Best Fried Vegan Donut Recipe For Irresistible Treats

Updated On: September 30, 2025

Who says you need eggs and dairy to enjoy a perfectly fluffy, golden-fried donut? This best fried vegan donut recipe proves that plant-based ingredients can create indulgent treats that rival any classic bakery version.

Whether you’re vegan, lactose intolerant, or just seeking a fun new recipe, these donuts are light, airy, and deliciously crispy on the outside with a tender crumb inside.

With simple pantry staples and a straightforward frying method, you can whip up a batch that satisfies your sweet tooth and impresses friends and family alike. Plus, they’re fully customizable — from classic cinnamon sugar coatings to vibrant glazes or fillings, the possibilities are endless.

Let’s dive into this mouthwatering recipe that will have you making vegan donuts again and again!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This vegan donut recipe is a game-changer for several reasons. First, it uses common ingredients like flour, plant milk, and baking powder — no complicated vegan substitutes needed.

The frying technique ensures a crispy exterior while keeping the inside soft and fluffy, mimicking traditional donuts perfectly.

It’s also incredibly versatile. You can enjoy them plain, dusted with cinnamon sugar, or dipped in your favorite vegan glaze.

Plus, they come together quickly, making them ideal for last-minute treats or brunch parties. With this recipe, you’ll never miss the dairy or eggs, and you’ll enjoy a healthier, cruelty-free sweet indulgence.

Ingredients

  • 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour (spooned and leveled)
  • ½ cup granulated sugar
  • 2 tsp baking powder
  • ½ tsp baking soda
  • ½ tsp salt
  • 1 tsp ground cinnamon (optional, for flavor)
  • 1 cup unsweetened plant-based milk (such as almond, oat, or soy)
  • 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar
  • 2 tbsp melted coconut oil (plus more for frying)
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract

Equipment

  • Large mixing bowl
  • Whisk
  • Rolling pin
  • Donut cutter or two round cutters (one large, one small for the hole)
  • Deep frying pan or heavy-bottomed pot
  • Candy or deep-fry thermometer (to monitor oil temperature)
  • Slotted spoon or spider strainer
  • Cooling rack lined with paper towels

Instructions

  1. In a small bowl, combine the plant-based milk and apple cider vinegar. Stir and let it sit for 5 minutes to curdle, creating a vegan buttermilk.
  2. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and cinnamon if using.
  3. Add the melted coconut oil and vanilla extract to the plant-based buttermilk mixture. Stir well to combine.
  4. Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and gently mix until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; a few lumps are okay.
  5. Lightly flour a clean surface and roll out the dough to about ½-inch thickness.
  6. Use the donut cutter (or two round cutters) to cut out donuts and holes. Gather scraps and reroll as needed.
  7. Heat about 2 inches of coconut oil in your frying pan over medium heat until it reaches 350°F (175°C). Use a thermometer for accuracy.
  8. Carefully place 2-3 donuts at a time into the hot oil. Fry for about 1-2 minutes per side or until golden brown.
  9. Use a slotted spoon to remove donuts and place them on the cooling rack lined with paper towels to drain excess oil.
  10. While warm, dust the donuts with cinnamon sugar, or dip them in your favorite vegan glaze or powdered sugar.
  11. Repeat until all donuts are fried. Serve warm for the best taste!

Tips & Variations

“Don’t overcrowd the pan while frying — this helps maintain the oil temperature for crisp, evenly cooked donuts.”

  • Glaze ideas: Try a simple powdered sugar glaze with plant milk and vanilla, or mix cocoa powder for a chocolate twist.
  • Fillings: Once cooled, inject vegan jam, chocolate spread, or coconut cream into the center for a delightful surprise.
  • Healthier option: Bake the donuts in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 10-12 minutes instead of frying.
  • Flavor boost: Add orange zest or nutmeg to the dough for extra aromatic notes.
  • Oil choice: Use refined coconut oil or vegetable oil for frying to avoid strong coconut flavor.

Nutrition Facts

Nutrient Per Donut (approx.)
Calories 210
Total Fat 9g
Saturated Fat 6g
Carbohydrates 30g
Fiber 1g
Sugar 9g
Protein 2g
Sodium 180mg

Serving Suggestions

These vegan donuts pair beautifully with a steaming cup of coffee, chai tea, or creamy oat milk latte. For brunch, serve alongside fresh fruit and a vegan yogurt parfait for a balanced and colorful spread.

For a fun dessert, top with vegan ice cream and drizzled chocolate sauce. You can even incorporate them into a decadent donut sandwich with vegan cream cheese and berry jam for a sweet twist on classic flavors.

Conclusion

Creating the best fried vegan donuts at home is easier than you might think, and this recipe delivers mouthwatering results with minimal fuss. By using simple plant-based ingredients and mastering the frying technique, you can enjoy donuts that are crispy on the outside and soft on the inside without any animal products.

Whether you’re treating yourself or impressing guests, these vegan donuts are sure to become a favorite. Don’t forget to experiment with different toppings and fillings to keep things exciting.

For more delicious vegan recipes, check out our Vegetarian Date Cake Recipe: Moist, Easy, and Delicious, Veg Recipes for Slow Cooker: Easy, Tasty Meal Ideas, and Vegan Bechamel Sauce Recipe for Creamy Pasta Dishes.

Get ready to indulge guilt-free and savor every bite of these delightful vegan fried donuts!

📖 Recipe Card: Best Fried Vegan Donut Recipe

Description: Deliciously soft and fluffy vegan donuts fried to golden perfection. Easy to make and perfect for any occasion.

Prep Time: PT20M
Cook Time: PT15M
Total Time: PT35M

Servings: 12 donuts

Ingredients

  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1/2 cup granulated sugar
  • 2 tsp baking powder
  • 1/2 tsp baking soda
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 1 cup unsweetened almond milk
  • 1 tsp apple cider vinegar
  • 2 tbsp melted coconut oil
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
  • Vegetable oil for frying
  • 1/2 cup powdered sugar (for dusting)
  • 1 tsp ground cinnamon (optional, for dusting)

Instructions

  1. In a bowl, combine almond milk and apple cider vinegar; let sit for 5 minutes.
  2. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
  3. Add the almond milk mixture, melted coconut oil, and vanilla extract to dry ingredients; mix until just combined.
  4. Heat vegetable oil in a deep pan to 350°F (175°C).
  5. On a floured surface, roll out dough to 1/2 inch thickness and cut into donut shapes.
  6. Carefully fry donuts in batches for 1-2 minutes per side until golden brown.
  7. Remove donuts and drain on paper towels.
  8. Mix powdered sugar and cinnamon in a bowl and dust donuts while warm.
  9. Serve immediately or store in an airtight container.

Nutrition: Calories: 180 | Protein: 2g | Fat: 8g | Carbs: 25g

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Marta K

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