Vegetarian Donut Recipe: Easy & Delicious Homemade Treats

Donuts are a beloved treat worldwide, and luckily, you don’t have to be a meat-eater to enjoy a delicious, fluffy donut. This vegetarian donut recipe combines simple ingredients with a straightforward process to create mouthwatering donuts that everyone will love.

Whether you’re craving a sweet breakfast, a snack, or a dessert, these donuts are fluffy on the inside, slightly crisp on the outside, and perfectly sweetened. The best part?

They’re completely vegetarian, making them accessible to a wide range of dietary preferences without sacrificing flavor or texture.

In this post, I’ll guide you through everything you need to know to make these delightful donuts at home. From why this recipe stands out to helpful tips and variations, you’ll have all the tools to create your next favorite treat.

Let’s dive in and bring some joy to your kitchen!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

There are many reasons this vegetarian donut recipe is a keeper. First, it uses common pantry ingredients, so you don’t need to hunt down anything fancy.

The recipe avoids eggs and dairy, relying on plant-based alternatives that still produce a soft, airy texture. It’s also flexible—perfect for customizing with your favorite glazes, toppings, or even fillings.

Another highlight is the ease of preparation. Even if you’re new to baking donuts, the step-by-step instructions make it approachable.

Plus, these donuts are baked instead of fried, making them a healthier option without compromising on taste.

Finally, this recipe is perfect for sharing. Whether you’re making treats for friends, family, or a special occasion, these vegetarian donuts will bring smiles all around.

For more vegetarian delights, check out our Peruvian Vegetable Recipes for Flavorful Healthy Meals and Vegetarian Date Cake Recipe: Moist, Easy, and Delicious.

Ingredients

• 2 cups all-purpose flour (plus extra for dusting)
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 2 teaspoons baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 cup unsweetened applesauce (acts as egg substitute)
• 3/4 cup plant-based milk (such as almond or oat milk)
• 2 tablespoons melted coconut oil or vegetable oil
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• Optional toppings: powdered sugar, cinnamon sugar, or vegan chocolate glaze

Equipment

• Donut pan (6 to 8 cavity size)
• Mixing bowls
• Whisk or electric hand mixer
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Spatula
• Cooling rack
• Optional: piping bag or spoon for filling the donut cavities

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease your donut pan with coconut oil or non-stick spray. This ensures easy donut removal.
2. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the dry ingredients: all-purpose flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Mixing these well helps your donuts rise evenly.
3. In a separate bowl, combine the wet ingredients: applesauce, plant-based milk, melted coconut oil, and vanilla extract. Whisk them until smooth and well blended.
4. Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and gently fold using a spatula or wooden spoon. Mix until just combined. Be careful not to overmix—some lumps are okay.
5. Transfer the batter into a piping bag or use a spoon to fill each cavity of the donut pan about 3/4 full. This allows room for the donuts to rise during baking.
6. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until the tops are golden and a toothpick inserted into the donut’s center comes out clean.
7. Remove the pan from the oven and let the donuts cool in the pan for 5 minutes before transferring them to a cooling rack to cool completely.
8. Add your choice of toppings: dust with powdered sugar, roll in cinnamon sugar, or dip in a vegan chocolate glaze for extra indulgence.

Tips & Variations

“Make sure your baking powder is fresh for the best rise!”

Tip: If you want a lighter donut, sift your flour before mixing to avoid any lumps. Also, room temperature wet ingredients mix better with the dry ingredients, giving you a more uniform batter.

Variation 1: Chocolate Donuts — Add 1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder to the dry ingredients and increase the sugar by 2 tablespoons to balance the bitterness.

Variation 2: Filled Donuts — After baking and cooling, use a piping bag fitted with a small tip to fill your donuts with jam, vegan cream cheese, or chocolate spread.

Variation 3: Spiced Donuts — Add 1 teaspoon of cinnamon and 1/2 teaspoon of nutmeg to the dry ingredients for a cozy, warm flavor perfect for autumn.

For more creative plant-based baking ideas, explore our Vegan Bread Machine Recipe for Soft, Delicious Loaves and Vegan Bechamel Sauce Recipe for Creamy Pasta Dishes.

Nutrition Facts

These nutrition values are estimates and can vary depending on the specific brands and toppings you choose. Baking instead of frying significantly reduces fat content, making these donuts a lighter indulgence.

Serving Suggestions

Serve these donuts warm or at room temperature for the best flavor and texture. They pair wonderfully with a hot cup of coffee, tea, or a chilled glass of plant-based milk.

For a festive breakfast or brunch, try slicing the donuts in half and spreading vegan cream cheese or fruit preserves inside. You can also sprinkle with chopped nuts or shredded coconut for added texture and flavor.

If you enjoy savory touches, consider pairing these sweet donuts with a side of fresh fruit or a small salad for contrast.

Conclusion

This vegetarian donut recipe offers a delightful way to enjoy classic donuts without any animal products. With simple ingredients and easy steps, it’s perfect for both novice and experienced bakers.

The baked method keeps these treats light yet satisfyingly fluffy, making them suitable for breakfast, dessert, or anytime snacking. Plus, the recipe’s adaptability allows you to customize flavors and toppings to suit your preferences.

Whether you’re looking for a sweet treat to brighten your day or a crowd-pleaser for gatherings, these vegetarian donuts deliver on taste and texture. Don’t forget to explore more vegetarian and vegan recipes like our Veg Recipes for Slow Cooker: Easy, Tasty Meal Ideas to expand your plant-based culinary repertoire.

Happy baking!

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