Fluffy Vegan Pumpkin Donuts with Salted Caramel Glaze

Why Make This Recipe

Fluffy Vegan Pumpkin Donuts with Salted Caramel Glaze are perfect for anyone who loves a sweet treat but wants to keep it plant-based. These donuts are not only delicious but also easy to make. They are moist and fluffy thanks to the pumpkin puree, making them perfect for a morning snack or an afternoon treat. The salted caramel glaze adds a sweet and salty touch that completes the flavor profile. Whether you’re vegan or just trying to eat healthier, these donuts are a fantastic choice.

During the fall season, pumpkin becomes a star ingredient in many recipes. Pumpkin treats can remind us of cozy times, family gatherings, and warm flavors. Making these vegan donuts will not only satisfy your cravings but will also impress your friends and family. They are great for parties, brunch, or just because you want something sweet.

How to Make Fluffy Vegan Pumpkin Donuts with Salted Caramel Glaze

Making these fluffy vegan pumpkin donuts is a straightforward process. Just follow the steps below, and you’ll have a delicious batch ready to enjoy in no time!

Ingredients

To create these delightful pumpkin donuts, you will need the following ingredients:

• 1 cup pumpkin puree
• 1/2 cup almond milk (or other plant-based milk)
• 1/4 cup maple syrup
• 1/4 cup coconut oil, melted
• 2 cups flour (all-purpose or gluten-free)
• 1 tablespoon baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
• 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1 cup powdered sugar
• 2 tablespoons coconut cream
• 1 tablespoon sea salt (for topping)

Directions

Now, let’s get started on making these yummy donuts!

1. Preheat the Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that the donuts bake evenly and rise nicely.

2. Prepare the Donut Pan: Lightly grease a donut pan with a bit of coconut oil or any cooking spray to prevent the donuts from sticking.

3. Mix Wet Ingredients: In a mixing bowl, combine 1 cup of pumpkin puree, 1/2 cup of almond milk, 1/4 cup of maple syrup, and 1/4 cup of melted coconut oil. Stir well until everything is combined smoothly.

4. Mix Dry Ingredients: In another bowl, whisk together the dry ingredients. This includes 2 cups of flour, 1 tablespoon of baking powder, 1/2 teaspoon of cinnamon, 1/4 teaspoon of nutmeg, and 1/4 teaspoon of salt.

5. Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures: Pour the dry ingredient mixture into the wet mixture. Stir until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can lead to denser donuts.

6. Fill the Donut Pan: Fill each cavity of the donut pan about 3/4 full with the batter. This allows room for the donuts to rise while baking.

7. Bake the Donuts: Place the donut pan in the preheated oven and bake for 18-20 minutes. To check if they are done, insert a toothpick into the center of a donut. If it comes out clean, they are ready!

8. Cool the Donuts: Once baked, allow the donuts to cool in the pan for a few minutes. Then, transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely.

9. Prepare the Glaze: In a small bowl, mix 1 cup of powdered sugar with 2 tablespoons of coconut cream until smooth. This will be your glaze.

10. Glaze the Donuts: Once the donuts are completely cool, dip the tops into the glaze. Avoid getting the bottom of the donut wet, as they may become soggy.

11. Add Sea Salt: After glazing, sprinkle each donut with a pinch of sea salt. This contrast will elevate the flavor perfectly.

12. Serve and Enjoy: Your Fluffy Vegan Pumpkin Donuts are ready to be served! Enjoy them fresh, or share them with family and friends.

How to Serve Fluffy Vegan Pumpkin Donuts with Salted Caramel Glaze

These donuts can be served in various ways. They are delicious on their own, but you can also pair them with a cup of coffee or tea for a delightful afternoon snack. If you want to make it a special occasion, serve the donuts on a beautiful platter, perhaps with a light dusting of powdered sugar for presentation. Adding seasonal decorations can also elevate their appearance for holiday gatherings.

For those who love a dessert spread, place these donuts next to other treats like vegan muffins or a fruit salad. They also make a great breakfast option, especially when accompanied by a smoothie or yogurt. Feel free to eat them warm or at room temperature, but keep in mind that they taste even better fresh!

How to Store Fluffy Vegan Pumpkin Donuts with Salted Caramel Glaze

To keep your fluffy vegan pumpkin donuts fresh, store them properly. Here are some storage tips:

1. Room Temperature: If you plan to eat the donuts within a day or two, keep them in an airtight container at room temperature. This will help maintain their softness.

2. Refrigeration: For longer storage, place the donuts in an airtight container and store them in the refrigerator. This can keep them fresh for about 4 to 5 days. Just remember that refrigeration can sometimes dry them out, so it’s best to eat them soon after.

3. Freezing: If you want to keep the donuts for an extended time, you can freeze them. Place the donuts in an airtight container or a freezer bag. Make sure to separate layers with parchment paper to prevent them from sticking together. They can be frozen for about 2-3 months. To eat them, thaw them at room temperature or warm them in the oven for a few minutes.

Tips to Make Fluffy Vegan Pumpkin Donuts with Salted Caramel Glaze

Making these donuts can be easy, but here are some extra tips to ensure they turn out perfect every time:

1. Use Fresh Pumpkin Puree: While canned pumpkin puree works well, fresh pumpkin can make the donuts taste even better. Just make sure to cook and mash it properly first.

2. Check Your Baking Powder: Always check the expiration date of your baking powder. Fresh baking powder will ensure your donuts rise well and become fluffy.

3. Don’t Overmix: When combining the wet and dry ingredients, stir gently. Overmixing can lead to rubbery donuts.

4. Let the Donuts Cool: Be patient and allow the donuts to cool before glazing them. Glazing warm donuts can cause the glaze to melt off.

5. Experiment with Spices: If you enjoy spices, feel free to add other spices like ginger or clove to deepen the flavor profile.

Variation

While the recipe for Fluffy Vegan Pumpkin Donuts with Salted Caramel Glaze is already delicious, here are a few variations to try:

1. Chocolate Glaze: Instead of the coconut cream glaze, melt some dark vegan chocolate to dip the donuts. Chocolate pairs beautifully with pumpkin.

2. Add Nuts: Mix in some chopped walnuts or pecans into the batter for a crunchy texture. This adds a nice contrast to the soft donuts.

3. Gluten-Free Option: Use a gluten-free flour blend to make these donuts gluten-free. The taste will still be delightful, and they will maintain their fluffiness.

4. Stuffed Donuts: Before baking, pipe a bit of vegan cream cheese or fruit preserves into the centers for a delicious surprise.

5. Sprinkle with Cinnamon Sugar: For an extra sweet touch, mix sugar with cinnamon and sprinkle it on top of the glazed donuts instead of sea salt.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of milk instead of almond milk?

Absolutely! You can replace almond milk with any other plant-based milk like oat milk, soy milk, or coconut milk. Choose the one you prefer for taste and consistency.

How can I make these donuts without refined sugar?

If you want to make these donuts without refined sugar, you can replace powdered sugar with a homemade version using blended coconut sugar or date sugar into a fine powder. This will give you a healthier sweet option.

Can I bake these donuts instead of frying them?

Yes! This recipe is specifically for baking donuts, which keeps them lighter and healthier compared to frying. Baking is the perfect way to enjoy delicious donuts without the excess oil.

How do I know when my donuts are done baking?

The best way to check if your donuts are done is to use the toothpick method. Insert a toothpick into the center of one of the donuts. If it comes out clean or with a few crumbs, they are ready. If there is wet batter on the toothpick, bake them a few more minutes.

Can I make the batter ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the batter ahead of time and store it in the fridge for up to 24 hours. Just give it a gentle stir before you fill the donut pan and bake.

In the end, these Fluffy Vegan Pumpkin Donuts with Salted Caramel Glaze are sure to be a hit. With their moist texture and delightful flavors, they are perfect for any occasion. Whether you share them or keep them all to yourself, you’ll enjoy every bite! Enjoy baking, sharing, and savoring these treats!

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