Craving a fresh, homemade treat that pairs perfectly with your morning coffee or makes an afternoon snack extra special? These Cake Donuts with Chocolate Glaze are just the thing! Baked instead of fried, they’re soft, lightly spiced, and topped with a rich chocolate glaze that makes them irresistible. Plus, they’re easy enough to whip up on a weekday but impressive enough to serve for a weekend brunch.
If you’re a fan of our Glazed Cinnamon Muffins or Chocolate Chip Scones, these cake donuts are going to be a delicious new favorite.
What Are Cake Donuts?
Cake donuts are made with a batter similar to that of a muffin or cupcake and baked in a donut pan. They’re different from yeast donuts in texture—a bit denser, more tender, and incredibly satisfying. This version is lightly spiced with cinnamon and nutmeg and topped with a smooth chocolate glaze.
Why are they so popular? Because they combine all the fun of a donut with the simplicity of baking—no frying required!
Why You’ll Love These Donuts
Baked, Not Fried: Less mess and a little lighter than traditional fried donuts.
Warm Spices: A hint of cinnamon and nutmeg adds cozy, comforting flavor.
Quick and Easy: From start to finish, you can have fresh donuts in under 30 minutes.
Whether you’re baking for the holidays, brunch, or just because, these donuts are always a hit.
Ingredients
For the donuts:
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 tablespoons melted butter
- 1/4 cup plain yogurt
- 1/4 cup milk of choice
- 1/3 cup packed light brown sugar
- 1 large egg
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon baking soda
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
For the chocolate glaze:
- (Frosting recipe not listed in original; you can use your favorite chocolate glaze or a mix of melted chocolate chips with a bit of butter or cream.)
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Preheat the oven:
- Set your oven to 350°F.
- Lightly grease a donut pan with non-stick spray and set aside.
2. Mix the dry ingredients:
- In a large bowl, whisk together flour, cinnamon, nutmeg, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
3. Mix the wet ingredients:
- In another bowl, whisk together the egg, brown sugar, milk, and yogurt until smooth.
- Stir in melted butter and vanilla extract.
4. Combine:
- Make a well in the center of the dry ingredients.
- Pour in the wet ingredients and stir until just combined—do not overmix.
5. Fill the pan:
- Spoon or pipe the batter into the prepared donut pan, filling each cavity about 3/4 full.
6. Bake:
- Bake for 9–10 minutes, until the tops are lightly browned and a toothpick comes out clean.
- Cool in the pan for 5 minutes, then gently remove and transfer to a wire rack.
- Repeat with remaining batter if needed.
7. Glaze the donuts:
- Prepare your chocolate glaze while donuts cool.
- Once donuts are cool enough to handle, dip the tops into the glaze or drizzle over each donut.
What to Serve With Cake Donuts
Pair these donuts with a cup of coffee, hot cocoa, or a cold glass of milk. They also make a fun addition to a weekend breakfast spread alongside fruit, eggs, or even a smoothie.
Top Tips for Perfect Donuts
- Use a piping bag: This helps evenly distribute batter without making a mess.
- Don’t overmix: Stir just until combined to keep donuts light and tender.
- Frost while warm: Glaze adheres best when donuts are still slightly warm, but not hot.
Storing and Reheating Tips
Store cooled donuts in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. They’re best the day they’re made but can be refreshed with 10–15 seconds in the microwave.
If you want to make them ahead, bake and freeze the donuts (without glaze) for up to 2 months. Thaw and glaze before serving.
FAQs
Can I use Greek yogurt?
Yes! Just use plain, full-fat Greek yogurt for best results.
What kind of milk works best?
Any milk will do—dairy or non-dairy both work great.
Can I make mini donuts?
Absolutely! Just reduce baking time to 6–7 minutes.
Conclusion
These Cake Donuts with Chocolate Glaze are a cozy, delightful treat that comes together easily and tastes like a bakery-quality indulgence. Whether you’re enjoying them fresh out of the oven or sneaking one as a late-night snack, they’re guaranteed to satisfy. Happy baking!
Cake Donuts with Chocolate Glaze
Equipment
- Donut Pan
- Mixing Bowl
Ingredients
For the donuts
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 tablespoons melted butter
- 1/4 cup plain yogurt
- 1/4 cup milk of choice
- 1/3 cup packed light brown sugar
- 1 large egg
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon baking soda
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
For the chocolate glaze
- melted chocolate chips with a splash of cream or butter or your favorite chocolate frosting recipe
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F and lightly grease a donut pan.
- In a large bowl, whisk together flour, cinnamon, nutmeg, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
- In another bowl, whisk egg, brown sugar, yogurt, milk, melted butter, and vanilla until smooth.
- Pour wet ingredients into dry ingredients and stir until just combined.
- Spoon or pipe batter into donut pan, filling each about 3/4 full.
- Bake 9–10 minutes until lightly golden and a toothpick comes out clean.
- Cool in the pan for 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack.
- Prepare chocolate glaze and dip the tops of each donut. Let glaze set before serving.