Name: Baked Chocolate Donuts with Rich Chocolate Glaze Recipe
Prep time: 25 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 1 h 30 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 70 g Unsalted butter (room temperature); 70 g Granulated sugar; 1/2 teaspoon Vanilla extract; 2 Eggs (room temperature); 1-2 tablespoon Sour cream (optional, room temperature); 63 g All purpose flour; 7 g Cocoa powder (unsweetened Dutch processed); ½ teaspoon Baking powder; Pinch of salt; 40 g Chocolate chips (optional, for instance Callebaut Dark Chocolate callets); 150 g Callebaut Dark Chocolate (callets) or good quality semi-sweet chocolate; 50 g Heavy Cream (36% fat content); 15 g Unsalted butter (room temperature); Pinch of salt; Chocolate sprinkles (for decoration, optional)

Jump to Recipe· 4.2 from 25 reviews

If you are looking for a delightful treat that perfectly balances decadence and lightness, then you simply must try this Baked Chocolate Donuts with Rich Chocolate Glaze Recipe. These donuts are tender and moist, with an intense chocolate flavor that comes from a blend of high-quality cocoa and real chocolate chips folded into the batter. Topped with a silky, luxurious chocolate glaze that sets beautifully with just the right amount of shine, this recipe is a celebration of chocolate in every bite. Whether you’re baking for a cozy morning at home, an indulgent afternoon snack, or a special gathering, these baked chocolate donuts will quickly become a beloved staple you’ll want to make again and again.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The image shows a sequence of steps making chocolate doughnuts. The first part shows a white bowl filled with thick chocolate batter being stirred with a spatula held by a woman's hand. The batter is smooth and has some chocolate chips. The next part shows a close-up of chocolate batter being squeezed from a piping bag into a white donut mold, filling one cavity halfway. Below that, a white donut tray is filled with chocolate batter in all six cavities, showing a dark, creamy texture slightly uneven on the surface. The last part shows three baked chocolate doughnuts resting on white parchment paper over a white marbled surface; the doughnuts are dark brown with a slightly rough surface and a perfect round shape with a hole in the center. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

The magic of this Baked Chocolate Donuts with Rich Chocolate Glaze Recipe lies in its simple, yet carefully chosen ingredients. Each one adds a unique element that defines the texture, flavor, and appearance of the final product, making this recipe very approachable while delivering bakery-quality results.

70 g Unsalted butter (room temperature): Provides richness and tenderness for the donut crumb.
70 g Granulated sugar: Sweetens while helping to create a delicate texture.
1/2 teaspoon Vanilla extract: Enhances the chocolate flavor with warm, aromatic notes.
2 Eggs (room temperature): Bind the ingredients together, contributing to the structure and moisture.
1-2 tablespoon Sour cream (optional, room temperature): Adds a subtle tang and moisture, keeping donuts soft.
63 g All-purpose flour: Forms the base for the cake-like texture, ensuring a soft crumb.
7 g Cocoa powder (unsweetened Dutch processed): Delivers a deep chocolate flavor with a smooth finish.
½ teaspoon Baking powder: Leavens the batter, giving donuts their light and airy rise.
Pinch of salt: Balances sweetness and enhances all flavors.
40 g Chocolate chips (e.g., Callebaut Dark Chocolate callets): Adds bursts of melted chocolate inside each donut.
150 g Callebaut Dark Chocolate callets: The star ingredient for the rich chocolate glaze.
50 g Heavy Cream (36% fat content): Creates a smooth, luscious glaze with the chocolate.
15 g Unsalted butter (room temperature): Gives the glaze a glossy finish and extra richness.
Pinch of salt: Balances the sweetness of the glaze perfectly.
Chocolate sprinkles: For that final fun and decorative finish.

How to Make Baked Chocolate Donuts with Rich Chocolate Glaze Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Donut Batter

Start by creaming the unsalted butter and granulated sugar together for about 3 to 5 minutes until the mixture turns pale and fluffy – this creates a light base to trap air for tender donuts. Then, add the eggs one at a time, mixing gently so you don’t overbeat and lose that airy texture. Next, fold in the vanilla extract and optional sour cream, which lends a slight tang and extra softness. Sift together the flour, cocoa powder, salt, and baking powder, folding these dry ingredients into the wet mixture carefully to maintain the batter’s lightness. Finally, gently fold in those luscious chocolate chips – a little secret that creates pockets of melty chocolate joy inside the donuts.

Step 2: Bake the Donuts

Preheat your oven to 175°C (347°F) and prepare your donut mold, such as the Silikomart Donut mold. Using a piping bag makes filling each donut cavity neat and effortless, but a spoon works perfectly well too. Bake the donuts for 15 to 20 minutes, or until a skewer inserted comes out clean. This step is crucial – avoid overbaking to keep your donuts moist and tender. Once baked, place the donuts in the fridge to chill completely. The cool temperature will help them hold up beautifully when it’s time for glazing.

Step 3: Make the Rich Chocolate Glaze

While the donuts chill, prepare the glaze by finely chopping your semi-sweet or dark chocolate to allow quick melting. Heat the heavy cream in a saucepan over medium heat until just simmering – no boiling needed. Pour this warm cream over the chopped chocolate and let it sit for a minute to gently melt the chocolate. Stir the mixture until smooth and glossy, then add the butter and a pinch of salt for richness and balance. Let the glaze cool to around 27°C (81°F), the perfect temperature for dipping your chilled donuts without the glaze running off.

Step 4: Glaze the Donuts

Hold each chilled donut carefully and dip it into the chocolate glaze. A little wiggle helps achieve an even coating. Then, gently lift and remove any excess glaze with your fingers to avoid drips and create a clean finish. Leave the donuts to set at room temperature, or pop them in the fridge if it’s warm in your kitchen. Once set, sprinkle chocolate sprinkles or add your favorite toppings for a playful finish that’s as fun as it is delicious.

How to Serve Baked Chocolate Donuts with Rich Chocolate Glaze Recipe

Four chocolate donuts lie flat on a sheet of crinkled white parchment paper, placed on a white marbled surface. Each donut is thick, with a smooth, shiny dark chocolate glaze evenly coating the top surface. On top of the glaze, there is a generous sprinkling of chocolate sprinkles scattered all over, some spilling onto the parchment paper. The donuts have a deep brown color beneath the glaze, visible where the hole in the center reveals the inside texture. The overall look is rich and inviting, with a soft contrast between the matte sprinkles and the glossy glaze photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

Want to make your donuts even more irresistible? Try adding a sprinkle of chocolate shavings or a dusting of cocoa powder to bring an elegant visual and textural contrast. Fresh berries, crushed nuts, or even edible gold flakes can elevate the presentation for an extra special occasion. These little touches not only make your donuts look stunning but add delightful layers to every bite.

Side Dishes

These chocolatey treats pair wonderfully with a variety of beverages: think a rich cup of dark coffee, a velvety hot chocolate, or even a lightly brewed black tea with citrus notes. If you’re serving brunch or dessert, fresh fruit salad or creamy yogurt makes for a balanced, refreshing side that complements the intensity of the chocolate.

Creative Ways to Present

Setting your donuts on a rustic wooden board with colorful napkins adds charm and makes it easy for guests to grab one. For a modern twist, serve them stacked on a tiered cake stand with small bowls of extra glaze and toppings so everyone can customize their own. If you’re feeling extra festive, dip a few donuts partially in white chocolate before glazing with the dark glaze for a fun marbled effect.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you find yourself with leftover Baked Chocolate Donuts with Rich Chocolate Glaze Recipe, no worries! Store them in an airtight container at room temperature or in the fridge for up to 2-3 days. Keeping the donuts chilled helps preserve the glaze and freshness. When ready to serve, let them come back to room temperature so the texture and flavor are at their best.

Freezing

Freezing is a great option if you want to enjoy these donuts later. Place them in a single layer on a baking sheet to freeze solid, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container. They will keep well for up to one month. Thaw overnight in the fridge and finish at room temp for a delicious treat any day.

Reheating

To gently reawaken your donuts’ fresh-out-of-oven softness, warm them in the oven at 150°C (300°F) for about 5 minutes. You can also microwave them for about 10-15 seconds, but take care not to melt or dull the glaze. This little step brings back that heavenly texture and mood-lifting chocolate aroma perfectly.

FAQs

Can I use regular cocoa powder instead of Dutch processed cocoa in this recipe?

Yes, you can substitute regular cocoa powder for Dutch processed, but the flavor might be a bit more acidic and less smooth. Dutch processed cocoa offers a richer, more mellow chocolate taste that complements the glaze beautifully.

Why do these donuts need to be chilled before glazing?

Chilling the donuts firms them up so that when dipped in the warm glaze, they hold their shape and get an even coating without the glaze melting away or sliding off. It helps achieve that clean, professional-looking finish.

Is sour cream necessary in the batter?

The sour cream is optional but highly recommended as it adds moisture and a slight tanginess that balances the chocolate’s richness. If you skip it, the donuts will still be delicious but might be a bit less tender.

Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

To make this recipe gluten-free, you can substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend that includes xanthan gum. Just keep in mind that texture may slightly differ depending on the blend used.

How important is the temperature of the glaze when dipping the donuts?

The glaze temperature is crucial. If it’s too hot, the glaze will be too thin and won’t stick well; if too cool, it won’t coat the donuts smoothly. Around 27°C (81°F) is ideal for a thick, shiny glaze that adheres perfectly without dripping excessively.

Final Thoughts

I truly hope you give this Baked Chocolate Donuts with Rich Chocolate Glaze Recipe a try, because it’s one of those treats that feels special yet is surprisingly easy to make at home. From the tender, chocolate-packed donuts to the glossy, mouthwatering glaze, every bite is pure joy. Whether you’re baking for yourself or sharing with loved ones, these donuts bring warmth, comfort, and a touch of indulgence that will brighten any day.

Baked Chocolate Donuts with Rich Chocolate Glaze Recipe

Ingredients You’ll Need