Ingredients

2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
1 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
2 teaspoons baking powder
1/2 teaspoon baking soda
1/4 teaspoon salt
1 cup granulated sugar
3/4 cup buttermilk
2 large eggs
1/4 cup (1/2 stick) unsalted butter
2 teaspoons vanilla extract
vegetable oil for frying

Glaze

2 1/2 cups powdered sugar
4-5 tablespoons milk
1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract

Directions

In a large bowl, sift together flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, soda and salt.

In a smaller bowl, whisk together buttermilk, eggs, sugar, melted butter and vanilla extract. Add the wet ingredients to the flour mixture, stirring with a large spoon until a dough forms. Line a baking sheet with wax or parchment paper, and roll dough into balls just slightly smaller than golfball size.

Add vegetable oil to a large pot and heat over medium heat. Once it reaches 350°F, add 2-3 donut holes at a time, frying for 2-3 minutes. Once finished, remove with a slotted spoon and let drain on a paper towel. Once all the donut holes have been fried, dip in the glaze them set on wire rack. Allow to set for 10-15 minutes for simple glazed donuts. If you want sprinkled donuts, immediately roll in sprinkles after glazing and let sit until set.

Glaze

Combine all ingredients in a bowl and whisk well. If too runny, add more powdered sugar. If too thick, add more water about 1/2 teaspoon at a time, whisking well for at least 30-60 seconds.