Homemade Dunkin Brownie Batter Donut Recipe

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This Dunkin Brownie Batter Donut is the perfect, soul-warming sip accompanied by an indulgent, melt-in-your-mouth treat that truly makes the moment special. For those of us who find sanctuary in these small daily rituals, the quest for the ultimate comfort food leads us down many a bakery aisle. However, it’s the thrill of creating these indulgences at home that really gets the heart racing.

How to make Dunkin Brownie Batter Donut

The Dunkin’ Brownie Batter Donut is a limited-edition donut that Dunkin‘ typically releases around Valentine’s Day. It’s a fan-favorite because of its rich, dessert-like filling and festive design.

Ingredients:

For the Donuts:

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
• 1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 2 large eggs at room temperature
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1 cup milk at room temperature
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
• Vegetable oil for frying

For the Brownie Batter Filling:

• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1 cup powdered sugar
• 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
• 1/4 cup heavy cream
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• A pinch of salt

For the Chocolate Icing:

• 1 1/2 cups powdered sugar
• 1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
• 2-3 tablespoons milk
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Instructions:

Making the Donuts:

1. Prepare the Dough: In a large mixing bowl, sift together the flour, 1/2 cup cocoa powder, baking powder, and salt. In another bowl, whisk the eggs and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. Mix in the milk, melted butter, and vanilla extract. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing until it is just combined.
2. Chill: Cover the dough and chill in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour. This step is crucial as it will make the dough easier to handle.
3. Shape Donuts: On a floured surface, roll out the dough to about 1/2-inch thickness. Use a donut cutter or two differently sized round cutters to shape your donuts and their holes.
4. Fry: Heat vegetable oil in a deep-fryer or large saucepan to 375°F (190°C). Fry the donuts in batches, being careful not to overcrowd the pan, for about 1 minute on each side, or until puffed up and golden brown. Transfer to a wire rack to cool.

Prepare the Brownie Batter Filling:

1. Beat the softened butter until creamy. Gradually add the powdered sugar and cocoa powder, mixing until well combined. Add the heavy cream, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt, beating until smooth.

Make the Chocolate Icing:

1. Sift together the powdered sugar and cocoa powder in a medium bowl. Stir in the milk and vanilla extract until smooth. The icing should be thick but pourable. If necessary, adjust the consistency with a little more milk.

Assemble the Donuts:

1. Fill the Donuts: Transfer the brownie batter filling to a piping bag fitted with a narrow tip. Insert the tip into each donut and gently squeeze to fill with the brownie batter creme.
2. Ice the Donuts: Dip the top of each filled donut into the chocolate icing, letting any excess drip off. Return to the wire rack to set it slightly.
3. Decorate: While the icing is still wet, sprinkle with festive sprinkles for that iconic Dunkin’ finish.

Tips for Perfect Donuts:

• Consistency is Key: For the dough, ensure it is not too sticky by adding a little more flour or too dry by adding a splash of milk, aiming for a soft, pliable consistency.
• Keep an Eye on Temperature: It is crucial to maintain the correct oil temperature while frying. Too hot, and the donuts will burn on the outside while remaining uncooked inside. Too cool, and they will absorb oil, becoming greasy.
• Filling Fabulously: Be gentle when filling your donuts. Aim for a steady pressure to evenly distribute the brownie batter creme without overfilling and bursting the donuts.

What to serve with

Serving Dunkin Brownie Batter Donuts as part of a more extensive spread or pairing them with the perfect complement can transform a simple treat into an indulgent, memorable experience.

Beverages:

1. Coffee:

• Classic Brewed Coffee: The robust, slightly bitter flavors of coffee balance the sweetness of the donuts splendidly.
• Espresso or Americano: For a stronger coffee taste that cuts through the sweetness while enhancing the chocolate flavors.
• Cappuccino or Latte: The milk in these beverages complements the creaminess of the brownie batter filling, creating a harmonious blend of flavors.

2. Tea:

• Black Tea: A strong black tea, like an English breakfast or Earl Grey, pairs well with the sweetness of the Dunkin Brownie Batter Donut, providing a refreshing contrast.
• Chai Tea: The spices in chai, such as cinnamon, cardamom, and ginger, complement the rich chocolate flavors, adding a warm, aromatic dimension.

3. Cold Beverages:

• Cold Brew Coffee: Offers a cool, refreshing counterbalance to the richness of the donuts while still providing a coffee flavor that complements chocolate.
• Chocolate Milk: For an ultra-indulgent experience, chocolate milk enhances the chocolate experience in every bite.
• Iced Lattes: Providing the same benefits as their hot counterparts but adding a refreshing cold element ideal for warmer days.

Sweet Side Pairings:

1. Fruit:

• Berries: Strawberries, raspberries, and blueberries provide a tart contrast to the sweet and rich Dunkin Brownie Batter Donut, refreshing the palate.
• Banana Slices: The natural sweetness and soft texture of bananas complement the creamy, chocolatey elements nicely.

2. Yogurt:

• Greek Yogurt with Honey: A dollop of thick Greek yogurt drizzled with honey adds a tangy contrast to the Dunkin Brownie Batter Donut, balancing their sweetness.

Savory Side Pairings:

1. Cheese Board: A selection of cheeses, particularly those that are not too strong, can balance the sweetness of the donuts. Consider mild brie, cream cheese, or soft goat cheese. Pair with some nuts and honey for a delightful contrast.

2. Bacon: Bacon’s salty, smoky flavor contrasts beautifully with the sweet, chocolaty depth of the donuts, offering a savory touch that is irresistible to many.

Ingredients Substitutes

Creating a homemade version of Dunkin’s Brownie Batter Donut can be a fun and rewarding baking project, and knowing how to substitute ingredients can help customize the treat to meet dietary restrictions or utilize what you have on hand.

• All-Purpose Flour → Gluten-Free All-Purpose Flour: To make it gluten-free, use a gluten-free flour blend that includes xanthan gum, or add xanthan gum according to the package instructions.
• Sugar → Coconut Sugar or Honey: For a less refined sugar option, though this will change the flavor slightly.
• Cocoa Powder → Carob Powder: Carob is naturally sweeter than cocoa and caffeine-free, though it has a different flavor.
• Milk → Almond Milk or Soy Milk: Any non-dairy milk will work here if you are avoiding dairy.
• Eggs → Flaxseed Meal: Use one tablespoon of flaxseed meal mixed with three tablespoons of water per egg. This is a great choice for vegans.
• Butter → Coconut Oil or Vegan Butter: Either option works well for dairy-free diets.
• Vanilla Extract → Almond Extract: This will give a slightly different flavor but can add an interesting twist, if preferred.

Final Thoughts

Indulging in a home-crafted Dunkin Brownie Batter Donut is a fulfilling venture into gourmet baking. By following these detailed instructions and tips, you’ll elevate your baking prowess and delight in the rich, chocolatey goodness of these delectable treats, all from the comfort of your kitchen.

More Dunkin’ Recipes:

• Homemade Dunkin’ Creamer Recipe
• Homemade Dunkin’ Mochi Donut Recipe
• Copycat Dunkin’ Whoopie Pie Donut Recipe
• Homemade Dunkin’ Brown Sugar Shaken Espresso Recipe