Baked Chocolate Doughnuts

INGREDIENTS:

2 c. flour

3/4 c. sugar

1/2 c. unsweetened cocoa powder

1 tsp. baking powder

1 tsp. baking soda

1 tsp. salt

3/4 c. milk

2 eggs

1 tsp. vanilla

2 Tbsp. melted butter

GLAZE:

2 Tbsp Half-n-Half (or whole milk)

1/4 c. butter

1 tsp. vanilla

2 tsp. corn syrup

2 oz. semi-sweet chocolate 

   (squares, chips, whatever you have on hand)

1 1/4 c. powdered sugar

INSTRUCTIONS:
1. Combine dry ingredients (flour, sugar, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda and salt). Mix well.

2. In a separate bowl, whisk together (or beat with electric hand mixer) the milk, eggs, vanilla and melted butter.

3. Pour the milk/egg mixture into the dry ingredients and continue beating until fully blended.

4. Fill each cavity in a doughnut pan about 2/3 full. (I use a zip lock bag with the corner snipped off to do this.  Sort of like piping cake icing -- much neater.)

5. Bake doughnuts at 325º for about 10 minutes (depending on your oven.)

6. Allow doughnuts to cool while preparing the frosting:  In a small saucepan, combine the Half-n-Half, butter, vanilla and corn syrup.  Heat over medium heat until butter is melted.  Add the chocolate and stir to melt the chocolate.  When chocolate is completely incorporated, remove from heat and whisk in the powdered sugar.

7.  Dip doughnuts in the glaze and allow them to set.

8. Optional: Sprinkles, Chopped Peanuts, etc...  Be sure to add toppings immediately after the glaze so they "set" with the glaze.  (Makes about 15 doughnuts.)