Name: Baked Mint Chocolate Donuts
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 18 min
Total time: 28 min
Ingredients: 1/2 cup unsweetened creamy peanut butter (or almond or sunflower seed butter); 1/2 cup unsweetened applesauce; 3 large eggs; 1/4 cup maple syrup; 1/4 cup cocoa powder; 1/4 cup chocolate chips; 2 tablespoons ground flaxseed (or whole wheat flour); 1 teaspoon baking powder; 1/8 teaspoon salt; 1/4 cup powdered sugar; 2 tablespoons milk; 1 tablespoon cocoa powder; 3 candy canes (crushed)

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Every time the holidays roll around, there’s one treat that my family and I can’t resist: Baked Mint Chocolate Donuts. The rich, chocolatey flavor combined with a refreshing hint of mint brings back memories of cozy evenings spent together, sipping hot cocoa and sharing stories. I remember the first time I attempted making these donuts; the aroma filled the kitchen, and I could hardly wait for them to cool before diving in. Each bite was a perfect blend of nostalgia and sweetness, making it impossible to stop at just one!

Recipe Snapshot

Total Time:
28 mins

Prep Time:
10 mins

Cook Time:
18 mins

Difficulty:
Medium

Calories:
150 kcal

Protein:
4 g

Diet:
Standard

Fat:
6 g

Tools Used:
Oven, Baking Sheet, Frying Pan, Wooden Spoon

The Charm of This Baked Mint Chocolate Donuts

Perfect for Holiday Gatherings

There’s something truly magical about serving Baked Mint Chocolate Donuts during the holiday season. They not only look festive but also taste amazing, ensuring that your guests will rave about them long after the party is over.

Easy to Make

These donuts come together quickly, making them perfect for any baking novice. The simplicity of the recipe allows you to whip up a batch in no time, which is ideal when you’re juggling holiday preparations.

Customizable Flavor

One of the best things about these donuts is how easily you can adjust the flavors. Whether you want a stronger mint taste or to switch things up with different toppings, the possibilities are endless, allowing you to make them uniquely yours.

Healthier Alternative

Unlike traditional fried donuts, these baked delights are a healthier alternative without sacrificing flavor. Using ingredients like unsweetened applesauce and ground flaxseed adds nutritional value, making it easier to indulge without the guilt.

Fun for the Whole Family

Involving kids in the kitchen is always a joy, and making these donuts offers a fantastic opportunity to create lasting memories. From mixing the batter to decorating with crushed candy canes, it’s a sweet bonding experience.

Ingredients You’ll Need for Baked Mint Chocolate Donuts

The ingredients for Baked Mint Chocolate Donuts are not only simple but they also work harmoniously to create the perfect treat. Each component plays a vital role in achieving that delightful balance of flavors and textures.

1/2 cup unsweetened creamy peanut butter (or almond or sunflower seed butter): This serves as a rich base that adds moisture and creaminess.
1/2 cup unsweetened applesauce: A fantastic substitute for oil or butter, it keeps the donuts moist and reduces calories.
3 large eggs: These bind the ingredients together and help create a fluffy texture.
1/4 cup maple syrup: This natural sweetener adds a hint of flavor and balances the richness of the chocolate.
1/4 cup cocoa powder: Essential for that deep chocolate flavor.
1/4 cup chocolate chips: These melt into the donuts, providing pockets of gooey chocolate goodness.
2 tablespoons ground flaxseed (or whole wheat flour): Adds fiber and a nutty flavor.
1 teaspoon baking powder: Helps the donuts rise for a light and airy texture.
1/8 teaspoon salt: Enhances the overall flavor of the donuts.
1/4 cup powdered sugar: For the icing, providing sweetness and a touch of elegance.
2 tablespoons milk: Used in the icing for creaminess.
1 tablespoon cocoa powder: A secondary addition to the icing for that chocolatey finish.
3 candy canes (crushed): These serve as a festive and crunchy topping.

Making This Baked Mint Chocolate Donuts

Creating Baked Mint Chocolate Donuts is an enjoyable process that fills your kitchen with a delicious aroma. Follow these steps, and you’ll be well on your way to baking the perfect holiday treat!

Preheat your oven to 350F and generously grease a standard donut pan, ensuring to coat the centers well. This step is crucial for preventing the donuts from sticking.
In a medium bowl, combine all the donut ingredients: unsweetened creamy peanut butter, unsweetened applesauce, large eggs, maple syrup, cocoa powder, chocolate chips, ground flaxseed, baking powder, salt. Stir until everything is well combined. Look for a smooth, thick batter that is well-mixed.
Divide the batter evenly among 10 donut cups, filling each about three-quarters full. If you only have a 6-donut pan, feel free to bake in two batches, using a scant ¼ cup of batter per donut.
Place the pan in the oven and bake for 18 to 20 minutes. You’ll know they’re done when a cake tester inserted into the center of a donut comes out clean, indicating they’re perfectly baked.
Once baked, remove the pan from the oven and allow the donuts to cool for 5 minutes. Use a paring knife if needed to gently loosen the edges of each donut before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
While the donuts cool, prepare the icing. In a small bowl, mix the powdered sugar, cocoa powder, and milk until smooth. The icing should be creamy and pourable, but thick enough to coat the donuts.
After the donuts have cooled, dip each one into the icing, ensuring to coat the top generously. This adds a beautiful shine and sweetness.
Top each iced donut with crushed candy canes, allowing the festive crunch to stick. This not only looks great but adds a delightful contrast in texture.
Let the donuts sit for a few minutes to allow the icing to set before serving. This waiting period helps the icing firm up and enhances the overall presentation.

Things Worth Knowing

Mixing Technique: Make sure to mix the batter well, but don’t overmix as this can lead to dense donuts.
Cooling Time: Always let the donuts cool in the pan for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack. This prevents them from breaking apart.
Proper Storage: Store the donuts in an airtight container to keep them fresh. This also helps retain their moisture.
Ingredient Substitution: If you’re looking for a nut-free option, sunflower seed butter may be used, but it can slightly alter the flavor.

Ways to Adapt This Recipe

There are numerous ways to put your spin on these Baked Mint Chocolate Donuts. Here are some ideas to help you customize this delightful treat:

Storage: These donuts can be stored unfrosted in an airtight container in the fridge for 3 to 5 days. If frosted, enjoy within 2 days for the best flavor.
Freezing: You can freeze the unglazed donuts for up to a month. Just thaw before frosting and serving.
Pairing: Serve these donuts with a hot cup of cocoa or coffee for a cozy treat!
Variations: Try adding different toppings like chopped nuts or sprinkles for a festive look.
Mini Muffins: If you prefer, you can bake these in a mini muffin pan with the same baking time for bite-sized treats.

Serving This Baked Mint Chocolate Donuts

Serving Baked Mint Chocolate Donuts can turn an ordinary moment into a festive occasion. Here are some creative ideas for enhancing your presentation:

Holiday Breakfast: These donuts make a delightful addition to any holiday breakfast spread, bringing joy to your morning.
Dessert Table: Present them on a colorful platter as part of a dessert table. Their visual appeal will draw everyone in.
Gift Giving: Package these donuts in festive boxes as gifts for friends and family during the holiday season.
Kids’ Parties: These donuts are a hit at children’s parties, providing a fun and sweet treat that kids will love.
Seasonal Events: Enjoy them at seasonal events like Easter or Halloween by adjusting the toppings to fit the occasion.

FAQ

Absolutely! While the recipe calls for unsweetened creamy peanut butter, you can easily substitute it with almond butter or sunflower seed butter. Just note that each nut butter will impart its unique flavor, so choose one that fits your taste preference. Almond butter generally provides a milder flavor, while sunflower seed butter may have a noticeable impact on the overall taste of the donuts.

To keep your Baked Mint Chocolate Donuts fresh, store them unfrosted in an airtight container in the fridge for about 3 to 5 days. If you’ve already frosted them, it’s best to enjoy them within 2 days for optimal taste and texture. You can also freeze the unglazed donuts for up to a month. Just make sure to thaw them before adding icing when you’re ready to enjoy!

Yes, you can definitely make mini muffins with this recipe! Simply use a mini muffin pan and bake for the same amount of time. The mini versions will be equally delicious and make for perfect bite-sized treats. It’s a great way to offer variety during gatherings or parties.

If you’re looking to make a variation without using cocoa powder, consider using carob powder as a substitute. It has a similar flavor profile, though it is naturally sweeter. However, if you want to keep the chocolate flavor, it’s best to stick with cocoa powder or dark cocoa powder for a richer taste.

No, the Baked Mint Chocolate Donuts are not inherently gluten-free due to the use of ground flaxseed and cocoa powder. However, you can make them gluten-free by substituting the flaxseed with a gluten-free flour blend. Make sure to check the labels of all your ingredients to ensure they are gluten-free.

Conclusion

The Baked Mint Chocolate Donuts are a delightful blend of flavors that truly captures the essence of the holiday spirit. With their rich chocolate base and refreshing minty twist, they make for an irresistible treat that’s sure to please everyone. I encourage you to try making these donuts for your next gathering or just to satisfy your sweet tooth. You won’t regret it, and I hope they bring as much joy to your kitchen as they have to mine!