Chocolate Strawberry Baked Donuts
The first time I made Chocolate Strawberry Baked Donuts, it was a rainy Saturday morning. I had a sudden craving for something sweet and comforting. Thumbing through my recipe book, I stumbled upon this delightful combination of rich chocolate and fresh strawberries. It felt like the perfect way to brighten up a gloomy day! I remember whipping up the batter, the rich aroma of cocoa filling my kitchen, and the anticipation building as the donuts baked. When they finally came out of the oven, golden and fluffy, I couldn’t wait to drizzle them with a luscious strawberry icing. Each bite was a heavenly mix of chocolatey goodness and fruity freshness. Since then, these donuts have become a staple in my home, perfect for breakfast or as a sweet treat any time of the day!
Recipe Snapshot
60 mins
0 mins
0 mins
Medium
210 kcal
3 g
Gluten-Free, Low FODMAP
9 g
Oven, Baking Sheet, Frying Pan, Wooden Spoon, Cutting Board, Whisk, Mixing Bowl
Why This Chocolate Strawberry Baked Donuts Works
1. The Perfect Balance
The combination of chocolate and strawberries in Chocolate Strawberry Baked Donuts is simply divine. The rich chocolate flavor plays beautifully off the sweet, tart strawberries, creating a harmony that is hard to resist.
2. Easy to Make
These donuts are baked rather than fried, making them a healthier choice. Plus, the process is quick and straightforward, so you can whip them up in no time. You’ll be amazed at how easy it is to create these delicious treats!
3. Kid-Friendly Fun
Making Chocolate Strawberry Baked Donuts can be a fun activity for the whole family. Kids love stirring the batter and decorating the donuts, which makes it a great way to spend quality time together in the kitchen.
4. Versatile Treat
Whether you’re hosting a brunch, celebrating a birthday, or just indulging yourself, these donuts fit every occasion. They are delightful on their own or can be paired with a scoop of ice cream for a decadent dessert!
5. Great for Gifting
Looking for a thoughtful homemade gift? Wrap up a batch of Chocolate Strawberry Baked Donuts in a pretty box or jar. They’re sure to bring a smile to anyone’s face!
Ingredients Overview for Chocolate Strawberry Baked Donuts

The ingredients for Chocolate Strawberry Baked Donuts work together seamlessly to create a deliciously moist and flavorful treat. Each key player has a distinct role, from the rich cocoa powder that gives the donuts their chocolatey depth to the fresh strawberries that add a burst of fruity flavor. Let’s take a closer look at these ingredients and their contributions!
- 3/4 cup all-purpose flour: This forms the base of the donut, providing structure and a fluffy texture.
- 1/3 cup unsweetened cocoa powder: The star flavor that gives these donuts their rich chocolate taste.
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda: A leavening agent that helps the donuts rise and become light.
- 1/4 teaspoon kosher salt: Enhances the flavors, balancing the sweetness.
- 1/4 cup plus 3 tablespoons buttermilk: Adds moisture and a slight tang that complements the chocolate.
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil: Ensures the donuts stay moist and tender.
- 1 large egg: Binds the ingredients and adds richness.
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar: Sweetens the donuts, making them irresistible.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla bean paste or extract: Adds a warm, aromatic flavor that enhances the chocolate.
- 1 teaspoon instant espresso powder: Intensifies the chocolate flavor without making the donuts taste like coffee.
- 1/2 cup small diced strawberries: Fresh fruit that adds flavor and moisture to the donuts.
- 1/2 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips: Melts into gooey pockets of chocolate throughout the donuts.
- 2 cups powdered sugar: Used for the strawberry icing, providing sweetness and a smooth texture.
- 1/4 cup mashed strawberries: Gives the icing a fruity flavor and a gorgeous pink hue.
- 1 tablespoon half and half: Adjusts the consistency of the icing, making it perfectly spreadable.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla bean paste: Adds flavor to the icing, making it even more delicious.
Step by Step Instructions for Chocolate Strawberry Baked Donuts

Making Chocolate Strawberry Baked Donuts is a delightful experience that fills your kitchen with fantastic aromas. Follow these steps to create your own batch of these heavenly treats!
- Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit and generously spray a standard 6-count donut pan with non-stick spray. This will ensure that your donuts come out easily without sticking.
- In a small bowl, whisk together the flour, cocoa powder, baking soda, and kosher salt. This dry mixture will provide the foundation for your donuts, so mix well to ensure even distribution.
- In a larger mixing bowl, combine the remaining ingredients. Start with the buttermilk, vegetable oil, egg, granulated sugar, vanilla bean paste, and instant espresso powder. Whisk these together until they form a smooth, consistent mixture.
- Once your wet ingredients are combined, gradually stir in the dry mixture. Be careful not to overmix; you want a thick batter that’s just combined.
- Gently fold in the small diced strawberries and chocolate chips, ensuring they’re evenly distributed throughout the batter.
- Using a piping bag or a spoon, fill each cavity of the donut pan with the batter, leaving a little room for rising.
- Pop the pan in the oven and bake for about 9 minutes. The donuts are done when they spring back lightly to the touch.
- Once baked, let the donuts rest in the pan for a few minutes. This is essential; removing them too soon could cause them to break apart.
- After resting, gently invert the pan onto a wire rack to allow the donuts to cool completely.
- To make the strawberry icing, combine the powdered sugar, mashed strawberries, half and half, and another teaspoon of vanilla bean paste in a bowl. Mix until smooth. If the icing is too thick, add a little more half and half; if it’s too thin, add more powdered sugar.
- Once the donuts are cool, ice them generously with the strawberry icing. Aim to do this immediately to ensure the icing sticks nicely!
- Enjoy your Chocolate Strawberry Baked Donuts fresh, or store them in an airtight container for later!
Things Worth Knowing
- Check Doneness: To ensure your donuts are perfectly baked, lightly touch the top of one. If it springs back, they’re ready. If it leaves an indentation, give them another minute in the oven.
- Storage: Store leftover donuts in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. For longer storage, refrigerate them for up to a week.
- Freezing: You can freeze these donuts by wrapping them tightly in plastic wrap. They will last in the freezer for up to 3 months. Just thaw before serving.
- Serving Suggestions: These donuts pair beautifully with a cup of coffee or tea. Consider serving them with fresh fruit for a lovely brunch.
- Ingredient Freshness: Always use fresh strawberries for the best flavor in both the donuts and the icing. This will elevate your dessert!
Recipe Variations about Chocolate Strawberry Baked Donuts

There are plenty of ways to get creative with Chocolate Strawberry Baked Donuts. Here are some ideas to make this recipe your own!
- Change the Fruit: Feel free to substitute the strawberries with other fruits like raspberries or blueberries for a different flavor profile.
- Add Nuts: Incorporate some chopped nuts like walnuts or pecans for added crunch and flavor.
- Spice it Up: Consider adding a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the batter for a warm, spiced flavor that complements the chocolate.
- Frosting Variations: Experiment with different toppings, such as a chocolate glaze or a vanilla icing, for a unique twist.
- Make Mini Donuts: Use a mini donut pan to create bite-sized versions of these delicious treats.
Perfect Pairings for Chocolate Strawberry Baked Donuts
- Morning Coffee: Start your day right by pairing these donuts with a cup of freshly brewed coffee or your favorite tea.
- Brunch Delight: They make an excellent addition to any brunch table alongside fresh fruits and whipped cream.
- Picnic Treats: Pack them for a picnic, paired with refreshing lemonade or iced tea for a sweet afternoon snack.
- Celebratory Desserts: Perfect for birthdays or other celebrations, these donuts can be served as a delightful dessert!
- Seasonal Events: These donuts are especially fitting for celebrations in spring, such as Easter or Valentine’s Day, bringing a cheerful touch to your festivities.
FAQ
Conclusion
In summary, Chocolate Strawberry Baked Donuts offer a delightful combination of flavors and textures that make them a special treat for any occasion. I encourage you to give this recipe a try, as it’s not just about the delicious results, but also the joy of baking and sharing. Enjoy the process, and watch as these treats bring smiles to everyone’s faces!

Chocolate Strawberry Baked Donuts
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit and generously spray a standard 6-count donut pan with non-stick spray. This will ensure that your donuts come out easily without sticking.
- In a small bowl, whisk together the flour, cocoa powder, baking soda, and kosher salt. This dry mixture will provide the foundation for your donuts, so mix well to ensure even distribution.
- In a larger mixing bowl, combine the remaining ingredients. Start with the buttermilk, vegetable oil, egg, granulated sugar, vanilla bean paste, and instant espresso powder. Whisk these together until they form a smooth, consistent mixture.
- Once your wet ingredients are combined, gradually stir in the dry mixture. Be careful not to overmix; you want a thick batter that’s just combined.
- Gently fold in the small diced strawberries and chocolate chips, ensuring they’re evenly distributed throughout the batter.
- Using a piping bag or a spoon, fill each cavity of the donut pan with the batter, leaving a little room for rising.
- Pop the pan in the oven and bake for about 9 minutes. The donuts are done when they spring back lightly to the touch.
- Once baked, let the donuts rest in the pan for a few minutes. This is essential; removing them too soon could cause them to break apart.
- After resting, gently invert the pan onto a wire rack to allow the donuts to cool completely.
- To make the strawberry icing, combine the powdered sugar, mashed strawberries, half and half, and another teaspoon of vanilla bean paste in a bowl. Mix until smooth. If the icing is too thick, add a little more half and half; if it’s too thin, add more powdered sugar.
- Once the donuts are cool, ice them generously with the strawberry icing. Aim to do this immediately to ensure the icing sticks nicely!
- Enjoy your Chocolate Strawberry Baked Donuts fresh, or store them in an airtight container for later!
Notes
- Check Doneness: To ensure your donuts are perfectly baked, lightly touch the top of one. If it springs back, they’re ready. If it leaves an indentation, give them another minute in the oven.
- Storage: Store leftover donuts in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. For longer storage, refrigerate them for up to a week.
- Freezing: You can freeze these donuts by wrapping them tightly in plastic wrap. They will last in the freezer for up to 3 months. Just thaw before serving.
- Serving Suggestions: These donuts pair beautifully with a cup of coffee or tea. Consider serving them with fresh fruit for a lovely brunch.
- Ingredient Freshness: Always use fresh strawberries for the best flavor in both the donuts and the icing. This will elevate your dessert!


