Name: Double Chocolate Peanut Butter Cup Donuts
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 25 min
Ingredients: 1 cup All Purpose Flour; 1/2 cup Dark Brown Sugar; 1/2 teaspoon Salt; 1/4 cup Cocoa Powder; 1 teaspoon Baking Powder; 1 teaspoon Vanilla Extract; 1 large Egg (at room temperature); 2 tablespoons Unsalted Butter (melted); 1 tablespoon Creamy Peanut Butter; 1/2 cup Milk ((can use chocolate almond milk)); 6 Mini Peanut Butter Cups (chopped into 4 pieces each); 1/2 cup Heavy Cream; 4 ounces Dark Chocolate Chips; Mini Peanut Butter Cups (chopped)

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There’s something truly indulgent about biting into a Double Chocolate Peanut Butter Cup Donuts. It takes me back to lazy Sunday mornings when I would whip up something special in the kitchen. I remember how excited I was to pair the rich flavors of chocolate with creamy peanut butter. Each donut is a delectable treat, filled with mini peanut butter cups that melt slightly in the oven, creating a gooey surprise in every bite. These donuts are perfect for breakfast or as a sweet snack, and honestly, who wouldn’t want chocolate for breakfast? The beauty of baking these donuts is that it fills your kitchen with an irresistible aroma that lures everyone in. Whether you’re surprising your family or treating yourself, these donuts are sure to impress!

Recipe Snapshot

Total Time:
25 mins

Prep Time:
15 mins

Cook Time:
10 mins

Difficulty:
Medium

Calories:
210 kcal

Protein:
4 g

Diet:
Gluten-Free, Low FODMAP

Fat:
9 g

Tools Used:
Saucepan, Oven, Large Pot, Mixing Bowl, Baking Sheet, Chef’s Knife, Frying Pan, Wooden Spoon, Whisk

What Makes This Double Chocolate Peanut Butter Cup Donuts Special

Decadent Chocolate Flavor

There’s nothing like the rich, deep flavor of chocolate to elevate a dessert. The combination of cocoa powder and dark chocolate chips in these donuts creates a luscious chocolate experience that will make you come back for more.

Peanut Butter Bliss

What pairs better with chocolate than peanut butter? The creamy, nutty flavor complements the chocolate perfectly, making each bite a heavenly mix of sweet and savory. Adding chopped mini peanut butter cups enhances the experience, giving you delightful pockets of peanut butter goodness throughout.

Perfectly Baked Texture

Baking these donuts instead of frying them makes them lighter without sacrificing taste. They come out fluffy and moist, with a slight crisp on the outside. This method also means you can enjoy them with less guilt, making them a more wholesome choice for a treat.

Easy to Make

If you’re worried about baking, fear not! The Double Chocolate Peanut Butter Cup Donuts are surprisingly easy to make. With simple ingredients that you likely have on hand, you can whip these up quickly and impress your friends and family with your baking skills.

Versatility for Any Occasion

These donuts are not just limited to breakfasts; they make excellent desserts and can be served at any gathering. Whether it’s a birthday party or a casual brunch, these donuts fit right in and will satisfy any chocolate lover.

Homemade Touch

There’s something special about homemade treats. By making your own Double Chocolate Peanut Butter Cup Donuts, you control the ingredients, ensuring they are fresh and tailored to your taste. Plus, there’s a certain joy that comes from sharing something you’ve baked yourself.

Essential Ingredients for Double Chocolate Peanut Butter Cup Donuts

Creating the perfect Double Chocolate Peanut Butter Cup Donuts requires a careful balance of ingredients. Each component plays a vital role in achieving the rich flavor and delightful texture that defines these treats. From the chocolatey base to the creamy peanut butter filling, these ingredients work harmoniously to make your baking experience a true delight.

All Purpose Flour – 1 cup: The backbone of the donuts, providing structure and stability.
Dark Brown Sugar – 1/2 cup: Adds moisture and a subtle caramel flavor that enhances the chocolate.
Salt – 1/2 teaspoon: Balances the sweetness and elevates the flavors.
Cocoa Powder – 1/4 cup: Gives the donuts their deep chocolate flavor and rich color.
Baking Powder – 1 teaspoon: Helps the donuts rise and become fluffy.
Vanilla Extract – 1 teaspoon: Adds a warm flavor note that complements the chocolate.
Large Egg – 1: Binds the ingredients together and adds moisture.
Unsalted Butter – 2 tablespoons, melted: Provides richness and helps to keep the donuts moist.
Creamy Peanut Butter – 1 tablespoon: A delicious addition to the mixture that brings a nutty flavor.
Milk – 1/2 cup: Keeps the batter moist; chocolate almond milk adds a unique twist!
Mini Peanut Butter Cups – 6, chopped: Surprise bites of peanut butter goodness in every donut.
Heavy Cream – 1/2 cup: Used to create the luscious ganache that coats the donuts.
Dark Chocolate Chips – 4 ounces: Essential for the ganache and an extra chocolatey touch.
Mini Peanut Butter Cups – chopped: For garnishing, adding texture and sweetness on top.

The Process for Making Double Chocolate Peanut Butter Cup Donuts

Making Double Chocolate Peanut Butter Cup Donuts is a rewarding experience that fills your home with an incredible aroma. Follow these steps for perfect results, and you’ll be greeted with a delicious batch of donuts that everyone will love.

Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. This step is crucial for achieving the right baking environment for your donuts. A properly preheated oven ensures even cooking and helps the donuts rise properly.
Lightly grease a donut pan and set it aside. This will prevent your donuts from sticking, ensuring they come out perfectly shaped and intact.
In a large bowl, whisk together the dry ingredients: all purpose flour, dark brown sugar, salt, cocoa powder, and baking powder. Be sure to mix well, so there are no lumps and the ingredients are evenly distributed.
In a separate bowl, combine the wet ingredients: vanilla extract, egg, melted butter, creamy peanut butter, and milk. Whisk these together until smooth and well incorporated.
Gently pour the wet mixture into the bowl with the dry ingredients. Fold gently with a spatula until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; a few lumps are okay. This will help keep your donuts tender and fluffy.
Spoon the batter into the prepared donut pan, filling each cavity about three-quarters full. Press one chopped peanut butter cup (four pieces) into the top of each donut, then gently cover with more batter. This creates a delightful surprise once they’re baked.
Bake the donuts for 10 to 11 minutes, or until they spring back when lightly pressed. Keep an eye on them to avoid overbaking, as that can lead to dry donuts.
Once baked, allow the donuts to cool in the pan for a few minutes before transferring them to a cooling rack. This helps them set properly and keeps them from becoming soggy.
While your donuts are cooling, it’s time to make the ganache! Place the dark chocolate chips in a small heatproof bowl and set it aside.
In a small saucepan, heat the heavy cream over medium heat until it comes to a gentle simmer. Remove it from the heat just before it starts boiling.
Pour the hot cream over the chocolate chips and let the mixture sit for about two minutes. This will allow the chocolate to soften.
Stir the mixture until the chocolate is fully melted and smooth. If it’s too thick, you can reheat it gently to achieve the desired consistency.
Dip one side of each cooled donut into the ganache, then return it to the cooling rack. Repeat this for all the donuts.
While the ganache is still wet, sprinkle the tops with chopped mini peanut butter cups for an extra treat. Allow the ganache to set before serving.

What Goes Well With This Double Chocolate Peanut Butter Cup Donuts

Pairing your Double Chocolate Peanut Butter Cup Donuts with the right sides can elevate your experience! Here are some ideas for serving:

Fresh Fruits: Serve with a side of fresh fruits like strawberries or bananas to add a refreshing contrast to the rich flavors of the donuts.
Coffee: Enjoy with a warm cup of coffee or a creamy latte. The bitter notes of coffee perfectly balance the sweetness of the donuts.
Milk: A classic pairing, milk complements the chocolate and peanut butter flavors beautifully, making them even more enjoyable.
Ice Cream: Consider serving these donuts warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream. The melting ice cream adds a luxurious element to the dessert.
Brunch Setting: These donuts are ideal for brunch gatherings. Serve alongside savory dishes like scrambled eggs or breakfast casseroles for a delightful mix.
Seasonal Occasions: Perfect for holidays and celebrations. They can be themed with festive decorations to match any occasion.

Things Worth Knowing

Donut Pan: Ensure you have a good quality donut pan. It makes shaping and baking easier for perfectly formed donuts.
Cooling Racks: Use cooling racks for proper airflow around the donuts after baking. This prevents them from getting soggy.
Donut Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container to keep them fresh. They’re best enjoyed within a couple of days.
Flavor Variations: Experiment with different flavored chips or nut butters. You could even add some spices for an unexpected twist!

Helpful Notes about Double Chocolate Peanut Butter Cup Donuts

Here are some helpful tips to ensure your Double Chocolate Peanut Butter Cup Donuts come out perfectly each time:

Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days or in the fridge for up to a week.
Freezing: You can freeze these donuts. Place them in a single layer on a baking sheet until firm, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag for up to three months.
Pairing: Pair these donuts with a side of fresh fruit for a balanced treat.
Testing for Doneness: Use a toothpick to check for doneness; it should come out clean or with a few crumbs.
Variations: Try adding a sprinkle of sea salt on top of the ganache for a sweet and salty combination.

What Goes Well With This Double Chocolate Peanut Butter Cup Donuts

Pairing your Double Chocolate Peanut Butter Cup Donuts with the right sides can elevate your experience! Here are some ideas for serving:

Fresh Fruits: Serve with a side of fresh fruits like strawberries or bananas to add a refreshing contrast to the rich flavors of the donuts.
Coffee: Enjoy with a warm cup of coffee or a creamy latte. The bitter notes of coffee perfectly balance the sweetness of the donuts.
Milk: A classic pairing, milk complements the chocolate and peanut butter flavors beautifully, making them even more enjoyable.
Ice Cream: Consider serving these donuts warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream. The melting ice cream adds a luxurious element to the dessert.
Brunch Setting: These donuts are ideal for brunch gatherings. Serve alongside savory dishes like scrambled eggs or breakfast casseroles for a delightful mix.
Seasonal Occasions: Perfect for holidays and celebrations. They can be themed with festive decorations to match any occasion.

FAQ

Yes, you can easily substitute different types of milk in the Double Chocolate Peanut Butter Cup Donuts. While I used chocolate almond milk for a unique flavor twist, regular cow’s milk works perfectly as well. You can even try oat milk or any nut milk to cater to your dietary needs. The key is to ensure it’s at room temperature when you mix it with the other liquids. This ensures a smoother batter and better incorporation of ingredients.

To keep your Double Chocolate Peanut Butter Cup Donuts fresh, it’s best to store them in an airtight container. At room temperature, they can last for up to three days. If you want to keep them longer, consider refrigerating them, where they’ll stay fresh for about a week. For longer storage, you can freeze the donuts. Place them in a single layer on a baking sheet until they’re firm, then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag. They can be frozen for up to three months. Just thaw them at room temperature before enjoying!

Absolutely! The Double Chocolate Peanut Butter Cup Donuts can be made ahead of time and stored properly. You can bake them the day before and store them in an airtight container at room temperature. If you’re planning to serve them at a gathering, you could also freeze them and then thaw and decorate them with ganache just before serving. This makes them a convenient option for events or special occasions.

If you’re looking for alternatives to the creamy peanut butter in these donuts, you can consider using almond butter, cashew butter, or any nut butter of your choice. Just be aware that the flavor and texture may slightly change, but they will still contribute to a delicious taste. If you want to avoid nuts altogether, sunflower seed butter is a great alternative. Just ensure it is unsweetened to maintain the balance of flavors in the donuts.

Conclusion

The Double Chocolate Peanut Butter Cup Donuts are a perfect blend of chocolatey goodness and creamy peanut butter that will make any dessert lover smile. They’re not just easy to make, but they also offer a delightful treat for any occasion. I encourage you to try this recipe and experience the joy of homemade donuts yourself. Your family and friends will thank you for it, and you just might find a new favorite dessert in this delightful recipe!