon and a smooth glaze that adds the perfect finishing touch, these donuts are sure to satisfy any chocolate lover’s cravings.
INGREDIENTS
- All-purpose flour: 1 cup (150 grams), forming the base of the donuts for a soft and tender texture.
- Sugar: ½ cup (100 grams), adding sweetness to the donut batter.
- Unsweetened Dutch processed cocoa powder or natural cocoa powder: ½ cup (50 grams), giving the donuts a rich chocolate flavor.
- Baking powder: 1 teaspoon (4 grams), helps the donuts rise and become fluffy.
- Cinnamon: ½ teaspoon, adds a warm spice that complements the chocolate.
- Salt: ¼ teaspoon, enhancing the overall flavor of the donuts.
- Milk: ⅔ cup (160 grams), provides moisture and richness. Any type of milk can be used, but almond milk is a great option.
- Canola oil or sunflower oil: 2 tablespoons (30 grams), adds moisture and helps keep the donuts soft.
- Vanilla extract: 1 teaspoon, adds a sweet, aromatic flavor to the batter.
- Powdered sugar: ½ cup (60 grams), used in the glaze to give it a smooth and sweet finish.
- Unsweetened Dutch processed cocoa powder or natural cocoa powder: 2 tablespoons (12 grams), used in the glaze for a rich chocolate flavor.
- Vanilla extract: ½ teaspoon, added to the glaze for an extra touch of flavor.
- Milk: 1 - 2 tablespoons (15 - 30 grams), used to adjust the consistency of the glaze.
INSTRUCTIONS
- Step 1: Prepare the Donut Batter
- Begin by preheating your oven to 340°F (170°C). Lightly brush your donut pan with oil or softened butter to prevent sticking. In a mixing bowl, sift together the all-purpose flour and cocoa powder. Add in the sugar, baking powder, salt, and cinnamon, then whisk to combine the dry ingredients thoroughly.
- Step 2: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients
- In a separate bowl, mix the milk, canola or sunflower oil, and vanilla extract. Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and whisk until just combined. Be careful not to over-mix the batter; some lumps are fine and will help keep the donuts tender.
- Step 3: Fill the Donut Pan
- Using a spoon, carefully transfer the donut batter into the prepared donut pan, filling each mold up to ¾ full. This allows the donuts to rise without overflowing.
- Step 4: Bake the Donuts
- Place the donut pan in the preheated oven and bake for 20 minutes. The donuts are done when they spring back lightly when touched. Once baked, let the donuts cool in the pan for 15 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
- Step 5: Make the Chocolate Glaze
- While the donuts are cooling, prepare the chocolate glaze. In a small bowl, combine the powdered sugar, cocoa powder, and vanilla extract. Gradually add milk, 1 tablespoon at a time, whisking until the glaze is thick, smooth, and glossy. Adjust the consistency by adding more milk if necessary.
- Step 6: Glaze the Donuts
- Once the donuts are completely cool, apply the glaze using the back of a spoon or a spatula. For an extra touch, you can also dust some of the donuts with powdered sugar instead of using the glaze. Allow the glaze to set before serving.
Serving and Storage Tips
- Serve these Chocolate Glazed Donuts fresh for the best texture and flavor. They’re perfect with a cup of coffee or as a sweet treat any time of the day.
- If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. The glaze may lose some of its shine, but the donuts will remain soft and delicious.
- For a different variation, try adding sprinkles or chopped nuts on top of the glaze while it’s still wet. This adds a bit of crunch and extra flavor to each bite.
- If you want to freeze the donuts, do so before glazing. Wrap them individually in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag. Thaw at room temperature and glaze just before serving.
Helpful Notes
- Be sure to sift the flour and cocoa powder to avoid any lumps in your batter, which can affect the texture of the donuts.
- If you don’t have a donut pan, you can make these as muffin-shaped donuts by using a muffin tin. The baking time may need to be adjusted slightly.
- Feel free to experiment with different types of milk, such as coconut milk, for a different flavor profile.
Tips from well-known chefs
- Chef Gordon Ramsay suggests adding a pinch of espresso powder to the glaze for an extra depth of flavor that complements the chocolate.
- Jamie Oliver recommends using fresh vanilla beans instead of extract for a more intense vanilla flavor in the glaze.
- Nigella Lawson loves adding a bit of orange zest to the donut batter for a citrusy twist.