Creating Gluten-free Baked Chocolate Donut Holes can be straightforward when you follow these simple steps:

1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a mini donut hole pan with cooking spray.
2. Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together gluten-free flour, cocoa powder, granulated sugar, baking powder, and salt until well combined.
3. Combine Wet Ingredients: In a separate bowl, mix together applesauce, milk, vegetable oil, and vanilla extract. Stir until blended.
4. Combine Mixtures: Gradually add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients. Mix until just combined; be careful not to over-mix.
5. Add Chocolate Chips: If using, fold in chocolate chips to the batter.
6. Fill the Pan: Spoon the batter into each donut hole cavity, filling them about 3/4 full.
7. Bake: Place in the preheated oven and bake for 15-20 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
8. Cool: Remove from the oven and let the donut holes cool in the pan for about 5 minutes.
9. Remove from Pan: Carefully transfer the cooled donut holes to a wire rack to cool completely.
10. Dust and Serve: If desired, dust the tops with powdered sugar before serving.

Following these steps will allow you to effortlessly create the most amazing gluten-free baked chocolate donut holes!