Peppermint Mocha Donuts

The flavors of chocolate, coffee, and peppermint shine in these Peppermint Mocha Donuts. Perfect for holiday gatherings, cozy brunches, or a sweet treat any day of the week, these baked donuts are surprisingly quick and easy to make. With their delightful combination of rich cocoa and refreshing mint, they are sure to impress family and friends alike.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: These donuts can be made in just 25 minutes from start to finish.
• Irresistible Flavor: The blend of chocolate, coffee, and peppermint creates a unique taste that’s hard to resist.
• Baked Not Fried: Enjoy a healthier version of the classic donut without sacrificing taste.
• Versatile Enjoyment: Perfect for holidays, parties, or a simple snack at home.
• Customizable Toppings: Feel free to get creative with toppings like sprinkles or different types of crushed candy.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into this delicious recipe, gather your kitchen tools for a smooth baking experience.

Essential Kitchen Tools

• Mixing bowls
• Whisk
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Donut pan
• Rubber spatula

Why These Tools Matter

• Mixing bowls: Essential for combining ingredients effectively without spills.
• Donut pan: Provides the perfect shape for your donuts while ensuring even baking.
• Rubber spatula: Great for scraping down the sides of bowls and transferring batter smoothly.

Ingredients

Get ready to whip up some delightful Peppermint Mocha Donuts with these simple ingredients:

Dry Ingredients

• ¾ cup plus 1 tbsp. all-purpose flour
• ⅓ cup cocoa powder
• 4 tsp. instant espresso powder
• 1 tsp. baking powder
• ½ tsp. baking soda
• ¼ tsp. salt
• ¼ cup granulated sugar
• 1 tbsp. brown sugar

Wet Ingredients

• ¼ cup Greek yogurt
• ¼ cup plus 2 tbsp. milk (I used whole)
• 1 egg
• 1 tsp. vanilla extract
• 1 tbsp. unsalted butter (melted and cooled slightly)

For the Glaze and Topping

• 1 ½ cups powdered sugar
• 2 tbsp. milk
• ¼ tsp. peppermint extract
• 2 tbsp. crushed peppermint candies

How to Make Peppermint Mocha Donuts

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that your donuts will bake evenly.

Step 2: Prepare the Donut Pan

Lightly grease your donut pan with non-stick spray or butter to prevent sticking.

Step 3: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl:
1. Combine the all-purpose flour, cocoa powder, instant espresso powder, baking powder, baking soda, salt, granulated sugar, and brown sugar.
2. Whisk together until well combined.

Step 4: Combine Wet Ingredients

In another mixing bowl:
1. Mix together Greek yogurt, milk, egg, vanilla extract, and melted butter until smooth.

Step 5: Combine Mixtures

Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients:
1. Stir gently until just combined; do not overmix.

Step 6: Fill the Donut Pan

Using a rubber spatula or piping bag:
1. Fill each donut cavity about two-thirds full with batter.

Step 7: Bake

Place in the preheated oven:
1. Bake for about 10 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
2. Allow cooling in the pan for a few minutes before transferring to a wire rack.

Step 8: Prepare the Glaze

In a small bowl:
1. Whisk together powdered sugar, milk, and peppermint extract until smooth.

Step 9: Glaze the Donuts

Dip each cooled donut into the glaze:
1. Allow excess glaze to drip off before placing back on wire rack.
2. Sprinkle crushed peppermint candies on top while glaze is still wet.

Enjoy your delicious Peppermint Mocha Donuts! Perfect for sharing or savoring on your own!

How to Serve Peppermint Mocha Donuts

Serving Peppermint Mocha Donuts can elevate your dessert experience, making it perfect for holiday gatherings or cozy mornings. These delightful treats pair beautifully with various accompaniments and beverages.

With Coffee

• Fresh Brewed Coffee: Enjoy the rich flavors of these donuts alongside a hot cup of coffee to complement the espresso notes.
• Flavored Lattes: A peppermint or mocha latte can enhance the festive vibe while bringing out the donut’s flavors.

With Whipped Cream

• Classic Whipped Cream: Top each donut with a dollop of freshly whipped cream for added creaminess.
• Flavored Whipped Cream: Consider using peppermint-flavored whipped cream to intensify the peppermint taste.

With Ice Cream

• Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of vanilla ice cream pairs well, creating a delightful contrast against the warm donuts.
• Peppermint Ice Cream: For an extra festive touch, serve with peppermint ice cream for a holiday treat.

As a Dessert Platter

• Dessert Charcuterie Board: Include these donuts on a dessert platter with fruits, chocolates, and other sweet bites for variety.
• Mini Donut Stacks: Create stacks of donuts alternated with layers of whipped cream or chocolate sauce for a fun presentation.

How to Perfect Peppermint Mocha Donuts

Making perfect Peppermint Mocha Donuts is easier than you think! Follow these tips to ensure every batch turns out delicious.

• Bold Use of Fresh Ingredients: Always use fresh ingredients for the best flavor, especially when it comes to baking powder and extracts.
• Thorough Mixing: Ensure all ingredients are mixed well but avoid overmixing the batter to keep your donuts light and fluffy.
• Proper Oven Temperature: Preheat your oven properly; this ensures even baking and helps achieve that perfect rise.
• Use Silicone Molds: Consider using silicone donut molds for easy removal and perfectly shaped donuts without sticking.
• Cool Before Glazing: Allow your donuts to cool completely before glazing; this prevents the glaze from melting off and ensures a beautiful finish.
• Decorative Toppings: Experiment with toppings like crushed peppermint candies or chocolate drizzle for added flavor and visual appeal.

Best Side Dishes for Peppermint Mocha Donuts

Pairing side dishes with your Peppermint Mocha Donuts can enhance your dessert spread. Here are some great options that complement their flavors perfectly.

1. Fruit Salad: A refreshing fruit salad balances the sweetness of the donuts and provides a healthy option.
2. Chocolate-Covered Strawberries: These sweet treats add elegance and pair well with coffee flavors.
3. Cheese Platter: A selection of mild cheeses can provide a savory contrast to the sugary donuts.
4. Yogurt Parfait: Layer yogurt with granola and berries for a creamy, crunchy side that complements the softness of the donuts.
5. Nut Mix: A bowl of mixed nuts offers a crunchy texture that contrasts nicely with the soft donuts.
6. Caramel Dipping Sauce: Serve warm caramel sauce on the side for drizzling or dipping, adding an indulgent touch.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Peppermint Mocha Donuts can be a delightful experience, but a few common mistakes may hinder your success.

• Bold measurement errors: Always measure your ingredients accurately. Using too much flour or cocoa can lead to dense donuts. Use a kitchen scale for precision.
• Bold skipping the espresso powder: This ingredient is key for the mocha flavor. Omitting it will dull the taste. Ensure you include it for the best results.
• Bold not preheating the oven: Failing to preheat can affect how your donuts rise and cook evenly. Always preheat your oven before baking.
• Bold overmixing the batter: Stirring too much can lead to tough donuts. Mix just until combined for a light texture.
• Bold neglecting to cool before glazing: Applying glaze to hot donuts can cause it to melt away. Let them cool for a few minutes first.

Storage and Reheating

Refrigerator Storage

• Store Peppermint Mocha Donuts in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
• They will last up to 3 days while maintaining freshness.

Freezing Peppermint Mocha Donuts

• For longer storage, freeze the donuts in a single layer on a baking sheet before transferring them to an airtight container or freezer bag.
• They can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Peppermint Mocha Donuts

• Oven: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and heat for about 5-7 minutes until warm.
• Microwave: Place one donut on a microwave-safe plate and heat on high for 10-15 seconds.
• Stovetop: Heat in a skillet over low heat for 2-3 minutes, turning occasionally until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes Peppermint Mocha Donuts special?

Peppermint Mocha Donuts combine rich chocolate with coffee and refreshing peppermint flavors, creating an irresistible treat perfect for any occasion.

Can I customize my Peppermint Mocha Donuts?

Absolutely! You can add different toppings like chocolate chips or use alternative sweeteners for a healthier version.

How do I ensure my donuts are fluffy?

Mix your batter gently and avoid overmixing, which helps keep the texture light and airy.

Can I make these donuts dairy-free?

Yes! Substitute Greek yogurt with dairy-free yogurt and use almond milk or oat milk instead of regular milk.

Conclusion

These Peppermint Mocha Donuts are not only delicious but also versatile. You can easily customize them with different flavors or toppings. Try this recipe today, and enjoy the delightful blend of chocolate, coffee, and peppermint!

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