If you’re searching for a decadent yet wholesome treat, these Chocolate Hazelnut Donuts are the perfect answer. Made with wholemeal flour, rich dark chocolate, and creamy Greek yogurt, they strike a balance between indulgence and nutrition. Topped with a luscious chocolate glaze and a sprinkle of crushed hazelnuts, these baked donuts are sure to elevate any dessert spread.
Why You’ll Love These Donuts
These donuts combine the rich, velvety taste of dark chocolate with the subtle nuttiness of wholemeal flour, offering a texture that’s soft yet slightly dense. The topping adds an extra layer of luxury with melted dark chocolate and crunchy hazelnuts, giving them a professional bakery vibe.
Unlike fried donuts, this recipe is baked, making it a lighter option that doesn’t sacrifice flavor. The addition of Greek yogurt ensures moistness, while the wholemeal flour brings a hearty, slightly nutty undertone.
Ingredients You’ll Need
For the Donuts:
- 60 g wholemeal flour: Adds a wholesome, nutty base to the donuts.
- 40 g 70% dark chocolate: The star ingredient for rich chocolate flavor.
- 80 g Greek yogurt: Provides moisture and a creamy texture.
- 1 egg: Helps bind the ingredients and gives structure.
- 5 g baking powder: Ensures the donuts rise for a light texture.
- A pinch of salt: Enhances the flavor and balances the sweetness.
- 25 g brown sugar: Adds a touch of sweetness with caramel undertones.
For the Topping:
- 70% dark chocolate: Melted for a glossy, rich glaze.
- Crushed hazelnuts: Adds crunch and a complementary nutty flavor.
- Oil or butter: Optional, for greasing the donut molds.
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prepare the Chocolate Base
Start by melting the dark chocolate gently. You can use a double boiler or microwave in 15–20 second intervals, stirring each time to avoid burning. Once melted, set it aside to cool slightly.
2. Whisk the Eggs and Sugar
In a mixing bowl, whisk the egg and brown sugar for a few minutes until the mixture becomes light and fluffy. This step ensures your donuts have a tender, airy texture.
3. Combine Wet Ingredients
Gradually fold the melted chocolate into the egg mixture, followed by the Greek yogurt. Stir gently to create a smooth and creamy batter.
4. Incorporate the Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, sift together the wholemeal flour, baking powder, and a pinch of salt. Slowly add this to the wet ingredients, folding the mixture until you achieve a lump-free, cohesive batter.
5. Bake the Donuts
Grease your donut molds lightly with oil or butter, if necessary. Pour the batter evenly into the molds, filling each cavity about three-quarters full. Preheat your oven to 180°C (356°F) and bake for 15 minutes.
To check for doneness, insert a toothpick into a donut—it should come out clean or with just a few crumbs. Once baked, let the donuts cool in the molds for about 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
6. Add the Chocolate Topping
Melt the dark chocolate for the topping using the same gentle heating method as before. Dip the cooled donuts into the melted chocolate, coating the tops evenly. Sprinkle crushed hazelnuts over the glaze while it’s still wet to ensure they stick.
7. Serve and Enjoy
Allow the chocolate topping to set for a few minutes, then serve these delightful donuts as a dessert, snack, or even a decadent breakfast treat.
Tips for Success
- Use High-Quality Chocolate: For the richest flavor, opt for a good-quality 70% dark chocolate.
- Don’t Overmix the Batter: Overmixing can make the donuts dense. Stir just until the ingredients are combined.
- Cool Completely Before Topping: Ensure the donuts are fully cooled before dipping them in the melted chocolate to prevent the topping from sliding off.
- Customize the Topping: Swap crushed hazelnuts for toasted almonds, shredded coconut, or even sprinkles for a fun twist.
Storage and Serving Suggestions
These donuts are best enjoyed fresh but can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. If you’d like to keep them longer, refrigerate them for up to 5 days, though the texture may become slightly denser. To enjoy them warm, microwave for 10–15 seconds before serving.
Serve these Chocolate Hazelnut Donuts with a cup of coffee, tea, or a glass of cold milk for a perfectly indulgent pairing. They’re ideal for sharing at brunches, afternoon teas, or as a treat to satisfy chocolate cravings.
Soft, chocolatey, and nutty—these baked donuts are a delightful combination of elegance and comfort.
Dark Chocolate Hazelnut Donuts
Ingredients
For the Batter
- 60 g wholemeal flour
- 40 g 70% dark chocolate melted and cooled
- 80 g Greek yogurt
- 1 large egg
- 5 g baking powder
- 1 pinch salt
- 25 g brown sugar
For the Topping
- to taste 70% dark chocolate melted for topping
- to taste crushed hazelnuts for garnish
- as needed oil or butter for greasing the molds
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 180°C (356°F).
- Melt the chocolate and let it cool.
- Whisk the egg and sugar for a few minutes until light and fluffy.
- Gently fold in the melted chocolate, followed by the yogurt.
- Add the flour and baking powder, mixing until smooth.
- Pour the batter into greased donut molds and bake for 15 minutes.
- Allow the donuts to cool before removing them from the molds.
- Melt the chocolate for the topping, dip the donuts carefully, and sprinkle with crushed hazelnuts.
- Enjoy your delicious mini-cakes styled as donuts!
Notes
- Use high-quality dark chocolate for the best results.
- Ensure the donuts are fully cooled before topping to prevent melting issues.
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