Dunkin’ Dubai Chocolate Donut Recipe

The Dunkin’ Dubai Chocolate Donut isn’t your average chocolate donut. Imagine biting into a rich, fluffy chocolate cake, topped with a luxurious layer of Nutella, a delightful hazelnut drizzle, and a sprinkle of crunchy hazelnuts to finish it off. It’s a treat that turns a simple coffee break into a moment of pure bliss.

Now, I’ve got a special treat for all of you sweet-toothed adventurers at home. What if I told you you could recreate this culinary delight in your kitchen? Yes, it’s possible, and I’m here to guide you through every step.

How to make Dunkin’ Dubai Chocolate Donut

The Dunkin’ Dubai Chocolate Donut is a special donut offered by Dunkin‘ (formerly known as Dunkin’ Donuts) in Dubai. It is typically a limited-edition or region-specific item. It is a chocolate-flavored donut, usually made with a rich, soft dough and coated in a layer of chocolate glaze. In some versions, it may be filled with chocolate cream or ganache for added indulgence.

Ingredients

For the Donuts:

• 1 and 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
• 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 cup buttermilk
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 1/3 cup vegetable oil
• 1 large egg
• 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract

For the Nutella Frosting:

• 1 cup Nutella (or any hazelnut chocolate spread)
• 2 tablespoons butter, softened
• 2 tablespoons milk

For Garnish:

• Crushed hazelnuts

Instructions

Preparing the Donuts:

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a donut pan well to prevent sticking.
2. Mix the dry ingredients: In a large bowl, sift together the flour, cocoa powder, baking soda, and salt.
3. Combine the wet ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the buttermilk, sugar, vegetable oil, egg, and vanilla extract until smooth.
4. Combine wet and dry mixtures: Add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients and mix until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can make the donuts tough.
5. Fill the donut pan: Spoon the batter into the donut pan, filling each one about three-quarters full. Alternatively, you can use a piping bag or a ziplock bag with the corner cut off to pipe the batter into the molds.
6. Bake for 8-10 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the donut comes out clean. Allow the donuts to cool for a few minutes in the pan, then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Making the Nutella Frosting:

1. Prepare the frosting: In a medium bowl, mix Nutella, softened butter, and milk until smooth and well combined.
2. Frost the donuts: Once the donuts have cooled, spread the Nutella frosting over the top of each donut. A small spatula or butter knife will help you get a smooth finish.
3. Add the finishing touch: Sprinkle crushed hazelnuts over the frosted donuts for that extra crunch and nutty flavor.

Tips for Perfect Donuts:

• Ensure all ingredients are at room temperature to make mixing easier and the batter smoother.
• Do not open the oven frequently while the donuts are baking, as it can cause them to deflate.
• If you don’t have buttermilk, you can substitute by adding 1 tablespoon of lemon juice to a cup of regular milk and letting it sit for 5 minutes before use.
• You could drizzle some melted chocolate over the frosted donuts for extra indulgence.

What to serve with

Serving a dessert as indulgent as the Dunkin’ Dubai Chocolate Donut opens up numerous possibilities to complement its richness and satisfy various palates

Beverages:

Coffee:

• Espresso: The strong, bold flavors of espresso contrast nicely with the sweetness of the Dunkin’ Dubai Chocolate Donut.
• Latte: A creamy latte can complement the chocolate Nutella frosting perfectly.
• Iced Coffee: A refreshing choice that pairs well with the dense texture of the donut, especially in warm weather.

Tea:

• Black tea: A robust black tea, like Earl Grey or English Breakfast, can balance the sweetness of the donut with its tannic strength.
• Herbal tea: For a lighter complement, choose mint or chamomile herbal tea, which provides a clean taste to cut through the richness.

Milk:

Cold milk is a classic accompaniment to any chocolate dessert, providing a creamy texture and subtle sweetness.

Sweet Add-ons:

• Ice cream: A scoop of vanilla or hazelnut ice cream on the side can turn your chocolate donut into an extravagant dessert.
• Whipped Cream: A dollop of whipped cream can lighten the dessert and add a velvety texture.
• Fresh Berries: Strawberries, raspberries, or a mixed berries compote can introduce a tart and fruity counterpoint to the chocolate flavors.

Sides:

• Fruit Salad: A light and refreshing fruit salad can cleanse the palate, making each bite of the donut as enjoyable as the first.
• Nuts: A side of toasted nuts, like almonds or pecans, can provide a crunchy contrast to the soft donut.
• Cheese Platter: It might seem unconventional, but chocolate and cheese can be a delicious pairing. Try serving the chocolate donut with a selection of cheeses for a sweet and savory experience.

Ingredients Substitutes

When making a decadent treat like the Dunkin’ Dubai Chocolate Donut, you may need to make substitutions for various reasons, such as dietary restrictions, ingredient availability, or personal preference.

Flour

• All-purpose flour is typically used, but if you need a gluten-free option, you can use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend. Make sure it includes xanthan gum, or add a ¼ teaspoon per cup of flour to ensure your donuts have the right texture.
• Whole wheat flour can be used for a healthier version but might make the donut denser.

Sugar

• Coconut sugar can replace granulated sugar one-to-one if you’re looking for a less processed option, though it will alter the flavor slightly, adding a caramel-like taste.
• Honey or maple syrup can also be used, but reduce the liquid in the recipe by about 3 tablespoons per cup of honey or syrup used, and lower the baking temperature by 25 degrees Fahrenheit to avoid over-browning.

Milk

• For a dairy-free alternative, almond milk, soy milk, or oat milk can be used in the same quantities as regular milk.
• Lactose-free milk is also an option if lactose is the concern.

Butter

• Coconut oil or margarine can be used in place of butter. Make sure the substitute is suitable for baking, as some spreads contain water that could affect the texture.
• For vegan options, try using vegan butter.

Eggs

• Applesauce can be used where ¼ cup equals one egg, adding sweetness.
• Flaxseed meal (mix 1 tablespoon of flaxseed meal with 3 tablespoons of water to replace one egg) is a binding ingredient.
• Commercial egg replacer products are also effective, especially in baking.

Chocolate

• If cocoa powder is called for, and you only have chocolate bars, melt the chocolate and reduce the butter or oil in your recipe.
• Similarly, if you need non-dairy chocolate, many brands offer vegan chocolate bars and chips.

Nutella

• If Nutella isn’t available or you prefer a different option, any chocolate hazelnut spread can work. Consider using a seed-based or soy-based chocolate spread for those with nut allergies.
• Peanut butter or almond butter mixed with melted chocolate can also mimic that creamy, nutty flavor.

Leavening Agents

If substituting baking soda, remember that it needs an acid to activate, so it should not be substituted one-for-one with baking powder. Generally, 1 teaspoon of baking powder can be replaced with ¼ teaspoon of baking soda plus ½ teaspoon of cream of tartar.

Toppings and Fillings

• Depending on preferences and availability, you can substitute the filling with different flavors or types of fillings, like plain chocolate, cream cheese, or even fruit jams.
• For toppings, instead of a sugar glaze or frosting, consider using a simple dusting of powdered sugar or a drizzle of honey.

Final Thoughts

When considering what to serve with the Dunkin’ Dubai Chocolate Donut, balance is key. Light, refreshing beverages and sides can help balance the richness, while creamy, indulgent pairings can take the dessert to another level of luxury.

More Dunkin Recipes:

• Dunkin’ Toasted White Chocolate Latte Recipe