Chocolate Donuts Done Three Ways: A Sweet Summer Treat

Summer is the perfect time for indulgent treats that are easy to make and even easier to enjoy. What could be better than biting into a fresh, soft chocolate donut on a warm afternoon? How about three different variations, each one more exciting than the last? These Chocolate Donuts Done Three Ways bring together the rich, velvety flavor of chocolate with vibrant, summery toppings that will make your taste buds dance. From zesty citrus glazes to fresh fruit and a sprinkle of edible flowers, these donuts are perfect for a sunny afternoon, a picnic, or any warm-weather celebration. Let’s dive into these three delicious takes on chocolate donuts that are guaranteed to make your summer even sweeter!

Chocolate Donuts Done Three Ways

Ingredients (for the base donuts):

• 200g Wickedly Welsh Devilishly Dark Chocolate (or Moreish Milk Chocolate for a sweeter flavor)

• 250g plain flour

• 50g cocoa powder

• 1 tsp baking powder

• 1/2 tsp baking soda

• 1/4 tsp salt

• 2 large eggs

• 200g caster sugar

• 120ml whole milk

• 80ml vegetable oil

• 1 tsp vanilla extract

For the toppings and glazes:

• 1. Zesty Lemon Glaze:
  
  

• 150g icing sugar

• 2 tbsp fresh lemon juice

• Zest of 1 lemon

• 2. Fresh Berry Topping:
  
  

• 100g mixed fresh berries (strawberries, blueberries, raspberries)

• 2 tbsp honey

• Fresh mint leaves for garnish (optional)

• 3. Coconut and Pistachio Crunch:
  
  

• 50g shredded coconut, toasted

• 30g shelled pistachios, crushed

• 2 tbsp Devilishly Dark Chocolate (for drizzling)

Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven to 180°C (160°C fan) or 350°F. Grease and flour a donut pan or use a silicone donut mold.
   
   

2. Melt the chocolate: Break the Wickedly Welsh Dark Chocolate into pieces and melt it using a double boiler or in the microwave. Stir until smooth, then let it cool slightly.
   
   

3. Prepare the donut batter:
   
   

• In a large bowl, sift together the flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.

• In a separate bowl, whisk the eggs and sugar together until light and fluffy. Add the melted chocolate, milk, vegetable oil, and vanilla extract, and whisk until fully combined.

• Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring until smooth and thick.

4. Bake the donuts: Spoon the batter into the donut pan, filling each mold about 2/3 full. Bake for 12–15 minutes, or until a skewer inserted into the center comes out clean. Let the donuts cool for a few minutes in the pan before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
   
   

Toppings and Glazes:

1. Zesty Lemon Glaze:
   
   

• In a small bowl, whisk together the icing sugar, lemon juice, and lemon zest until smooth. Dip each cooled donut into the glaze, letting the excess drip off. Allow the glaze to set for a few minutes before serving.

2. Fresh Berry Topping:
   
   

• In a small saucepan, warm the honey or maple syrup with the mixed berries over low heat for 2-3 minutes, just to soften the fruit and create a syrup. Spoon the berry mixture over the cooled donuts and garnish with fresh mint leaves for a burst of color and flavor.

3. Coconut and Pistachio Crunch:
   
   

• In a dry skillet, toast the shredded coconut until golden brown, about 2-3 minutes. Set aside to cool. Drizzle the cooled donuts with melted dark chocolate, then sprinkle with the toasted coconut and crushed pistachios for a delicious crunch.

Serve and Enjoy:

These Chocolate Donuts Done Three Ways are the perfect summer treat for any occasion. Whether you're sipping iced coffee on the patio, hosting a picnic, or simply enjoying a sunny afternoon, these donuts are the ultimate indulgence. With three exciting variations, you can keep your taste buds guessing and make each bite feel like a new adventure!