What makes the perfect chocolate treat even better? Adding a sweet glaze and sprinkles, of course. These homemade glazed chocolate donut holes are easy to make and feature an extra surprise – sprinkles in the middle. Made with rich chocolate and topped with a simple powdered sugar glaze, they’re a quick family favorite. Save this idea for your next dessert night.

Glazed Chocolate Donut Holes with Sprinkles on Top and in the Middle

Introduction

Indulge in the sweet delight of glazed chocolate donut holes, elevated to a new level of fun with sprinkles not just on top, but also nestled in the middle. These bite-sized treats are a masterclass in ease, flavor, and creativity, all achievable with everyday ingredients. Perfect for a quick dessert, a party favor, or a sweet surprise for the family, these donut holes are sure to bring smiles all around. With their soft, airy interior, rich chocolate glaze, and the burst of color and sweetness from the sprinkles, they embody the perfect blend of texture and taste.

Why This Works

• Flavor balance and ingredient accessibility: The combination of chocolate and sprinkles provides a well-balanced flavor profile that is both familiar and exciting, using ingredients that are easily found in most grocery stores.
• Ease of preparation: Despite their impressive appearance, these donut holes are surprisingly easy to make, requiring minimal specialized equipment and straightforward steps.
• Impressive results with minimal effort: The addition of sprinkles inside the donut holes adds a creative twist that elevates these treats from simple desserts to impressive party favors or gifts, all with relatively little extra effort.

Key Ingredients

The main ingredients for these glazed chocolate donut holes include all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, whole milk, active dry yeast, salt, large eggs, unsalted butter (melted), pure vanilla extract, high-quality dark chocolate (for the glaze), and sprinkles. For those looking for substitutions, almond milk can replace whole milk for a dairy-free option, and vegan chocolate can be used for the glaze. Sprinkles come in a variety of colors and types, allowing for endless customization based on occasion or preference.

Instructions

1. Step 1: Begin by activating the yeast in warm milk, then combine flour, sugar, and salt in a large mixing bowl. Add eggs, melted butter, and vanilla extract, mixing until a smooth batter forms. Fold in half of the sprinkles at this stage to distribute them throughout the donut holes.
2. Step 2: Cover the batter and let it rise in a warm place until it has doubled in size. Preheat the oil in a deep frying pan to the correct temperature. Using a cookie scoop or a spoon, drop the batter into the hot oil, being careful not to overcrowd the pan. Fry until the donut holes are golden brown and cooked through.
3. Step 3: Remove the donut holes from the oil and place them on a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil. Melt the chocolate in a double boiler or in the microwave in short increments, stirring between each heating. Dip the tops of the cooled donut holes into the melted chocolate, then immediately sprinkle with the remaining sprinkles.
4. Step 4: Allow the glaze to set before serving. These donut holes are best enjoyed fresh but can be stored in an airtight container for up to 2 days. Consider packaging them in cute paper bags or containers for a fun and easy gift or party favor.

Handy Tips

• For an extra crispy exterior, try chilling the donut holes in the refrigerator for 30 minutes before frying. Also, be mindful of the oil temperature to prevent burning.

Heat Control

Maintaining the right oil temperature is crucial for frying donut holes. The ideal temperature is between 350°F and 375°F. If the oil is too hot, the outside will burn before the inside is fully cooked. Conversely, if the oil is not hot enough, the donut holes will absorb too much oil and be greasy. Use a thermometer to monitor the temperature, and never leave frying food unattended.

Crunch Factor

The crunch factor in these donut holes comes from the exterior fry and the sprinkle topping. To achieve the perfect crunch, ensure the oil is at the right temperature, and don’t overcook the donuts. The sprinkles add a fun textural element, especially when they’re also inside the donut holes, providing a pleasant surprise with each bite.

Pro Kitchen Tricks

• For easier cleanup, line your work surface with parchment paper before starting to assemble and glaze the donut holes. This will catch any stray sprinkles or chocolate drips.
• Consider using a candy thermometer for precise temperature control when melting chocolate for the glaze. This ensures a smooth, glossy finish.

Storage Tips

• Store glazed donut holes in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. For longer storage, they can be frozen for up to 2 months. When freezing, it’s best to freeze them without the glaze and sprinkle them after thawing and re-glazing.

Gift Packaging Ideas

These donut holes make wonderful gifts, especially when packaged in cute and creative ways. Consider placing them in small paper bags, twisting the top, and securing with a sticker or a ribbon. Alternatively, use small gift boxes or containers and fill them with a layer of donut holes, topped with a clear plastic lid or wrapped in cellophane for a more professional look. Adding a handwritten note or a small gift card can make the gift even more special.

Flavor Variations

• Different spices: Try adding a pinch of cinnamon, nutmeg, or cardamom to the batter for unique flavor profiles.
• Creative toppings: Beyond sprinkles, consider using chopped nuts, shredded coconut, or even candy pieces for varied textures and flavors.
• Ingredient swaps: For a boozy twist, soak raisins in a liquor of your choice (like rum or Grand Marnier) and fold them into the batter before frying.

Troubleshooting

• Texture problems: If your donut holes turn out too dense, it might be due to overmixing the batter. Try to mix wet and dry ingredients separately and gently fold them together.
• Ingredient replacements: If you’re out of a specific ingredient, look for substitutions that offer similar properties. For example, if you don’t have buttermilk, you can make a substitute by mixing milk with vinegar or lemon juice.
• Over/undercooking signs: Keep an eye on the donut holes while they’re frying. They should be golden brown and, when cut open, should have a cooked-through interior without being too dark or raw in the center.

FAQs

• Can I freeze it? Yes, you can freeze the donut holes before glazing. Simply place them in a single layer in a freezer-safe bag or container and freeze for up to 2 months. Glaze and decorate after thawing.
• Is it gluten-free? The traditional recipe includes wheat flour, making it not gluten-free. However, you can experiment with gluten-free flours as a substitute, though this may affect the texture and rise of the donuts.
• Can I double the recipe? Yes, you can easily double or even triple the recipe if you’re making these donut holes for a large group. Just be sure to have enough oil and space in your frying pan to accommodate the increased quantity.

Conclusion

Making glazed chocolate donut holes with sprinkles on top and in the middle is a fun and rewarding baking project that yields delicious results with minimal fuss. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or a beginner, this recipe is accessible and offers plenty of room for creativity and customization. So go ahead, get baking, and enjoy the joy of sharing these sweet treats with friends and family. Don’t hesitate to experiment with different flavors and toppings to make the recipe your own, and remember, the most important ingredient in any recipe is the love you put into making it.