Super Bowl Desserts Chocolate Donut Holes

Name: Super Bowl Desserts Chocolate Donut Holes
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 24 donut holes
Ingredients: 1 box chocolate cake mix; 2 large eggs; 1/2 cup vegetable oil; 1 cup water; 1 cup powdered sugar; 2 tablespoons cocoa powder; 2 tablespoons milk; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1/2 teaspoon espresso powder (optional)

Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts

When I think of the Super Bowl, I not only anticipate the excitement of the game but also the delightful array of snacks that accompany it. This year, I decided to whip up some chocolate donut holes that are perfect for sharing with friends and family. They are decadently rich and offer a fun twist to the typical game-day treats. Plus, they are surprisingly easy to make, and once you take a bite, you won't be able to resist going back for more!

Created by

Anya Coleman

Last updated on 2026-01-10T12:04:16.374Z

Every Super Bowl, I strive to elevate my dessert game, and this year, my chocolate donut holes truly stole the show. With an addictive chocolate glaze that's easy to whip up, I loved watching my friends devour them while cheering on their teams. The combination of fluffy, moist donut centers with that rich glaze was a hit!

After testing several variations, I found that using a cake mix not only simplifies the process but keeps the donut holes incredibly moist. I also added a hint of espresso powder to the glaze to enhance the chocolate flavor—a game-winning tip that I can't recommend enough!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Decadent chocolate flavor that everyone will adore
Perfectly sized for snacking during the big game
Easy to make and easier to share!

      

Mastering the Chocolate Donut Holes

Achieving the perfect texture in donut holes relies heavily on your ingredient balance. The chocolate cake mix forms the foundation, providing that rich, chocolaty flavor, while the eggs deliver moisture and structure. I recommend using room-temperature eggs for optimal mixing; they'll blend more seamlessly into the batter. This helps create a smooth consistency that expands well in the oven, ensuring a lovely dome shape.

When filling your mini muffin tin, be mindful not to overfill the cavities. Aim for about 2/3 full to allow the batter room to rise without spilling over. This will help achieve that desirable donut shape rather than creating a flat top. Keep an eye on them in the oven; they should bake for about 10 minutes, or until you see a slightly puffed, springy surface and a toothpick comes out clean.

Creating the Perfect Chocolate Glaze

The glaze is where you can elevate your donut holes from tasty to utterly indulgent. Combining powdered sugar and cocoa powder creates a smooth and glossy finish, providing both sweetness and that deep chocolate taste. Use a whisk to avoid lumps, ensuring that the glaze is as silky as possible. If you're looking for a two-tone flavor profile, consider adding a dash of espresso powder; it enhances the chocolate richness without overpowering it.

As you glaze the donut holes, a wire rack is essential for allowing excess glaze to drip off. This not only prevents a messy finish but also ensures that the glaze sets perfectly, achieving that coveted sheen. If you find the glaze too thick for dipping, feel free to add an extra splash of milk until you reach your desired consistency.

Ingredients

For the Donut Holes

1 box chocolate cake mix
2 large eggs
1/2 cup vegetable oil
1 cup water

For the Chocolate Glaze

1 cup powdered sugar
2 tablespoons cocoa powder
2 tablespoons milk
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/2 teaspoon espresso powder (optional)

Mix your ingredients well to ensure that the batter is smooth and well-combined.

Instructions

Prepare the Donut Holes

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a large bowl, combine the chocolate cake mix, eggs, vegetable oil, and water. Mix until smooth. Grease a mini muffin tin and fill each cavity about 2/3 full with batter.

Bake for 10 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.

Make the Chocolate Glaze

While the donut holes cool, combine powdered sugar, cocoa powder, milk, vanilla extract, and espresso powder in a bowl. Whisk until smooth and set aside.

Glaze the Donut Holes

Once the donut holes are cooled, dip each one into the chocolate glaze and allow excess to drip off. Place them on a wire rack to set.

Allow the glaze to harden before serving for the best presentation.

Pro Tips

For an extra touch, you can sprinkle some chocolate sprinkles on the glaze before it hardens.

Storage Tips for Donut Holes

These chocolate donut holes can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you prefer them fresher, you can also refrigerate them for up to a week. However, I recommend enjoying them within the first few days for the best texture and flavor. If they start to dry out slightly, warming them for about 10 seconds in the microwave can revive their moistness.

For longer storage, consider freezing the donut holes. Place them in a single layer on a baking sheet until frozen, then transfer to a sealed freezer bag. They can last up to three months in the freezer. To enjoy, simply thaw at room temperature for a few hours, or reheat them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-8 minutes until warmed through.

Creative Serving Ideas

Serve these chocolate donut holes as a delectable bite-sized treat during your Super Bowl gathering. They’re perfect for platters or served alongside a variety of dips like caramel or raspberry sauce for an unexpected twist. For a bit of flair, you can roll some donut holes in shredded coconut or chopped nuts after glazing; this adds delightful texture and visual appeal.

If you want to customize these for various taste preferences, consider adding fillings before baking. You could fill them with dollops of peanut butter, Nutella, or even a raspberry jam to provide a surprise element with every bite. This small modification elevates the dessert while still keeping the process straightforward and enjoyable.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use homemade cake batter instead of a mix?

Absolutely! Just ensure it's a chocolate cake batter.

→ How can I store leftover donut holes?

Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.

→ Can I make these in advance for the Super Bowl?

Yes, you can make the donut holes a day ahead and glaze them just before serving.

→ What can I substitute for espresso powder?

You can omit it or replace it with instant coffee for a similar flavor boost.