Creating Baked Peppermint Donuts is a simple process if you follow these easy steps:

1. Preheat the Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a donut pan with non-stick spray or oil.
2. Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine flour, sugar, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Whisk until well blended.
3. Combine Wet Ingredients: In another bowl, whisk together buttermilk, vegetable oil, egg, vanilla extract, and peppermint extract until smooth.
4. Combine Mixtures: Gradually add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients. Stir until just combined, being careful not to over-mix.
5. Add Chocolate Chips: If using, fold in the chocolate chips gently.
6. Fill the Donut Pan: Spoon the batter into the prepared donut pan, filling each cavity about 3/4 full.
7. Bake: Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
8. Cool: Allow the donuts to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
9. Prepare the Glaze: In a small bowl, mix powdered sugar, milk, and peppermint extract until smooth.
10. Glaze the Donuts: Dip the tops of the cooled donuts into the glaze, allowing the excess to drip off.
11. Garnish: Sprinkle crushed candy canes on top of the glazed donuts for a festive touch.

These straightforward steps will help you create delicious Baked Peppermint Donuts effortlessly!