Step 1: Preparing the Donut Batter
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease your donut pan.
- Mix the Dry Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, cocoa powder, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
- Combine the Wet Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the buttermilk, egg, melted butter, and vanilla extract until smooth.
- Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures: Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and mix until just combined. Be careful not to overmix—this will help keep the donuts soft and tender.
- Fill the Donut Pan: Spoon the batter into a piping bag or a large zip-top bag with the corner cut off. Pipe the batter into the prepared donut pan, filling each cavity about ⅔ full.
Step 2: Baking the Donuts
- Bake: Bake the donuts in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Cool the Donuts: Allow the donuts to cool in the pan for a few minutes before transferring them to a cooling rack. Let them cool completely before glazing.
Step 3: Making the Cookies and Cream Glaze
- Prepare the Glaze: In a mixing bowl, whisk together the powdered sugar, heavy cream (or milk), and vanilla extract until smooth. The glaze should be thick but pourable. If it’s too thick, add a little more cream; if it’s too thin, add more powdered sugar.
- Add the Crushed Oreos: Stir in most of the crushed Oreo cookies, leaving some aside for sprinkling on top.
- Glaze the Donuts: Dip each cooled donut into the glaze, allowing the excess to drip off. Place the glazed donuts back on the cooling rack and immediately sprinkle the remaining Oreo crumbs on top.
5. Decorating and Serving Ideas
- Extra Drizzle: For a more indulgent look, drizzle melted white chocolate over the glazed donuts.
- Double Stuff: For even more Oreo flavor, add extra crushed cookies on top of the glaze.
- Chocolate Ganache: For a richer finish, drizzle the donuts with a thin layer of chocolate ganache before adding the glaze.
6. Tips for Perfect Donuts
- Don’t Overmix: Overmixing the batter can lead to tough donuts. Mix just until the ingredients are combined.
- Fill the Pan Evenly: For evenly shaped donuts, make sure each cavity is filled to the same level.
- Use Fresh Oreos: Fresh Oreos have the best texture for both the glaze and topping, giving the donuts that perfect crunch.
7. Variations and Customizations
- Vanilla Donuts: Swap the chocolate donut base for a vanilla batter if you prefer a lighter flavor.
- Stuffed Donuts: Add a layer of Oreo cream filling to the center of each donut before baking for an extra surprise.
- Gluten-Free Option: Use a gluten-free flour blend to make these donuts gluten-free.
8. FAQs and Storage Tips
- How Long Do These Donuts Last? These donuts are best enjoyed fresh but can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days.
- Can I Freeze the Donuts? Yes! Freeze the unglazed donuts for up to 2 months. Thaw them at room temperature and glaze them before serving.
- Can I Make the Batter Ahead of Time? It’s best to bake the donuts immediately after mixing the batter for the fluffiest results.
9. Conclusion: A Fun and Delicious Dessert
These Oreo Cookies and Cream Donuts are a fun twist on a classic favorite, blending the iconic flavors of Oreo cookies with soft, baked donuts. They’re easy to make and perfect for any occasion, from breakfast treats to party desserts. Plus, who can resist that crunchy Oreo topping?
Whip up a batch of these delicious donuts and watch them disappear in no time—just be sure to save one for yourself!