Vegan Apple Cider Donuts Recipe

If you’re hunting for a cozy autumn treat that’s a little bit nostalgic and entirely plant-based, you’re going to adore this Vegan Apple Cider Donuts Recipe. I absolutely love how these donuts come out soft, just a little bit cinnamony, and coated with that classic sugar and cinnamon hug that makes donuts irresistible. When I first tried vegan donuts, I was worried they wouldn’t have the same warm, comforting flavor—and boy, was I wrong! Keep reading because this recipe is fan-freaking-tastic and I’ll walk you through every step so you can nail it in your kitchen.

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Ingredients You’ll Need

The magic here happens because of the combination of whole wheat pastry flour and apple cider, which adds moisture and that unmistakable warm apple flavor. Using non-dairy milk and applesauce keeps the donuts moist and tender while keeping them vegan-friendly. Here’s a quick overview of what you’ll want to grab.

• Whole wheat pastry flour: Offers a tender crumb while keeping things whole grain; all-purpose flour works too if you want lighter donuts.
• Granulated sugar: For sweetness; you can swap in coconut sugar for a deeper flavor.
• Baking powder: Essential for that lovely rise and fluffy texture.
• Salt: To balance the sweetness and enhance the flavors.
• Ground cinnamon: Brings that warm, spicy note we all crave in apple cider donuts.
• Apple cider: The star ingredient adding moisture and that classic apple flavor.
• Soy milk (or other non-dairy milk): Keeps it vegan and adds richness.
• Unsweetened applesauce: Helps bind the batter and adds moisture without oil.
• Melted vegan butter or coconut oil: Adds richness and a tender texture.
• Granulated sugar & ground cinnamon (topping): For that signature cinnamon sugar coating.

Variations

I love mixing things up with this Vegan Apple Cider Donuts Recipe. It’s a versatile base that you can easily tweak to your liking or pantry needs, so don’t hesitate to get creative. I’ve played with a few alterations that turned out really well, and I’m excited to share them with you!

• Gluten-Free Version: I haven’t tested this super thoroughly, but swapping in a gluten-free flour blend or even oat flour usually works—just expect a slightly different texture.
• Oil-Free Option: I discovered that replacing the melted butter or oil in the batter with extra applesauce keeps these moist without the fat, and simply coating them lightly with cinnamon sugar (no butter) works just fine.
• Sugar Swap: Coconut sugar is my go-to if I want a caramel-like depth, but regular granulated sugar works perfectly if that’s what you have.
• Applesauce Alternatives: No applesauce? No problem! You can substitute apple butter, non-dairy yogurt, or simply add a bit more vegan butter or coconut oil for richness.

How to Make Vegan Apple Cider Donuts Recipe

Step 1: Get Your Oven and Pan Ready

First things first, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Spray your donut pan generously with non-stick spray to ensure those beauties slip right out later. If you have two pans, even better—makes the process faster, but one works perfectly fine too!

Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients

In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, salt, and cinnamon. I like to take a moment here to really whisk out any lumps and evenly distribute the cinnamon so each bite is perfectly spiced.

Step 3: Blend in the Wet Ingredients

Pour in the apple cider, soy milk, applesauce, and melted vegan butter or coconut oil. Mix gently with a large spoon or spatula until everything is combined—but don’t overdo it! You want the batter just mixed because over-mixing can make your donuts tough. A few little lumps are okay.

Step 4: Fill the Donut Pan and Bake

Spoon the batter into the donut pan cavities, filling each about three-quarters full. For an easier and neater distribution, I sometimes use a piping bag with a large tip—that way the batter goes right where it should without too much mess. Bake the donuts for 8 to 10 minutes. Keep an eye out—they’re ready when the edges turn a light golden brown and gently spring back when you press them.

Step 5: Cool and Prep the Cinnamon Sugar Coating

Let the donuts cool in the pan for about 2 minutes before inverting them onto a wire rack to cool completely. While they bake and cool, mix the topping sugar and cinnamon in a bowl. In a separate bowl, melt your vegan butter or coconut oil, which you’ll use for brushing the freshly baked donuts.

Step 6: Coat the Donuts

Brush each donut with melted vegan butter or coconut oil on all sides, then dip them into the cinnamon-sugar mixture so they’re evenly coated. This step gives you that classic sticky-sweet crust which I think is what makes these donuts so addicting. If you want a lighter coating, just brush the top and sprinkle the cinnamon sugar instead.

Step 7: Serve & Enjoy!

Dig in while the donuts are fresh for the best texture and flavor. They stay good for up to two days in an airtight container, but honestly, they’re usually gone way before then in my house!

How to Serve Vegan Apple Cider Donuts Recipe

Garnishes

I usually keep it classic with just cinnamon sugar coating because that’s the magic combo. But sometimes I like to add a sprinkle of finely chopped pecans or a drizzle of vegan caramel sauce to make them extra special—especially for a weekend brunch with friends.

Side Dishes

Pair these donuts with a warm cup of chai tea or cinnamon-spiced coffee. For a heartier breakfast, sliced fresh fruit or a dairy-free yogurt with granola complements the flavors beautifully.

Creative Ways to Present

For a festive touch at your next gathering, arrange the donuts on a cake stand stacked tier-style with autumn leaves or fresh apple slices around the base. You could even serve with mini mason jars of apple cider for dipping—it’s a crowd-pleaser and adds a bit of interactive fun.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

I store leftover donuts in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. If they start losing their fresh texture, I gently warm them to bring back some of that softness.

Freezing

These donuts freeze beautifully! I wrap each one individually in parchment paper, place them in a freezer bag, and freeze for up to 3 months. When I want one, I thaw at room temperature or warm slightly in the oven.

Reheating

To reheat, I pop the donuts in a 300°F oven for 5-7 minutes or microwave them briefly (10-15 seconds) for a quick fix. This revives the softness without drying them out.

FAQs

Final Thoughts

This Vegan Apple Cider Donuts Recipe holds a special place in my kitchen because it combines all the cozy flavors of fall with a simple, wholesome approach that everyone can enjoy—even my pickiest eaters. It’s quick, forgiving, and those donuts bring smiles every time. If you’re looking for a way to celebrate apple season (or just want a delicious snack that feels like a warm hug), you’ve got to give this one a try. I promise you’ll be baking them again and again!

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