Dulce De Leche Glazed Chocolate Donuts

Sharing is caring!

Indulge your sweet tooth with these rich and decadent Dulce De Leche Glazed Chocolate Donuts. With their soft, chocolatey centers and drizzles of luscious dulce de leche glaze, these donuts are perfect for a breakfast treat or an afternoon snack. Made with simple ingredients, these donuts are baked to perfection, making them a slightly healthier alternative to their fried counterparts. Let’s dive into the world of chocolate and dulce de leche, and discover how to create these irresistible delights right in your kitchen.

Why This Recipe Is a Must-Try

These donuts are a heavenly combination of flavors and textures. The intensity of the cocoa powder and espresso creates a deeply satisfying chocolate base, while the dulce de leche glaze adds a smooth, caramel-like finish that will leave you wanting more. Unlike traditional donuts that require frying, these are baked, making them lighter yet still incredibly moist and flavorful. Plus, they come together quickly, making them an easy option for both novice bakers and seasoned pros alike. If you’ve never made donuts at home, this recipe is the perfect introduction!

Ingredients

• 1 cup all purpose flour (125g), fluffed, spooned & leveled
• ¼ cup unsweetened cocoa powder (25g)
• ½ cup granulated sugar (100g)
• 2 teaspoons espresso powder
• ¼ teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1 egg, lightly beaten
• ½ cup buttermilk
• 2 tablespoons Greek yogurt
• ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 tablespoon butter, melted and cooled slightly

How To Make Dulce De Leche Glazed Chocolate Donuts

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that your donuts will bake evenly and rise beautifully.

Step 2: Prepare Your Donut Pan

Lightly grease a donut pan with non-stick spray or brush it with a bit of melted butter. This will help the donuts release easily after baking.

Step 3: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a medium bowl, sift together the all-purpose flour, unsweetened cocoa powder, granulated sugar, espresso powder, salt, and baking powder. Sifting helps to incorporate air and prevent clumps, resulting in a lighter donut.

Step 4: Combine Wet Ingredients

In a separate large bowl, whisk together the lightly beaten egg, buttermilk, Greek yogurt, vanilla extract, and melted butter until smooth and well combined.

Step 5: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients

Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring gently until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; a few lumps are perfectly fine. The batter will be thick and luscious.

Step 6: Fill the Donut Pan

Using a piping bag or a spoon, fill each donut cavity about two-thirds full with batter. This allows room for rising without overflowing.

Step 7: Bake the Donuts

Place the filled donut pan in the preheated oven and bake for about 10-12 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of a donut comes out clean. They should look domed and slightly springy to the touch.

Step 8: Cool the Donuts

Once baked, remove the donuts from the oven and let them cool in the pan for 5 minutes. Then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Step 9: Prepare the Dulce De Leche Glaze

To make the delicious glaze, simply warm some dulce de leche in a small saucepan over low heat, stirring until it becomes smooth and pourable. If desired, you can thin it with a bit of warm water or milk to achieve the perfect consistency.

Step 10: Glaze the Donuts

Once the donuts are completely cool, dip the tops into the warm dulce de leche glaze, allowing the excess to drip off. For an extra touch, you can drizzle more dulce de leche on top.

Expert Tips

• For the best chocolate flavor, use high-quality cocoa powder and espresso powder.
• Don’t overmix the batter; it’s okay if there are a few lumps.
• If you prefer a thicker glaze, let the dulce de leche cool slightly before dipping.
• For added texture, sprinkle some crushed nuts or chocolate shavings on top of the glaze while it’s still wet.

Variations and Customizations

• Swap buttermilk for your favorite milk alternative like almond or oat milk.
• Add chocolate chips to the batter for an extra gooey texture.
• Try different glazes, such as a simple powdered sugar glaze or a chocolate ganache.
• For a spicy twist, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or cinnamon to the batter.

How to Store Leftovers

These donuts are best enjoyed fresh but can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. If you want to keep them longer, they can be stored in the refrigerator for up to a week. Just make sure to reheat them in the microwave for a few seconds to bring back their freshness before serving.

FAQ

Can I make these donuts ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the donut batter the night before and refrigerate it. Just bring it to room temperature before baking for the best results.

What can I substitute for buttermilk?

If you don’t have buttermilk on hand, you can make a quick substitute by mixing ½ cup of milk with ½ tablespoon of vinegar or lemon juice. Let it sit for a few minutes to curdle before using.

Can I freeze these donuts?

Absolutely! These donuts freeze well. Just allow them to cool completely, then place them in an airtight container or freezer bag. They can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator or at room temperature when you’re ready to enjoy.

How do I know when the donuts are done baking?

The donuts are done when they spring back when lightly pressed in the center or when a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Be careful not to overbake, as they can become dry.

Conclusion

Baking these Dulce De Leche Glazed Chocolate Donuts is a fun and rewarding experience, resulting in a mouthwatering treat that will impress your friends and family. With their rich chocolate flavor and creamy glaze, these donuts are a delightful addition to any brunch table or an irresistible snack for any time of day. So gather your ingredients, put on your apron, and get ready to treat yourself to a homemade donut experience like no other. Enjoy every last bite!