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Chocolate Donut Cake

chocolate donut cake - featured image

A quick and easy decadent chocolate donut cake that layers classic donuts with rich chocolate ganache, perfect for impressing guests without complicated baking.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 6 plain chocolate-glazed donuts (store-bought or homemade)
  • 1 cup (240 ml) heavy cream
  • 8 ounces (225 g) bittersweet chocolate, chopped finely
  • 2 tablespoons (28 g) unsalted butter, softened
  • 1 teaspoon espresso powder (optional)
  • 1 teaspoon (5 ml) vanilla extract
  • A pinch of salt
  • Optional garnishes: fresh berries, chopped nuts, powdered sugar

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Ganache (10 minutes): Heat 1 cup (240 ml) of heavy cream in a small saucepan over medium heat until it just starts to simmer. Remove from heat and pour over the chopped bittersweet chocolate in a mixing bowl. Let sit for 2 minutes, then whisk gently until smooth and glossy. Stir in softened butter, espresso powder (if using), vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt. Set aside to cool slightly until thick but pourable.
  2. Slice the Donuts (5 minutes): Using a serrated knife, carefully slice each donut horizontally into two even halves, yielding about 12 layers.
  3. Layer the Cake (15 minutes): Place one donut half on the bottom of an 8-inch springform pan or lined cake pan. Spoon 2-3 tablespoons of ganache over it and spread gently. Repeat layering donuts and ganache until all halves are used. Press down lightly to compact layers without squishing.
  4. Chill the Cake (at least 1 hour): Refrigerate the cake to let the ganache set and flavors meld.
  5. Glaze and Garnish (10 minutes): Pour any remaining ganache over the top for a smooth finish. Add garnishes like fresh raspberries, chopped nuts, or powdered sugar.
  6. Serve: Slice carefully with a sharp knife warmed in hot water for clean cuts. Serve chilled or at room temperature.

Notes

Use firmer donuts to hold shape during layering. If ganache firms too much while chilling, warm briefly in a double boiler or microwave in 10-second bursts before glazing. For dairy-free version, substitute heavy cream with full-fat coconut milk and use dairy-free chocolate. Gluten-free donuts can be used to adapt recipe. Warm serving plates slightly before plating to soften ganache and enhance aroma.

Nutrition

Keywords: chocolate donut cake, easy chocolate cake, ganache cake, layered donut cake, quick dessert, decadent dessert, chocolate glaze