If you have been craving a treat that’s both delightfully sweet and completely plant-based, then this Vegan Donuts Recipe is going to become your new favorite indulgence. Imagine soft, fluffy donuts that are golden on the outside and tender on the inside, all made without eggs or dairy but bursting with flavor thanks to a special yudane technique and a simple, wholesome ingredient list. Whether you prefer them oven-baked for a lighter option or deep-fried for that classic crispy edge, these donuts offer a perfect vegan twist on a timeless classic that everyone will love.

Ingredients You’ll Need

A white plate holds six glazed donuts stacked in a slight pile, each donut round with a hole in the center and covered in a shiny, smooth, light beige glaze that drips slightly over the edges, showing the golden-brown texture underneath. The donuts appear soft with a slightly crisp glaze coating. Around the plate, there is a light blue cloth on a white marbled surface, small round donut holes in a clear glass cup, and some cinnamon sticks placed casually nearby. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Getting the ingredients right is crucial for these donuts to be fluffy, soft, and full of flavor. Each one plays an important role—from the almond milk that keeps them moist and dairy-free, to the instant dry yeast that helps the dough rise beautifully. Here’s everything you need:

½ cup almond milk (or another non-dairy milk): This is for making the yudane and adds a gentle nuttiness while keeping the recipe vegan.
⅓ cup all-purpose flour: Mixed with hot milk to create the yudane, giving the donuts springiness.
3 cups all-purpose flour (+ 1 tablespoon for kneading): The main flour for the dough, providing structure and chew.
¾ cup almond milk (or another non-dairy milk): Lukewarm milk to activate the yeast and moisten the dough.
½ cup sugar: Adds sweetness and helps the crust caramelize.
⅓ cup melted vegan butter (or ¼ cup vegetable oil): For richness and tenderness in the crumb.
1 tablespoon instant dry yeast: The magic that makes these donuts rise light and fluffy.
1 tablespoon vanilla extract: Enhances flavor with a comforting aroma.
½ teaspoon salt: Balances sweetness and enhances overall taste.
½ gallon frying oil (optional): Use only if opting for deep-fried donuts.
½ cup powdered sugar: For making a luscious glaze or dusting.
2 tablespoons almond milk (or another non-dairy milk): To mix with powdered sugar into a smooth glaze.

How to Make Vegan Donuts Recipe

Step 1: Make the Yudane

Begin by making the yudane — this technique creates a thick, gel-like mixture by pouring boiling almond milk over flour. Chill it in the fridge for 15 minutes. This step is the secret to incredibly soft and moist donuts that have a wonderful texture.

Step 2: Prepare the Dough

Warm the almond milk until lukewarm and dissolve the yeast in it. In a large bowl, combine sugar, melted vegan butter, vanilla extract, and salt with this yeast mixture. Add the main flour and the cooled yudane, mixing until fully incorporated.

Step 3: Knead and Proof

Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface. Knead gently but thoroughly for about five minutes to develop texture. Keep the flour minimal to ensure the dough stays soft but manageable. Shape into a ball and place in a lightly oiled bowl, then cover and let it rise in a warm spot for about one and a half hours until doubled in size.

Step 4: Shape the Donuts

After the first rise, fold the dough using a series of four folds to build strength and texture. Roll the dough out to about ½ inch thickness. Using a donut cutter or two round cutters, cut out donut shapes and holes. Place them on a parchment-lined tray, cover, and let them rise again for 30 minutes for that extra fluffiness.

Step 5: Cook the Donuts

You can choose to bake your donuts at 350°F (180°C) for 10 to 12 minutes until lightly golden or deep-fry them at 340°F (170°C) for 40 seconds per side until perfectly golden and crispy. Both methods yield deliciously satisfying results, making this Vegan Donuts Recipe wonderfully versatile!

Step 6: Glaze or Sugar Coat

While still warm, dip the donuts into a simple glaze made of powdered sugar and almond milk or coat with cinnamon sugar for a delightfully sweet finish. Let any glaze set on a cooling rack before indulging.

How to Serve Vegan Donuts Recipe

The image shows a white plate with six round doughnuts that have a rough sugar coating on top. The doughnuts are light golden brown on top and creamy beige on the sides, with a center hole in each one. A woman's hand is holding one doughnut broken in half, showing the soft, fluffy, white inside texture. The plate is on a white marbled surface with a light blue cloth partially visible on one side and some cinnamon sticks nearby. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

A simple glaze or dusting of cinnamon sugar enhances these donuts beautifully, providing a glossy finish or a spiced sweetness that complements their tender crumb perfectly. Fresh berries or a sprinkle of chopped nuts can add a fun, textured twist on top.

Side Dishes

Vegan donuts pair wonderfully with a cup of coffee, hot tea, or a glass of chilled almond milk. For brunch, serve them alongside fresh fruit salad or a creamy, plant-based yogurt to balance the sweetness with some brightness.

Creative Ways to Present

Try stacking donuts on a rustic wooden board surrounded by colorful fruits and edible flowers, or present them individually wrapped with a pretty ribbon as charming gifts. You can also pipe vegan cream filling inside to create decadent filled sandwiches that impress at any gathering.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store leftover donuts in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days to keep them soft and flavorful. If they start to lose that fresh-baked tenderness, a quick warm-up in the oven can revive them beautifully.

Freezing

These donuts freeze exceptionally well. Wrap each donut individually in plastic wrap, place in a freezer bag or airtight container, and freeze for up to one month. Thaw at room temperature or gently warm before serving.

Reheating

To bring back that just-made texture, reheat frozen or refrigerated donuts in a 300°F (150°C) oven for about 5 to 7 minutes or pop them in the microwave for 15 seconds. Avoid overheating to keep them soft and avoid drying out.

FAQs

Can I use other non-dairy milks besides almond milk?

Absolutely! Soy, oat, or coconut milk all work wonderfully in this Vegan Donuts Recipe, each adding subtle differences in flavor and richness.

Is it necessary to make yudane for these donuts?

While you can skip the yudane, it greatly improves the texture, making donuts extra soft and tender, which is worth the little extra step.

Can I bake the donuts instead of frying them?

Yes, baking is a lighter alternative that still yields fluffy and delicious donuts. Just brush them with non-dairy milk before baking for a lovely golden finish.

How long does the dough need to proof?

The first proof takes about 1.5 hours until it doubles in size, and the second proof is 30 minutes, both essential for achieving light, airy donuts.

Can I make these donuts gluten-free?

This recipe relies on all-purpose flour for the ideal texture, but you can experiment with gluten-free blends; however, adjustments might be needed for moisture and rising times.

Final Thoughts

This Vegan Donuts Recipe is truly a gem for anyone craving a homemade treat that’s compassionate, delicious, and downright irresistible. The process might take some time but the joy of biting into a warm, fluffy, perfectly sweet donut makes it all worthwhile. Trust me, once you try these, you’ll be making them again and again for friends, family, or a special vegan breakfast treat. So roll up your sleeves and let’s get baking—you’ve got a batch of happiness waiting!