Quick and Easy Vegan Donuts

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These Quick and Easy Vegan Donuts are the ultimate treat when you’re craving something sweet, fluffy, and delightful without any animal products. They have a tender crumb, a golden-baked finish, and are topped with a light glaze that gives just the right touch of sweetness. Even better, they require no deep frying, making them a healthier option without sacrificing flavor.

Whether you’re a seasoned vegan or simply experimenting with dairy-free desserts, these donuts are about to become your new go-to. The ingredients are pantry staples, and the entire process takes under 30 minutes. Perfect for weekend breakfasts, brunch parties, or just a midweek indulgence.

Why You’ll Love This Vegan Donut Recipe

• No frying required: These are oven-baked, not deep-fried.
• Completely dairy and egg-free.
• Quick prep with simple ingredients.
• Versatile toppings: glaze, powdered sugar, cinnamon sugar, or even chocolate.
• Kid-friendly and picky-eater approved.

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What Kind of Flour Should I Use?

All-purpose flour works best in this recipe for achieving the classic donut texture—light and tender. You could swap in whole wheat pastry flour for a slightly healthier version, but the texture will be denser. Gluten-free blends can work too, though results vary by brand.

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Ingredients for the Quick and Easy Vegan Donuts

All-Purpose Flour – This forms the base of your donuts and gives them structure while keeping them soft.

Baking Powder – Essential for a nice rise in the oven.

Salt – Enhances the flavors and balances the sweetness.

Plant-Based Milk – Almond, soy, or oat milk all work beautifully here for moisture.

Apple Cider Vinegar – Reacts with baking powder to provide a fluffy rise.

Granulated Sugar – Adds sweetness and that classic donut taste.

Vanilla Extract – Rounds out the flavor with a lovely aroma.

Coconut Oil – Helps keep the donuts moist with a slight richness.

Powdered Sugar + Plant Milk – To make the optional glaze topping.

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How To Make the Quick and Easy Vegan Donuts

Step 1: Preheat & Prep

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a non-stick donut pan to ensure an easy release later.

Step 2: Make the Buttermilk

In a small bowl, combine the plant-based milk with apple cider vinegar. Let it sit for 5 minutes to curdle slightly—this creates a vegan “buttermilk.”

Step 3: Mix the Dry Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt. This ensures even distribution and prevents lumps.

Step 4: Combine Wet Ingredients

Add sugar, vanilla extract, and melted coconut oil to the buttermilk. Stir until smooth.

Step 5: Make the Batter

Pour the wet mixture into the dry ingredients and mix just until combined. Do not overmix, or the donuts may turn tough.

Step 6: Fill the Donut Pan

Spoon or pipe the batter evenly into 6 cavities of the prepared donut pan.

Step 7: Bake

Bake for 15 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean. Let them cool in the pan for 5 minutes before transferring to a rack.

Step 8: Glaze (Optional)

To make the glaze, mix 1/2 cup powdered sugar with 1-2 teaspoons of plant-based milk until smooth. Dip each donut, then place on a wire rack to set.

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How to Serve These Vegan Donuts

These donuts are best enjoyed fresh and slightly warm, though they still hold up well a few hours after baking. You can serve them plain, glazed, or dipped in cinnamon sugar for a nostalgic twist. This recipe yields 6 full-size donuts, perfect for serving 3 to 6 people, depending on how sweet the tooth is.

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How to Store Vegan Donuts

To keep your donuts fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. If you’re planning to keep them longer, refrigerate them for up to 5 days. Just note that they may become slightly denser when chilled. You can reheat them for a few seconds in the microwave to bring back their softness.

For longer storage, freeze unglazed donuts in a freezer-safe bag for up to 2 months. Thaw and glaze just before serving.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make these without a donut pan?
Yes, use a muffin tin and roll foil into rings in the center of each cup to mimic a donut shape.

Can I reduce the sugar?
You can reduce the sugar to 1/4 cup, but they won’t be as sweet or caramelized on the edges.

Can I make these gluten-free?
Yes, with a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend. Just be aware that texture might vary slightly.

Do these donuts rise well without eggs?
They do! The combination of baking powder and vinegar gives them lift and fluff.

Can I add spices?
Definitely. Cinnamon, nutmeg, or pumpkin spice are all great additions for flavor.

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Want More Breakfast Ideas with a Twist?

If you love these quick vegan donuts, try these other unique breakfast and snack ideas:

• Lemon Ricotta Pancakes for a citrusy brunch delight.
• Very Berry Quinoa Breakfast Bowl for a refreshing, protein-packed start.
• Mini Frittata Muffins for a savory bite-size treat.
• Apple Cinnamon Overnight Oats to make mornings easier.
• Red Velvet Waffles when you want something indulgent and fun.

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Save This Pin For Later

📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest dessert board so you can come back to it any time.

And let me know in the comments how yours turned out. Did you try adding cinnamon or dipping them in chocolate? I love hearing how others customize this base recipe.

Looking for even more sweet treats? You’ll find more inspiration over on my Pinterest: Life With Mira.

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