Indulging in the delightful world of homemade sweet treats can often lead to discovering new favorites, and these chocolate donut holes are no exception. Crafted with care and loaded with irresistible flavors, this recipe will instantly become a staple in your baking repertoire.
Growing up, weekend visits to my grandmother’s house were a joy, not least because of the decadent treats she always had in store. Her kitchen was a wonderland of sugar and spice, and it was here that my love for chocolate donut holes blossomed. Every Saturday morning, we would spend hours rolling dough and dunking the warm, crispy rounds into bowls of rich, melted chocolate. Those fond childhood memories inspired this recipe, which I’m thrilled to share with you today.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This chocolate donut holes recipe is a crowd-pleaser for several reasons. First, the ease of preparation means even novice bakers can achieve delicious results without stress. You’ll appreciate the minimalistic ingredient list, featuring pantry staples readily available in most households. The donut holes are baked rather than fried, offering a healthier alternative without compromising on taste or texture. Finally, these sweets are perfect for any occasion, from breakfast gatherings to late-night dessert cravings.
Ingredients Notes
Let’s break down the essentials for these donut holes. You’ll need all-purpose flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, sugar, milk, eggs, and a bit of salt to strike the perfect balance. For sourcing, quality cocoa powder greatly enhances the chocolate flavor, so opt for a premium brand if possible. In a pinch, whole milk can be substituted with almond or oat milk for a dairy-free version, while the sugar can be swapped with a sugar substitute for a lower-calorie treat.
Recipe Steps
Step 1
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, and salt. This process ensures even distribution of the ingredients, which is crucial for uniform baking.
Step 2
In a separate bowl, combine the eggs, sugar, and milk. Whisk until smooth, ensuring the sugar fully dissolves to avoid grainy donuts.
Step 3
Gradually add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients, mixing until a smooth dough forms. Avoid overmixing to prevent tough donut holes.
Step 4
Roll small portions of the dough between your hands to form balls, about 1 inch in diameter. Place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, leaving space between each to allow for expansion.
Step 5
Bake in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes, or until the donut holes are set and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Allow to cool slightly before serving.
Storage Options
Once cooled, store your chocolate donut holes in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. To extend their freshness, place them in the refrigerator for up to a week. For longer storage, freeze them in a single layer on a baking tray, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag. To reheat, warm them in the oven for 5-7 minutes for that freshly baked taste.
Variations & Substitutions
For a zesty twist, add a tablespoon of orange zest to the dough for a chocolate-orange flavor combination. To make this recipe vegan-friendly, substitute eggs with a flaxseed meal mixture (1 tablespoon flaxseed meal + 2.5 tablespoons water per egg) and use plant-based milk. You can also spice things up with a hint of cinnamon or nutmeg for a warm, autumnal flavor.
Serving Suggestions
These chocolate donut holes make an excellent addition to a brunch menu or as a delightful afternoon snack with coffee or milk. For an elegant dessert presentation, stack them on a platter and drizzle with White Chocolate sauce for a visually appealing centerpiece.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make these ahead of time? Yes, you can prepare the dough in advance and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When ready to bake, simply bring the dough to room temperature before shaping and baking. This helps in managing time and maintaining freshness.
What if I don’t have a baking sheet? No worries! If a baking sheet isn’t available, using a large oven-safe dish lined with parchment paper will work just as well. Ensure that the donut holes have enough space to expand without sticking together.
How can I make my donut holes more indulgent? To add richness, consider filling these donut holes with a cream or chocolate ganache. Simply use a pastry bag to inject a small amount of filling into each baked donut hole. This adds extra flavor and surprise with every bite.
Chocolate Donut Holes Recipe
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1.5 cups all-purpose flour
- 0.5 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 0.75 cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 0.5 teaspoon salt
- 2 eggs large
- 1 cup milk whole
- 0.25 cup butter melted
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
Preparation Steps
- Preheat oil in a deep fryer or large pot to 350°F.
- In a large bowl, whisk together flour, cocoa powder, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
- In another bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, butter, and vanilla extract.
- Combine wet ingredients with dry ingredients and mix until just combined.
- Drop batter by tablespoonfuls into the hot oil, a few at a time, and fry until golden brown.
- Remove donut holes using a slotted spoon and drain on paper towels.
