Name: Baked Vegan Pumpkin Spice Donuts Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 13 min
Total time: 28 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 1/2 cups organic all-purpose flour; 1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder; 1/4 teaspoon baking soda; 1 teaspoon homemade pumpkin spice blend; 1/8 teaspoon sea salt; 1/2 cup organic cane sugar (for batter); 3/4 cup organic pumpkin puree (NOT pie filling); 1/3 to 1/2 cup almond milk (or your favorite plant-based milk); 1 teaspoon apple cider vinegar; 3 tablespoons organic vegetable oil; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1 cup organic cane sugar; 1 tablespoon store-bought or homemade pumpkin spice; 4–5 tablespoons vegan butter, melted

Jump to Recipe

There is something truly magical about the cozy flavors of fall wrapped up in a delicate and fluffy treat, which is exactly why I am so excited to share this recipe for Baked Vegan Pumpkin Spice Donuts. These donuts are not only a joyous celebration of pumpkin and autumn spices, but they are also wonderfully light and wholesome thanks to being baked, not fried. Each bite bursts with warm pumpkin aroma balanced by a sweet, spiced sugar coating, making these donuts a perfect snack or breakfast companion for anyone craving a seasonal delight with a vegan twist.

Baked Vegan Pumpkin Spice Donuts Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering the right ingredients is key to achieving those tender, perfectly spiced Baked Vegan Pumpkin Spice Donuts. Each component plays an essential role, from the pumpkin puree giving moisture and flavor to the pumpkin spice blend that adds a comforting touch of warmth and complexity.

Organic all-purpose flour (1 1/2 cups): Provides structure and a light crumb to the donuts.
Organic cane sugar (1/2 cup + 1 cup for coating): Adds sweetness and helps achieve a tender texture.
Organic pumpkin puree (3/4 cup): The star of the show, lending natural sweetness, moisture, and that signature pumpkin flavor.
Baking powder (1 1/2 tsp): Helps the donuts rise nicely without heaviness.
Baking soda (1/4 tsp): Works in tandem with baking powder to achieve the perfect lift.
Homemade pumpkin spice blend (1 tsp): Infuses the batter with cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and cloves for that unmistakable fall vibe.
Sea salt (1/8 tsp): Enhances all the flavors, balancing sweetness and spice.
Almond milk (1/3 to 1/2 cup): Your choice of plant-based milk keeps these donuts totally vegan and moist.
Apple cider vinegar (1 tsp): Reacts with the baking soda for lift and creates a dairy-free “buttermilk” effect.
Vegetable oil (3 tbsp): Adds moisture and richness without overpowering the pumpkin flavor.
Vanilla extract (1 tsp): A subtle touch to deepen the flavor profile.
Pumpkin spice (1 tbsp for coating): To make the topping sing with autumn spice notes.
Vegan butter (4-5 tbsp, melted): Used to help the spice-sugar coating stick and add a little indulgence.

How to Make Baked Vegan Pumpkin Spice Donuts

Step 1: Create the Vegan ‘Buttermilk’

Start by whisking together your almond milk and apple cider vinegar in a small bowl or measuring cup. Let this mixture sit for about 5 to 6 minutes so it thickens slightly. This step mimics traditional buttermilk by adding a delicate tang and helps tenderize the donut batter for a soft, fluffy texture.

Step 2: Prepare the Donut Batter

Preheat your oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit and lightly grease your donut pan to prevent sticking. In a separate bowl, combine the flour, baking powder, baking soda, sugar, pumpkin spice, and sea salt. Gradually stir in the vegan “buttermilk,” pumpkin puree, vanilla, and vegetable oil. You want to mix until just combined and smooth; the batter should be thick but easily pipeable, making sure your donuts come out perfectly light and airy.

Step 3: Fill and Bake

Transfer the batter to a piping bag or a resealable bag with a corner cut off for ease of filling. Pipe the batter evenly into the donut pan wells, filling each about three-quarters full. Baking time is quick—about 10 to 13 minutes—so keep an eye out and test doneness with a toothpick. When it comes out clean, your donuts are ready to cool.

Step 4: Cool the Donuts

Once baked, allow the donuts to cool in the pan for 5 minutes to firm up slightly. Then gently remove them and place on a wire rack to cool completely. This step ensures the donuts don’t become soggy and are ready for their delicious coating.

Step 5: Coat with Pumpkin Spice Sugar

While the donuts cool, whisk together sugar and pumpkin spice in one bowl and melt your vegan butter in another. Dip each cooled donut in the melted butter then immediately coat with the spiced sugar mixture, making sure every side is generously covered. Place back on the wire rack to set, capturing that irresistible sweet and spicy crust.

How to Serve Baked Vegan Pumpkin Spice Donuts

Garnishes

These donuts are perfectly delicious on their own, but if you want to add a little extra flair, a light dusting of powdered sugar or a drizzle of maple syrup can elevate the seasonal charm. Freshly chopped pecans or a sprinkle of cinnamon on top also add texture and visual appeal.

Side Dishes

Pair your Baked Vegan Pumpkin Spice Donuts with warm beverages like a rich latte, chai tea, or a simple cup of black coffee for the ultimate cozy spread. For brunch, consider serving alongside a fruit salad or a bowl of dairy-free yogurt topped with granola to balance sweet and savory flavors.

Creative Ways to Present

For parties or special occasions, stack these donuts on a tiered cake stand adorned with autumn leaves and small pumpkins. You can even skewer mini donuts to create adorable pumpkin spice donut pops. Bringing these beauties to gatherings will surely spark joy and plenty of compliments.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you find yourself with leftovers, keep the donuts in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days to maintain their soft texture. Storing them away from moisture will keep that spiced sugar coating crisp and intact without getting sticky.

Freezing

These Baked Vegan Pumpkin Spice Donuts freeze beautifully. Place them in a single layer on a baking sheet to freeze initially and then transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container. They will keep well for up to 3 months, letting you enjoy a taste of fall anytime you crave it.

Reheating

Gently warm your frozen or stored donuts in a low oven at 300 degrees Fahrenheit for 5-7 minutes or pop them in the microwave for 15-20 seconds. This brings back that fresh-baked softness and revives the flavorful glaze to perfection.

FAQs

Can I use canned pumpkin pie filling instead of pumpkin puree?

It’s best to use pure pumpkin puree, not pie filling, as pie filling contains added sugars and spices that can alter the donut’s texture and taste.

Are these donuts gluten-free?

This recipe calls for all-purpose flour, so they are not gluten-free as written. However, you can experiment with a gluten-free flour blend keeping the same quantities, but the texture might vary slightly.

Can I substitute the almond milk with another plant-based milk?

Absolutely! You can use oat, soy, coconut, or your favorite plant-based milk. Just keep it unsweetened for the best results.

How spicy are these donuts?

The level of spice is mild to moderate, perfectly balanced for those who enjoy cozy warmth without overpowering heat. You can always adjust the pumpkin spice blend to your liking.

Are the donuts suitable for kids?

Definitely! These donuts are gentle on the palate, naturally sweet, and free from common allergens like dairy and eggs, making them a great treat for kids and adults alike.

Final Thoughts

I hope you find as much joy in baking and savoring these Baked Vegan Pumpkin Spice Donuts as I do sharing them. They are a cozy hug in donut form and a wonderful way to celebrate fall flavors while keeping things vegan and simple. Treat yourself and your loved ones—you deserve it!

Baked Vegan Pumpkin Spice Donuts Recipe

★★★★★

5 from 23 reviews

Author: Elara
Total Time: 28 minutes
Yield: 6 donuts 1x
Diet: Vegan

Print Recipe

Description

Delight in these soft and flavorful Baked Vegan Pumpkin Spice Donuts, perfect for fall or any cozy occasion. Made with wholesome organic ingredients, pumpkin puree, and a homemade pumpkin spice blend, these donuts are baked to perfection and coated with a buttery pumpkin spice sugar for a sweet, aromatic finish. They are vegan, light, and ideal for breakfast, brunch, dessert, or a comforting snack.

Instructions

Create the ‘Buttermilk’: In a bowl or measuring cup, whisk together the almond milk and apple cider vinegar. Let the mixture sit for 5-6 minutes until it thickens slightly, mimicking buttermilk’s texture and acidity.
Preheat and Prepare Donut Pan: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease or spray your 6-well donut baking pans lightly to prevent sticking.
Mix Dry Ingredients: In a mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, 1/2 cup cane sugar (for batter), homemade pumpkin spice blend, and sea salt. Stir to blend evenly.
Add Wet Ingredients to Dry: Stir in the ‘buttermilk’ starting with 1/3 cup, gradually adding up to 1/2 cup as needed to make a thick and smooth batter. Add pumpkin puree, vanilla extract, and vegetable oil. Mix for about 1-2 minutes until well combined.
Fill the Donut Pans: Spoon the batter into a piping bag. Pipe the batter into each well of the prepared donut pan, filling approximately 3/4 full for even baking.
Bake the Donuts: Place the pans in the oven and bake for 10-13 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Cool Donuts: Remove the donuts from the oven and allow them to cool in the pan for 5 minutes. Then carefully remove the donuts from the pans and transfer to a cooling rack to cool completely.
Prepare Pumpkin Spice-Sugar Coating: In a small bowl, whisk together 1 cup cane sugar and 1 tablespoon pumpkin spice until well combined. In another bowl, melt 4-5 tablespoons vegan butter.
Coat the Donuts: Once the donuts are fully cooled, dip or brush each side of a donut with melted vegan butter, then immediately dip into the pumpkin spice sugar mixture. Ensure all sides and edges are coated. Place coated donuts on a rack to set.
Serve: Enjoy these delicious pumpkin spice donuts fresh, perfect with your favorite coffee, tea, or as a sweet treat anytime.
Bon Appetit! Savor your homemade baked vegan pumpkin spice donuts that bring warmth and seasonal flavor in every bite.

Notes

Use organic pumpkin puree, not pumpkin pie filling, for best flavor and texture.
If you don’t have homemade pumpkin spice, a store-bought blend works perfectly.
Adjust almond milk quantity to achieve a thick but smooth batter consistency.
Ensure donuts are completely cooled before coating to prevent sugar from melting off.
Donuts keep well in an airtight container for up to 3 days at room temperature or up to a week refrigerated.
For a gluten-free version, substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free baking blend.
Make your own pumpkin spice by combining cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and cloves.
Use a piping bag or a zip-top bag with the corner cut off for easy batter filling.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 13 minutes
Category: Breakfast, Snack, Dessert
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American