Deliciously Easy Baked Vegan Donuts: Your Go-To Gluten-Free & Dairy-Free Recipe

Prepare to be absolutely delighted by this incredibly simple and utterly delicious Baked Vegan Donuts recipe! Imagine sweet, tender, and perfectly glazed donuts that are so good, they’d even get a nod of approval from Homer Simpson himself. But here’s the best part: these aren’t just any donuts. Crafted to be both gluten-free and dairy-free, they offer a healthier indulgence that you can truly savor without a second thought. Whether you’re navigating dietary restrictions or simply looking for a wholesome yet decadent treat, these baked vegan donuts are your new go-to. 🍩

This post is sponsored by Nature’s Charm. All text and opinions are my own.

Forget the complexities of traditional donut making. Our recipe streamlines the process, requiring just 11 simple ingredients and a mere 15 minutes of active prep time. This means you can whip up a batch of these delectable treats as a make-ahead breakfast, a delightful dessert, or a satisfying snack for any day of the week. As an added bonus, we’ve included easy-to-follow recipes for both classic vanilla and rich chocolate glazes, allowing you to customize your homemade vegan donuts to perfection. Get ready for a truly yum-filled experience!

Why You’ll Absolutely Love These Baked Vegan Donuts

When it comes to breakfast, very few things can rival the comforting indulgence of a sweet pastry. For me, a slice of fluffy coffee cake, a gooey sticky-sweet cinnamon roll, an indulgent bakery-style muffin, or a perfectly glazed dairy-free donut first thing in the morning is a guaranteed way to brighten my entire day. These vegan baked donuts are my latest obsession, and for good reason!

This vegan doughnut recipe isn’t just about satisfying a sweet craving; it’s about enjoying a truly stellar treat that fits seamlessly into a busy lifestyle. Not only are they the ideal make-ahead breakfast for anyone with a sweet tooth, but the results are consistently outstanding. Each donut is wonderfully tender, boasts a delightful cake-like texture, and achieves the perfect balance of sweetness without being cloying. Plus, their individual portions mean no fussing with plates – just grab and go! It’s everything you could ask for in a homemade pastry and more.

Beyond their wildly delicious taste, this vegan baked donuts recipe stands out for several compelling reasons:

• Quick & Easy Indulgence: While I adore traditional fried donuts (like my fluffy homemade fried donuts recipe), I don’t always have the time or energy to deal with yeasted dough, messy frying oil, or the lingering smell of oil in the kitchen. These baked vegan donuts are the perfect solution! They require only about 15 minutes of active preparation, meaning you can have them ready for the oven in a flash and be sinking your teeth into a warm, fresh donut in less than an hour. Baking instead of frying also significantly reduces cleanup and makes them a lighter option.
• Simple Ingredients: You’ll be surprised at how few ingredients are needed to create such a magnificent treat. Made with just 11 common pantry staples, you likely have most, if not all, of what you need already on hand. This simplicity makes them an accessible recipe for even beginner bakers, ensuring stress-free baking every time.
• Perfectly Allergen-Friendly: In today’s world, catering to various dietary needs is increasingly important. These donuts are naturally dairy-free and egg-free, making them suitable for vegan diets. But they don’t stop there! They are also gluten-free, lactose-free, and soy-free, making them an excellent choice for individuals with multiple food sensitivities or allergies. This means everyone can enjoy a delicious donut without compromise, allowing for inclusive indulgence.

Essential Ingredients for Your Gluten-Free Vegan Donuts

It’s truly remarkable how little you need to create these moist and flavorful vegan gluten-free donuts. Here’s a detailed breakdown of your grocery list and why each ingredient plays a crucial role:

• Gluten-Free Measure-for-Measure Flour: This is the backbone of our gluten-free donut structure. Many excellent brands are available today, but I personally vouch for Bob’s Red Mill Gluten-Free 1-to-1 Baking Flour. The key is to select a blend that specifically states “measure for measure” or “1-to-1” and, crucially, contains xanthan gum. Xanthan gum acts as a binder, mimicking the elasticity that gluten provides in traditional flour, ensuring your donuts hold their shape and have a lovely, non-crumbly texture. Always spoon and level your flour for accurate measurement.
• Fine Almond Flour: Also often labeled as “finely ground almond meal,” this ingredient is a game-changer. It contributes wonderful moisture, a delicate texture, and a rich, slightly nutty flavor to our dairy-free donut recipe. Its fine consistency helps create a tender crumb that is characteristic of a great cake donut. If you have a nut allergy, see our variations section for a nut-free alternative.
• Fine Sea Salt: Don’t underestimate the power of salt in sweet recipes! A small amount of fine sea salt is essential for balancing and awakening all the other flavors, preventing the donuts from tasting flat or overly sweet. If you’re using a different type of salt, such as kosher salt, remember that crystal sizes vary, so use this conversion chart to ensure proper measurement.
• Baking Powder: As a no-yeast donut recipe, baking powder is our primary leavening agent. It’s responsible for creating those puffy, tender rounds of goodness. It reacts with liquids and heat to produce carbon dioxide, giving the donuts their rise. Be absolutely certain not to confuse it with baking soda, as they are not interchangeable and your results will be drastically different if you do! Always check the expiration date to ensure it’s fresh and active for optimal lift.
• Ground Cinnamon & Ground Nutmeg: These warming spices are not just for flavor; they add a comforting, cozy layer that enhances the overall sweetness perception of the donuts. The subtle warmth from cinnamon and the distinctive aroma of nutmeg make these baked vegan donuts truly irresistible, giving them a classic “bakery” taste. Feel free to explore other warming spices like ground ginger, cardamom, or a pre-made pumpkin pie spice blend for different seasonal twists.
• Granulated Sugar: We use a moderate amount of granulated sugar to achieve a perfectly sweet donut that feels like a delightful breakfast treat without leading to an uncomfortable sugar crash later in the day. For those who prefer, organic cane sugar can be used as an equal substitute. Sugar not only sweetens but also contributes to the tender texture, a moist crumb, and a lovely golden-brown crust.
• Vegan Butter: This provides a rich, buttery flavor and contributes to the tender crumb, all without any dairy. For best results, ensure it’s softened at room temperature for easy incorporation into the flour mixture, which aids in developing that wonderful cake-like texture. You can substitute an equal amount of neutral-flavored oil, such as avocado or refined coconut oil, or even use traditional butter if dairy is not a concern for you.
• Vanilla Extract: A universally beloved flavor in the dessert world, vanilla extract adds depth, richness, and complexity that elevates the taste of these donuts. Pure vanilla extract is preferred for its robust flavor, but you can also use an equal amount of vanilla paste or vanilla powder. If using ground vanilla bean, use half the amount. For an adventurous twist, consider experimenting with other extracts like maple, almond, or coffee to introduce new flavor dimensions.
• Evaporated Oat Milk: This is a fantastic choice for vegan baking due to its creamy texture and slightly higher fat content compared to some other non-dairy milks. Fat is crucial in baked goods for tenderness and moisture. While you can substitute equal amounts of other unsweetened dairy-free milks (like almond, soy, or cashew), I highly recommend reaching for one with a higher fat content, such as oat or full-fat canned coconut milk, for the most tender and satisfying results.
• Vegan Mayonnaise: This might sound unusual, but vegan mayo is one of my secret weapon egg replacements in baking! It provides moisture and richness, acting as a binder and emulsifier without any eggs. Its neutral flavor blends seamlessly into the batter, contributing to a wonderfully moist and tender crumb. If you don’t have vegan mayo on hand, you can substitute an equal amount of plain vegan yogurt or simply use additional evaporated oat milk, though the texture might be slightly less rich.

Step-by-Step Guide: How To Make These Easy Vegan Donuts

Creating these dairy-free gluten-free doughnuts is remarkably straightforward and comes together with almost zero fuss. Follow these simple steps for perfectly baked, tender donuts every time:

Step 1: Combine the Dry Ingredients. In a large mixing bowl, meticulously whisk together the gluten-free measure-for-measure flour, fine almond flour, fine sea salt, baking powder, ground cinnamon, ground nutmeg, and granulated sugar. Whisking thoroughly is crucial here to ensure all the leavening agents and spices are evenly distributed throughout the flour mixture, which guarantees a consistent rise and flavor in every donut. Use a balloon whisk for best results, ensuring there are no lumps.

Step 2: Reverse Cream the Vegan Butter. Add the softened vegan butter to the dry ingredient mixture. Using your fingertips or a pastry blender, work the butter into the flour mixture until it resembles coarse crumbs and is evenly distributed. This “reverse creaming” method, where fat is incorporated into dry ingredients first, helps to coat the flour particles, resulting in an incredibly tender and moist final product, which is particularly beneficial when working with gluten-free flours by preventing overdevelopment and promoting a finer crumb.

Step 3: Incorporate Wet Ingredients and Rest. Pour in the vanilla extract, vegan mayonnaise, and evaporated oat milk into the butter-flour mixture. Stir gently with a spoon or spatula until all ingredients are just combined and no dry streaks of flour remain. Be careful not to overmix, as this can lead to tough donuts. Once mixed, cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a clean kitchen towel and allow the batter to rest for at least 30 minutes at room temperature. This resting period is crucial for gluten-free flours, giving them adequate time to fully hydrate and absorb the liquids, which prevents a gritty or sandy texture in the final baked donuts and ensures a smooth, uniform crumb.

Step 4: Prepare for Baking. While your donut batter is resting, take this time to preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Concurrently, generously grease your donut pan. Even if your pan is marketed as “non-stick,” an extra layer of grease is a vital step to ensure your donuts release easily and flawlessly without sticking. I find that refined coconut oil works exceptionally well for this, creating a nice barrier and a subtle hint of flavor, but a non-stick cooking spray, vegan butter, or neutral oil will also do the trick. A well-greased pan is the key to perfectly shaped donuts.

Step 5: Bake to Golden Perfection. Carefully spoon or pipe the rested batter into the prepared donut wells, filling each about two-thirds full. A piping bag with a round tip, or even a ziploc bag with a corner snipped off, can make this process incredibly neat and efficient, ensuring uniform donuts. Bake the donuts in your preheated oven for 8-10 minutes. The donuts are ready when they are lightly golden brown, spring back when gently touched, and a toothpick inserted into the thickest part comes out clean. Avoid overbaking, as this can quickly lead to dry, crumbly donuts. Once baked, let the donuts cool in the pan for about 5 minutes before carefully transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. Cooling on a rack allows air to circulate evenly, preventing the bottoms from getting soggy and ensuring a perfect texture throughout.

Creative Variations to Elevate Your Vegan Baked Donuts

While we absolutely adore this baked vegan donut recipe exactly as written, there’s always an opportunity to infuse your own creativity and customize these breakfast pastries even further. Here are some fantastic optional ways to “zhuzh up” your homemade donuts, making them uniquely yours:

• Nut-Free Alternative: For those with nut allergies or preferences, simply swap the fine almond flour with an equal amount of extra gluten-free measure-for-measure flour. While the texture might be slightly different – perhaps a little less rich and moist due to the absence of almond fat – the donuts will still turn out wonderfully delicious and perfectly safe for nut-free consumption. Ensure your chosen GF flour blend already contains xanthan gum.
• Classic Vanilla Glaze: A simple yet elegant vanilla glaze can transform these donuts into a timeless treat. To make it, whisk together 1½ cups of sifted powdered sugar with 3 tablespoons of evaporated oat milk and 1 teaspoon of pure vanilla extract. Start with less milk and add gradually, a teaspoon at a time, until you achieve your desired consistency – thick enough to coat beautifully but thin enough to drip slightly.
• Fun & Festive Pink Glaze: Get your inner Homer Simpson on and create vibrant pink donuts! To your vanilla glaze (prepared as above), add ½ to 1 teaspoon of natural beetroot powder for a lovely pastel pink hue, or a few drops of red gel food coloring for a more intense shade. This is a fantastic way to add a festive touch for parties or special brunches. Feel free to experiment with other food colorings of your choice to match any occasion or theme.
• Decadent Chocolate Glaze: For the ultimate chocolate lovers, a rich cocoa glaze is an absolute must. To prepare, substitute ¼ cup of pure unsweetened cocoa powder for some of the powdered sugar in the vanilla glaze recipe. Specifically, combine 1⅓ cups powdered sugar, ¼ cup pure cocoa powder, ¼ cup evaporated oat milk, and 1 teaspoon vanilla extract. Whisk until smooth and glossy for a truly chocolatey experience that will satisfy any craving.
• Exciting Add-ins & Toppings: Give your vegan baked doughnuts extra textural interest and flavor by mixing additions into the batter before baking, or by sprinkling them on top of the freshly glazed donuts before the glaze sets. The possibilities are endless!
  • Sprinkles, Jimmies, or Nonpareils: A colorful and fun way to decorate, especially appealing to kids and for celebratory occasions. Always double-check labels to ensure they are vegan-friendly, as some contain confectioner’s glaze.
  • Chopped Nuts: If not making a nut-free version, a sprinkle of finely chopped walnuts, pecans, or almonds (toasted for extra flavor!) can add a delightful crunch and richness.
  • Chocolate Chips: Mini vegan chocolate chips can be folded into the batter (about ¼ cup) or generously scattered on top of the glaze for an extra burst of chocolatey goodness in every bite.
  • Citrus Zest: A teaspoon of finely grated lemon, orange, or lime zest added to the batter or glaze can provide a bright, fresh counterpoint to the sweetness, adding an unexpected layer of flavor.
  • Shredded Coconut: Toasted or untoasted shredded coconut can add a tropical flair and satisfying chewiness. Sprinkle on top of the wet glaze for best adhesion.
  • Dried Fruit: Finely chopped dried cranberries, raisins, or chopped apricots can be folded into the batter for pockets of fruity sweetness.

Delightful Serving Suggestions for Your Vegan Donuts

These gluten-free vegan donuts are incredibly versatile and perfect for a variety of occasions. Their tender texture and delicious flavor make them a hit for any meal or gathering. They are truly an ideal treat for:

• Effortless Weekday Breakfasts: Make a batch on Sunday evening, and you’ll have a delightful, grab-and-go breakfast for the busy week ahead. Grab one (or two!) on your way out the door for a quick and satisfying start to your day. They hold up exceptionally well, making them excellent for meal prepping and enjoying throughout the week.
• Cozy Weekend Mornings: What better way to start a lazy weekend than with a warm, homemade donut? Pair them with a comforting mug of spiced golden milk, a freshly brewed cup of coffee, or your favorite herbal tea for a truly relaxing and indulgent experience at home. Add some fresh fruit on the side for a balanced touch.
• Gatherings and Celebrations: These donuts are fantastic for sharing! They’re excellent for book clubs, impressive at bake sales, or a much-appreciated contribution to a ladies’ brunch. Their allergen-friendly nature means more people can enjoy them without worry! Arrange them on a pretty platter with various glazes and toppings for an impressive and appealing spread that caters to diverse tastes.
• Afternoon Pick-Me-Ups: Feeling a bit of an afternoon slump? A baked vegan donut is the perfect accompaniment to your mid-afternoon coffee or as a sweet snack to re-energize and satisfy your cravings. They provide a delicious energy boost without being overly heavy.
• Kids’ Parties: Planning a birthday party or playdate? Decorate these donuts with colorful vegan sprinkles, and watch them disappear faster than you can say “donut”! They’re a safer and thoughtful option for parties where food allergies might be a concern among young guests.
• Thoughtful Gifts: Package a few beautifully glazed donuts in a decorative box with a ribbon for a thoughtful homemade gift for friends, neighbors, or teachers.

Pro Tips for Perfect Vegan Baked Donuts Every Time

Achieving perfectly tender and delicious dairy-free gluten-free donuts is easy when you follow these essential tips. These small details can make a big difference in your baking success:

• Always Grease Your Donut Tin Generously: This step is non-negotiable, even if your donut pan is proudly advertised as “non-stick”! Gluten-free baked goods can be particularly prone to sticking, so a good, thorough layer of grease ensures your donuts will pop out cleanly and maintain their beautiful, round shape without any bits left behind. I find refined coconut oil to be fantastic for this, as it creates a nice barrier and imparts a subtle, pleasant flavor, but a thorough spray with non-stick cooking spray, a smear of vegan butter, or a neutral oil like avocado oil will all work well. Don’t skip it, or you might end up with broken, frustratingly stuck donuts!
• Don’t Skip the Batter Rest Time: This 30-minute rest period is one of the most crucial secrets to successful gluten-free baking, and it’s especially vital for these dairy-free donuts. Gluten-free flours are considerably “thirstier” than traditional wheat flour. They need adequate time to fully hydrate and absorb the liquid in the batter. If you bake them immediately, without allowing this hydration, you’ll likely end up with a weird, gritty, or grainy texture. Trust the process – patience here yields beautifully tender, uniformly textured results, eliminating any unpleasant grittiness.
• Avoid Overbaking at All Costs: Baked donuts can go from perfectly moist to dry and crumbly in a matter of minutes. Gluten-free flours, in particular, can dry out quickly. Keep a close eye on them during the last few minutes of baking, typically around the 8-minute mark. The edges should be lightly golden, and when gently pressed, the donuts should spring back. A toothpick inserted into the thickest part should come out clean, with no wet batter clinging to it. As soon as they meet these criteria, take them out of the oven immediately!
• Cool Completely Before Glazing: This is a golden rule for all glazed or frosted baked goods, including our delicious vegan donuts. Just like you wouldn’t frost a warm cake or cupcakes, you need the donuts to be at room temperature (or even cooler) before you dip them in glaze. If the donuts are warm, the heat will simply melt the glaze, causing it to run off and create a sticky, uneven mess instead of a beautiful, set, and glossy coating.
• Use a Piping Bag for Clean Filling: While spooning the batter into the donut pan wells works, using a piping bag (or a large ziploc bag with a corner snipped off) makes the process much neater and ensures more uniform donut shapes. This also helps to prevent overfilling, which can lead to donuts losing their characteristic hole during baking, or overflowing the wells. It creates a cleaner, more professional-looking finish.

Frequently Asked Questions About Vegan Baked Donuts

More Irresistible Dairy-Free & Gluten-Free Desserts

If you’re loving the freedom and deliciousness of allergy-friendly baking, you’ll definitely want to explore these other fantastic recipes that prove dietary restrictions don’t mean compromising on flavor:

• Decadent Vegan Magic Bars: A delightful layered treat that’s impossible to resist, packed with flavor and texture.
• Chewy Shiratama Dango: A traditional Japanese sweet, naturally gluten-free and so fun to make with a unique bouncy texture.
• Comforting Vegan Apple Pie Bread Pudding: All the warm, spiced flavors of apple pie baked into a cozy, satisfying bread pudding.
• Sweet Vegan Coconut Macaroons: Chewy on the inside, crisp on the outside, and delightfully coconutty – a simple yet elegant treat.
• Rich Dairy-Free Fudge: A smooth, creamy, and satisfying chocolate indulgence that’s surprisingly easy to make without any dairy.

I genuinely hope you’ve enjoyed discovering and trying this incredible recipe for gluten-free dairy-free baked donuts as much as my family and I do! They truly are a game-changer for anyone looking for a healthier, yet utterly delicious, sweet treat that caters to various dietary needs. Please let me know how your batch turned out by giving it a ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ rating and leaving a comment below. Your feedback helps me improve and inspires others to try these wonderful recipes!

Don’t forget to share your delicious creations! You can also feel free to tag me (@aimadeitforyou) on your social media posts (Instagram, Pinterest, Facebook) so I can celebrate your baking success and cheer you on! For even more delicious, allergy-friendly recipes that are safe for your lactose-intolerant, gluten-free, or egg-free friends and family, be sure to follow me on Instagram, Pinterest, or Facebook. To get all of my newest content and exclusive recipes delivered straight to your inbox, sign up for my email newsletter and never miss a delicious update!