Perfect Vegan Doughnuts Made with Yeast (Vegan Donut Recipe)
Perfect Vegan Doughnuts Made with Yeast (Vegan Donut Recipe) are a delightful treat that everyone can enjoy! These doughnuts are incredibly light and fluffy, making them perfect for breakfast, snacks, or any celebration. With their delicious flavor and airy texture, no one will ever guess they are vegan. These doughnuts are not only tasty but also versatile, allowing you to fill them with your favorite jam or top them with shredded coconut or chopped nuts.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Easy to Make: The simple ingredients and straightforward steps make these doughnuts accessible for bakers of all levels.
- Fluffy Texture: The use of yeast ensures a light and airy doughnut, giving you the perfect bite every time.
- Customizable: Feel free to experiment with different fillings and toppings to match your taste preferences.
- Vegan-Friendly: Made without any animal products, they cater to a variety of dietary needs while still being delicious.
- Great for Sharing: With 20 servings in this recipe, they are ideal for gatherings, parties, or family breakfasts.
Tools and Preparation
Before diving into the recipe for Perfect Vegan Doughnuts Made with Yeast, gather the necessary tools to ensure a smooth baking experience. Having the right equipment will make preparation easier and more enjoyable.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Mixing bowl
- Whisk
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Rolling pin
- Doughnut cutter or round cookie cutters
- Deep fryer or large pot
Importance of Each Tool
- Mixing bowl: A spacious bowl is crucial for mixing all ingredients thoroughly without spills.
- Doughnut cutter: Using a specialized cutter ensures consistent shapes for even cooking.
- Deep fryer: Provides controlled temperature for frying, resulting in perfectly cooked doughnuts.

Ingredients
Perfect vegan doughnuts are super light and fluffy! No one will ever know they’re vegan.
Ingredients:
For the Doughnut Base
- 6 Tbsp aquafaba (chickpea water)
- 2 tsp flaxseed (ground)
- 6 Tbsp water
- 5 oz coconut milk (in a carton, not can) at room temperature
- 2 oz coconut oil (melted)
- 16 oz all-purpose flour (or bread flour)
- 2 oz sugar
- 1 tsp salt
- 1 ½ tsp quick-rise yeast (or regular dry yeast)
For Frying & Topping
- 3 c olive oil (light olive oil – for frying)
- powdered sugar
- sugar
- shredded coconut (or chopped nuts etc.)
- jam or any other vegan filling (if desired)
How to Make Perfect Vegan Doughnuts Made with Yeast (Vegan Donut Recipe)
Step 1: Prepare the Yeast Mixture
- In a small bowl, combine the aquafaba and ground flaxseed. Let it sit for about 5 minutes until it thickens slightly.
- In another bowl, mix warm water and yeast. Allow it to activate for 5–10 minutes until frothy.
Step 2: Combine Wet Ingredients
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the thickened aquafaba mixture, coconut milk, and melted coconut oil.
- Add the activated yeast mixture into this blend.
Step 3: Mix Dry Ingredients
- In a separate bowl, combine all-purpose flour, sugar, salt, and quick-rise yeast.
- Gradually add the dry ingredient mix into the wet ingredients while stirring until well combined.
Step 4: Knead the Dough
- On a floured surface, knead the dough until it becomes smooth and elastic (about 5–7 minutes).
- Form it into a ball and place it in a lightly greased bowl. Cover with a cloth and let rise for about an hour in a warm place until doubled in size.
Step 5: Shape the Doughnuts
- Once risen, punch down the dough gently to release air.
- Roll out on a floured surface to about ½ inch thickness.
- Cut out doughnut shapes using a cutter.
Step 6: Frying Time!
- Heat olive oil in your deep fryer or pot over medium heat.
- Carefully fry each doughnut until golden brown on both sides (about 2–3 minutes per side).
- Remove from oil and drain on paper towels.
Step 7: Add Toppings
- While still warm, dust your doughnuts with powdered sugar or roll them in sugar mixed with shredded coconut or chopped nuts.
- If desired, fill them with your favorite jam using a piping bag.
Enjoy your homemade Perfect Vegan Doughnuts Made with Yeast!
How to Serve Perfect Vegan Doughnuts Made with Yeast (Vegan Donut Recipe)
Serving perfect vegan doughnuts is all about creativity and flavor. These delightful treats can be enjoyed in various ways, whether you’re hosting a party or just indulging at home.
With Sweet Glazes
- Maple Glaze: Drizzle a rich maple syrup glaze over the doughnuts for a classic touch.
- Chocolate Glaze: Dip in melted dark chocolate for a decadent finish that chocolate lovers will adore.
Topped with Sprinkles
- Colorful Sprinkles: Add vibrancy by topping with colorful sprinkles, perfect for birthday celebrations or festive occasions.
- Coconut Flakes: Roll the doughnuts in shredded coconut for a tropical twist that adds texture and flavor.
Filled with Delicious Treats
- Jam Filling: Inject your favorite jam into the center of the doughnut for a burst of fruity flavor.
- Nut Butter: Use almond or peanut butter filling for an exciting nutty surprise inside each bite.
Served with Dipping Sauces
- Chocolate Sauce: Serve alongside warm chocolate sauce for dipping, making each bite even more indulgent.
- Fruit Coulis: Pair with a fresh fruit coulis to add a refreshing element to your dessert.
How to Perfect Perfect Vegan Doughnuts Made with Yeast (Vegan Donut Recipe)
Creating perfect vegan doughnuts takes practice and attention to detail. Here are some tips to ensure your doughnuts turn out light and fluffy every time.
- Use Fresh Yeast: Ensure your yeast is active by checking the expiration date before using. Fresh yeast results in better rise and texture.
- Knead Properly: Knead the dough until it’s smooth and elastic. This helps develop gluten, giving your doughnuts their desired fluffiness.
- Let it Rise: Allow adequate time for the dough to rise. A warm environment will help speed up this process, resulting in airy doughnuts.
- Fry at Right Temperature: Maintain oil temperature around 350°F (175°C) during frying. This prevents greasy doughnuts while ensuring they cook evenly.
- Cool Before Coating: Let the fried doughnuts cool slightly before glazing or coating with powdered sugar. This allows toppings to stick better.
- Experiment with Flavors: Feel free to add spices like cinnamon or vanilla extract to enhance the flavor profile of your doughnuts.
Best Side Dishes for Perfect Vegan Doughnuts Made with Yeast (Vegan Donut Recipe)
Pairing side dishes with your perfect vegan doughnuts can create an enjoyable meal experience. Consider these options that complement their sweetness beautifully.
- Fresh Fruit Salad: A mix of seasonal fruits brings freshness that balances the richness of the doughnuts.
- Chia Seed Pudding: Light and nutritious, chia pudding can provide a delightful contrast in texture and taste.
- Vegan Yogurt Parfait: Layer vegan yogurt with granola and berries for a creamy, crunchy addition that’s sure to please.
- Savory Breakfast Burritos: For a more substantial pairing, serve savory burritos filled with veggies and avocado for balance.
- Smoothie Bowl: A vibrant smoothie bowl topped with nuts and seeds offers a refreshing contrast while maintaining a plant-based focus.
- Herbed Avocado Toast: Creamy avocado on whole-grain toast adds healthy fats that pair well with sweet treats while keeping it simple.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Making perfect vegan doughnuts is easier than you think, but a few common pitfalls can impact your results.
- Bold ingredient measurements: Using incorrect or inconsistent measurements can lead to dense or uneven doughnuts. Always use a kitchen scale for accuracy.
- Bold ignoring yeast activation: Not allowing the yeast to activate properly can result in flat doughnuts. Ensure your warm liquid is not too hot or cold; it should be around 110°F (43°C).
- Bold overcrowding the frying pan: Placing too many doughnuts in the oil at once lowers the temperature, leading to greasy treats. Fry in small batches for the best results.
- Bold skipping chilling time: Rushing through the rising process by not chilling the dough can yield less fluffy doughnuts. Allow adequate time for rising.
- Bold neglecting flavor additions: Skipping spices or flavorings will result in bland doughnuts. Consider adding vanilla extract or citrus zest for extra flavor.

Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store leftover vegan doughnuts in an airtight container.
- They will stay fresh for about 2-3 days in the refrigerator.
Freezing Perfect Vegan Doughnuts Made with Yeast (Vegan Donut Recipe)
- Place cooled doughnuts in a single layer on a baking sheet.
- Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container for up to 2 months.
Reheating Perfect Vegan Doughnuts Made with Yeast (Vegan Donut Recipe)
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Bake for 5-8 minutes until warm.
- Microwave: Heat each doughnut for about 15-20 seconds until warm.
- Stovetop: Place in a pan over low heat, flipping occasionally until warmed through.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some commonly asked questions regarding making perfect vegan doughnuts.
How do I ensure my Perfect Vegan Doughnuts Made with Yeast rise well?
To achieve good rise, make sure your yeast is fresh and activate it properly before mixing it into the ingredients.
Can I substitute other plant-based milks in this vegan donut recipe?
Yes, you can use almond milk, soy milk, or any other non-dairy milk of your choice as long as it’s unsweetened and at room temperature.
What can I use instead of aquafaba?
If you don’t have aquafaba, you may use an equal amount of unsweetened applesauce or silken tofu blended until smooth as an alternative binder.
Are these vegan donuts gluten-free?
This recipe contains all-purpose flour; however, you can substitute it with a gluten-free all-purpose blend if needed.
How do I customize my vegan doughnut flavors?
You can add spices like cinnamon or nutmeg to the batter, or mix in chocolate chips, nuts, or dried fruits for added texture and taste.
Final Thoughts
These perfect vegan doughnuts made with yeast are not only light and fluffy but also incredibly versatile! Experiment with different fillings and toppings like jams or glazes. Whether enjoyed plain or dressed up, they are sure to impress everyone!
Perfect Vegan Doughnuts Made with Yeast
Discover the joy of baking with these Perfect Vegan Doughnuts Made with Yeast! Light, fluffy, and absolutely delightful, these doughnuts are a fantastic treat for breakfast or dessert. The combination of aquafaba and coconut milk creates a rich, moist texture that makes each bite irresistible. Whether you choose to fill them with your favorite jam or top them with shredded coconut or nuts, these doughnuts are sure to impress everyone at the table. Plus, they’re easy to make and perfect for sharing at gatherings!
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 20 servings 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: Vegan
Ingredients
- 6 Tbsp aquafaba (chickpea water)
- 2 tsp ground flaxseed
- 6 Tbsp water
- 5 oz coconut milk (room temperature)
- 2 oz coconut oil (melted)
- 16 oz all-purpose flour
- 2 oz sugar
- 1 tsp salt
- 1 ½ tsp quick-rise yeast
- 3 c olive oil (for frying)
- powdered sugar
- sugar
- shredded coconut (or chopped nuts, etc.)
- jam or any other vegan filling (if desired)
Instructions
- In a small bowl, mix aquafaba and ground flaxseed; let sit for about 5 minutes.
- Combine warm water and yeast in another bowl; let activate for 5–10 minutes.
- In a large bowl, whisk together the aquafaba mixture, coconut milk, and melted coconut oil. Add the activated yeast mixture.
- In a separate bowl, mix all-purpose flour, sugar, salt, and quick-rise yeast. Gradually add to the wet ingredients until combined.
- Knead on a floured surface until smooth (about 5–7 minutes). Place in a greased bowl, cover, and let rise for about an hour.
- Roll out dough to ½ inch thickness; cut into doughnut shapes.
- Heat olive oil in a deep fryer or large pot over medium heat and fry doughnuts until golden brown (about 2–3 minutes per side).
- Drain on paper towels and dust with powdered sugar or roll in sugar mixed with coconut.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 doughnut (45g)
- Calories: 175
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 120mg
- Fat: 8g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 24g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 0mg