These Chocolate Old-Fashioned Donuts are a nostalgic treat with a cocoa-rich twist. Made in the classic cake donut style, they boast a crisp craggy exterior and a tender, moist crumb on the inside—perfectly balanced with a simple vanilla glaze that hardens into a sweet shell. Whether you enjoy them with morning coffee or serve them as a weekend treat, these donuts offer that bakery-fresh feeling right from your own kitchen.
Why You’ll Love This Chocolate Old-Fashioned Donuts
Crispy outside, soft and cakey inside.
Deep chocolate flavor in every bite.
Classic donut shop taste—no yeast required.
Great for frying ahead and glazing fresh.
A crowd-pleaser for brunches or dessert trays.
Ingredients for Chocolate Old-Fashioned Donuts
Big flavor? Check. Easy prep? Double check. Let’s start with this list.
All-purpose flour: The backbone of your donuts, providing structure and a soft texture.
Granulated sugar: Sweetens the batter and helps achieve that golden crust.
Unsweetened cocoa powder: Adds rich chocolate flavor without extra sweetness.
Baking powder: This leavening agent helps the donuts rise and become fluffy.
Baking soda: Works with the baking powder to create a light texture.
Salt: Enhances the flavors and balances the sweetness.
Ground cinnamon: A warm spice that adds depth to the chocolate flavor.
Large eggs: Bind the ingredients together and add moisture.
Buttermilk: Provides a tangy flavor and keeps the donuts moist.
Unsalted butter: Adds richness and a buttery flavor to the dough.
Vanilla extract: A classic flavor enhancer that complements the chocolate.
Vegetable oil: For frying, it gives the donuts that perfect crispy exterior.
Powdered sugar: Essential for the glaze, creating a sweet finish.
Additional cocoa powder: Used in the glaze for an extra chocolate kick.
Milk: Helps achieve the right consistency for the glaze.
Optional ingredients: Consider adding chocolate chips to the dough for an extra chocolatey treat or rolling the donuts in cinnamon sugar for a different flavor twist.
For exact measurements, check the bottom of the article where you can find everything listed for easy printing!
How to Make Chocolate Old-Fashioned Donuts
Making Chocolate Old-Fashioned Donuts is a delightful adventure that’s easier than you might think. Follow these simple steps, and you’ll be on your way to creating a batch of donuts that will impress everyone. Let’s dive in!
Step 1: Prepare the Dry Ingredients
Start by grabbing a large bowl. Whisk together the all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, unsweetened cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and ground cinnamon. This mix is the foundation of your donuts, so make sure it’s well combined. The cocoa powder is what gives these donuts their rich chocolate flavor, so don’t skimp on it!
Step 2: Mix the Wet Ingredients
In a separate bowl, beat the large eggs until they’re frothy. Then, mix in the buttermilk, melted unsalted butter, and vanilla extract. This combination adds moisture and flavor to your donuts. The buttermilk is key here; it helps create that tender texture we all love!
Step 3: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients
Now, pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients. Stir gently until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; a few lumps are perfectly fine. Overmixing can lead to tough donuts, and we want them soft and fluffy!
Step 4: Chill the Dough
Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and chill the dough in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes. This step makes the dough easier to handle and helps the flavors meld together. Plus, it’s a great time to clean up your workspace!
Step 5: Roll and Cut the Donuts
Once chilled, sprinkle some flour on a clean surface. Roll out the dough to about 1/2 inch thick. Use a donut cutter or two round cutters to cut out your donuts. If you don’t have a donut cutter, a large glass and a smaller one will do the trick. Gather the scraps, re-roll, and cut out more donuts. No waste here!
Step 6: Fry the Donuts
In a deep skillet or fryer, heat about 2 inches of vegetable oil to 350°F. Carefully place the donuts in the hot oil, a few at a time. Fry them for about 1-2 minutes on each side until they’re golden brown. Use a slotted spoon to remove them and let them drain on paper towels. The sizzling sound is music to your ears!
Step 7: Prepare the Glaze
While the donuts cool, whisk together the powdered sugar, additional cocoa powder, milk, and vanilla extract in a bowl. You want a smooth, pourable glaze. Adjust the milk if necessary to get the right consistency. This glaze is what takes your donuts from good to absolutely irresistible!
Step 8: Glaze the Donuts
Once the donuts are cool, dip the tops into the glaze. Let any excess drip off, then place them on a wire rack to set. If you’re feeling adventurous, sprinkle some chocolate chips or sprinkles on top while the glaze is still wet. Enjoy the process; these Chocolate Old-Fashioned Donuts are about to become your new favorite treat!
Tips for Success
Make sure your oil is at the right temperature (350°F) for even frying.
Don’t overcrowd the pan; fry a few donuts at a time for best results.
Chill the dough thoroughly to prevent it from becoming too sticky.
Use a thermometer to check the oil temperature for perfect frying.
Experiment with different glazes or toppings for a fun twist!
Equipment Needed
Mixing bowls: A large bowl for dry ingredients and a medium bowl for wet ingredients.
Whisk: Essential for combining ingredients smoothly; a fork can work in a pinch.
Donut cutter: Use a donut cutter or two round cutters for shaping.
Deep skillet or fryer: A heavy pot can also be used for frying.
Slotted spoon: Perfect for removing donuts from hot oil.
Variations
Chocolate Chip Delight: Fold in chocolate chips into the dough for an extra chocolatey experience.
Gluten-Free Option: Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend for a delicious gluten-free treat.
Spiced Chocolate: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or nutmeg to the dry ingredients for a warm, spicy kick.
Maple Glaze: Swap the chocolate glaze for a maple glaze by mixing powdered sugar with maple syrup and a splash of milk.
Vegan Version: Replace eggs with flax eggs and use plant-based milk and butter for a vegan-friendly donut.
Serving Suggestions
Pair your Chocolate Old-Fashioned Donuts with a hot cup of coffee or a glass of cold milk for a classic combo.
Serve them on a colorful platter, dusted with extra powdered sugar for a delightful presentation.
For a fun twist, add fresh berries or whipped cream on the side.
FAQs about Chocolate Old-Fashioned Donuts
Can I bake these Chocolate Old-Fashioned Donuts instead of frying them?
While frying gives these donuts their signature crispy texture, you can bake them for a healthier option. Preheat your oven to 350°F, place the cut donuts on a baking sheet, and bake for about 10-12 minutes. They won’t be quite the same, but they’ll still be delicious!
How do I store leftover donuts?
To keep your Chocolate Old-Fashioned Donuts fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. If you want to keep them longer, consider freezing them. Just make sure to wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer bag.
Can I use different types of chocolate in this recipe?
Absolutely! You can experiment with milk chocolate or dark chocolate for different flavor profiles. Just remember that the sweetness level may vary, so adjust the sugar accordingly if you switch to a sweeter chocolate.
What can I do if my donut dough is too sticky?
If your dough is too sticky, don’t panic! Simply sprinkle a little more flour on your work surface and on the dough itself while rolling it out. Chilling the dough longer can also help make it easier to handle.
How can I make these donuts more festive?
For a festive touch, consider adding colorful sprinkles on top of the glaze or drizzling white chocolate over the chocolate glaze. You can also use seasonal spices like nutmeg or pumpkin spice for a holiday twist!
Final Thoughts
Creating Chocolate Old-Fashioned Donuts is more than just a cooking task; it’s an experience filled with joy and nostalgia. The process of mixing, frying, and glazing brings a sense of accomplishment that’s hard to beat. Each bite is a delightful combination of rich chocolate and crispy texture, making them perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re sharing them with family or savoring them solo, these donuts are sure to bring smiles and satisfaction. So roll up your sleeves, embrace the mess, and enjoy the sweet rewards of your culinary adventure. You won’t regret it!
