30-Minute Baked Chocolate Frosted Donuts

Rich, tender baked chocolate donuts topped with a silky chocolate glaze that delivers deep cocoa flavor without the mess of frying. These cake-style donuts have a moist crumb and intense chocolate taste, making them perfect for weekend breakfast treats or afternoon snacks. The double chocolate approach creates layers of flavor, while the baking method keeps them lighter than traditional fried versions. Great for families and chocolate lovers who want bakery-quality results at home.
Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flourgluten-free flour blend1:1gluten-freegluten-free
may need extra liquid
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- ½ cup cocoa powder
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- ½ teaspoon baking soda
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 1 cup milk
- 2 large eggsflax eggs2 eggs = 2 tbsp ground flax + 6 tbsp waterveganeggs-free
mix and let sit 5 minutes
Full guide → - ¼ cup vegetable oil
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- ¼ cup cocoa powder, for frosting
- 3 tablespoons milk, for frosting
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract, for frosting
Instructions
- 1
Preheat oven and grease donut pan
- 2
Whisk together dry ingredients in large bowl
- 3
Mix wet ingredients in separate bowl
- 4
Combine wet and dry ingredients until smooth
- 5
Fill donut pan about three-quarters full with batter
- 6
Bake until toothpick comes out clean
- 7
Cool in pan briefly then transfer to wire rack
- 8
Whisk frosting ingredients until smooth
- 9
Dip cooled donuts into frosting
Tips
Fill donut cavities evenly using a piping bag or squeeze bottle for uniform shapes and consistent baking.
Let donuts cool completely before frosting to prevent melting and ensure the glaze sets properly on the surface.
Good to Know
Store frosted donuts in airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days
Donuts can be baked 1 day ahead and frosted before serving
Best served at room temperature within 2 hours of frosting
Common Mistakes
Don't overmix batter to avoid tough donuts
Ensure donuts are completely cool before frosting to prevent melting
Substitutions
Dairy-Free Swaps
Vegan Options
mix and let sit 5 minutes
Full guide →Gluten-Free Swaps
may need extra liquid
FAQ
Can I make these without a donut pan?
You can use a muffin tin, but they won't have the classic donut shape with holes. Bake for slightly longer time.
How long do these donuts keep?
Frosted donuts stay fresh for up to 3 days in an airtight container at room temperature.
Can I freeze these donuts?
Yes, freeze unfrosted donuts for up to 3 months. Thaw completely and add frosting before serving.