Easy Vegan Donut Recipe for Fluffy, Guilt-free Treats

Updated On: September 29, 2025

Who says donuts can’t be part of a healthy vegan lifestyle? If you’ve been craving that fluffy, sweet, and indulgent treat without compromising your plant-based values, this easy vegan donut recipe is exactly what you need.

Perfectly soft on the inside with a lightly crisp exterior, these donuts are made with simple ingredients you probably already have in your pantry. Whether you’re a seasoned vegan or just exploring dairy- and egg-free baking, these donuts will satisfy your sweet tooth and impress your friends and family.

Plus, making donuts from scratch is easier than you think. No fancy equipment or complicated techniques—just wholesome ingredients, a little mixing, and some love.

These donuts are great for breakfast, a snack, or dessert, and you can customize them with your favorite toppings. Ready to dive into donut bliss?

Let’s get started!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This vegan donut recipe is a game-changer for several reasons. First, it uses simple, accessible ingredients that you can find in any grocery store.

No need for specialty vegan baking products or substitutes that are hard to track down.

Second, the recipe is incredibly versatile. Whether you want classic glazed donuts, cinnamon sugar, or a chocolate drizzle, you can easily customize the toppings to suit your mood.

Plus, the donuts are baked instead of fried, making them a lighter, healthier option while still delivering that irresistible donut texture.

Lastly, this recipe is perfect for beginners. If you’ve tried vegan baking before and found it intimidating, this one is straightforward and forgiving.

You’ll be enjoying warm, homemade vegan donuts in less than an hour!

Ingredients

Ingredient Quantity
All-purpose flour 2 cups (240g)
Granulated sugar 3/4 cup (150g)
Baking powder 2 teaspoons
Baking soda 1/2 teaspoon
Salt 1/4 teaspoon
Unsweetened almond milk (or any plant-based milk) 3/4 cup (180ml)
Apple cider vinegar 1 teaspoon
Vanilla extract 1 teaspoon
Vegetable oil (plus extra for brushing) 1/4 cup (60ml)

Equipment

  • Donut pan (6-cavity non-stick recommended)
  • Mixing bowls (at least two)
  • Whisk or electric mixer
  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • Rubber spatula
  • Cooling rack
  • Basting brush (for oil)

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease your donut pan with vegetable oil using a basting brush to prevent sticking.
  2. Prepare the wet ingredients: In a medium bowl, combine the plant-based milk and apple cider vinegar. Let it sit for 5 minutes to curdle slightly—this acts as a vegan buttermilk.
  3. Add the vegetable oil and vanilla extract to the wet mixture and whisk until combined.
  4. Mix the dry ingredients: In a large bowl, sift together the all-purpose flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Make sure everything is well combined for even rising.
  5. Slowly pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients. Using a rubber spatula or whisk, gently fold the mixture until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; a few lumps are okay. Overmixing can make the donuts tough.
  6. Fill the donut pan: Spoon the batter into the greased donut cavities, filling each about 3/4 full. You can also use a piping bag for neater results.
  7. Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. The donuts should be lightly golden and spring back when touched.
  8. Remove the donuts from the oven and allow them to cool in the pan for 5 minutes. Then, gently pop them out and transfer to a cooling rack to cool completely.
  9. Add toppings: Once cool, you can glaze or coat your donuts. Try a simple powdered sugar glaze or roll them in cinnamon sugar. For chocolate lovers, a vegan chocolate drizzle is divine.

Tips & Variations

“For the best texture, don’t overmix your batter. It’s okay if it’s a bit lumpy!”

  • Make mini donuts: Use a mini donut pan and reduce baking time by 5 minutes for bite-sized treats.
  • Flavor variations: Add orange zest or ground cinnamon to the batter for a twist.
  • Glaze ideas: Mix powdered sugar with lemon juice or maple syrup for different glazes.
  • Frying option: If you prefer traditional fried donuts, heat oil to 350°F (175°C) and fry for 1-2 minutes per side until golden. Drain on paper towels.
  • Storage: Store donuts in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or freeze for up to 2 months.

Nutrition Facts

Nutrient Per Donut (Makes 6)
Calories 180 kcal
Carbohydrates 28g
Protein 2g
Fat 7g
Saturated Fat 1g
Sugar 10g
Fiber 1g
Sodium 150mg

Serving Suggestions

These vegan donuts are incredibly versatile when it comes to serving. Enjoy them warm with a cup of your favorite plant-based coffee or tea for a comforting breakfast.

They also make a delightful afternoon snack or a sweet treat after dinner.

For a fun brunch idea, serve these donuts alongside other vegan goodies like our Vegan Flour Tortilla Recipe Easy, Soft, and Homemade or pair with a refreshing smoothie bowl.

If you want to impress guests, create a donut bar with various toppings like fresh fruit, vegan chocolate sauce, nuts, and shredded coconut. Kids and adults alike will love customizing their own donuts!

Conclusion

Making delicious, fluffy vegan donuts at home is easier than ever with this simple recipe. You don’t need any special skills or equipment—just a few wholesome ingredients and a bit of patience.

These donuts prove that you can enjoy indulgent treats while sticking to a plant-based diet.

Whether you bake them for a cozy morning or bring them to a gathering, these vegan donuts are sure to be a hit. Don’t forget to experiment with different glazes and toppings to keep things exciting.

For more easy and delicious vegan recipes, be sure to check out our Vegan Slow Cooker Recipe for Easy, Delicious Meals and the flavorful Vegan Cuban Recipes: Delicious Plant-Based Island Flavor.

Happy baking and enjoy your vegan donut adventure!

📖 Recipe Card: Easy Vegan Donut Recipe

Description: A simple and quick recipe for delicious vegan donuts that are fluffy and flavorful. Perfect for a homemade treat without any animal products.

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

Servings: 8 donuts

Ingredients

  • 1 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1/2 cup sugar
  • 1 tsp baking powder
  • 1/2 tsp baking soda
  • 1/4 tsp salt
  • 1/2 cup almond milk
  • 2 tbsp vegetable oil
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
  • 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar
  • Optional: powdered sugar or cinnamon for dusting

Instructions

  1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
  2. In a bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
  3. In another bowl, mix almond milk, vegetable oil, vanilla extract, and apple cider vinegar.
  4. Combine wet and dry ingredients until just mixed.
  5. Spoon batter into a greased donut pan, filling each mold about 3/4 full.
  6. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
  7. Let donuts cool before removing from the pan.
  8. Dust with powdered sugar or cinnamon if desired.

Nutrition: Calories: 180 kcal | Protein: 2 g | Fat: 7 g | Carbs: 27 g

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Photo of author

Marta K

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