A fresh doughnut, especially when it’s sugar-glazed and generously dunked in a layer of silky melted chocolate is a treat that’s hard to beat. Chocolate doughnuts, with their perfect balance of sweetness and richness, are a much-loved treat enjoyed by both children and adults in my house. These classic round doughnuts with the iconic hole in the middle are a true delight.
What makes chocolate doughnuts so tempting is their simple yet indulgent composition. The doughnut itself is typically soft, fluffy, and slightly chewy — a texture that pairs beautifully with the crisp sugar glaze that coats it. But the real magic happens when the top half of each doughnut is dipped into warm, glossy melted chocolate. As the chocolate sets, it forms a delicate shell that breaks pleasingly with each bite, giving way to the tender dough underneath.
While chocolate is already a crowd-pleaser, there’s no harm in getting a little creative with the toppings. Chocolate doughnuts are a perfect canvas for a variety of flavours and textures, making them a versatile treat for parties, picnics, or a weekend indulgence. After the chocolate layer has been added, there’s an opportunity to elevate these doughnuts with a sprinkle of something extra.
For a crunchy twist, try scattering finely chopped nuts such as hazelnuts, almonds, or pistachios over the chocolate before it sets. These add not only texture but also a slightly savoury element that cuts through the sweetness. Colourful sprinkles or chocolate shavings are popular options too, especially for children’s treats, adding both charm and a burst of fun.
For a more grown-up flavour, consider topping the chocolate with a light dusting of sea salt or a grating of orange zest. Crushed biscuits, toasted coconut flakes, or even a few flakes of chilli can also make an interesting and unique finish. These additions bring a personal touch and allow each doughnut to be just a little bit different.
Chocolate doughnuts strike the perfect balance between familiar comfort and indulgent luxury. They’re delicious with a morning coffee or served as an afternoon pick-me-up. Whether kept plain or dressed up with toppings, they never fail to deliver a dose of joy in every bite.
Chocolate Doughnuts
Ingredients
For the doughnuts:
- 500 g plain flour plus extra for dusting
- 40 g caster sugar
- 7 g yeast fast-action
- 1 tsp salt
- 250 ml milk lukewarm
- 2 large eggs free range
- 50 g unsalted butter softened
- vegetable oil for deep-frying
For the sugar glaze:
- 150 g icing sugar
- 2 tbsp water or milk plus a little more if needed
For the chocolate dip:
- 200 g milk chocolate or dark finely chopped
- 1 tbsp vegetable oil to loosen the melted chocolate
Instructions
- In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, yeast and salt.500 g plain flour, 40 g caster sugar, 7 g yeast, 1 tsp salt
- In a separate jug, beat the eggs into the lukewarm milk, then pour into the dry ingredients. Stir to combine.250 ml milk, 2 large eggs
- Add the softened butter and knead (by hand or in a stand mixer with dough hook) for 8–10 minutes until the dough is smooth and elastic.50 g unsalted butter
- Shape the dough into a ball, place in a lightly oiled bowl, cover with clingfilm or a clean tea towel and leave in a warm spot for about 1 hour, or until doubled in size.
- Turn the proved dough onto a lightly floured surface and roll out to about 1 cm thickness.
- Use a 7–8 cm cutter to stamp out rings, then a small cutter (or the lid of a bottle) to remove the centres.
- Transfer the rings to a baking tray lined with parchment, cover loosely and leave for 20 minutes to rise again.
- Heat the oil in a deep pan or heavy-bottomed fryer to 175 °C (a cube of bread should brown in about 30 seconds).vegetable oil
- Fry the doughnuts in batches for about 1 minute per side, until golden. Use a slotted spoon to transfer them to a wire rack set over a baking tray.
- While still warm, brush or dip each doughnut into the icing sugar mixture. Allow any excess to drip off, then set back on the rack.150 g icing sugar, 2 tbsp water
- Gently melt the chopped chocolate with the oil in a heatproof bowl set over barely-simmering water (or melt in short bursts in the microwave, stirring in between).200 g milk chocolate
- If the chocolate starts to set, add little vegetable oil and stir to loosen1 tbsp vegetable oil
- Dip the top half of each glazed doughnut into the melted chocolate. Return to the rack and leave until the chocolate has set.
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