Why You’ll Love This Recipe
These donuts are easy to make and don’t require frying, making them less messy and more approachable for home baking. They come out soft, moist, and full of chocolate flavor, while the frosting adds the perfect sweet finish. You can customize them with different toppings, making them fun for any occasion.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
for the donuts
all-purpose flour
cocoa powder
baking powder
baking soda
salt
granulated sugar
egg
milk
vegetable oil or melted butter
vanilla extract
for the frosting
powdered sugar
cocoa powder
milk
vanilla extract
for topping (optional)
sprinkles
chopped nuts
Directions
- Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F) and lightly grease a donut pan.
- In a bowl, whisk together flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and sugar.
- In another bowl, mix egg, milk, oil or melted butter, and vanilla extract.
- Combine the wet and dry ingredients, mixing until just combined.
- Spoon or pipe the batter into the donut pan, filling each cavity about 3/4 full.
- Bake for 10–12 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
- Let the donuts cool in the pan for a few minutes, then transfer to a rack to cool completely.
- Prepare the frosting by mixing powdered sugar, cocoa powder, milk, and vanilla until smooth.
- Dip the cooled donuts into the frosting and add toppings if desired.
- Let the frosting set before serving.
Servings and timing
Servings: 10–12 donuts
Preparation time: 15 minutes
Baking time: 10–12 minutes
Total time: about 30 minutes
Variations
You can make these donuts with a vanilla base and chocolate frosting or vice versa. Add chocolate chips to the batter for extra richness. Try different glazes like peanut butter, white chocolate, or a simple sugar glaze. You can also top them with shredded coconut or crushed cookies for variety.
Storage/Reheating
Store the donuts in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days or in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. If needed, warm them slightly in the microwave for a softer texture. For best results, add frosting just before serving if storing longer.
FAQs
Do I need a donut pan?
Yes, a donut pan helps achieve the classic shape, but you can use a muffin pan as an alternative.
Can I make these donuts without eggs?
Yes, you can use egg substitutes like applesauce or yogurt.
Why are my donuts dry?
Overbaking or adding too much flour can cause dryness.
Can I freeze these donuts?
Yes, freeze them without frosting and add it after thawing.
What type of cocoa powder should I use?
Unsweetened cocoa powder works best for a rich chocolate flavor.
Can I use whole wheat flour?
Yes, but the texture will be slightly denser.
How do I get smooth frosting?
Make sure to sift the powdered sugar and mix until fully smooth.
Can I make mini donuts?
Yes, just reduce the baking time accordingly.
What toppings work best?
Sprinkles, nuts, coconut, or chocolate chips all work great.
Can I make the batter ahead of time?
It’s best to bake immediately, but you can prepare the dry and wet ingredients separately in advance.
Conclusion
Homemade Baked Frosted Chocolate Donuts are a simple and delicious way to enjoy a classic treat without frying. With their soft texture, rich chocolate flavor, and customizable toppings, they’re sure to become a favorite in your kitchen.
PrintHomemade Baked Frosted Chocolate Donuts
Homemade Baked Frosted Chocolate Donuts are soft, cake-like treats with rich chocolate flavor and a smooth, glossy frosting. Baked instead of fried, they are lighter yet still indulgent and perfect for any sweet craving.
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 10-12 donuts
Ingredients
- All-purpose flour
- Cocoa powder
- Baking powder
- Baking soda
- Salt
- Granulated sugar
- Egg
- Milk
- Vegetable oil or melted butter
- Vanilla extract
- Powdered sugar
- Cocoa powder (for frosting)
- Milk (for frosting)
- Vanilla extract (for frosting)
- Sprinkles (optional)
- Chopped nuts (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 180°C (350°F) and lightly grease a donut pan.
- In a bowl, whisk together flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and sugar.
- In another bowl, mix egg, milk, oil or melted butter, and vanilla extract.
- Combine wet and dry ingredients, mixing until just combined.
- Fill donut pan cavities about 3/4 full with batter.
- Bake for 10–12 minutes until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
- Cool donuts briefly in the pan, then transfer to a rack to cool completely.
- Prepare frosting by mixing powdered sugar, cocoa powder, milk, and vanilla until smooth.
- Dip cooled donuts into frosting and add toppings if desired.
- Let frosting set before serving.
Notes
- Add chocolate chips to the batter for extra richness.
- Try alternative glazes like peanut butter or white chocolate.
- Use a muffin pan if a donut pan is unavailable.
- Do not overbake to avoid dryness.
- Store at room temperature for up to 2 days or refrigerate up to 4 days.
- Freeze unfrosted donuts for up to 2 months.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
