As the crisp autumn air sets in, the scent of warm spices fills my kitchen, instantly transporting me to cozy fall afternoons. My latest obsession? Vegan Pumpkin Spice Doughnuts! These delightful treats are not just visually adorable—shaped like little pumpkins—they’re also incredibly light and fluffy, making them a guilt-free indulgence perfect for any occasion. The best part? They’re completely dairy-free and egg-free, so everyone can enjoy a bite without a worry. With just a bit of time and a simple homemade dough, you’ll be rewarded with a soft, pillowy texture that’s perfectly complemented by a sweet pumpkin sugar coating. Ready to impress your friends and family this fall? Let’s dive into this mouthwatering recipe that promises to be a crowd-pleaser!
Why are these doughnuts a must-try?
Irresistible Flavors: Each bite of these Vegan Pumpkin Spice Doughnuts bursts with cozy spice and sweet pumpkin.
Adorable Shapes: Their unique pumpkin shapes add a festive touch, perfect for gatherings.
Guilt-Free Indulgence: Enjoy treats that are dairy-free and egg-free, making this recipe a friendly option for all.
Quick Preparation: Despite their enchanting appearance, these doughnuts are easy to make, perfect for busy fall days.
Versatile Variations: Experiment with fillings and enjoy different flavors; why not try a tasty maple cream filling or bake a healthier version?
Crowd Favorite: Share them at your next get-together and watch how quickly they disappear—everyone will be asking for the recipe!
Pair these delightful doughnuts with a warm cup of your favorite coffee or tea for a truly cozy experience. If you’re craving more pumpkin magic, check out my Pumpkin Cream Cheese treats for another seasonal favorite!
Pumpkin Spice Doughnuts Ingredients
For the Dough
- All-Purpose Flour – Provides structure for the doughnuts; can substitute with gluten-free flour blend for a GF version.
- Pumpkin Purée – Adds moisture and rich pumpkin flavor; ensure it’s canned or cooked pumpkin with a smooth texture.
- Pumpkin Spice – Infuses the dough with warm, aromatic flavors; can substitute with a mix of cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger if unavailable.
- Active Yeast – Essential leavening agent that creates a light, airy texture; use fresh yeast for best results.
- Sugar – Sweetens the dough; granulated sugar works best.
- Flax Egg – A vegan binding agent made with ground flaxseed and water; substitute with a chia egg if preferred.
- Melted Vegan Butter – Adds richness; can replace with coconut oil for a different flavor profile.
- Milk (plant-based) – Hydrates the dough; unsweetened almond milk is a recommended choice.
For the Filling
- Cream Cheese (Vegan) – Creates a rich and creamy filling; recommended brand: Violife.
For Coating
- Sugar (for coating) – Sweetens the final touch; mix with extra pumpkin spice for an enhanced flavor experience.
Whip up these delectable Pumpkin Spice Doughnuts for a delightful autumn treat that everyone will love!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Vegan Pumpkin Spice Doughnuts
Step 1: Prepare the Yeast Mixture
Start by warming 1 cup of unsweetened almond milk in a saucepan until it’s lukewarm, around 110°F (43°C). In a small bowl, combine the warm milk with 2 tablespoons of sugar and 2 teaspoons of active yeast. Let the mixture sit for about 5–10 minutes until it becomes frothy, indicating that the yeast is active and ready to work its magic in your Vegan Pumpkin Spice Doughnuts.
Step 2: Combine Dry Ingredients
While waiting for the yeast to activate, take a large mixing bowl and whisk together 3 cups of all-purpose flour and 2 teaspoons of pumpkin spice. Ensure the dry ingredients are well-mixed, as this will distribute the flavors evenly throughout the doughnuts. This aromatic blend smells delightful and serves as the foundation for the warm flavors in your Vegan Pumpkin Spice Doughnuts.
Step 3: Form the Dough
Once your yeast mixture is frothy, combine it with 1 flax egg (made from 1 tablespoon of ground flaxseed mixed with 2.5 tablespoons of water), 1/4 cup of melted vegan butter, and 1 cup of pumpkin purée in the bowl with your dry ingredients. Mix everything until you form a smooth and slightly sticky dough, making sure all the ingredients are well incorporated. The dough should come together nicely, embracing the delicious pumpkin flavors!
Step 4: First Prove
Cover the bowl with a clean kitchen towel and let the dough rise in a warm place for about 1 to 2 hours, or until it has doubled in size. This step is crucial for achieving those light and fluffy Vegan Pumpkin Spice Doughnuts you desire. You’ll know it’s ready when the dough feels airy and puffy, inviting you to continue the baking process.
Step 5: Shape the Doughnuts
Once the dough has risen, turn it out onto a floured surface and gently roll it out to about 1/2 inch thick. Use a flower-shaped cookie cutter to cut out doughnut shapes, and don’t forget to poke a string or use your fingers to mold them rounded like little pumpkins. Carefully place the shaped doughnuts onto a parchment-lined baking tray, ready for the next rise.
Step 6: Second Prove
Let the shaped doughnuts rise once more for approximately 30 to 60 minutes. Cover them with a kitchen towel to keep them warm as they puff up beautifully. This second proofing is essential to achieving that delightful texture in your Vegan Pumpkin Spice Doughnuts, so be patient and let them work their magic.
Step 7: Fry the Doughnuts
In a deep frying pan or heavy pot, heat vegetable oil to 350°F (175°C). Fry each doughnut for about 2 to 4 minutes on each side until they turn a lovely golden brown. Keep an eye on them to avoid overcooking; they should be fluffy inside with a crispy exterior when done. Once fried, transfer them to a plate lined with paper towels to absorb any excess oil.
Step 8: Coat in Sugar
While your vegan doughnuts are still warm, mix 1 cup of sugar with 1–2 teaspoons of pumpkin spice in a shallow bowl. Roll each doughnut in the sugary mixture, ensuring they’re well-coated with the sweet, aromatic blend. This coating adds a delightful sweetness and enhances the fall flavors in your Vegan Pumpkin Spice Doughnuts.
Step 9: Fill the Doughnuts
To finish, make a small hole in each doughnut and pipe in your favorite vegan cream cheese filling, like Violife. If you like, you can decorate with a small cinnamon stick for a festive touch. Prepare to be amazed as you bite into these decadent treats—your Vegan Pumpkin Spice Doughnuts are ready to impress!
Make Ahead Options
These Vegan Pumpkin Spice Doughnuts are ideal for meal prep, making your busy fall days a breeze! You can prepare the dough up to 24 hours in advance; simply follow steps 1-4, then cover the bowl tightly and refrigerate the dough. When you’re ready to enjoy these delights, allow the dough to come to room temperature for about 30 minutes before shaping and proceeding with the second proof (step 5). Additionally, you can shape the doughnuts in advance and refrigerate them for up to 3 days; just remember to let them rise before frying. This way, you’ll have all the cozy, aromatic flavors at your fingertips, keeping your kitchen warm and inviting without added stress!
What to Serve with Vegan Pumpkin Spice Doughnuts
Think of the delightful pairings that can elevate your fall treat experience!
- Creamy Maple Latte: The rich, sweet flavors of maple complement the spices perfectly, creating a cozy drink to sip while enjoying the doughnuts.
- Chai Tea: This spiced tea harmonizes beautifully with pumpkin flavors, offering a warming touch that makes each bite memorable.
- Cinnamon Sugar Apples: Sautéed apples dusted with cinnamon bring a fresh, fruity contrast to the rich doughnuts while adding a colorful touch on the plate.
- Roasted Butternut Squash Soup: The creamy, savory notes of this soup balance the sweetness of the doughnuts, making for a comforting autumn meal.
- Vegan Whipped Cream: A cloud of light whipped cream can transform each bite into a decadent dessert, perfect for dipping or drizzling.
- Chocolate Almond Biscotti: This crunchy treat adds a wonderful texture contrast to the soft, pillowy doughnuts, and is ideal for dunking.
- Spiced Cranberry Sauce: The tartness of cranberry can cut through the sweetness of the doughnuts, adding a refreshing zest to your breakfast spread.
- Caramel Apple Cider: As a seasonal beverage, this sweet drink pairs well with the flavors of the doughnuts, enhancing the autumn ambiance.
- Pecan Pie Bars: For those who crave dessert-on-dessert, pairing these rich bars with doughnuts provides a delightful sugary indulgence.
- Fresh Fruit Salad: A medley of seasonal fruits adds brightness and a healthy balance to the doughnuts, creating a well-rounded meal.
Tips for the Best Pumpkin Spice Doughnuts
- Yeast Activation: Ensure your yeast mixture is frothy before mixing with the dough. This step is crucial for a proper rise in your Pumpkin Spice Doughnuts.
- Temperature Control: Keep frying oil at 350°F (175°C) for perfectly golden doughnuts. Oil that’s too hot will burn the outside while leaving the inside doughy.
- Dough Consistency: Aim for a slightly sticky dough; this will help in achieving that light, fluffy texture we crave in vegan doughnuts.
- Two Proofs: Don’t skip the second rise! This ensures your doughnuts are airy and fluffy, setting the stage for a delightful treat.
- Coating Timing: Roll your warm doughnuts in the sugar mixture immediately after frying to ensure the coating adheres properly, enhancing the overall flavor.
Variations & Substitutions for Pumpkin Spice Doughnuts
Customize your doughnuts to fit your taste and dietary needs with these delightful variations!
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Gluten-Free: Use a gluten-free flour blend to make these treats suitable for those avoiding gluten. They’ll still turn out light and fluffy!
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Sweet Potato Twist: Substitute pumpkin purée with sweet potato purée for a subtly different flavor that’s just as delicious. Sweet potatoes add a natural sweetness and a lovely color.
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Spice It Up: Add a hint of cayenne pepper or chili powder to the dough for a spicy kick that complements the sweetness beautifully. This unexpected twist adds depth to each bite!
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Baked Version: For a lighter option, bake the doughnuts at 350°F (175°C) for about 12-15 minutes instead of frying. They’ll still be airy but without the oil!
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Different Fillings: Try a maple cream or even an apple cinnamon filling instead of cream cheese; each offers a new flavor profile that will wow your guests.
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Sugar Alternatives: Use coconut sugar or agave to coat your doughnuts instead of traditional sugar for a more wholesome sweetness with a hint of caramel flavor.
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Vegan Glaze: Drizzle with a simple vegan glaze made from powdered sugar and almond milk for an extra sweet touch. It adds a beautiful finish and elevates your doughnuts even further.
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Festival Flavors: Incorporate seasonal spices like cardamom for an aromatic twist. Cardamom adds an intriguing depth and can transform your doughnuts into something truly special.
No matter how you choose to adapt, these vegan pumpkin spice doughnuts are bound to bring joy to your fall festivities! If you love pumpkin, don’t miss my Pumpkin Cream Cheese recipe for another delightful seasonal treat!
How to Store and Freeze Pumpkin Spice Doughnuts
Room Temperature: Store doughnuts in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days to maintain their freshness and soft texture.
Fridge: If you need to keep them longer, place the doughnuts in the fridge for up to 5 days. Be sure to cover them well, as the fridge can dry them out.
Freezer: For extended storage, freeze the doughnuts individually wrapped in plastic wrap and then in a freezer-safe bag for up to 2 months. Thaw at room temperature or warm in the oven to revive their fluffiness.
Reheating: To enjoy them warm, reheat thawed doughnuts in an oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-10 minutes. This helps restore their delightful texture, making your Pumpkin Spice Doughnuts feel freshly made!
Vegan Pumpkin Spice Doughnuts Recipe FAQs
What type of pumpkin purée should I use?
Absolutely! Make sure to use canned or freshly cooked pumpkin purée that has a smooth texture without any lumps. This will guarantee your doughnuts are wonderfully moist and flavorful. I often prefer canned pumpkin for convenience, just make sure it’s pure pumpkin and not pumpkin pie filling.
How should I store my Vegan Pumpkin Spice Doughnuts?
These delectable doughnuts are best enjoyed fresh! Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days to maintain their fluffy texture. If you need longer storage, keep them in the fridge for up to 5 days—just make sure they’re well-covered to prevent drying out.
Can I freeze leftover doughnuts?
Absolutely! To freeze, wrap each doughnut in plastic wrap and place them inside a freezer-safe zip-top bag. They can be kept for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply thaw them at room temperature or pop them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-10 minutes to restore their delightful texture.
What are some common troubleshooting tips for these doughnuts?
If your dough doesn’t rise properly, ensure your yeast is fresh and activated correctly—look for a frothy mixture. If your doughnuts turn out too dense, consider letting them rise a bit longer during both proofing stages. Also, ensure your frying oil is at the right temperature (350°F/175°C) to avoid oily or undercooked doughnuts.
Are these doughnuts suitable for those with allergies?
Yes! These Vegan Pumpkin Spice Doughnuts are dairy-free and egg-free, making them a friendly option for those with lactose intolerance or egg allergies. However, check the specific brands of vegan cream cheese or any other ingredients you use to ensure they meet your dietary needs.
Light and Fluffy Vegan Pumpkin Spice Doughnuts to Savor
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Warm unsweetened almond milk until lukewarm. Combine with sugar and active yeast, let sit for 5-10 minutes until frothy.
- In a large bowl, whisk together flour and pumpkin spice.
- Combine frothy yeast mixture with flax egg, melted vegan butter, and pumpkin purée, then mix with dry ingredients to form a dough.
- Cover the dough with a towel and let it rise in a warm place for 1-2 hours until doubled in size.
- Roll out the risen dough to 1/2 inch thick, cut out doughnut shapes, and place on a baking tray.
- Let shaped doughnuts rise again for 30-60 minutes covered with a towel.
- Heat vegetable oil to 350°F and fry doughnuts for 2-4 minutes on each side until golden brown. Transfer to paper towels.
- Mix sugar with pumpkin spice, then roll warm doughnuts in the mixture to coat.
- Fill doughnuts with vegan cream cheese and decorate if desired.
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