Easy Vegan Apple Cider Donuts: The BEST Recipe EVER!

Posted on January 20, 2026

Easy vegan apple cider donuts! Oh, how I love autumn. The crisp air, the vibrant colors, and of course, the delicious flavors. And nothing screams fall quite like apple cider donuts. But what if you’re vegan? No problem! I’ve crafted the perfect recipe for easy vegan apple cider donuts that will have you feeling all the cozy vibes without any dairy or eggs. These little rings of joy are so good, you’ll want to make them all season long, and trust me, I do!

These easy vegan apple cider donuts are a delicious way to enjoy the flavors of fall! After baking, you’ll feel like you found the best orchard in the country.

Why You Will Love This easy vegan apple cider donuts Recipe

These easy vegan apple cider donuts are seriously addictive! They’re cakey, flavorful, and perfectly spiced. Plus, they’re incredibly easy to make. Seriously, even if you’re not a baker, you can totally nail this recipe. What makes this recipe special? We’re using real apple cider, which gives them an authentic, intense apple flavor that you just can’t get from extract alone.

These donuts are so comforting–the perfect warm treat alongside a cup of tea on a chilly afternoon. And the best part? They’re vegan! So everyone can enjoy them. This recipe allows everyone to get in on the fun! Reminds me of my childhood in Louisiana, sharing a dish with my loved ones at the kitchen table.

easy vegan apple cider donuts - Detail or variation
Close-up detail

Ingredients Needed for This easy vegan apple cider donuts Recipe

Here’s what you’ll need to whip up these delightful donuts. Don’t be concerned if it looks like a long list; most of these ingredients you likely already have in your pantry!

For the Donuts:
  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 teaspoon baking powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
  • 1/4 teaspoon ground allspice
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1 cup apple cider
  • 1/2 cup granulated sugar
  • 1/4 cup packed light brown sugar
  • 1/4 cup applesauce
  • 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
For the Coating:
  • 1/2 cup granulated sugar
  • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
easy vegan apple cider donuts - Process or ingredients
Preparation process

How to Make This easy vegan apple cider donuts Recipe

Ready to get baking? No frying here. These are baked donuts, which makes them healthier and so much easier to prepare! Here’s how to make them:

  1. 1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a donut pan.
  1. 2. In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg, allspice, and salt.
  1. 3. In a separate bowl, whisk together the apple cider, granulated sugar, brown sugar, applesauce, vegetable oil, and vanilla extract.
  1. 4. Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and mix until just combined. Be careful not to overmix.
  1. 5. Transfer the batter to a piping bag or a ziplock bag with a corner cut off. Pipe the batter into the prepared donut pan, filling each cavity about two-thirds full.
  1. 6. Bake for 12 to 15 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
  1. 7. While the donuts are baking, prepare the coating. In a small bowl, combine the granulated sugar and cinnamon.
  1. 8. Let the donuts cool in the pan for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack.
  1. 9. While the donuts are still warm, dip them in the cinnamon sugar coating, coating both sides.
  1. 10. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Why not try these donuts on a cool autumn morning after having some Vegan Breakfast For Weight Loss?

How to Serve This easy vegan apple cider donuts Recipe

These donuts are best served fresh and warm, but they are also great at room temperature. Enjoy these treats with a cup of hot coffee or tea.

  • Pairing ideas: Serve with a scoop of vegan vanilla ice cream, or a drizzle of maple syrup.
  • Topping recommendations: A sprinkle of chopped nuts or a dusting of powdered sugar would be delicious.
  • Plating ideas: Arrange the donuts on a plate and garnish with fresh apple slices or a cinnamon stick.

How to Store This easy vegan apple cider donuts Recipe

These donuts are best enjoyed fresh, but if you have leftovers, here’s how to store them:

  • Refrigeration instructions: Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days, or in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
  • Freezing guidelines: Freeze in an airtight container for up to 1 month. Thaw at room temperature before serving.
  • Reheating tips: Reheat in the microwave and toast or oven for a few seconds or you can let them come to room temperature. I actually love them cold!
  • Shelf life information: Best consumed within 2 days at room temperature.

Tips to Make This easy vegan apple cider donuts Recipe

Want to make sure your donuts turn out perfectly? Here are a few tips:

  • Ingredient swaps: Applesauce can be swapped with mashed banana or pumpkin puree. Vegetable oil can be swapped with melted coconut oil.
  • Success tips: Don’t overmix the batter, as this can result in tough donuts. Be sure to grease the donut pan well to prevent sticking.
  • Common mistakes to avoid: Overbaking the donuts can make them dry. Keep a close eye on them in the oven and remove them as soon as a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
  • Pro tips for best results: Use fresh apple cider for the best flavor. If you can’t find apple cider, you can use apple juice, but the flavor won’t be as intense.

Helpful Notes for This easy vegan apple cider donuts Recipe

A couple of things worth noting:

  • Extra clarifications: Make sure your baking powder and baking soda are fresh for the best rise.
  • Ingredient details: Apple cider is unfiltered, unsweetened apple juice.
  • Equipment recommendations: A donut pan is essential for this recipe, but you can also use a muffin tin if you don’t have one. Just fill each muffin cup about two thirds full and adjust the baking time accordingly.
These delicious donuts are also great if you are using different types of meal-types.

Variation of This easy vegan apple cider donuts Recipe

Want to mix things up? Here are a few variations to try:

  • Seasonal twists: Add pumpkin spice to the batter for a pumpkin apple cider donut.
  • Optional versions: Top with a vegan cream cheese frosting instead of cinnamon sugar.
  • Creative modifications: Add chopped pecans or walnuts to the batter for a nutty twist.

Are apple cider donuts vegan?

Traditional apple cider donuts are often not vegan, as they typically contain eggs and dairy. However, this recipe provides an easy and delicious way to make them vegan-friendly.

How do you store vegan apple cider donuts?

Store your easy vegan apple cider donuts in an airtight container at room temperature. They are best enjoyed within 2-3 days to maintain their freshness and flavor.

Can I bake these vegan apple cider donuts instead of frying?

Yes, you can bake these donuts! Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake for about 15-20 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Baking will result in a slightly different texture, but it’s still a delicious and healthier alternative.

What kind of apple cider should I use?

Use good quality, unfiltered apple cider for the best flavor in these donuts. The richer the cider, the more pronounced the apple flavor will be in the final product.

Conclusion

I hope you enjoy these easy vegan apple cider donuts! They’re the perfect treat for fall. So gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and get ready to bake up a batch of these delicious donuts. Be prepared to be amazed by how easy vegan apple cider donuts can be. Let me know in the comments how your donuts turn out!

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