There’s something undeniably comforting about the smell of freshly fried donuts wafting through the kitchen. As the rich aroma of chocolate mingles with the sweet scent of vanilla, it transports me back to leisurely weekend mornings spent indulging in one of life’s simplest pleasures. Today, I’m thrilled to share my recipe for Chocolate Old-Fashioned Donuts—these little gems are the perfect antidote to the fast-paced world we sometimes find ourselves in.
While they may look sophisticated, these donuts are surprisingly easy to prepare and, trust me, your loved ones will think you’ve spent hours in the kitchen. Whether you’re treating yourself after a long week or impressing friends at a weekend brunch, these donuts are bound to please. Crispy on the outside and soft on the inside, they offer just the right amount of indulgence, making them a deliciously irresistible choice. So, roll up your sleeves and let’s dive into this chocolatey adventure—you won’t regret it!
Why are Chocolate Old-Fashioned Donuts irresistible?
Delectable flavor: The rich chocolate combined with a hint of vanilla creates a mouthwatering taste that’s truly unforgettable.
Crispy outside, soft inside: Enjoy the perfect balance of textures with a crunchy exterior and a fluffy center that delights with every bite.
Quick and easy: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you’ll have these treats ready in no time—no advanced skills required!
Perfect for any occasion: Whether it’s a cozy family brunch or a gathering with friends, these donuts will steal the show and hearts alike.
Customizable glaze: Add your own twist to the glaze with different flavors or toppings—think sprinkles or a drizzle of caramel for added flair!
Elevate your homemade treat game by exploring more delightful recipes like my Classic Glazed Donuts.
Chocolate Old-Fashioned Donut Ingredients
For the Donuts
• All-purpose flour – 2¼ cups (around 280g) adds the structure needed for a classic donut.
• Cocoa powder – ½ cup (about 40g) provides a rich chocolate flavor that makes these donuts truly special.
• Baking powder – 1 teaspoon acts as the leavening agent, ensuring your donuts rise beautifully.
• Baking soda – ¼ teaspoon helps create a tender texture; make sure it’s fresh for best results!
• Salt – ½ teaspoon enhances the overall flavor, balancing the sweetness perfectly.
• Granulated sugar – ½ cup (100g) sweetens the batter and contributes to the lovely crust.
• Unsalted butter – 2 tablespoons, softened, gives richness and helps achieve that delightful texture.
• Large eggs – 2, at room temperature, add moisture and richness to the batter.
• Sour cream or buttermilk – ½ cup (120ml) contributes to a tender crumb and a slight tang—both great for chocolate old-fashioned donuts.
• Vanilla extract – 1 teaspoon infuses a warm, sweet fragrance that complements the chocolate beautifully.
For the Glaze
• Powdered sugar – 1½ cups (about 180g) sweetens the glaze and lends a smooth texture.
• Milk – 3 tablespoons (plus more if needed) helps achieve the perfect consistency for a luscious glaze.
• Vanilla extract – 1 teaspoon enhances the flavor and aroma of the glaze.
• Pinch of salt – balances the sweetness and rounds out the flavor profile.
Get ready to indulge in these delicious chocolate old-fashioned donuts that are sure to satisfy your cravings and make your kitchen smell heavenly!
How to Make Chocolate Old-Fashioned Donuts
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Combine dry ingredients: In a mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt until well blended. This creates a foundation for your rich, chocolatey donuts.
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Mix wet ingredients: In another bowl, beat together the granulated sugar, softened butter, and eggs. Add the sour cream (or buttermilk) and vanilla extract, mixing until the mixture is smooth and creamy.
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Combine wet and dry mixtures: Gradually fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture. Stir gently until just combined; be careful not to overmix! The batter should be thick yet smooth.
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Heat the oil: In a deep fryer or large pot, heat the neutral oil to 350°F (175°C). This temperature is perfect for frying, ensuring your donuts turn golden brown and crispy.
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Fry the donuts: Carefully drop dollops of batter into the hot oil. Fry each donut for about 3-4 minutes on each side or until they are golden brown and cooked through.
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Drain excess oil: Use a slotted spoon to remove the donuts from the oil. Place them on a paper towel to drain any excess oil, allowing them to crisp up perfectly.
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Prepare the glaze: In a bowl, whisk together the powdered sugar, milk, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt. Mix until smooth, adding more milk if needed to achieve your desired glaze consistency.
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Glaze the donuts: Dip the warm donuts into the glaze, ensuring an even coating. Let them sit for a minute for the glaze to set slightly before serving.
Optional: Top with sprinkles or cocoa nibs for an extra touch of fun!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
What to Serve with Chocolate Old-Fashioned Donuts?
There’s nothing quite like enjoying freshly made donuts alongside complementary flavors that elevate the experience.
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Fresh Berries: A vibrant mix of strawberries, raspberries, and blueberries adds a refreshing tartness that balances the rich chocolate.
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Vanilla Ice Cream: The creamy sweetness of vanilla ice cream melts beautifully with warm donuts, enhancing their decadent texture.
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Coffee or Espresso: A strong cup of coffee or a rich espresso provides a perfect bitter contrast to the sweetness of the donuts.
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Chocolate Sauce: Drizzle warm chocolate sauce over the donuts to amplify their chocolaty essence; it’s a chocolate lover’s dream!
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Coconut Flakes: Lightly toasted coconut flakes add a tropical touch and a crispy texture that complements the fluffy donuts.
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Nutty Granola: A sprinkle of crunchy granola adds varying textures, with its nutty flavors harmonizing beautifully with the sweet chocolate.
Pair these delectable options with your Chocolate Old-Fashioned Donuts, and you’ll create a delightful spread worthy of any gathering or cozy weekend brunch!
How to Store and Freeze Chocolate Old-Fashioned Donuts
Room Temperature: Keep the donuts in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days to maintain their freshness and prevent them from getting stale.
Refrigerator: If you’d like to extend their shelf life, store the donuts in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days—just be aware that they may lose some of their original texture.
Freezer: To freeze, place the cooled donuts in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Then transfer them to a freezer bag, where they can be stored for up to 3 months.
Reheating: To enjoy your chocolate old-fashioned donuts after freezing, simply thaw in the fridge overnight. For a warm treat, pop them in a toaster oven for a few minutes until warmed through.
Expert Tips for Chocolate Old-Fashioned Donuts
Fry at the Right Temperature: Ensure your oil is at 350°F (175°C) before frying to achieve that perfect crispy exterior without undercooking the inside.
Avoid Overmixing: When combining wet and dry ingredients, mix just until combined. Overmixing can lead to dense donuts instead of the light, fluffy texture you want.
Drain Properly: After frying, let the donuts rest on a paper towel to drain excess oil, helping them stay crispy and not greasy.
Customize Your Glaze: Feel free to experiment with flavors! Adding orange zest or cinnamon to the glaze can elevate your chocolate old-fashioned donuts to a new level of deliciousness.
Always Use Room Temperature Eggs: For the best results, use eggs at room temperature. This helps your batter mix more evenly and create a tender donut.
Chocolate Storage: If you have leftover donuts (though they’re likely to disappear quickly!), store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days.
Chocolate Old-Fashioned Donut Variations
Feel free to embrace your creativity and personalize these donuts to match your taste preferences—each variation adds a delightful twist!
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Gluten-Free: Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend, ensuring your donuts remain fluffy and delicious. Enjoy the same heavenly taste without the gluten!
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Vegan: Replace eggs with flax eggs (1 tablespoon flaxseed meal + 2.5 tablespoons water per egg) and use a plant-based yogurt or nut milk instead of sour cream. Your donuts will be friendly for all diets!
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Spicy Chocolate: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a sprinkle of chili powder to the batter for a delightful kick that perfectly complements the sweet chocolate.
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Minty Twist: Incorporate ½ teaspoon of peppermint extract into the batter for a refreshing and fun peppermint chocolate makeover. Perfect for the holidays or any time you crave a minty treat!
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Nutty Crunch: Fold in ½ cup of chocolate chips or chopped walnuts into the batter for added texture and bursts of rich flavors, making each bite even more indulgent.
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Cocoa Nib Topping: Sprinkle cocoa nibs over the glaze for a beautifully crunchy texture and a sophisticated chocolate accent that your guests will adore.
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Coffee-Infused: Add 1 tablespoon of instant coffee granules to the dry ingredients for a rich mocha flavor. It enhances the chocolate and adds a delightful depth to your donuts.
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Zesty Orange: Mix in the zest of one orange into the batter for a bright citrus twist that complements the chocolate beautifully. This refreshing addition is sure to surprise and delight!
Make Ahead Options
Chocolate Old-Fashioned Donuts are an excellent choice for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy these delightful treats with minimal last-minute effort! You can prepare the donut batter up to 24 hours in advance. Simply mix the dry ingredients and wet ingredients separately, then combine them before refrigerating the batter. Be sure to cover it well to keep it fresh and prevent drying out. When you’re ready to fry, just heat the oil and drop dollops of the batter into the hot oil as directed. For the glaze, you can pre-mix it up to 3 days ahead and store it in the fridge. Just give it a good stir to restore the consistency before dipping your warm donuts! This way, you’ll have warm, homemade donuts ready to share without the stress of last-minute cooking!
Chocolate Old-Fashioned Donuts Recipe FAQs
How do I select ripe ingredients for my donuts?
Absolutely! For the best flavor, make sure your eggs are at room temperature; this helps create a more consistent batter. Use high-quality unsweetened cocoa powder and avoid any that has been sitting on your shelf for ages, as this can affect the flavor. When picking butter, opt for unsalted, and check that it’s fresh for the creamiest texture.
What’s the best way to store leftover donuts?
Very good question! To keep your chocolate old-fashioned donuts at their best, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. If you need them to last a bit longer, moving them to the fridge can extend their life to about 5 days, though they may lose some of that delightful softness. Be sure to let them come to room temperature before enjoying—heat can help maintain that fantastic flavor!
Can I freeze chocolate old-fashioned donuts?
Absolutely! To freeze your donuts, first allow them to cool completely. Place them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid, which usually takes about 1-2 hours. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer bag, removing as much air as possible to avoid freezer burn. They can be stored this way for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply thaw in the fridge overnight and warm them in a toaster oven for a delightful treat!
What should I do if my donuts turn out greasy?
If your chocolate old-fashioned donuts come out greasy, it often means the oil temperature was too low during frying. To avoid this, use a cooking thermometer to ensure your oil reaches 350°F (175°C) before adding the batter. If the oil temperature was correct, make sure you’re using the right amount of batter; overstuffing can lead to excess oil absorption. Always drain them on paper towels after frying to remove any excess oil!
Are these donuts suitable for people with dietary restrictions?
When it comes to allergies, this recipe contains gluten from the all-purpose flour and dairy from the butter and sour cream or buttermilk. For a gluten-free option, consider substituting with a gluten-free flour blend. You can also replace the butter with a dairy-free alternative or use a non-dairy milk for the glaze if you’re accommodating for lactose intolerance or dairy allergies. Remember to double-check all labels to ensure they meet your specific dietary needs!
Mouthwatering Chocolate Old-Fashioned Donuts You’ll Love
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Combine dry ingredients: In a mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt until well blended.
- Mix wet ingredients: In another bowl, beat together the granulated sugar, softened butter, and eggs. Add the sour cream and vanilla extract, mixing until smooth.
- Combine wet and dry mixtures: Gradually fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture until just combined.
- Heat the oil: In a deep fryer or large pot, heat the neutral oil to 350°F (175°C).
- Fry the donuts: Drop dollops of batter into the hot oil and fry each donut for about 3-4 minutes on each side.
- Drain excess oil: Remove the donuts from the oil using a slotted spoon and place them on a paper towel.
- Prepare the glaze: In a bowl, whisk together the powdered sugar, milk, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt until smooth.
- Glaze the donuts: Dip the warm donuts into the glaze and let them sit for a minute before serving.