Black Forest Doughnuts Recipe

If you adore the perfect harmony of rich chocolate, juicy cherries, and tender dough, then you are going to fall head over heels for this Black Forest Doughnuts Recipe. These delightful treats combine everything you love about the classic Black Forest cake into a bite-sized, freshly baked doughnut that’s both moist and bursting with flavor. From the deep cocoa notes to the luscious cherry bursts and the melt-in-your-mouth texture, this recipe is an absolute crowd-pleaser that turns any ordinary day into a special occasion.

this Recipe

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering simple, high-quality ingredients is key to nailing this recipe. Each one plays a vital role in the flavor, texture, and overall appeal of your Black Forest Doughnuts, making the preparation straightforward yet rewarding.

• 1 cup all-purpose flour: The backbone of our doughnuts, providing structure and a soft crumb.
• 1/2 cup cocoa powder: Brings that deep, chocolatey richness essential for a Black Forest-inspired treat.
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar: Sweetens the doughnuts just right without overpowering the chocolate and cherries.
• 1 tsp baking powder: Ensures your doughnuts rise perfectly, creating a light and fluffy texture.
• 1/2 tsp salt: Enhances all the flavors, balancing sweetness and richness seamlessly.
• 1/2 cup milk: Moisturizes the batter for a tender bite every time.
• 1/4 cup vegetable oil: Adds moistness and keeps the doughnuts soft even after baking.
• 1 egg: Binds all ingredients and contributes to the doughnut’s fine crumb.
• 1 tsp vanilla extract: Lifts the flavors with a warm, sweet aroma.
• 1/2 cup chopped cherries: The star ingredient that packs in freshness and a bright, juicy pop.
• 1/4 cup chocolate chips: For melty pockets of chocolate that complement the cocoa perfectly.

How to Make Black Forest Doughnuts Recipe

Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Pan

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Make sure to grease your doughnut pan thoroughly or spray it with non-stick spray. This step is essential to ensure that your doughnuts release easily after baking without breaking apart, preserving their beautiful shape.

Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, cocoa powder, granulated sugar, baking powder, and salt. This combination forms the chocolatey base of your doughnuts and evenly distributes the leavening agents, ensuring a perfect rise.

Step 3: Combine the Wet Ingredients

In a separate bowl, beat together the milk, vegetable oil, egg, and vanilla extract until smooth and well combined. These wet ingredients add moisture and richness, which is critical for keeping the doughnuts soft and delicious.

Step 4: Bring the Batter Together

Gently pour the wet ingredients into the dry mixture. Stir just until combined—overmixing will develop the gluten too much, resulting in tough doughnuts, so keep it light and gentle for the best texture.

Step 5: Fold in Cherries and Chocolate Chips

Carefully fold the chopped cherries and chocolate chips into the batter. These add-ins are what make this Black Forest Doughnuts Recipe truly special: the cherries add bursts of juicy sweetness, while the chocolate chips melt into rich pockets of delight.

Step 6: Fill the Doughnut Pan

Spoon the batter into each doughnut mold, filling them about three-quarters full. This is just enough room for them to rise and bake to perfection without spilling over the edges.

Step 7: Bake to Perfection

Place the pan in the oven and bake for 10-12 minutes. Test doneness by inserting a toothpick into a doughnut; if it comes out clean, your doughnuts are ready!

Step 8: Cool Before Serving

Let the doughnuts cool in the pan for a few minutes to firm up, then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely. Cooling properly ensures they hold their shape and the flavors settle beautifully.

Step 9: Optional Final Touches

For an extra special finish, drizzle melted chocolate on top or dust the doughnuts lightly with powdered sugar. This not only elevates their appearance but also adds an extra dimension of flavor and sweetness.

How to Serve Black Forest Doughnuts Recipe

Garnishes

Garnishing your doughnuts adds that inviting, irresistible look. Try fresh cherries or a sprinkle of toasted coconut crumbs for a nod to the classic Black Forest cake. A drizzle of rich chocolate ganache or glossy cherry glaze also makes your doughnuts visually stunning and even more delicious.

Side Dishes

Pair these doughnuts with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream to complement their rich chocolate and cherry flavors. A cup of robust coffee or a silky hot chocolate also makes an excellent match, perfect for breakfast, brunch, or an indulgent afternoon treat.

Creative Ways to Present

Get creative by serving your Black Forest doughnuts stacked on a stylish platter, adorned with edible flowers or a sprinkle of cocoa. You might also thread them onto skewers with maraschino cherries and mini marshmallows for a fun party presentation. These little touches make your dessert table the star of any gathering.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Keep any leftover Black Forest doughnuts in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. This helps preserve their softness and freshness without drying out, so you can enjoy that perfect bite even the next day.

Freezing

If you want to save these treats for longer, freeze them in a single layer on a baking sheet first, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container. Frozen doughnuts maintain their flavor well for up to 2 months, making it easy to enjoy them whenever the craving strikes.

Reheating

To reheat, simply warm your doughnuts in a microwave for about 20 seconds or pop them in an oven preheated to 300°F for 5-7 minutes. This restores their soft texture and brings back that fresh-baked charm, as if they were just made.

FAQs

Can I substitute fresh cherries with frozen or canned?

Absolutely! Frozen cherries work well—just thaw and drain them before folding into the batter to avoid extra moisture. Canned cherries should be drained thoroughly to prevent sogginess, but fresh is always best for the brightest flavor.

Can I make these doughnuts gluten-free?

Yes, you can use a 1-to-1 gluten-free flour blend in place of all-purpose flour. Keep an eye on the texture as gluten-free flours vary, but the chocolate and cherry flavors will still shine beautifully.

What’s the best way to prevent overmixing the batter?

Mix wet and dry ingredients until just combined—some lumps are okay. Overmixing develops gluten and makes doughnuts tough, so gentle folding, especially after adding cherries and chips, is key.

Could I fry these doughnuts instead of baking?

This particular recipe is formulated for baking to achieve a light, fluffy texture. Frying would require a different batter and method, but these baked doughnuts are delightfully satisfying and a bit lighter.

Is there a good way to make these vegan?

Yes! Swap the egg with a flax egg (1 tbsp ground flaxseed mixed with 3 tbsp water) and use a plant-based milk like almond or oat milk. Replace vegetable oil with coconut oil if preferred, and you’ll have a vegan-friendly Black Forest Doughnuts Recipe that’s still indulgent.

Final Thoughts

This Black Forest Doughnuts Recipe is a gorgeous way to enjoy the classic chocolate-and-cherry combination in a fun, shareable form. Whether you’re baking for a crowd or treating yourself, these doughnuts are sure to become a beloved favorite. So grab your mixing bowls, gather your ingredients, and let the magic of homemade Black Forest doughnuts fill your kitchen with irresistible aromas and smiles.

Print