Homemade Baked Frosted Chocolate Donuts

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

These donuts are easy to make, require no frying, and come together quickly with simple ingredients. They have a tender crumb, deep chocolate taste, and a decadent frosting that makes them bakery-worthy. Perfect for beginners and great for customizing with different toppings, they’re a fun and satisfying homemade treat.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
all-purpose flour
cocoa powder
granulated sugar
brown sugar
baking powder
baking soda
salt
milk
eggs
vanilla extract
butter or oil
chocolate chips

Directions

1. Preheat your oven to 175°C (350°F) and lightly grease a donut pan.
2. In a bowl, whisk together flour, cocoa powder, sugar, brown sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
3. In another bowl, mix milk, eggs, vanilla extract, and melted butter or oil.
4. Combine the wet and dry ingredients, mixing until just smooth.
5. Fold in chocolate chips if using.
6. Transfer the batter into a piping bag or spoon it into the donut pan, filling each cavity about 3/4 full.
7. Bake for 10–12 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
8. Let the donuts cool in the pan for a few minutes, then transfer to a wire rack.
9. Prepare a simple chocolate frosting by mixing melted chocolate or cocoa with powdered sugar and a little milk.
10. Dip the cooled donuts into the frosting and let them set before serving.

Servings and timing

Servings: 10–12 donuts
Prep time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 10–12 minutes
Total time: 25–30 minutes

Variations

Top with sprinkles, crushed nuts, or shredded coconut for extra texture. Add a hint of espresso powder to enhance the chocolate flavor. You can also use a vanilla glaze instead of chocolate frosting or fill the donuts with cream or jam for a surprise center.

Storage/Reheating

Store donuts in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days or in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To enjoy warm, microwave for about 10 seconds. For best texture, add frosting just before serving if storing longer.

FAQs

Can I make these donuts without a donut pan?

Yes, you can use a muffin tin, though the shape will be different.

Are baked donuts healthier than fried ones?

They generally contain less fat since they’re not fried.

Can I make them gluten-free?

Yes, use a gluten-free flour blend suitable for baking.

How do I keep the donuts moist?

Avoid overbaking and store them in an airtight container.

Can I freeze these donuts?

Yes, freeze unfrosted donuts for up to 2 months and frost after thawing.

What type of cocoa powder should I use?

Unsweetened natural or Dutch-process cocoa both work well.

Can I use plant-based milk?

Yes, almond, oat, or soy milk are good substitutes.

Why are my donuts dense?

Overmixing the batter can lead to dense donuts.

Can I double the recipe?

Yes, simply scale up the ingredients accordingly.

How do I get a smooth frosting?

Make sure the chocolate is fully melted and whisk until glossy and lump-free.

Conclusion

Homemade Baked Frosted Chocolate Donuts are a simple yet indulgent treat that delivers rich chocolate flavor in every bite. With an easy baking method and endless topping possibilities, they’re perfect for satisfying your sweet cravings anytime.

Homemade Baked Frosted Chocolate Donuts

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Homemade Baked Frosted Chocolate Donuts are soft, cake-like treats with rich chocolate flavor and a smooth, glossy frosting. Baked instead of fried, they offer a lighter yet indulgent option for any time of day.

• Author: Laura
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 12 minutes
• Total Time: 27 minutes
• Yield: 10–12 donuts
• Category: Dessert
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American
• Diet: Vegetarian

Ingredients

• all-purpose flour
• cocoa powder
• granulated sugar
• brown sugar
• baking powder
• baking soda
• salt
• milk
• eggs
• vanilla extract
• butter or oil
• chocolate chips

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Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 175°C (350°F) and grease a donut pan.
2. In a bowl, whisk flour, cocoa powder, sugar, brown sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
3. In another bowl, mix milk, eggs, vanilla, and melted butter or oil.
4. Combine wet and dry ingredients, mixing until just smooth.
5. Fold in chocolate chips if using.
6. Transfer batter into a piping bag or spoon into donut pan, filling each cavity about 3/4 full.
7. Bake for 10–12 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
8. Cool in the pan briefly, then transfer to a wire rack.
9. Prepare frosting by mixing melted chocolate or cocoa with powdered sugar and milk.
10. Dip cooled donuts into frosting and let set before serving.

Notes

• Add sprinkles, nuts, or coconut for extra texture.
• Mix in a pinch of espresso powder to enhance chocolate flavor.
• Use a muffin tin if a donut pan is unavailable.
• Store at room temperature for up to 2 days or refrigerate up to 4 days.
• Freeze unfrosted donuts for up to 2 months.

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 donut
• Calories: 220 kcal
• Sugar: 16 g
• Sodium: 180 mg
• Fat: 10 g
• Saturated Fat: 5 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 4 g
• Trans Fat: 0 g
• Carbohydrates: 30 g
• Fiber: 2 g
• Protein: 3 g
• Cholesterol: 40 mg