Carrot Cake Donuts Vegan Recipe Easy and Delicious Treats

Updated On: October 7, 2025

Carrot cake is a timeless classic that combines the natural sweetness of carrots with a warm blend of spices. Now, imagine that flavor transformed into delightful, fluffy donuts that are completely vegan!

Our carrot cake donuts vegan recipe offers a guilt-free indulgence that everyone can enjoy, whether you’re vegan or simply seeking a wholesome treat. These donuts are moist, tender, and packed with shredded carrots, warming cinnamon, and a hint of nutmeg, finished with a creamy vegan glaze that you won’t be able to resist.

This recipe is perfect for breakfast, snack time, or even dessert. Plus, it’s easy to make with accessible ingredients, and it uses no animal products while still delivering that rich, comforting taste of traditional carrot cake.

You’ll love how versatile and satisfying these donuts are. So, let’s dive into the recipe and get baking!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

These vegan carrot cake donuts are a dream come true for anyone craving a sweet treat without the guilt. They are:

  • Moist and fluffy: Thanks to the shredded carrots and plant-based milk, the donuts stay tender and soft.
  • Flavor-packed: The combination of cinnamon, nutmeg, and vanilla brings the classic carrot cake taste to life.
  • Easy to make: No complicated steps or hard-to-find ingredients required.
  • Vegan and allergy-friendly: No eggs or dairy, making them suitable for many dietary needs.
  • Perfect for any occasion: Breakfast, snack, brunch, or dessert – these donuts fit the bill!

If you love carrot cake but want a quick and fun twist, this is your go-to recipe.

Ingredients

  • 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1/2 cup granulated sugar
  • 1/4 cup brown sugar (packed)
  • 1 tsp baking powder
  • 1/2 tsp baking soda
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 1 tsp ground cinnamon
  • 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg
  • 1 cup finely shredded carrots (about 2 medium carrots)
  • 1/2 cup unsweetened plant-based milk (almond, soy, oat, etc.)
  • 1/4 cup melted coconut oil or vegetable oil
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
  • 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar

Equipment

  • Mixing bowls
  • Whisk and spatula
  • Box grater or food processor (for shredding carrots)
  • Donut pan (6-8 cavities)
  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • Cooling rack
  • Small saucepan or microwave-safe bowl (for glaze)

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease your donut pan with coconut oil or non-stick spray.
  2. Prepare the dry ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, brown sugar, baking powder, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg until evenly combined.
  3. Shred the carrots: Using a fine grater or food processor, grate the carrots finely. Set aside.
  4. Mix the wet ingredients: In a separate bowl, combine the plant-based milk, melted coconut oil, vanilla extract, and apple cider vinegar. Stir well to combine and allow the mixture to curdle slightly – this will act as a vegan “buttermilk.”
  5. Combine wet and dry: Pour the wet mixture into the dry ingredients and stir gently until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; the batter should be thick but smooth.
  6. Fold in the shredded carrots: Add the grated carrots to the batter and fold them in evenly.
  7. Fill the donut pan: Spoon the batter into the donut cavities, filling each about 3/4 full. You can use a piping bag or a spoon for better control.
  8. Bake: Place the pan in the oven and bake for 15-18 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into a donut comes out clean.
  9. Cool: Allow the donuts to cool in the pan for 5 minutes before transferring them to a cooling rack to cool completely.
  10. Prepare the glaze: While the donuts cool, make a simple vegan glaze by mixing 1 cup powdered sugar with 2-3 tablespoons plant-based milk and 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract until smooth.
  11. Glaze the donuts: Dip the cooled donuts into the glaze or drizzle it over the top. Let the glaze set for at least 10 minutes before serving.

Tips & Variations

“For extra texture and flavor, try adding 1/4 cup chopped walnuts or pecans to the batter. You can also fold in 1/4 cup raisins for a classic carrot cake twist!”

  • Make it gluten-free: Substitute the all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free baking flour blend.
  • Spice it up: Add a pinch of ground ginger or cloves for a richer spice profile.
  • Frosting option: Instead of the glaze, top the donuts with vegan cream cheese frosting made from vegan cream cheese, powdered sugar, and a touch of lemon juice.
  • Storage: Keep donuts in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days or refrigerate for up to 5 days.

Nutrition Facts

Nutrient Per Donut (1/6 recipe)
Calories 180
Fat 7g
Saturated Fat 4g
Carbohydrates 27g
Fiber 2g
Sugars 14g
Protein 2g

Serving Suggestions

These carrot cake donuts are a versatile treat that pairs wonderfully with a variety of drinks and toppings. Serve them warm with a cup of your favorite plant-based milk latte or herbal tea for a cozy breakfast or snack.

For a brunch spread, complement the donuts with fresh fruit, vegan yogurt, and some homemade granola. If you’re serving dessert, add a scoop of vegan vanilla ice cream or a drizzle of maple syrup for extra indulgence.

Looking for more vegan baking inspiration? Check out our Lemon Ricotta Pasta With Arugula Recipe or try the delightful Lion’S Mane Mushroom Crumble Recipes for savory plant-based dishes that complement your sweets beautifully.

Conclusion

Our vegan carrot cake donuts are a fantastic way to enjoy the beloved flavors of carrot cake in a fun and portable form. They offer a perfect balance of sweetness, spice, and moisture, all while being entirely plant-based and easy to prepare.

Whether you’re new to vegan baking or a seasoned pro, these donuts are sure to impress your friends and family.

Don’t let dietary restrictions keep you from enjoying delicious treats. With this recipe, you can have your carrot cake and eat it too – in donut form!

Remember, baking is about creativity and joy, so feel free to experiment with the spices and toppings to make this recipe your own. For more unique recipes, explore our collection, including the Kentucky Bourbon Carrot Cake Recipe that offers a different carrot cake experience with a boozy twist.

📖 Recipe Card: Carrot Cake Donuts Vegan Recipe

Description: Deliciously moist and spiced carrot cake donuts made without any animal products. Perfect for a healthy treat or breakfast.

Prep Time: PT15M
Cook Time: PT15M
Total Time: PT30M

Servings: 12 donuts

Ingredients

  • 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 3/4 cup brown sugar
  • 1 tsp baking powder
  • 1/2 tsp baking soda
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 1 tsp ground cinnamon
  • 1/2 tsp ground nutmeg
  • 1 cup grated carrots
  • 1/2 cup unsweetened applesauce
  • 1/3 cup almond milk
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
  • 2 tbsp coconut oil, melted

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a donut pan.
  2. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, brown sugar, baking powder, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg.
  3. In another bowl, mix grated carrots, applesauce, almond milk, vanilla extract, and melted coconut oil.
  4. Combine wet and dry ingredients until just mixed.
  5. Spoon batter into the donut pan, filling each cavity about 3/4 full.
  6. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
  7. Let donuts cool in the pan for 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.

Nutrition: Calories: 180 kcal | Protein: 2 g | Fat: 6 g | Carbs: 28 g

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Marta K

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