Chocolate Chip Donuts are a deliciously indulgent treat that combines the classic flavors of chocolate and vanilla in a soft, baked donut. Perfect for breakfast, dessert, or a sweet snack, these donuts are simple to make and loved by all ages. Drizzle them with glaze or enjoy them plain—they’re irresistible either way!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Baked, not fried, for a healthier take on donuts.
- Quick and easy to prepare with simple ingredients.
- Packed with melty chocolate chips in every bite.
- Versatile—enjoy plain, glazed, or with your favorite toppings.
- Perfect for special occasions or an everyday treat.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
- All-purpose flour
- Granulated sugar
- Baking powder
- Salt
- Milk (dairy or plant-based)
- Unsalted butter, melted
- Egg
- Vanilla extract
- Mini chocolate chips
- Optional glaze: powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract
Directions
- Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a donut pan.
- Mix the Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
- Combine Wet Ingredients: In a separate bowl, mix the milk, melted butter, egg, and vanilla extract until smooth.
- Make the Batter: Gradually add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients, stirring until just combined. Fold in the chocolate chips.
- Fill the Donut Pan: Spoon the batter into the prepared donut pan, filling each cavity about 2/3 full.
- Bake: Bake for 10-12 minutes or until the donuts spring back when lightly touched. Let cool in the pan for 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
- Optional Glaze: For a simple glaze, mix powdered sugar with a splash of milk and vanilla extract. Dip the cooled donuts and let the glaze set before serving.
Servings and Timing
- Servings: Makes 6-8 donuts, depending on the size of the pan.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Total Time: 22 minutes
Variations
- Double Chocolate: Add cocoa powder to the batter and use chocolate glaze for an extra chocolatey version.
- Nutty Delight: Fold in chopped nuts like walnuts or pecans along with the chocolate chips.
- Vegan Option: Use plant-based milk, vegan butter, and a flax egg (1 tbsp flaxseed meal + 2.5 tbsp water).
- Spiced Twist: Add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg for warm, spiced flavors.
- Mini Donuts: Use a mini donut pan and reduce the baking time to 8-10 minutes.
Storage/Reheating
- Storage: Store the donuts in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days or in the refrigerator for up to a week.
- Freezing: Freeze baked donuts without glaze in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature before glazing or serving.
- Reheating: Warm in the microwave for 10-15 seconds to refresh their softness.
FAQs
Can I make these without a donut pan?
Yes, you can use a muffin pan and bake as donut muffins.
How do I prevent the chocolate chips from sinking?
Coat the chocolate chips lightly in flour before folding them into the batter.
Can I use dark chocolate chips?
Absolutely! Dark chocolate chips work beautifully in this recipe.
Are these donuts suitable for kids?
Yes, these donuts are kid-friendly and a great treat for little ones.
Can I make these gluten-free?
Use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend as a 1:1 substitute.
How can I make them dairy-free?
Use plant-based milk and dairy-free butter alternatives.
What toppings pair well with these donuts?
Try sprinkles, coconut flakes, or chopped nuts for added texture and flavor.
Can I add a filling?
While traditionally not filled, you can pipe a chocolate or cream filling into these donuts for a fun twist.
Can I substitute the sugar?
You can use coconut sugar or a sugar substitute for a slightly different flavor profile.
How do I know when the donuts are done?
The donuts are ready when they spring back when lightly pressed and a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
Conclusion
Chocolate Chip Donuts are a delightful homemade treat that’s both easy to make and endlessly customizable. Whether you enjoy them plain, glazed, or topped with your favorite additions, these baked donuts are perfect for satisfying your sweet cravings. Ideal for family breakfasts or sharing with friends, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your kitchen!
PrintChocolate Chip Donuts
Soft, fluffy, and studded with chocolate chips, these baked Chocolate Chip Donuts are a delightful breakfast treat or dessert. Easy to make and perfect for chocolate lovers, they’re ready in no time!
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Total Time: 27 minutes
- Yield: 8–10 donuts 1x
- Category: Breakfast, Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
For the Donuts:
- 1 1/2 cups (190 g) all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup (100 g) granulated sugar
- 1 1/2 tsp baking powder
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1/2 cup (120 ml) milk
- 2 tbsp (30 g) unsalted butter, melted
- 1 large egg
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1/3 cup (60 g) mini chocolate chips
For the Glaze (Optional):
- 1 cup (120 g) powdered sugar
- 2–3 tbsp (30–45 ml) milk or cream
- 1/4 tsp vanilla extract
- Extra mini chocolate chips, for topping
Instructions
1. Preheat the Oven:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a donut pan with non-stick cooking spray or butter.
2. Mix the Dry Ingredients:
- In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
3. Mix the Wet Ingredients:
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the milk, melted butter, egg, and vanilla extract.
4. Combine the Batter:
- Gradually add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients, mixing until just combined. Do not overmix. Gently fold in the mini chocolate chips.
5. Fill the Donut Pan:
- Spoon the batter into the prepared donut pan, filling each cavity about 2/3 full. You can also use a piping bag or zip-top bag with the corner cut off for easier filling.
6. Bake the Donuts:
- Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the donuts are set and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Let the donuts cool in the pan for 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
7. Make the Glaze (Optional):
- In a small bowl, whisk together the powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract until smooth. Dip the tops of the cooled donuts into the glaze and place them back on the wire rack. Sprinkle with extra mini chocolate chips if desired.
8. Serve:
- Let the glaze set for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy with a cup of coffee or a glass of milk!
Notes
- These donuts are best enjoyed fresh but can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days.
- For a richer flavor, use dark chocolate chips or drizzle melted chocolate over the top instead of glaze.
- If you don’t have a donut pan, you can use a mini muffin tin to make “donut holes.”