Description
These Best-Ever Baked Donuts are a delightful homemade treat that combines a fluffy texture with a rich chocolate topping. Baked instead of fried, they offer a lighter, easy-to-make alternative that’s perfect for breakfast or an indulgent snack. Flavored with vanilla and a hint of nutmeg, these donuts are topped with a luscious melted chocolate glaze and colorful sprinkles for an irresistible finish.
Ingredients
Dry Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 teaspoons baking powder
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt
- 1/4 teaspoon baking soda
- Pinch of nutmeg (optional)
Wet Ingredients
- 2 large eggs
- 1/3 cup packed brown sugar
- 1/3 cup granulated sugar
- 3/4 cup milk, divided
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 2 tablespoons melted butter
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
Topping
- 1 cup semisweet chocolate chips
- Sprinkles, for garnish
Instructions
- Prepare Oven and Pans: Preheat your oven to 400°F (204°C). Grease two donut pans thoroughly to prevent sticking and ensure easy removal of the donuts after baking.
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, kosher salt, baking soda, and optional nutmeg until evenly combined. This ensures your donuts will have a consistent texture and rise properly.
- Combine Wet Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk the eggs, packed brown sugar, granulated sugar, 1/2 cup of milk, sour cream, melted butter, vegetable oil, and pure vanilla extract until the mixture is smooth and well blended.
- Form the Batter: Pour the wet ingredient mixture into the dry ingredients. Gently fold until just combined—lumps are acceptable as over-mixing can make the donuts tough. This step ensures a tender crumb.
- Fill Donut Pans: Transfer the batter into a piping bag or a resealable plastic bag with a corner cut off. Pipe the batter into the prepared donut pans, filling each mold about three-quarters full to allow room for the donuts to rise.
- Bake the Donuts: Place the pans in the oven and bake for 8 to 10 minutes, or until the tops appear dry and the undersides are golden brown, signaling doneness. Remove from the oven and let cool for 5 minutes before carefully turning the donuts out of the pans.
- Prepare Chocolate Glaze: While the donuts cool, combine the semisweet chocolate chips and the remaining 1/4 cup of milk in a microwave-safe bowl. Microwave at half power in 30-second intervals, stirring in between, until the chocolate is fully melted and smooth.
- Glaze and Garnish: Dip each cooled donut into the chocolate glaze or spread it evenly over the top. Add colorful sprinkles immediately for a festive touch. Allow the chocolate to set for about 10 minutes before serving to ensure the glaze firms up nicely.
Notes
- Donuts are best enjoyed fresh the same day but can be stored in an airtight container for 1-2 days.
- To make piping easier, fill a sturdy resealable bag and cut a small hole at one corner.
- If you don’t have donut pans, cupcake pans can be a substitute, but the shape and bake time may vary.
- Feel free to switch sprinkles for chopped nuts or shredded coconut for different toppings.
- For a vegan variation, substitute eggs with flax eggs and use plant-based milk and margarine.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American