Chocolate-Coated Honey Glazed Donuts for a Sweet Chapchar Kut Treat

Chapchar Kut is the most widely celebrated and vibrant festival of Mizoram, marking the arrival of spring with music, dance and feasting. The Mizo community observes this festival usually in early March after the jhum (slash-and-burn) cultivation is over. It is a time of relaxation, gratitude and togetherness where families and friends come together to enjoy traditional dances like Cheraw (bamboo dance), folk songs and of course a feast of delicious dishes.

While sticky rice cakes, steamed bamboo dishes and smoked meats are the staples of Chapchar Kut feast, adding a modern sweet treat can make the occasion even more special. Chocolate-Coated Honey Glazed Doughnuts are the perfect balance of deep caramel sweetness and rich chocolate, they are a must have in your festival spread.

A delicious bite into a warm, fluffy doughnut coated with a golden honey glaze and topped with a thick layer of chocolate. A sprinkle of chopped nuts gives it just the right contrast, every bite is an experience to be savored. So, roll up your sleeves, get your ingredients ready and celebrate Chapchar Kut with these Chocolate-Coated Honey Glazed Doughnuts!

Chocolate-Coated Honey Glazed Donuts

Ingredients

For the Donuts:

• 2 cups (250g) all-purpose flour
• 2 tbsp milk powder
• ½ cup (120ml) warm milk
• 2 tbsp sugar
• 1 tsp instant yeast
• ½ tsp salt
• 2 tbsp melted butter
• ½ tsp vanilla extract
• Oil for frying

For the Honey Glaze:

• ¼ cup (60ml) honey
• 2 tbsp powdered sugar
• 1 tbsp warm water
• For the Chocolate Coating:
• 200g dark chocolate, chopped
• 2 tbsp fresh cream
• 1 tbsp butter

For Garnishing:

• 2 tbsp chopped almonds or pistachios
• 1 tbsp dried rose petals (optional)

Method

1. In a bowl, mix warm milk, sugar and yeast. Let it rest for 5-10 minutes until frothy.
2. In a large bowl, combine all-purpose flour, milk powder and salt.
3. Add melted butter, vanilla extract and the yeast mixture. Knead into a soft dough for about 8-10 minutes. Cover with a damp cloth and let it rise for 1 hour or until doubled in size.
4. Roll out the dough to about 1/2-inch thickness. Use a round cutter or a glass to cut doughnut shapes. Use a smaller cutter to make holes in the center.
5. Place the doughnuts on a tray, cover and let them rest for 20 minutes.
6. Heat oil in a deep pan over medium heat. Fry the doughnuts in batches until golden brown, flipping halfway. Drain on paper towels and let them cool slightly.
7. Mix honey, powdered sugar and warm water until smooth. Dip each doughnut into the glaze and let it set for a few minutes.
8. Melt chocolate, cream and butter using a double boiler or microwave. Stir until smooth. Dip the top of each glazed doughnut into the chocolate. Sprinkle chopped almonds, pistachios or dried rose petals on top.
9. Let the chocolate set before serving. Enjoy your homemade Chocolate-Coated Honey Glazed Donuts!

Tips To Make Chocolate-coated Honey Glazed Donuts For A Sweet Chapchar Kut Treat

Use Fresh Yeast for a Soft Dough

Donuts rely on yeast for their fluffiness so always check your yeast is active. If using dry yeast, dissolve it in warm (not hot) milk with a teaspoon of sugar and let it sit for 10 minutes. If it turns frothy, your yeast is good to go. If not, discard it and start fresh. Active yeast ensures your donuts puff up beautifully while frying and gives them that softness.

Knead Until the Dough is Soft

Use your hands or a stand mixer to knead for at least 8-10 minutes until the dough is smooth, soft and slightly stretchy. If it feels too sticky, add a little extra all-purpose flour but do not add too much as excess flour makes the donuts dense. Proper kneading helps in developing the gluten which gives a light bite.

Let the Dough Rise for the Best

After kneading, cover the dough with a damp cloth and let it rise in a warm place for at least 1 to 1.5 hours or until it doubles in size. If your kitchen is cold, keep the bowl near a warm spot, like inside an oven (switched off) or wrapped in a thick cloth. Proper rising allows the yeast to develop and makes the donuts soft.

Get the Right Oil Temperature for Even Frying

Frying donuts at the wrong temperature can be a total disaster. Keep the oil at 170-180°C for best results. If the oil is too hot, the donuts will brown too fast but still be raw from inside. If the oil is too cool, they’ll absorb too much oil and be greasy. Use a kitchen thermometer for accuracy or test the oil by dropping a small piece of dough—if it sizzles and rises slowly, the oil is ready.