Healthy Vegan Glazed Donut Recipe – A Nutritious Classic Treat

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Finding the perfect vegan glazed donut recipe can feel like a daunting task. Many attempts either need to catch up on flavor or miss the mark on texture, leaving you craving the indulgent experience of a traditional donut. I faced this dilemma, tirelessly searching for a new recipe to maintain taste and mouthfeel.

My quest led me to develop a solution that finally hit all the right notes – a vegan glazed donut that is both delicious and satisfying.

This recipe is great for anyone looking to indulge in sweet treats without using animal products. It’s a game-changer for vegan breakfast recipes, brunches, or whenever the sweet tooth strikes, proving that you can enjoy your favorite desserts while adhering to a vegan lifestyle.

What Is Vegan Glazed Donut?

A vegan glazed donut is a delightful variation of the classic treat made without animal products. It swaps traditional ingredients like eggs, milk, and butter for plant-based alternatives such as almond milk, coconut oil, and flaxseeds to create a tender dough rise.

The glaze, typically a concoction of vegan sugar and plant-based milk, adds a sweet, glossy finish. This confectionery innovation is great for those following a vegan lifestyle or with dairy and egg allergies, offering a compassionate and inclusive option to enjoy a beloved sweet treat.

Quick Fact – Vegan glazed donuts use aquafaba, the liquid from canned chickpeas, as an egg substitute, providing moisture and binding the dough with surprising effectiveness.

Recipe Directions

• Preheat the oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease a donut baking pan to prevent the donuts from sticking.
• Mix the Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk the flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt until well combined.
• Combine the Wet Ingredients: In a medium bowl, mix the plant-based oat milk, apple cider vinegar, vanilla extract, and melted coconut oil. This mixture will act as the base for your simple donut batter.
• Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients: Pour the wet ingredients into the bowl with the dry ingredients. Stir until just combined. Remember, having a few lumps is better than overmixing the batter.
• Pipe the batter into the Pan: Scoop the batter into a large ziplock bag, cutting off one corner to create a makeshift piping bag. Alternatively, use a reusable pastry bag. Pipe the batter evenly into the six wells of the donut pan.
• Bake: Place the donut pan in the oven for 10-14 minutes. When ready, the homemade donuts should puff up and have a dry surface. Avoid opening the oven frequently, as it can affect the baking.
• Cool: After baking, remove the donuts from the oven and allow them to cool in the pan for 5 minutes. Then, gently transfer them to a wire rack set over a baking tray or plate to cool completely.
• Prepare the Glaze: While the donuts are cooling, prepare the glaze. In a medium bowl, whisk together powdered sugar and 3 tablespoons of plant-based milk. Adjust the desired consistency with additional milk for a smooth, pourable glaze if necessary.
• Glaze the Donuts: Dip each donut into the glaze, ensuring both sides get an even coating. Allow the excess glaze to drip off before transferring the donuts to the wire rack. The tray underneath will catch any drips.
• Set the Glaze: Let the donuts sit until the glaze has hardened, about 30 minutes. This rest time allows the glaze to set, creating the perfect finish.

Variations, Add-Ons, And Toppings

• Chocolate Glaze: To substitute the basic glaze for a rich chocolate donut version, mix vegan chocolate chips melted with coconut oil.
• Vanilla Bean Glaze: Enhance the vanilla flavor by incorporating seeds from a vanilla bean into your glaze mixture.
• Lemon or Orange Glaze: Add citrus zest and juice to your glaze for a tangy twist. Lemon or orange zest will provide a refreshing flavor contrast.
• Maple Cinnamon Glaze: Combine maple syrup with powdered or icing sugar and a dash of cinnamon for a warm, autumnal glaze option.
• Sprinkles: Add colorful sprinkles to the wet glaze for a fun and festive look. Choose vegan sprinkles to keep it entirely plant-based.

• Coconut: Toasted coconut flakes can be sprinkled on top for a crunchy texture and tropical flavor.
• Nuts: Chopped pecans, walnuts, or almonds provide a satisfying crunch and nutty flavor. Toast them lightly for an enhanced taste.
• Berry Topping: Fresh berries or a berry compote can be a delightful topping, especially when paired with a simple sugar glaze.
• Powdered Sugar: Dusting powdered sugar can be a delightful finish for a simpler variation.
• Cinnamon Sugar: Instead of glazing, you can coat the warm donuts in a mixture of cinnamon and sugar for a classic flavor.
• Peanut Butter Drizzle: Warm peanut butter stands mixed with plant-based milk can make a delicious drizzle over the glazed donuts.
• Espresso Glaze: Mix a little espresso powder into your glaze for a coffee-flavored topping that’s great for breakfast or brunch.

Vegetable Substitutions

• Cauliflower For Chicken: Great in stir-fries or baked dishes, offering a similar texture.
• Mushrooms For Beef: Portobello or cremini mushrooms provide a meaty texture, ideal for burgers or stews.
• Jackfruit For Pulled Pork: The young green jackfruit’s texture is perfect for BBQ pulled pork sandwiches.
• Eggplant For Fish: When baked or grilled, eggplant can mimic the texture of fish, which is useful in vegan “fish” recipes.
• Zucchini For Noodles: Spiralized zucchini makes a healthy, low-carb substitute for pasta.
• Butternut Squash For Cheese: Pureed offers a creamy base for vegan cheese sauces.
• Avocado For Butter: In baking, mashed avocado can replace butter to add moisture and healthy fats.
• Sweet Potato For Bread: Sliced and toasted, it’s a nutritious alternative to traditional toast.

Quick Tip – Try using coconut oil instead of vegetable oil for a richer flavor in vegan baking. Its subtle sweetness enhances cakes, cookies, and donuts beautifully.

Best Side Dishes

1. Fresh Fruit Salad A light and refreshing choice, adding a healthy, sweet balance.
2. Yogurt ParfaVegan Layer vegan yogurt with granola and berries for a nutritious complement.
3. Smoothie Bowls A colorful and healthy option packed with fruits, nuts, and seeds.
4. Oatmeal A warm, comforting side, especially when flavored with cinnamon and maple syrup.
5. Coffee Or Tea Hot beverages can enhance the flavors of the donut, making for a perfect breakfast or snack pairing.
6. Vegan Sausages These can be a satisfying accompaniment for a savory contrast.
7. Avocado Toast Offers a creamy, savory balance to the sweetness of the vegan donut recipe.
8. Vegan Cheese Platter A selection of vegan cheeses with crackers can add an elegant touch to a brunch setting.
9. Almond Butter Or Peanut Butter For dipping, providing a protein-rich, nutty flavor contrast.
10. Chia Seed Pudding A light and healthy option that pairs well with the richness of the donut.

How To Serve?

• Warm And Fresh: Serve donuts warm for a soft, comforting texture, enhancing the glaze’s sweetness.
• With A Dip: Offer a side of vegan chocolate or caramel sauce for dipping.
• Donut Sandwich: Slice in half and fill with vegan ice cream or whipped cream and fresh berries.
• Coffee Pairing: Serve alongside a cup of freshly brewed coffee or tea for a classic combination.
• Donut Tower: Stack donuts on a platter for a visually striking display, perfect for gatherings.
• Breakfast Platter: Arrange with various fruits, vegan yogurt, and granola for a complete breakfast.
• Dessert Tray: Mix with other vegan pastries and sweets on a tray for a decadent dessert.
• Mini Donuts: Offer bite-sized versions for a lighter, snackable option.
• Decorated Toppings: Add extra toppings like nuts, seeds, or edible flowers before the glaze sets for a gourmet touch.
• Seasonal Flavors: Incorporate seasonal fruits or spices into the glaze for a festive twist.

Quick Tip – When glazing, place donuts on a wire rack with a tray underneath. This setup catches drips, keeping your workspace clean and making cleanup easier.

Storage And Make Ahead

• Storage: Store glazed donuts in an airtight container in the refrigerator to maintain freshness for up to 3 days.
• Make Ahead: Prepare the dough a day in advance and refrigerate it. This not only develops flavors but also speeds up the baking process.

Recipe Fact – The first recorded donut recipe appeared in an English cookbook in 1803, showcasing how this beloved treat has evolved over centuries into various forms, including vegan options.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Make Vegan Glazed Donuts Gluten-Free?

Yes, you can make vegan glazed donuts gluten-free by substituting the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Choosing a blend designed for baking is important to ensure the right texture.

You may also need to adjust the liquid ingredients slightly, as gluten-free flour can absorb moisture differently than wheat flour.

How Can I Store Vegan Glazed Donuts To Keep Them Fresh?

Store vegan glazed donuts in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days to keep vegan glazed donuts fresh. For longer storage, refrigerate them for up to 5 days.

To avoid sogginess, you might want to add a piece of paper towel to the container to absorb excess moisture. If you’ve already glazed the donuts, storing them in a single layer is better to prevent the glaze from sticking.

Is It Possible To Freeze Vegan Glazed Donuts?

Yes, vegan glazed donuts can be frozen for up to 2 months. For best results, freeze them unglazed on a baking sheet until solid, then wrap them individually in plastic and transfer them to a freezer bag.

When ready to enjoy, thaw at room temperature and then glaze. This method helps preserve their texture and taste.

Can I Use Alternative Sweeteners In The Recipe?

Absolutely. You can substitute the white sugar in the dough with equal coconut sugar or a liquid sweetener like maple syrup. However, you may need to adjust the amount of dry or wet ingredients to compensate for the liquid change.

For the glaze, powdered alternative sweeteners like powdered stevia or erythritol can be used, but remember that the flavor and consistency might vary slightly from traditional sugar.

What Are Some Creative Variations For The Glaze?

There are many creative variations you can explore for the glaze. For a fruity twist, add pureed berries or citrus zest. Add melted vegan chocolate or a pinch of espresso powder for a rich, decadent option.

Cinnamon, nutmeg, or cardamom can be whisked into the glaze for a warm, aromatic flavor. Experimenting with these variations can add an exciting twist to the classic vegan glazed donut.