Introduction
If you’re a fan of donuts and love chocolate, this recipe is for you! These delightful cocoa donuts are not only easy to make but also incredibly delicious. Topped with a creamy icing and crushed Oreo cookies, they make for the perfect treat for any occasion. Get ready to indulge in a chocolate lover’s dream!
Detailed Ingredients with measures
For the donuts:
– 2/3 cup cocoa powder
– 1 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 1/4 cups light brown sugar
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
– 1 teaspoon baking soda
– 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
– 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate morsels
– 2 large eggs
– 3/4 cup whole milk
– 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
– 2 teaspoons white vinegar
– 1/2 cup (1 stick) butter, melted
For the icing:
– 1/4 cup butter, softened to room temperature
– 1/4 cup Crisco
– 2 cups powdered sugar
– 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
– 1/4 cup whole milk
– 6-8 Oreo cookies, cream filling removed and wafers crushed
Prep Time
15 minutes
Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Yield: Approximately 12 donuts
Enjoy making these delicious cocoa donuts that will surely impress your family and friends! Happy baking!
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly spray two donut pans with baking spray to prevent sticking.
Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients
In a large bowl, whisk together 2/3 cup cocoa powder, 1 3/4 cups all-purpose flour, 1 1/4 cups light brown sugar, 1 teaspoon baking powder, 1 teaspoon baking soda, 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt, and 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate morsels until well combined.
Step 3: Combine Wet Ingredients
In a separate medium bowl or a 4-quart liquid measuring cup, whisk together 2 large eggs, 3/4 cup whole milk, 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract, and 2 teaspoons white vinegar until the mixture is smooth.
Step 4: Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures
Pour the wet mixture and 1/2 cup (1 stick) melted butter into the bowl with the dry ingredients. Beat the mixture until fully combined and smooth.
Step 5: Fill Donut Pans
Divide the batter evenly between the prepared donut pans, filling each cavity about 2/3 full.
Step 6: Bake Donuts
Bake the donuts in the preheated oven for approximately 15 minutes or until they are set and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
Step 7: Prepare the Icing
While the donuts are baking, prepare the icing by beating together 1/4 cup softened butter, 1/4 cup Crisco, 2 cups powdered sugar, and 2 teaspoons vanilla extract in a mixing bowl until creamy.
Step 8: Add Milk for Consistency
Gradually add 1/4 cup whole milk, a little at a time, beating after each addition until the icing reaches your desired consistency.
Step 9: Dip Donuts in Icing
Once the donuts have cooled completely, dip the tops of each donut into the icing to coat.
Step 10: Add Crushed Oreos
Sprinkle the tops of the iced donuts with the crushed Oreo wafers for added texture and flavor.
Notes
Note 1: Donut Pans
Ensure that you use donut pans specifically designed for baking, as they will create the classic donut shape.
Note 2: Icing Consistency
Adjust the amount of milk added to the icing based on how thick or thin you prefer it. A thicker icing will hold its shape better, while a thinner icing can be used for a drizzle effect.
Note 3: Storing Donuts
Store the donuts in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. For longer storage, consider refrigerating or freezing them.

Cook techniques
Mixing Dry Ingredients
To ensure an even distribution of flavors and leavening agents, whisk together the cocoa powder, flour, brown sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt in a large bowl before adding wet ingredients.
Combining Wet Ingredients
In a separate bowl, thoroughly whisk the eggs, milk, vanilla extract, and white vinegar. This helps to break down the eggs and incorporate air, leading to a lighter donut texture.
Incorporating Wet and Dry Ingredients
When combining the wet and dry mixtures, pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and add the melted butter. Use a spatula or mixer to beat the batter until just combined to avoid overmixing.
Filling Donut Pans
Use a piping bag or a spoon to evenly divide the batter into the prepared donut pans. Fill them about 2/3 full to allow space for rising while baking.
Baking the Donuts
Bake the donuts at 350°F for approximately 15 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean. This ensures they are fully cooked but not overdone.
Preparing the Icing
Beat softened butter and Crisco together until creamy. Gradually add powdered sugar and vanilla extract, mixing well. Then, slowly incorporate milk to reach the desired consistency for dipping.
Dipping the Donuts
Allow the baked donuts to cool completely before dipping them into the icing. This prevents the icing from melting and helps it adhere better.
Adding Crushed Oreo Topping
After icing the donuts, immediately sprinkle crushed Oreo wafers on top. This allows the crumbs to stick well to the icing.
FAQ
Can I use a different type of flour for this recipe?
Yes, you can use gluten-free flour blends, but the texture may vary.
What can I substitute for the whole milk?
You can use almond milk, soy milk, or any other non-dairy milk, but it may slightly alter the flavor and texture.
How do I store leftover donuts?
Store the donuts in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days, or refrigerate them for up to a week.
Can I freeze the donuts?
Yes, you can freeze the baked donuts. Place them in a single layer on a baking sheet to freeze, then transfer to an airtight container for up to 3 months.
How do I make the icing thicker?
To thicken the icing, gradually add more powdered sugar until your desired consistency is achieved.
Conclusion
These chocolate donuts topped with creamy Oreo icing offer a delightful treat for chocolate lovers. The combination of rich cocoa and buttery icing creates an indulgent dessert that is perfect for any occasion. The addition of crushed Oreo wafers adds a crunchy texture and a familiar flavor, making these donuts both tasty and unique. They’re sure to please friends and family alike!
More recipes suggestions and combination
Chocolate Peanut Butter Donuts
Combine the chocolate donut base with a peanut butter icing made from creamy peanut butter, powdered sugar, and a splash of milk for a delicious twist.
Mint Chocolate Donuts
Add a few drops of peppermint extract to the donut batter and top with a mint-chocolate icing, garnished with crushed mint candies for a refreshing flavor.
Espresso Chocolate Donuts
Incorporate instant coffee granules into the batter for a coffee-infused chocolate donut. Top with a mocha glaze made from chocolate and brewed espresso.
Chocolate Coconut Donuts
Mix shredded coconut into the donut batter and use a coconut-flavored icing. Sprinkle with toasted coconut flakes for an island-inspired treat.
Chocolate Chip Banana Donuts
Blend mashed ripe bananas into the batter alongside the cocoa powder and add extra chocolate morsels for a moist, flavorful donut.

