Chocolate Chip Baked Donuts Recipe

If you have a sweet tooth and love that perfect balance of fluffy dough with melty chocolate, these Chocolate Chip Baked Donuts are exactly what you need to brighten your day. Lightly baked for a tender crumb and studded generously with mini chocolate chips, they are an absolute joy from the first bite to the last crumb. Whether you’re craving a cozy breakfast treat or a delightful dessert, these donuts bring homemade goodness without the fuss of frying, making them an instant favorite in any kitchen.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity and the magic each ingredient brings to the table. Every component is essential for creating those soft, tender, and flavorful Chocolate Chip Baked Donuts you’ll fall in love with.

• Flour: The foundation of the dough ensuring structure and tenderness.
• Sugar: Adds just the right sweetness and helps with browning.
• Baking powder: Gives the donuts their rise and light texture.
• Baking soda: Works alongside baking powder to help with even puff and subtle fluffiness.
• Salt: Balances the sweetness and enhances flavor complexity.
• Egg: Binds the ingredients together and adds richness.
• Milk: Adds moisture for a tender crumb and keeps the dough soft.
• Butter: Introduces a rich depth and lightly golden finish.
• Mini chocolate chips: The star of the show, dispersing sweet chocolate morsels throughout every bite.

How to Make Chocolate Chip Baked Donuts

Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Dry Ingredients

Start by preheating your oven to a cozy 180°C (350°F). This temperature ensures even baking, so your donuts come out perfectly golden without drying out. Next, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt in a bowl. Mixing these dry ingredients first guarantees an even distribution of rising agents and seasoning, setting the stage for fluffy donuts.

Step 2: Mix Wet Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk the milk, egg, and melted butter until fully combined. This blend brings moisture and richness, making your donuts soft and tender. The butter adds a delicious depth of flavor while the milk keeps everything light and airy.

Step 3: Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures

Pour the wet ingredients into the bowl with the dry ingredients. Gently fold them together until just combined—resist the urge to overmix or your donuts might turn out tough. The key is a smooth batter with small pockets of flour still visible to ensure lightness.

Step 4: Add the Mini Chocolate Chips

Fold in the mini chocolate chips, making sure they’re evenly distributed without breaking them up. These little chocolate gems melt slightly during baking, creating pockets of gooey sweetness that make each bite unforgettable.

Step 5: Bake to Perfection

Carefully spoon or pipe the batter into a greased or silicone donut pan, filling each cavity about three-quarters full. Pop them in the oven for around 12 to 15 minutes. You’ll know they’re ready when they’re puffed up and a toothpick inserted into the donut comes out clean or with just a few moist crumbs.

Step 6: Finishing Touches

Once out of the oven, let the donuts cool slightly before dusting with powdered sugar or drizzling a light glaze for that classic finish. This simple dusting adds a hint of sweetness without overpowering the rich chocolate chips inside.

How to Serve Chocolate Chip Baked Donuts

Garnishes

For an irresistible presentation, sprinkle additional mini chocolate chips on top after glazing, or dust with a mix of cinnamon and powdered sugar for a warm spice hint. Fresh berries or a light drizzle of caramel sauce can also bring a beautiful contrast that elevates the look and flavor.

Side Dishes

These donuts pair wonderfully with a steaming mug of coffee or a creamy chai latte for a cozy breakfast. If serving as dessert, try them alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream to balance the light yet rich texture.

Creative Ways to Present

Try stacking your Chocolate Chip Baked Donuts in charming towers tied with a ribbon for a party treat, or arrange them on a festive platter with colorful edible flowers for an eye-catching brunch table. Turning them into donut sandwiches by spreading nut butter or jam between two halves opens endless possibilities for whimsy and delight.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you find yourself lucky enough to have leftover donuts, store them in an airtight container at room temperature. They’ll stay soft and delicious for up to one day, perfect for savoring the next morning with your coffee.

Freezing

You can freeze these donuts for longer storage. Place them in a single layer on a baking sheet, freeze until solid, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag. They’ll keep well for up to a month, allowing you to enjoy freshly baked Chocolate Chip Baked Donuts whenever the craving strikes.

Reheating

To bring back that fresh-out-of-the-oven warmth, reheat frozen or stored donuts in a microwave for about 15 seconds or in a preheated oven at 150°C for 5 minutes. This quick step revitalizes their softness and melts the chocolate chips to gooey perfection once again.

FAQs

Can I use regular chocolate chips instead of mini chocolate chips?

Absolutely! Regular chocolate chips work fine; just be mindful they may create bigger pockets of melted chocolate and could alter the donut’s texture slightly. Mini chocolate chips distribute more evenly for that perfect bite every time.

Do I have to use butter, or can I substitute oil?

You can substitute melted vegetable or canola oil for butter if you prefer a dairy-free option. Butter adds a wonderful richness and flavor, but oil keeps the donuts moist as well. Expect a slight difference in taste and texture.

Are these donuts healthy?

While these Chocolate Chip Baked Donuts are definitely a treat, baking instead of frying reduces the fat content, making them lighter than traditional fried donuts. Enjoy them in moderation as a delightful sweet snack or dessert.

Can I make these gluten-free?

Yes! Swap the regular flour with a gluten-free flour blend designed for baking, and your donuts should turn out just as soft and delicious. Be sure to check the blend’s ingredients and adjust liquid quantities if needed.

What’s the best way to prevent the donuts from sticking to the pan?

Greasing the donut pan well with butter or non-stick spray is key. You can also use silicone pans, which typically need less preparation. Proper greasing ensures easy removal and keeps your donuts looking pretty.

Final Thoughts

There’s something incredibly heartwarming about homemade Chocolate Chip Baked Donuts that you just can’t get from store-bought. They’re easy to throw together, delightfully soft, and bursting with chocolate goodness that will have everyone asking for seconds. Give this recipe a try and watch these little rounds of happiness become your new favorite go-to dessert or breakfast treat. You won’t regret it!