Moist Baked Chocolate Donuts Recipe

Who says you can’t enjoy a baked chocolate donut while working toward your weight-loss goals? These baked chocolate donuts are just 6 Weight Watchers points each, are baked in a donut pan (not fried), and use less sugar than a typical bakery donut. They’re finished with a simple chocolate glaze and colorful sprinkles for a cheerful treat that satisfies a sweet tooth without derailing progress.

Baked Chocolate Donuts

If you compare these to a standard chocolate donut from a grocery store bakery, most store-bought varieties can be double or more in points—often ranging from 11 to 15 points depending on the size and toppings. These baked donuts give you the joy of cake and sprinkles with fewer points and less guilt.

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Donuts Vs Doughnuts?

Both spellings — “donuts” and “doughnuts” — are common and understood. “Doughnuts” is the older, traditional spelling, while “donuts” is a shorter, more casual version used frequently in recipes and branding. Use whichever you prefer; both refer to the same delicious treat.

Can I eat donuts on Weight Watchers?

Yes. Eating treats in moderation is part of a sustainable approach to weight loss. I personally track my points and have found that these baked chocolate donuts fit into my plan at 6 points each across Blue, Green, and Purple plans. Weight loss is a gradual process, and small, controlled indulgences can help you stay consistent long term. Celebrate progress, be patient, and enjoy a donut now and then without guilt.

Frosted chocolate donuts on a wire rack.

Ingredients Needed

  • Self-rising flour — contains leavening and salt, which simplifies the recipe.
  • Cocoa powder — unsweetened cocoa gives the donuts their chocolate flavor. I like a reliable brand like Hershey’s.
  • Salt — a small amount balances the sweetness and deepens flavor.
  • Unsweetened almond milk — a lighter dairy-free option; use regular milk if you prefer and tolerate it.
  • Brown sugar — adds sweetness and a hint of molasses flavor.
  • Egg — binds the batter and adds structure.
  • Melted butter — unsalted butter is best so you control the salt level.
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla — pure vanilla extract adds depth. Use a quality extract if possible.
  • See the recipe card below for exact measurements.

How to make Baked Chocolate Donuts

Step 1: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).

Step 2: In a medium bowl, whisk together 1 cup self-rising flour, 1/4 cup cocoa powder, and 1/4 teaspoon salt. Set aside. Melt the butter so it’s ready to mix with the wet ingredients.

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Step 3: In a separate bowl, whisk together the wet ingredients: 1/2 cup unsweetened almond milk, 6 tablespoons brown sugar, 1 egg, 2 tablespoons melted light butter, and 1 teaspoon vanilla.

Wet ingredients for baked donuts in a bowl.

Step 4: Pour the wet mixture over the dry ingredients and whisk until just combined—do not overmix.

All the dry and wet ingredients combined together in a bowl.

Step 5: Lightly spray a donut pan with cooking spray. Spoon about 2 tablespoons of batter into each donut cavity. Smooth the tops so the batter fills the hole evenly.

Baked chocolate donut batter in a donut pan.

Step 6: Bake for 10 to 12 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Remove donuts from the pan and transfer to a wire rack to cool.

Baked Chocolate Donuts topped with chocolate frosting and sprinkles.

While the donuts bake, make a quick chocolate glaze by whisking together 6 tablespoons powdered sugar, 2 tablespoons cocoa powder, 1/2 teaspoon vanilla, and about 2 tablespoons milk until smooth. Dip each cooled donut into the glaze and finish with colorful sprinkles.

Toppings for Baked Chocolate Donuts

These donuts pair well with many WW-friendly toppings. Be creative and choose options that fit your plan and taste.

  • Unsweetened shredded coconut
  • Cocoa nibs for crunch
  • Reconstituted PB2 mixed with a little water for a lighter peanut butter topping
  • Chopped fresh strawberries
  • Crushed chocolate sandwich cookies for a treat
  • S’mores-style toppings with mini marshmallows and graham cracker crumbs (watch portions)

How long do baked donuts last?

Store cooled donuts in an airtight container at room temperature for 2 to 3 days. For longer storage, let them cool completely and freeze in a single layer in a freezer bag or airtight container. Thaw before glazing, or glaze then freeze on a tray and transfer to a bag once set.

More Great Recipes to Try

  • Dubai Chocolate Dates (recipe available elsewhere on this site)
  • Chocolate-covered strawberries
  • No-bake chocolate peanut butter cookies
  • Classic chocolate chip cookies

If you try these baked chocolate donuts, I’d love to hear how they turned out in the comments. Enjoy baking and treating yourself in a balanced, sustainable way.


Recipe Card

  • Yield: 8 donuts
  • Prep time: 5 minutes
  • Cook time: 10–12 minutes
  • Total time: about 20 minutes

Ingredients

  • 1 cup self-rising flour
  • 1/4 cup cocoa powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 cup unsweetened almond milk
  • 6 tablespoons brown sugar
  • 1 egg
  • 2 tablespoons light melted butter
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla

Glaze:

  • 6 tablespoons powdered sugar
  • 2 tablespoons cocoa powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon vanilla
  • 2 tablespoons milk (adjust for consistency)
  • 2 tablespoons colorful sprinkles

Notes

myWW points: Blue Points: 6; Green Points: 6; Purple Points: 6. Serving size: 1 donut.


Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 donut
  • Calories: 153
  • Sugar: 15g
  • Sodium: 317mg
  • Fat: 4g
  • Saturated Fat: 1g
  • Carbohydrates: 29g
  • Fiber: 2g
  • Protein: 3g