Best Vegan Pumpkin Donut Recipe for Fluffy Fall Treats

There’s something truly magical about the aroma of pumpkin and spices wafting from the kitchen on a crisp fall morning. If you’re searching for the ultimate cozy treat that’s both plant-based and utterly irresistible, look no further than this vegan pumpkin donut recipe.

These donuts are soft, fluffy, and bursting with warm autumn flavors — all without any dairy or eggs! Whether you’re a longtime vegan or just looking to add more plant-powered options to your breakfast table, these pumpkin donuts are sure to delight.

Best of all, they’re baked, not fried, so you can indulge without the guilt. Pair them with a cup of coffee or your favorite tea, and you’ll have a homemade bakery experience right in your own kitchen.

Ready to bring a little pumpkin spice joy into your day? Let’s get baking!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Simple and Quick: No fancy techniques or hard-to-find ingredients. These donuts come together in just one bowl and bake in under 15 minutes.
• Baked, Not Fried: Enjoy all the donut goodness with a fraction of the oil and calories. Perfect for a lighter treat!
• Full of Fall Flavor: Real pumpkin puree and a medley of warming spices create a classic autumn flavor profile that’s both nostalgic and comforting.
• Vegan and Allergy-Friendly: Completely egg-free and dairy-free. Easily adapted to be nut-free and gluten-free with simple swaps.
• Customizable: Top them with cinnamon sugar, a simple glaze, or your favorite nuts. Make them your own!
• Perfect for Sharing: These donuts are a crowd-pleaser at brunches, parties, or as a sweet afternoon pick-me-up.

Ingredients

For Cinnamon Sugar Coating:

• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 1 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
• 3 tbsp melted vegan butter (optional, for brushing)

Equipment

• Mixing bowls (medium and large)
• Whisk
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Donut pan (nonstick or silicone, 6 or 12 cavities)
• Cooling rack
• Pastry brush (if coating with butter)
• Wire rack for cooling
• Oven

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (177°C). Lightly grease your donut pan with oil or nonstick spray to prevent sticking.
2. Combine the dry ingredients:
   • In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and cloves until well combined.
3. Mix the wet ingredients:
   • In a separate bowl, whisk together the pumpkin puree, brown sugar, non-dairy milk, oil, apple cider vinegar, and vanilla extract until smooth.
4. Combine wet and dry mixtures:
   • Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients. Stir gently with a spatula or spoon until just combined. Avoid overmixing to keep the donuts light and fluffy.
5. Fill the donut pan:
   • Spoon the batter into a piping bag or a large zip-top bag with the corner snipped. Pipe the batter evenly into each cavity, filling about 3/4 full. Smooth the tops if needed.
6. Bake:
   • Place the pan in the preheated oven. Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean and the donuts spring back lightly when touched.
7. Cool:
   • Remove the pan from the oven and let the donuts cool in the pan for 5 minutes. Then gently transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely.
8. Cinnamon sugar coating (optional):
   • In a shallow bowl, mix together granulated sugar and cinnamon. If desired, brush each cooled donut lightly with melted vegan butter, then dip or sprinkle with the cinnamon-sugar mixture for extra flavor and crunch.
9. Serve and enjoy!
   • Enjoy your vegan pumpkin donuts fresh, or store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. They’re best the day they’re made!

Tips & Variations

• Don’t overmix the batter: This is key for light, fluffy donuts. Gently fold until just combined.
• Gluten-Free Option: Substitute a 1:1 gluten-free baking flour for all-purpose flour for delicious results.
• Add-ins: Stir in 1/2 cup vegan chocolate chips, chopped pecans, or walnuts for added texture and flavor.
• Maple Glaze: Mix 1 cup powdered sugar with 2 tbsp pure maple syrup and 1-2 tbsp non-dairy milk for a sweet drizzle.
• Spice Level: Play with the spice blend to match your personal preference. More cinnamon or a pinch of cardamom can take these donuts to the next level!
• Storage: These donuts are best eaten fresh, but you can freeze leftovers (without glaze or coating) in a sealed bag for up to 2 months.

For an extra fall brunch spread, try pairing these donuts with a batch of Cinnamon Pecan Ice Cream or a cozy Chorizo Pumpkin Soup!

Nutrition Facts

Nutrition facts are estimates and will vary with specific ingredients and coatings.

Serving Suggestions

• Classic & Simple: Serve these donuts warm with a dusting of cinnamon sugar and a hot cup of coffee, chai, or oat milk latte.
• Dessert Platter: Arrange a donut tower with other plant-based treats like Chocolate Heaven Cake and Christmas Cookie Shots for a festive dessert table.
• Brunch Spread: Pair these donuts with vegan scrambles, fruit salad, and spiced nuts for a balanced morning feast.
• Ice Cream Sandwich: Slice a donut in half and fill with a scoop of vegan ice cream (try cinnamon pecan or vanilla) for a decadent treat!
• Giftable Treat: Package donuts in a cute box or tin for holiday gifts, teacher appreciation, or a sweet surprise for friends.

Pro Tip: Warm donuts for 5-10 seconds in the microwave before serving to enjoy their fresh-baked softness!

Conclusion

There’s nothing quite like the comforting taste of pumpkin and spice, especially when it comes wrapped up in a soft, pillowy donut that just happens to be vegan. This recipe proves you don’t need animal products to create truly crave-worthy bakery treats at home.

With a simple ingredient list, easy steps, and endless customization options, these vegan pumpkin donuts are destined to become a recurring favorite in your kitchen. Whether you’re sharing them at a fall brunch, enjoying a quiet weekend morning, or bringing a tray to your next gathering, they’re sure to impress and delight.

If you enjoyed making these donuts, explore more of our unique plant-based recipes, like the savory Costco Vegan Mushroom Stew or comforting Collard Green Casserole. And if you’re ever in the mood for something utterly decadent, don’t miss our Chocolate Heaven Cake Recipe.

Happy baking, and may your kitchen be filled with warmth, spice, and plenty of smiles!

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