Peppermint Mocha Donuts

Name: Peppermint Mocha Donuts
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 25 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: ¾ cup plus 1 tbsp all-purpose flour; 1/3 cup cocoa powder; 4 tsp instant espresso powder; 1 tsp baking powder; ½ tsp baking soda; ¼ tsp salt; ¼ cup granulated sugar; 1 tbsp brown sugar; ¼ cup Greek yogurt; ¼ cup plus 2 tbsp milk; 1 egg; 1 tsp vanilla extract; 1 tbsp unsalted butter (melted); 1½ cups powdered sugar; 2 tbsp milk; ¼ tsp peppermint extract; 2 tbsp crushed peppermint candies

Posted on October 8, 2025

Desserts & Sweets

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The flavors of Peppermint Mocha Donuts combine rich chocolate, bold coffee, and refreshing peppermint in a delightful treat. Perfect for holiday gatherings or a cozy morning snack, these baked donuts are quick to whip up and will impress everyone at your table. Their unique blend of flavors makes them stand out, ensuring every bite is a festive experience.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick to Prepare: With a prep time of just 15 minutes, you can have these delicious donuts ready in no time.
Delicious Flavor Combination: The mix of chocolate, coffee, and peppermint creates a mouthwatering treat that satisfies all cravings.
Versatile for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a festive celebration or a simple brunch, these donuts fit right in.
Baked Instead of Fried: Enjoy a healthier version of donuts without sacrificing taste, as these are baked to perfection.
Customizable Toppings: Feel free to add your favorite toppings or glazes to make them uniquely yours.

Tools and Preparation

Before you start making your Peppermint Mocha Donuts, gather your kitchen tools. Having everything organized will streamline the process and enhance your baking experience.

Essential Kitchen Tools

Mixing bowls
Whisk
Measuring cups and spoons
Donut pan
Cooling rack

Why These Tools Matter

Mixing bowls: Essential for combining dry and wet ingredients efficiently for a smooth batter.
Donut pan: Provides the perfect shape for your baked donuts, ensuring they come out evenly cooked.
Whisk: Helps incorporate air into the batter for light and fluffy donuts.

Ingredients

Ingredients:
– ¾ cup plus 1 tbsp. all-purpose flour
– 1/3 cup cocoa powder
– 4 tsp. instant espresso powder
– 1 tsp. baking powder
– ½ tsp. baking soda
– ¼ tsp. salt
– ¼ cup granulated sugar
– 1 tbsp. brown sugar
– ¼ cup Greek yogurt
– ¼ cup plus 2 tbsp. milk (I used whole)
– 1 egg
– 1 tsp. vanilla extract
– 1 tbsp. unsalted butter (melted and cooled slightly)
– 1 1/2 cups powdered sugar
– 2 tbsp. milk
– ¼ tsp. peppermint extract
– 2 tbsp. crushed peppermint candies

How to Make Peppermint Mocha Donuts

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that your donuts bake evenly.

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a mixing bowl, combine the following dry ingredients:
1. Add the flour, cocoa powder, instant espresso powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
2. Whisk together until well combined.

Step 3: Combine Wet Ingredients

In another bowl, mix together:
1. The granulated sugar, brown sugar, and the following wet ingredients:
– Add the Greek yogurt,
– Pour in the milk,
– Crack in the egg,
– Stir in the vanilla extract,
– Finally, mix in the melted butter.
2. Whisk until smooth.

Step 4: Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures

Pour the wet mixture into the dry ingredients:
1. Gently fold with a spatula until just combined; avoid overmixing.

Step 5: Fill the Donut Pan

Using a spoon or piping bag:
1. Fill each section of your donut pan about halfway with batter.
2. Smooth out tops if needed.

Step 6: Bake the Donuts

Place your filled donut pan into the preheated oven:
1. Bake for about 10 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
2. Allow to cool in the pan for a few minutes before transferring to a cooling rack.

Step 7: Prepare the Glaze

While donuts cool:
1. In a bowl, mix together powdered sugar, milk, and peppermint extract until smooth.
2. Adjust consistency as needed by adding more milk or powdered sugar.

Step 8: Glaze Your Donuts

Once donuts are completely cooled:
1. Dip each donut into the glaze,
2. Sprinkle with crushed peppermint candies on top before the glaze sets.

Enjoy your homemade Peppermint Mocha Donuts!

How to Serve Peppermint Mocha Donuts

Serving Peppermint Mocha Donuts can be a delightful experience. Whether it’s for a cozy breakfast, a festive gathering, or simply a sweet treat, there are various ways to enjoy these delicious donuts.

Enjoy with a Warm Beverage

Coffee – Pair these donuts with your favorite brew for an extra boost of energy.
Hot Chocolate – The rich chocolate flavor complements the peppermint perfectly.
Herbal Tea – A soothing tea can balance the sweetness of the donuts.

Festive Garnishes

Whipped Cream – Add a dollop of whipped cream on top for extra indulgence.
Chocolate Drizzle – A drizzle of melted chocolate enhances the overall taste and presentation.
Sprinkles – Use festive sprinkles to make them more visually appealing during the holidays.

Creative Plating Ideas

Tiered Stand – Serve donuts on a tiered cake stand for an eye-catching display at gatherings.
Individual Servings – Place each donut in a decorative cupcake liner for individual servings that are both charming and practical.

How to Perfect Peppermint Mocha Donuts

To ensure your Peppermint Mocha Donuts turn out perfectly every time, consider these helpful tips.

Bold Measurement Accuracy – Ensure you measure your ingredients accurately for consistent results.
Bold Fresh Ingredients – Use fresh baking powder and cocoa powder for maximum flavor and rise.
Bold Proper Mixing – Mix just until combined to avoid dense donuts; over-mixing can lead to tough texture.
Bold Cool Completely – Allow donuts to cool completely before glazing, ensuring the frosting sets properly.
Bold Experimentation – Feel free to adjust the peppermint extract to suit your personal taste preferences.

Best Side Dishes for Peppermint Mocha Donuts

Pairing side dishes with your Peppermint Mocha Donuts can enhance your dessert experience. Here are some delightful options that complement their flavors well.

Fresh Fruit Salad – A colorful mix of seasonal fruits adds freshness and balances sweetness.
Yogurt Parfait – Layer yogurt with granola and berries for a creamy and crunchy contrast.
Nutty Granola Bars – A crunchy granola bar provides texture while keeping it healthy.
Cheese Platter – A selection of cheeses offers savory notes that pair well with sweet flavors.
Cinnamon Roll Bites – Small bites of cinnamon rolls introduce warm spices that harmonize beautifully.
Savory Scones – Cheese or herb scones add a savory option that pairs nicely with sweet treats.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Baking Peppermint Mocha Donuts can be a delightful experience, but it’s easy to make some common mistakes. Here’s how to avoid them.

Bold Measurements: Skipping precise measurements can lead to inconsistent results. Always use a kitchen scale or measuring cups for accuracy.
Bold Overmixing the Batter: Overmixing can create tough donuts. Stir until just combined for a light and fluffy texture.
Bold Ignoring Cooling Time: Not allowing the donuts to cool completely before glazing can cause the icing to melt. Be patient and let them cool down.
Bold Using Low-Quality Ingredients: Cheap ingredients can affect flavor. Invest in good cocoa powder and fresh peppermint for the best taste.
Bold Misjudging Baking Time: Each oven is different, so check your donuts a minute or two early. They should spring back when lightly touched.

Refrigerator Storage

Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Keep them in a single layer to prevent sticking.

Freezing Peppermint Mocha Donuts

Wrap each donut individually in plastic wrap before placing them in a freezer-safe bag.
They will last for up to 2 months in the freezer.

Reheating Peppermint Mocha Donuts

Bold Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Place donuts on a baking sheet for about 5-7 minutes until warm.
Bold Microwave: Heat one donut at a time in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds for quick warming.
Bold Stovetop: Place a donut in a skillet over low heat, cover with a lid, and warm for about 2-3 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I make Peppermint Mocha Donuts gluten-free?

You can substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend that includes xanthan gum for best results.

Can I customize the frosting on my Peppermint Mocha Donuts?

Absolutely! You can add cocoa powder or vanilla extract to the glaze for extra flavor.

What is the best way to store Peppermint Mocha Donuts?

Keep them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or freeze them for longer storage.

Are Peppermint Mocha Donuts suitable for breakfast?

Yes! These donuts make a great breakfast treat paired with coffee or milk due to their delicious flavors.

Conclusion

These Peppermint Mocha Donuts are not only easy to whip up but also deliver delightful flavors that everyone will love. Feel free to customize them with different toppings or spices according to your taste preferences!