Gluten-Free Baked Chocolate Donut Holes Recipe

The Ultimate Gluten-Free Baked Chocolate Donut Holes Recipe

Gluten-free baked chocolate donut holes represent a delightful twist on classic dessert favorites.

Small, spherical treats that pack massive flavor into bite-sized delights never disappoint hungry sweet lovers.

These miniature confections offer rich, decadent chocolate notes without traditional wheat-based ingredients.

Compact and perfectly portioned, they satisfy chocolate cravings while accommodating dietary restrictions.

Home bakers can craft these delectable morsels with simple pantry staples and minimal kitchen equipment.

Soft, tender textures complement the intense chocolate experience that melts smoothly on your palate.

Surprisingly easy to prepare, these donut holes revamp ordinary ingredient combinations into extraordinary culinary magic.

Tips for Keeping These Donuts Light and Fudgy

  • Select the Right Flour: Choose a high-quality gluten-free all-purpose flour blend to ensure tender, light donut holes with the perfect texture.
  • Measure Ingredients Precisely: Use level measuring cups and spoons to guarantee accurate proportions, which are crucial for achieving the ideal donut hole consistency.
  • Control Glaze Thickness: Adjust the milk gradually when making the glaze, adding tiny amounts to create a smooth, perfectly dripping coating that clings beautifully to the donut holes.
  • Avoid Overmixing Batter: Gently stir the ingredients until just combined to prevent tough, dense donut holes and maintain a light, airy texture.
  • Check Doneness Carefully: Watch the baking time closely, as gluten-free baked goods can quickly dry out- test with a toothpick and remove from the oven the moment it comes out clean.

Storage and Reheating for Chocolate Donut Holes

  • Refrigerate: Store glazed donut holes in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Place a sheet of parchment paper between layers to prevent sticking.
  • Freeze: Wrap unglazed donut holes individually in plastic wrap, then store in a freezer-safe bag for maximum 2 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.
  • Reheat: Warm chilled donut holes in the microwave for 10-15 seconds or in a preheated oven at 300°F for 3-4 minutes. Avoid overheating to maintain their soft, tender texture.

Best Sips to Enjoy with Donut Holes

  • Pair with Creamy Milk: Complement the rich chocolate flavor with a cold glass of whole milk, enhancing the donut holes' sweetness and creating a classic dessert combination.
  • Match with Fruity Espresso: Brew a shot of espresso with bright, fruity notes to cut through the chocolate's richness and provide a sophisticated flavor contrast.
  • Combine with Berry Delight: Serve alongside fresh raspberries or strawberries, adding a tart freshness that balances the donut holes' sweet chocolate glaze and provides a vibrant color pop.
  • Enhance with Caramel Latte: Enjoy a warm caramel latte that echoes the donut holes' sweet undertones, creating a harmonious and indulgent dessert experience.

Flavor Ideas for Gluten-Free Donut Hole Lovers

  • Nutty Chocolate Crunch: Sprinkle chopped almonds or pecans over the glazed donut holes for added texture and rich nutty flavor.
  • Raspberry Chocolate Fusion: Drizzle homemade raspberry sauce or mix raspberry jam into the glaze for a fruity chocolate combination.
  • Coconut Chocolate Dream: Roll glazed donut holes in toasted shredded coconut for a tropical and crunchy exterior that complements the chocolate base.
  • Salted Caramel Drizzle: Instead of plain glaze, create a salted caramel glaze by mixing caramel sauce with a pinch of sea salt for a decadent sweet-salty experience.

Why Gluten-Free Baked Chocolate Donut Holes Are a Win

  • Savor Chocolatey Comfort: These donut holes deliver rich, deep chocolate flavor that melts in your mouth, satisfying intense sweet cravings without traditional wheat flour.
  • Whip Up Effortless Treats: Simple mixing technique and straightforward baking method make these gluten-free delights perfect for bakers of all skill levels, requiring minimal kitchen expertise.
  • Customize with Ease: Flexible recipe allows creative variations like adding sprinkles, changing glaze flavors, or experimenting with alternative sweeteners for personalized bite-sized desserts.
  • Enjoy Guilt-Free Indulgence: Packed with nutritious ingredients like Greek yogurt and using gluten-free flour, these donut holes offer a healthier alternative to traditional fried pastries while maintaining delectable taste and tender texture.

Ingredients for Gluten-Free Chocolate Donut Holes

Dry Ingredients:
  • Gluten-Free All-Purpose Flour: Provides structure and tender texture for the donut holes, ensuring a gluten-free base.
  • Cocoa Powder: Delivers rich chocolate flavor and deep brown color to the donut holes.
  • Baking Soda: Helps the donut holes rise and creates a light, airy texture.
  • Salt: Enhances overall flavor and balances the sweetness.
Wet Ingredients:
  • Butter: Adds moisture and rich flavor to the donut holes.
  • Maple Syrup: Natural sweetener that provides depth and complexity to the recipe.
  • Greek Yogurt: Contributes moisture and helps create a soft, tender texture.
  • Milk: Helps bind ingredients and creates a smooth batter consistency.
  • Vanilla Extract: Adds subtle aromatic flavor and enhances chocolate notes.
  • Eggs: Provide structure, moisture, and help bind the ingredients together.
Glaze Ingredients:
  • Powdered Sugar: Creates a smooth, sweet glaze with a glossy finish.
  • Milk: Thins the glaze and helps achieve the right consistency for coating.
  • Vanilla Extract (Optional): Adds extra flavor complexity to the glaze.

How to Bake Chocolate Donut Holes Without the Gluten

Step 1: Prepare Baking Setup

Grab a mini muffin pan and non-stick spray. Preheat oven to 350°F. Thoroughly coat each muffin cavity with spray.

Step 2: Blend Wet Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, combine:
  • Melted butter
  • Maple syrup
  • Greek yogurt
  • Milk
  • Vanilla extract
  • Eggs

Whisk until smooth and fully integrated.

Step 3: Create Dry Mixture

Sift directly into wet ingredients:
  • Gluten-free all-purpose flour
  • Baking soda
  • Salt
  • Cocoa powder

Stir until batter becomes thick and consistent.

Step 4: Fill Muffin Cavities

Use a small cookie scoop to distribute batter evenly into each muffin space.

Step 5: Bake Donut Holes

Place pan in oven. Bake 9-11 minutes until:
  • Surface springs back when touched
  • Toothpick comes out clean

Let cool slightly before removing.

Step 6: Craft Glaze

In separate bowl, whisk together:
  • Powdered sugar
  • Milk
  • Optional vanilla extract

Adjust milk for desired consistency.

Step 7: Coat Donut Holes

Dip each donut hole into glaze. Roll completely. Shake off excess.

Place on cooling rack with catching tray underneath.

Step 8: Serve and Enjoy

Allow glaze to set. Serve and savor these delightful treats!

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Gluten-Free Baked Chocolate Donut Holes Recipe

Gluten-Free Baked Chocolate Donut Holes Recipe


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4.9 from 11 reviews

  • Total Time: 30 minutes
  • Yield: 12 1x

Description

Gluten-free baked chocolate donut holes deliver pure chocolate bliss in compact, irresistible bites. Moist chocolate perfection coated with powdered sugar promises a guilt-free indulgence perfect for satisfying sweet cravings anytime.


Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients:

  • 2 cups gluten-free all-purpose flour
  • ½ cup cocoa powder
  • 2 large eggs

Liquid Ingredients:

  • ½ cup butter, melted
  • ½ cup maple syrup (room temperature)
  • ½ cup plain Greek yogurt
  • ½ cup milk of choice
  • 2 teaspoons vanilla extract

Additional Dry Ingredients:

  • 1 teaspoon baking soda
  • ½ teaspoon salt

Glaze Ingredients:

  • 2 cups powdered sugar
  • 810 teaspoons milk
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (optional)

Instructions

  1. Heat the oven to 350°F and generously coat a mini muffin pan with non-stick spray, ensuring complete coverage of each cavity.
  2. Whisk melted butter and maple syrup in a large mixing bowl until thoroughly blended. Introduce Greek yogurt, milk, and vanilla extract, stirring until the mixture achieves a smooth consistency.
  3. Gently fold eggs into the liquid ingredients, mixing briefly to incorporate.
  4. Sift gluten-free flour, baking soda, salt, and cocoa powder directly into the wet mixture. Stir carefully until the batter becomes thick and uniform.
  5. Deploy a small cookie scoop to distribute batter evenly across mini muffin cavities, filling each to approximately three-quarters full.
  6. Transfer the pan to the preheated oven and bake for 10-12 minutes. Check doneness by gently pressing the surface and inserting a toothpick – it should emerge clean with minimal crumbs.
  7. Allow donut holes to rest in the pan for several minutes before carefully transferring to a wire cooling rack.
  8. Prepare the glaze by whisking powdered sugar with milk and vanilla extract until silky and pourable. Adjust liquid incrementally to achieve ideal drizzling consistency.
  9. Submerge each donut hole into the glaze, rotating to ensure complete coverage. Tap gently to remove excess glaze.
  10. Position glazed donut holes on the cooling rack, placing a catchment tray underneath to collect drips.
  11. Let glaze set completely before serving these delectable gluten-free treats.

Notes

  • Master gluten-free baking by ensuring all ingredients are certified gluten-free to prevent cross-contamination.
  • Use a mini muffin pan with non-stick spray for perfect bite-sized donut holes that won’t stick or break.
  • Check donut holes for doneness by gently pressing the surface – they should spring back and a toothpick should come out clean.
  • Create smooth glaze by adding milk gradually, whisking until you reach a silky, drippable consistency that coats evenly.
  • Allow donut holes to cool completely before glazing to prevent melting and ensure a clean, crisp glaze finish.
  • Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days, or refrigerate for extended freshness.
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 15 minutes
  • Category: Breakfast, Snacks, Desserts
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 12
  • Calories: 200
  • Sugar: 15g
  • Sodium: 150mg
  • Fat: 8g
  • Saturated Fat: 5g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 3g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 30g
  • Fiber: 2g
  • Protein: 3g
  • Cholesterol: 50mg
David Bennett

David Bennett

Founder & Head Recipe Developer

Expertise

Culinary Nutrition​, Recipe Development​, Nutritional Counseling​, Food Science​

Education

Johnson & Wales University

  • Degree: Bachelor of Science in Culinary Nutrition
  • Focus: Blending culinary arts with nutritional science to create health-focused cuisine.

Certified Nutrition Specialist® (CNS®)

  • Credential: Advanced certification in personalized nutrition therapy. ​

David Bennett is the lead recipe creator and nutrition expert at HealthyChoices.org, your friendly space for tasty meals that nourish body and mind. 

With a Culinary Nutrition degree from Johnson & Wales University and a Certified Nutrition Specialist® credential, David pairs practical nutrition with delicious cooking, creating recipes you’ll crave daily. 

At Healthy Choices, David shares easy, nutritious dishes and smart cooking tips to make healthy eating something everyone can enjoy, with no complicated diets needed.

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