Gluten-free Baked Chocolate Donut Holes
The Gluten-free Baked Chocolate Donut Holes are a delightful treat that everyone can enjoy! These airy, chocolatey bites are perfect for breakfast, snacks, or dessert. They are naturally gluten-free and easy to make, allowing you to indulge without any guilt. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or simply treating yourself, these donut holes will surely impress with their rich flavor and fluffy texture.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Easy to Make: This recipe is straightforward, requiring no frying or complicated techniques.
- Rich Chocolate Flavor: Each bite is packed with chocolate goodness, satisfying your sweet tooth.
- Healthy Twist: Made with wholesome ingredients like Greek yogurt and maple syrup, they are a healthier option.
- Versatile Enjoyment: Perfect for breakfast or as a snack; they fit various occasions.
- Kid-Friendly: Kids will love these donut holes, making them an excellent addition to lunchboxes.

Tools and Preparation
To make your baking experience smooth and enjoyable, gather the necessary tools before starting. This ensures everything is at hand when you need it.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Donut hole pan
- Mixing bowls
- Whisk
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Rubber spatula
Importance of Each Tool
- Donut hole pan: This specialized pan gives your donut holes their signature shape while ensuring even baking.
- Mixing bowls: Having various sizes helps keep your ingredients organized during the preparation process.
- Whisk: A whisk makes blending wet ingredients effortless, allowing for a well-combined batter.
Ingredients
For the Batter
- 1/4 cup butter, melted
- 1/2 cup maple syrup (room temperature)
- 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt (I prefer Fage 2%)
- 1/2 cup milk of choice (skim, 2%, whole or almond), heated to room temperature
- 2 tsp vanilla
- 2 eggs
- 2 cups gluten-free all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp baking soda
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/2 cup cocoa powder
For the Glaze
- 2 cups powdered sugar
- 8-10 tsp milk
- 1 tsp vanilla extract (optional)
How to Make Gluten-free Baked Chocolate Donut Holes
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This step ensures that your donut holes bake perfectly from the start.
Step 2: Prepare the Dough
In a large mixing bowl:
1. Combine melted butter and maple syrup; mix well.
2. Add Greek yogurt, milk, eggs, and vanilla. Whisk until smooth.
3. In another bowl, combine gluten-free flour, cocoa powder, baking soda, and salt.
4. Gradually add dry ingredients to the wet mixture until fully combined.
Step 3: Fill the Pan
Using a rubber spatula:
1. Spoon the batter into each cavity of the donut hole pan, filling them about 3/4 full.
Step 4: Bake
Place the filled pan in the preheated oven. Bake for about 10-12 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Step 5: Prepare the Glaze
While the donuts cool:
1. In a bowl, combine powdered sugar with milk and vanilla extract (if using).
2. Adjust consistency by adding more milk if too thick.
Step 6: Glaze the Donut Holes
Once cooled:
1. Dip each donut hole into the glaze or drizzle it on top for an extra treat!
Now you’re ready to enjoy your delicious Gluten-free Baked Chocolate Donut Holes!
How to Serve Gluten-free Baked Chocolate Donut Holes
Serving Gluten-free Baked Chocolate Donut Holes can be a delightful experience for your family and friends. These little treats are versatile and can be enjoyed in various ways.
Pair with Coffee
- Enjoy these donut holes with a cup of your favorite coffee. The rich chocolate flavor pairs perfectly with the warmth of a brewed beverage.
Add a Fruit Compote
- Serve alongside a homemade fruit compote to add a fresh, tangy contrast. Strawberries or raspberries work wonderfully.
Dust with Powdered Sugar
- For an extra touch of sweetness, dust your donut holes with powdered sugar right before serving. This adds an appealing look and taste.
Create a Dessert Platter
- Arrange donut holes on a platter with other desserts like brownies or mini cheesecakes. This makes for an inviting treat spread at gatherings.
Serve with Whipped Cream
- Offering whipped cream as a dip enhances the indulgence. You can also use flavored whipped cream for an exciting twist.
How to Perfect Gluten-free Baked Chocolate Donut Holes
To achieve the best results with your Gluten-free Baked Chocolate Donut Holes, consider these helpful tips.
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Use room temperature ingredients – This helps the batter blend smoothly, resulting in light and fluffy donut holes.
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Measure flour correctly – Spoon the gluten-free flour into your measuring cup and level it off to avoid dense donut holes.
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Don’t overmix the batter – Gently fold ingredients together until just combined to keep the texture light.
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Experiment with toppings – Try different toppings like sprinkles or melted chocolate for added flavor and fun presentation.
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Store properly – Keep leftover donut holes in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days to maintain freshness.
Best Side Dishes for Gluten-free Baked Chocolate Donut Holes
These delightful treats pair well with various side dishes that complement their rich chocolate flavor. Here are some fantastic options:
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Fresh Fruit Salad – A mix of seasonal fruits adds color and natural sweetness, balancing the richness of the donuts.
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Greek Yogurt Parfait – Layer Greek yogurt with granola and berries for a nutritious side that contrasts nicely with the donuts.
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Nutty Granola Bars – Homemade granola bars offer crunch and energy, making them an excellent companion for brunch or snack time.
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Smoothie Bowl – A creamy smoothie bowl topped with nuts and seeds offers a refreshing contrast to the dense chocolate flavor.
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Chia Seed Pudding – This healthy option provides a unique texture while being light enough not to overshadow the donuts.
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Coffee Cake Muffins – Combining flavors from both treats could create a cozy morning or afternoon snack experience when served together.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Making gluten-free baked chocolate donut holes can be a delightful experience, but it’s easy to make mistakes. Here are some common pitfalls and how to avoid them.
- Using the wrong flour: Not all gluten-free flours are the same. Make sure to use a good quality gluten-free all-purpose flour that contains xanthan gum for better texture.
- Not measuring ingredients accurately: Baking is a science. Use proper measuring cups and spoons to ensure your ingredients are accurate, which will lead to better results.
- Skipping the cooling time: Allowing your donut holes to cool before glazing or frosting is essential. This prevents the glaze from melting and ensures a beautiful finish.
- Overmixing the batter: Mix just until combined. Overmixing can lead to dense donut holes instead of light and fluffy ones.
- Not preheating the oven: Always preheat your oven before baking. This ensures even cooking and helps your donut holes rise properly.

Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store leftover donut holes in an airtight container in the fridge.
- They will stay fresh for up to 5 days.
Freezing Gluten-free Baked Chocolate Donut Holes
- Place cooled donut holes in a freezer-safe bag or container.
- They can be frozen for up to 3 months for best quality.
Reheating Gluten-free Baked Chocolate Donut Holes
- Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake for 5–7 minutes until warm.
- Microwave: Heat each donut hole for about 10-15 seconds until just warm.
- Stovetop: Place them in a skillet over low heat, flipping occasionally until warmed through.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some frequently asked questions about gluten-free baked chocolate donut holes.
Can I use other sweeteners instead of maple syrup?
Yes! You can substitute honey or agave syrup, but this may change the flavor slightly.
What can I use instead of Greek yogurt?
You can use dairy-free yogurt or unsweetened applesauce as an alternative if you need it dairy-free.
How do I know when my donut holes are done baking?
Insert a toothpick into the center of a donut hole; if it comes out clean, they’re ready!
Are these gluten-free baked chocolate donut holes healthy?
Absolutely! They are lower in sugar compared to traditional donuts and contain Greek yogurt, providing protein.
Can I customize the flavors?
Yes! Feel free to add spices like cinnamon or swap cocoa powder for carob powder for unique flavors.
Final Thoughts
These gluten-free baked chocolate donut holes are not only delicious but also versatile and easy to prepare. You can customize them with different toppings or flavors, making them perfect for any occasion. Try them out and enjoy a guilt-free treat that everyone will love!
Gluten-free Baked Chocolate Donut Holes
Indulge in the delightful taste of Gluten-free Baked Chocolate Donut Holes, a guilt-free treat that everyone will love! These airy and moist chocolate bites are perfect for breakfast, snacks, or dessert, making them a versatile addition to any occasion. Made with wholesome ingredients like Greek yogurt and maple syrup, these donut holes provide a healthy twist without compromising on flavor. Whether you’re entertaining guests or simply treating yourself, these rich and fluffy chocolate bites are sure to impress.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Total Time: 27 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 20 donut holes 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Gluten-free
Ingredients
- 1/4 cup butter, melted
- 1/2 cup maple syrup
- 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt
- 1/2 cup milk of choice
- 2 tsp vanilla extract
- 2 eggs
- 2 cups gluten-free all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp baking soda
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/2 cup cocoa powder
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a large bowl, whisk together melted butter and maple syrup until well combined. Add Greek yogurt, milk, eggs, and vanilla; mix until smooth.
- In another bowl, mix gluten-free flour, cocoa powder, baking soda, and salt. Gradually blend the dry mixture into the wet ingredients until fully combined.
- Spoon the batter into a donut hole pan, filling each cavity about three-quarters full.
- Bake for 10-12 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
- Allow cooling before glazing with a mixture of powdered sugar and milk.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 donut hole (30g)
- Calories: 100
- Sugar: 8g
- Sodium: 50mg
- Fat: 4g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 14g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 25mg