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Chocolate chip pancake donuts bring a fun twist to your breakfast table with their easy preparation and familiar flavors. These baked donuts combine the convenience of pancake mix with melty chocolate bits making them a perfect quick treat when you want something sweet but fuss-free.
I was looking for a way to satisfy donut cravings without leaving the house and this recipe hit the spot every time we made it on a weekend morning.
Ingredients
- 2 cups pancake mix: choose one you like best since it shapes the donut texture and flavor
- ½ cup mini chocolate chips: small chips distribute better so you get chocolate in every bite
- Nonstick cooking spray: essential for easy donut release from the pan so they keep their shape
Instructions
- Build The Oven And Pans:
- Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit to ensure even baking. Grease two donut pans thoroughly with nonstick spray so the donuts will release easily and keep their perfect shape.
- Mix The Batter:
- Prepare the pancake mix according to the package directions. This usually means adding eggs milk or water to create a pourable batter. Stir in the mini chocolate chips gently so they don&t sink to the bottom but spread evenly throughout the dough.
- Pipe The Donuts:
- Transfer the batter into a piping bag or a large zip-top bag. Cut a small hole at the corner of the bag to control the flow. Pipe the mix carefully into each donut cavity filling about three quarters full to allow for rising.
- Bake To Perfection:
- Bake in the preheated oven for 12 to 15 minutes. The donuts are done when they spring back gently under a finger press without leaving a dent. Overbaking can cause dryness so keep an eye on them starting at 12 minutes.
- Cool Before Serving:
- Allow the donuts to cool for a few minutes so they firm up but are still warm enough to enjoy. This is the perfect time to add toppings like powdered sugar or a simple glaze if you want.
I love how the mini chocolate chips melt ever so slightly creating these little pockets of gooey sweetness in every bite. This recipe became a weekend morning tradition in my family as we all gathered around piping and tasting.
Storage tips
Store leftover donuts in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. If you want to keep them longer wrap individually and freeze. To reheat just warm in a microwave or oven briefly to restore softness.
Ingredient swaps
Try using whole wheat pancake mix for a nuttier flavor and slightly more fiber. You can swap mini chocolate chips for white chocolate or peanut butter chips to vary the taste. For a nutty twist add chopped nuts to the batter carefully so they don&t overpower the texture.
Serving ideas
Serve warm with fresh fruit and a drizzle of honey or maple syrup for extra sweetness. Dust powdered sugar over the top for a classic look or dip the donuts in melted chocolate to make an indulgent treat. They pair wonderfully with coffee or milk for any time of day.
These chocolate chip pancake donuts are a delightful way to start your day or enjoy as a quick treat. Their simple prep and flexible flavor options make them a must-try recipe.
Frequently Asked Recipe Questions
- → Can I use different chocolate chips?
Absolutely! Mini chocolate chips are suggested for even distribution, but you can substitute with dark, milk, or white chocolate chips depending on your preference.
- → What’s the best way to fill the donut pans?
Using a piping bag or a zip-top bag with a cut corner helps to neatly fill each donut mold without mess or uneven batter amounts.
- → How do I know when the donuts are baked properly?
The donuts are done when they bounce back gently when pressed with a finger and have a light golden hue around the edges.
- → Can I prepare the batter ahead of time?
It’s best to prepare and bake the batter shortly after mixing to maintain the batter’s leavening properties and ensure fluffiness.
- → What toppings complement these donuts?
Powdered sugar, glaze, or sprinkles add both flavor and visual appeal, enhancing the chocolate chip notes and soft texture.