Name: Gluten-Free Donuts with Chocolate and Cinnamon Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 cups (240g) all purpose gluten free flour (King Arthur’s Measure for Measure Gluten Free Flour recommended); 1/2 tsp ground nutmeg; 1/2 cup (99g) granulated sugar; 2 tsp baking powder; 1 tsp salt; 1/2 cup + 2 tbsp (148ml) milk (whole milk); 2 large eggs; 1 tsp vanilla extract; 1/4 cup plus 2 tbsp (89ml) vegetable oil; 1/2 cup (85g) semi-sweet chocolate chips; 2 Tbsp unsalted butter; 2 tsp light corn syrup; Rainbow sprinkles (Great Value rainbow sprinkles from Walmart recommended); 1 1/2 cups (169g) powdered sugar for glaze; 1-2 Tbsp milk (whole milk for glaze); 1 tsp vanilla extract for glaze; 1 cup (113g) powdered sugar for dusting; 2/3 cup (133g) granulated sugar for cinnamon sugar; 2 tsp cinnamon for cinnamon sugar

There’s something incredibly comforting about biting into warm, fluffy donuts that are still soft on the inside with just the right hint of sweetness. This Gluten-Free Donuts with Chocolate and Cinnamon Recipe not only satisfies that craving but also comes together quickly, perfect for when you want a special treat without the hassle.

A pile of assorted donuts placed on a white marbled surface, showing five different types. The first type has a light brown cinnamon sugar coating with a slightly grainy texture, scattered around the edges. The second type has a smooth white powdered sugar coating, also scattered throughout the pile. The third type shows a shiny white glaze with a smooth surface, placed on top in different spots. The fourth type consists of chocolate glaze donuts topped with colorful rainbow sprinkles, with two of these donuts showing bites taken out to reveal a soft golden inside. The donuts are overlapping each other in a casual arrangement. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 2:3 --v 7

Jump to:

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Ingredients & Why They Work
Make It Your Way
Step-by-Step: How I Make Gluten-Free Donuts with Chocolate and Cinnamon Recipe
Top Tip
How to Serve Gluten-Free Donuts with Chocolate and Cinnamon Recipe
Make Ahead and Storage
Frequently Asked Questions:
Final Thoughts
Gluten-Free Donuts with Chocolate and Cinnamon Recipe

Why You'll Love This Recipe

I can't tell you how many times I've reached for this recipe when friends pop over unexpectedly or when I just want to indulge without guilt — it's reliable, simple, and truly delicious. Plus, the combo of chocolate and cinnamon feels like a warm hug every time.

Gluten-free and friendly: Specifically designed with gluten-free flour so everyone can dive in guilt-free.
Quick and simple: Makes a batch of 12 in about 30 minutes, no complicated steps needed.
Delicious versatility: Whether you want chocolate-covered or a cinnamon sugar pinch, you get to choose your favorite finish.
Made with everyday ingredients: No mysterious items needed — you probably have most of these in your pantry already.

Ingredients & Why They Work

This recipe uses just 10 ingredients, and each plays its part in creating that perfect donut texture and flavor. I like to shop for a reliable gluten-free flour blend—King Arthur’s Measure for Measure is my top pick because it bakes consistently every time.

Flat lay of a small mound of fine white gluten free flour, a small white ceramic bowl filled with golden vegetable oil, two large whole brown eggs with clean shells, a small white bowl with white granulated sugar crystals, a small white bowl of fine ground cinnamon, a small cluster of semi-sweet dark chocolate chips, a small white bowl holding pale yellow unsalted butter cubes, a small white bowl containing smooth light corn syrup, a small white bowl of pure white powdered sugar, a tiny white bowl with creamy whole milk, and a few colorful rainbow sprinkles scattered neatly, all arranged in perfect symmetry on a clean white marble surface, soft natural light, photo taken with an iPhone, professional food photography style, fresh ingredients, white ceramic bowls, no bottles, no duplicates, no utensils, no packaging --ar 2:3 --v 7 --p m7354615311229779997

Gluten-free flour blend: The base of the donuts. Make sure it’s a blend designed for baking with xanthan gum included or added separately.
Ground nutmeg: A subtle warming spice that adds depth without overpowering.
Granulated sugar: Sweetens the batter and helps create that light crust on the donuts.
Baking powder: Your rise agent, critical for those fluffy, airy bites.
Salt: Balances sweetness and elevates all the flavors.
Milk: I recommend whole milk to keep the donuts moist and tender.
Eggs: Bind the ingredients together and add structure.
Vanilla extract: That warm, inviting aroma and flavor that makes donuts irresistible.
Vegetable oil: Keeps the donuts moist and soft for days.
Semi-sweet chocolate chips: For melting inside or on top, delivering rich pockets of chocolate.

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Note: You'll find the complete list of ingredients, along with their exact measurements, in the printable recipe card at the bottom of this post.

Make It Your Way

One of the best things about this Gluten-Free Donuts with Chocolate and Cinnamon Recipe is how easy it is to customize. You can mix and match toppings or even add flavor twists to the batter.

Chocolate lovers’ version: I’ve doubled the chocolate chips once and been rewarded with gooey, chocolate-studded donuts that are pure bliss.
Cinnamon sugar topping: Dusting them immediately after baking adds an extra layer of sweet warmth, especially perfect in the fall.
Doughnut glaze: A simple powdered sugar glaze with vanilla is my go-to for a shiny finish that still lets the donut shine.

Step-by-Step: How I Make Gluten-Free Donuts with Chocolate and Cinnamon Recipe

A white box is filled with four neat rows of doughnuts on a white marbled surface. The first row shows plain doughnuts with a smooth light tan glaze, each with a soft texture. The second row has chocolate-covered doughnuts topped with colorful sprinkles, the smooth dark chocolate layer contrasts with the bright bits on top. The third row contains white powdered sugar doughnuts, looking soft and slightly fluffy with a thick dusting. The fourth row has cinnamon sugar doughnuts, showing a grainy brown topping with a slightly rough texture. Each doughnut is round with a hole in the middle, all lined up evenly. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 2:3 --v 7

Step 1: Gather and Prepare Your Ingredients

I always start by assembling everything so nothing is forgotten in the middle. Measure out your flour, sugar, and spices carefully, especially the gluten-free flour — accuracy helps with texture.

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a large bowl, whisk together the gluten-free flour, ground nutmeg, granulated sugar, baking powder, and salt. Combining them well at this stage means even flavor and rise throughout your donuts.

Step 3: Whisk Wet Ingredients Separately

In another bowl, beat the eggs, then add the milk, vanilla extract, and vegetable oil. This keeps the wet and dry separate until the final mix and helps avoid over-mixing the batter.

Step 4: Combine Batter and Add Chocolate Chips

Pour the wet ingredients into the dry and stir gently just until you don’t see flour anymore—I find a few streaks is okay. Fold in the chocolate chips at the end to keep them intact and distribute evenly.

Step 5: Fill Donut Pan and Bake

Spray a donut pan with non-stick spray, then fill each cavity about three-quarters full with batter. Bake in a preheated 350°F (175°C) oven for about 10 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean. Watch carefully to avoid over-baking; you want soft, delicate donuts.

Step 6: Finish with Your Favorite Topping

While still warm, dip your donuts in melted butter mixed with a drop of light corn syrup for shine, then either toss them in cinnamon sugar or drizzle with a simple powdered sugar glaze. For a chocolate finish, melt more chocolate chips with a tablespoon of butter and drizzle on top.

Top Tip

I’ve made this recipe dozens of times, and these little tips helped me get the best results every time. Nothing is more disappointing than a donut that falls apart or tastes dry, so these tricks keep things moist and flavorful.

Measuring gluten-free flour: Use a kitchen scale if you can—gluten-free flours can be tricky, and too much flour makes the batter dense.
Don’t overmix the batter: Stir just enough to combine; overmixing can lead to tough donuts.
Tap the pan gently: After filling the donut holes, give the pan a light tap to release air bubbles and get a smoother texture.
Watch baking time closely: Start checking at 8 minutes; overbaking dries out the donuts since gluten-free flours don’t retain moisture like regular flour.

How to Serve Gluten-Free Donuts with Chocolate and Cinnamon Recipe

Garnishes

I’m a sucker for colorful sprinkles—they add a cheerful pop and crunch that's a perfect contrast to the soft donuts. Sometimes I go for a simple cinnamon sugar dusting or a glossy chocolate drizzle, both of which bring a delightful finish depending on the mood.

Side Dishes

Pair these donuts with a hot cup of coffee or chai tea to balance the sweetness, or serve alongside fresh berries to lighten things up for brunch. I’ve found they’re also great with vanilla or berry yogurt for a little tang.

Creative Ways to Present

For birthdays or celebrations, place the donuts on a tiered stand and alternate the chocolate and cinnamon versions—they look festive and invite everyone to take their favorite. You can even poke a few holes and insert decorative straws or sticks to turn them into fun donut pops for kids.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

I store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature, and they usually stay soft for up to two days. To prevent them from drying out, I sometimes pop a slightly damp paper towel inside the container.

Freezing

These donuts freeze beautifully! I wrap them individually in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag. When you want a treat, just thaw at room temperature or gently warm them.

Reheating

To bring back that fresh-baked feel, I like reheating them in a toaster oven or regular oven at low heat for 3-4 minutes. You avoid sogginess and revive the soft texture — microwaves tend to make them rubbery.

Frequently Asked Questions:

Can I use any gluten-free flour for this recipe?

While you can experiment, I recommend a high-quality blend like King Arthur's Measure for Measure Gluten Free Flour because it contains xanthan gum and behaves more like regular flour, ensuring better texture and rise.

How do I prevent my gluten-free donuts from drying out?

Monitoring baking time closely is key—start checking at 8 minutes, as gluten-free donuts dry out quickly if overbaked. Also, storing them properly in an airtight container with a slightly damp paper towel helps maintain moisture.

Can I make these donuts dairy-free?

Yes! Swap whole milk for almond, oat, or any other plant-based milk, and replace butter with coconut oil or a dairy-free margarine. The texture may vary slightly but still delicious.

What’s the best way to add chocolate to the donuts?

I recommend folding chocolate chips into the batter for pockets of melty chocolate. You can also drizzle melted chocolate on top after baking for extra indulgence.

Final Thoughts

This Gluten-Free Donuts with Chocolate and Cinnamon Recipe quickly became a favorite in my home because it strikes the perfect balance between simplicity and indulgence. Whether you’re new to gluten-free baking or just looking for a trustworthy treat, these donuts won’t disappoint. I’m confident you’ll enjoy making (and eating) them as much as I do—give it a try and watch smiles emerge with every bite!