Name: Fudgy Baked Chocolate Doughnuts with Espresso Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 35 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 tablespoon (14 grams) unsalted butter (for the doughnut pan); 1/3 cup (28 grams) Dutch-processed cocoa powder; 1-1/2 teaspoons instant espresso powder; 1/4 cup (60 ml) boiling water; 3/4 cup (94 grams) unbleached all-purpose flour; 1 teaspoon baking powder; 1/2 teaspoon Diamond kosher salt; 1 large (50 grams) egg, room temperature; 1/3 cup (67 grams) packed light brown sugar; 1/4 cup (60 ml) whole milk (can use 2%); 1/4 cup (60 ml) vegetable oil; 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract; 3 ounces (85 grams) chopped bittersweet chocolate; 6 tablespoons (85 grams) unsalted butter, room temperature

Print Recipe· 4.2 from 9 reviews

If you’re craving something indulgently rich yet wonderfully soft, you are going to adore this Fudgy Baked Chocolate Doughnuts with Espresso Recipe. These doughnuts deliver that perfect balance of deep chocolate flavor with a subtle espresso kick, wrapped in a tender, fudgy texture that will make every bite feel like a cozy hug. Baked rather than fried, they’re a lighter way to indulge your chocolate cravings while still packing an intense, luscious taste that’s hard to resist. Whether it’s a weekend treat or an impressive surprise for friends, this recipe will quickly become a beloved favorite.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Several chocolate donuts are shown close up, each with one thick, smooth layer of shiny dark chocolate glaze on top that covers the donut fully and drips slightly down the sides. The donuts are dark brown with a soft, moist texture visible under the glaze. They sit on white parchment paper resting on a white marbled surface. The image is focused on one donut in the center foreground with others faded in the background. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

This Fudgy Baked Chocolate Doughnuts with Espresso Recipe calls for simple pantry staples that come together to create an extraordinary flavor and texture. Each ingredient plays a vital role—from the dutch-processed cocoa adding rich color and depth, to the espresso instant powder enhancing the chocolate notes with a subtle, sophisticated bitterness.

Unsalted butter (1 tablespoon for pan + 6 tablespoons for glaze): Ensures the doughnuts don’t stick and adds creamy richness to the glaze.
Dutch-processed cocoa (1/3 cup): Gives the doughnuts their deep chocolate hue and smooth cocoa flavor without bitterness.
Instant espresso powder (1.5 teaspoons): Brightens and intensifies the chocolate, making every bite more complex.
Boiling water (1/4 cup): Helps bloom the cocoa and dissolve the espresso for an even flavor base.
Unbleached all-purpose flour (3/4 cup): Provides structure while keeping the doughnuts tender.
Baking powder (1 teaspoon): Allows for just the right lift and lightness in the doughnuts.
Diamond kosher salt (1/2 teaspoon): Balances sweetness and enhances the chocolate’s depth.
Large egg (1, room temperature): Binds ingredients and adds richness.
Light brown sugar (1/3 cup, packed): Adds sweetness with a hint of molasses for warmth.
Whole milk (1/4 cup): Keeps the batter moist and tender, can substitute with 2% milk.
Vegetable oil (1/4 cup): Maintains the fudgy texture and prevents dryness.
Pure vanilla extract (1 teaspoon): Enhances overall flavor complexity.
Chopped bittersweet chocolate (3 ounces): Melts into a glossy glaze that perfectly crowns the doughnuts.

How to Make Fudgy Baked Chocolate Doughnuts with Espresso Recipe

Step 1: Prepare Your Pan and Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F. Generously butter each individual well of your doughnut pan with softened butter. This step is crucial for easy release and ensures your doughnuts come out perfectly shaped without a fight.

Step 2: Create the Chocolate-Espresso Paste

In a medium bowl, whisk together the dutch-processed cocoa and instant espresso powder. Pour in the boiling water and stir until you have a smooth, streak-free paste. Cover and let it cool until it’s barely warm. This paste is the flavor powerhouse, intensifying your doughnuts with rich chocolate and the subtle buzz of espresso.

Step 3: Mix the Dry Ingredients

Whisk together the flour, baking powder, and kosher salt in a separate bowl. Setting the dry ingredients aside keeps the process organized and ensures even mixing later.

Step 4: Combine Wet Ingredients with Chocolate Paste

Whisk the egg into your cooled chocolate-espresso paste until glossy and fully incorporated. Add the brown sugar followed by the milk, vegetable oil, and vanilla extract, whisking each addition until smooth. Let the mixture sit for a couple of minutes to let the sugar dissolve completely, giving you a batter that’s silky and well-balanced.

Step 5: Fold in the Dry Ingredients

Gently fold the flour mixture into the wet ingredients using a spatula. Scrape the bottom of the bowl frequently to make sure all the flour is mixed in. It’s okay if the batter looks a little lumpy—this helps maintain that fudgy, dense texture that makes these doughnuts so special.

Step 6: Fill the Doughnut Pan

Transfer your batter into an 18-inch piping bag or use a spoon to carefully fill each doughnut well with about 65 grams of batter. This ensures they bake evenly and have that perfect shape.

Step 7: Bake the Doughnuts

Bake for 8 to 10 minutes, until the doughnuts rise with small cracks showing on the top and an instant-read thermometer registers 195-198°F. The scent of chocolate and espresso filling your kitchen at this point is pure happiness!

Step 8: Cool and Release

Let the pan sit for 2 minutes after baking, then invert it onto a wire rack to release the doughnuts. You might need to gently shake the pan if some stick, but they should all pop out nicely. If you plan to add the glaze, let the doughnuts cool to room temperature so it clings better.

Step 9: Make the Glaze

Combine butter and chopped bittersweet chocolate in a microwave-safe bowl. Microwave in 15-second intervals, stirring every time even if you don’t see melting right away. Stop microwaving when most of the chocolate is melted and stir until smooth. Let the glaze cool to about 90°F before dipping.

Step 10: Dip and Finish

Hold each doughnut by the edges and dip the bottom—where it touched the pan—into the glaze. This rougher surface helps the glaze stick beautifully. Let excess drip off and place the doughnuts glazed side up on a wire rack over parchment. Once all doughnuts are dipped, give them a second dip for that decadent, thick coat. Allow the glaze to set for about 10 minutes.

How to Serve Fudgy Baked Chocolate Doughnuts with Espresso Recipe

Fudgy Baked Chocolate Doughnuts with Espresso Recipe - Recipe Image

Garnishes

The simple chocolate glaze on these doughnuts is perfection, but for a fun twist, consider sprinkling with flaky sea salt to heighten the chocolate and espresso flavors. Chopped toasted nuts, like hazelnuts or pecans, add a delightful crunch and nuttiness that pairs wonderfully with the fudgy texture. A light dusting of powdered sugar or a few espresso beans on top can also amp up the presentation beautifully.

Side Dishes

These doughnuts are fantastic on their own with a rich cup of coffee or espresso to complement the flavors. If you want to create a little brunch spread, serve them with fresh berries or a dollop of whipped cream on the side to balance the chocolate richness. For a heartier breakfast, pair with scrambled eggs or a creamy yogurt parfait featuring coffee-infused granola.

Creative Ways to Present

For a party, serve the doughnuts on a tiered platter arranged with fresh mint leaves and edible flowers for a sophisticated look. You can also skewer mini doughnuts and dip the skewers into extra glaze or melted chocolate for fun handheld treats. Another creative idea is drizzling white chocolate or caramel over the dark glaze for an eye-catching contrast.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you have leftovers, keep your Fudgy Baked Chocolate Doughnuts with Espresso Recipe fresh by storing them in an airtight container at room temperature. They stay deliciously moist and fudgy for up to 2 days, making them perfect for snacking anytime without losing their magical texture.

Freezing

You can freeze these doughnuts if you want to enjoy them later. Wrap each doughnut individually in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer bag or airtight container. They will keep well for up to one month. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw at room temperature for best results.

Reheating

To revive that just-baked warmth, gently reheat the doughnuts in a microwave for about 15-20 seconds or warm them in an oven at 300°F for 5-6 minutes. If they are glazed, a lower oven temperature is best to prevent melting the chocolate too much while warming through.

FAQs

Can I use regular cocoa instead of Dutch-processed cocoa?

You can substitute regular cocoa, but it may alter the texture and depth of flavor slightly. Dutch-processed cocoa gives the doughnuts a smoother, less acidic taste that harmonizes best with the espresso.

Is it necessary to use instant espresso powder?

The instant espresso powder intensifies the chocolate flavor without adding liquid that might change the batter’s consistency. If unavailable, a shot of cooled espresso can be used, but reduce other liquids slightly to keep the right texture.

Can I make these doughnuts vegan?

With some recipe adaptations—like using flax eggs, a plant milk, and vegan butter—you can create a vegan version. Keep in mind the texture might be a bit different, but still deliciously fudgy.

Why bake the doughnuts instead of frying?

Baking yields a tender, fudgy doughnut that isn’t greasy or heavy. It’s a healthier alternative that still delivers rich chocolate indulgence, with less mess and easier cleanup.

How do I prevent the doughnuts from sticking to the pan?

Thoroughly buttering the wells is essential. You can also lightly flour the pan or use a non-stick doughnut pan for extra insurance. Letting the doughnuts cool for a couple of minutes before inverting helps them release smoothly without breaking.

Final Thoughts

These Fudgy Baked Chocolate Doughnuts with Espresso Recipe are an absolute game-changer for chocolate lovers who want a luscious treat that feels homemade and thoughtfully crafted. They’re simple enough for a cozy weekend project but sophisticated enough for sharing with friends and family. Trust me, once you experience the fudgy texture combined with that subtle espresso zing, you’ll be coming back to this recipe again and again. Go ahead, bake yourself a batch and watch your kitchen fill with the most inviting aroma of chocolatey heaven!