There’s nothing quite like the aroma of freshly fried donuts wafting through your kitchen. Imagine sinking your teeth into a soft, cake-like donut adorned with a rich chocolate frosting that melts in your mouth. These Chocolate Frosted Cake Donuts are the perfect treat for breakfast, dessert, or any time you’re craving something sweet. With simple ingredients and an easy method, you’ll be on your way to donut bliss in no time!

Why This Recipe Works

This recipe for Chocolate Frosted Cake Donuts works beautifully because it blends the lightness of cake flour with the richness of chocolate, creating a deliciously tender texture. The combination of baking powder and a hint of cinnamon adds depth to the flavor, while the chocolate frosting transforms these humble donuts into a decadent delight. Frying them ensures a crispy exterior that complements the soft interior, resulting in a treat that is truly irresistible.

Ingredient List

2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
1/3 cup granulated sugar
1 tablespoon baking powder
1/4 teaspoon cinnamon
1/4 teaspoon salt
1 cup milk
1 large egg, lightly beaten
5 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted and cooled
2 teaspoons vanilla extract
Oil for frying
4 tablespoons unsalted butter
2 teaspoons vanilla extract
1 teaspoon light corn syrup
1/4 cup milk
3 ounces dark chocolate, chopped
1 cup powdered sugar

Essential Tools for Success

Mixing bowls – For combining dry and wet ingredients effectively.
Whisk – To ensure a smooth batter without lumps.
Donut cutter – For shaping your donuts perfectly.
Deep fryer or heavy pot – To fry the donuts evenly and safely.
Cooling rack – To let your donuts cool and prevent them from becoming soggy.

Method: Chocolate Frosted Cake Donuts.

Step 1: Prepare the Batter

In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, baking powder, cinnamon, and salt until well combined. In a separate bowl, mix the milk, lightly beaten egg, melted butter, and vanilla extract. Gradually add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients, stirring until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; a few lumps are perfectly fine.

Step 2: Shape the Donuts

Once your batter is ready, dust a clean surface with flour. Turn the batter out onto the floured surface and gently pat it into a rectangle about 1-inch thick. Use a donut cutter to cut out your donuts, making sure to also cut out the centers. Gather any leftover dough and re-roll to cut more donuts until all batter is used.

Step 3: Heat the Oil

In a deep fryer or heavy pot, heat about 2 inches of oil over medium heat until it reaches 375°F (190°C). This temperature is crucial for achieving that golden exterior while keeping the inside moist.

Step 4: Fry the Donuts

Carefully drop the donuts into the hot oil, a few at a time, making sure not to overcrowd the pot. Fry each side for about 1-2 minutes or until they are golden brown. Use a slotted spoon to transfer the donuts to a cooling rack lined with paper towels to drain excess oil.

Step 5: Make the Chocolate Frosting

In a small saucepan over low heat, melt the 4 tablespoons of unsalted butter. Add the chopped dark chocolate, stirring until smooth. Remove from heat and stir in the vanilla extract, light corn syrup, and milk until fully combined. Gradually whisk in the powdered sugar until the frosting is smooth and glossy.

Step 6: Frost the Donuts

Once the donuts are completely cool, dip the tops into the chocolate frosting, allowing any excess to drip off. Place the frosted donuts back on the cooling rack and let the frosting set for a few minutes before serving.

Nutrition-Minded Tweaks

Replace all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour for added fiber.
Use almond milk or oat milk instead of regular milk for a dairy-free option.
Reduce the amount of sugar by using a sugar substitute if desired.
Experiment with different types of chocolate for the frosting, such as milk chocolate or dark chocolate, depending on your sweetness preference.

Cook’s Notes

Ensure that your oil is at the right temperature for frying. A thermometer is recommended for accuracy.
Allow the donuts to cool completely before frosting to prevent the chocolate from melting off.
If you don’t have a donut cutter, you can use two round cookie cutters of different sizes to create the donut shape.
These donuts are best enjoyed fresh but can be stored for a short time if necessary.

Storage Pro Tips

Store any leftover Chocolate Frosted Cake Donuts in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. For longer storage, you can freeze the unfrosted donuts. Place them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer bag. When ready to enjoy, simply thaw and frost them as desired.

Bring It to the Table

There’s something undeniably satisfying about making and sharing a batch of homemade Chocolate Frosted Cake Donuts. Whether you’re serving them at a brunch gathering, a birthday celebration, or simply enjoying them with a cup of coffee, these donuts are sure to impress. Their delightful combination of flavors and textures makes them a standout treat, and they are sure to bring smiles all around.

Gather your loved ones, brew some coffee, and indulge in these delightful creations that are as fun to make as they are to eat. With this recipe in hand, you’re well on your way to becoming the donut master of your household. Enjoy every scrumptious bite of your Chocolate Frosted Cake Donuts!