Name: Vegan Pumpkin Spice Doughnuts that Melt in Your Mouth
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 165 min
Ingredients: 2 cups All-Purpose Flour (Use gluten-free flour blends for a gluten-free option.); ¾ cup Non-Dairy Milk (Warm to about 110°F (43°C).); 2 tablespoons Sugar (Coconut sugar can be substituted for a lower glycemic index.); 2 teaspoons Active Yeast (Ensure freshness for best results.); 1 unit Flax Egg (Made from mixing a tablespoon of ground flaxseed with 2.5 tablespoons of water.); 2 teaspoons Pumpkin Spice (Feel free to make your own blend if preferred.); ¼ cup Melted Vegan Butter (Replace with oil or applesauce for a lower-fat alternative.); ½ cup Pumpkin Purée (Ensure it's pure pumpkin without additives.); 1 cup Vegan Cream Cheese (Swap with blended nuts for a different texture.); ½ cup Pumpkin Spice Sugar (Combine sugar with pumpkin spice to enhance the flavor.)

As I stood in my kitchen, the aroma of spices swirling around me, I couldn’t help but smile at the cozy vibes of autumn. Those cravings for comfort food always seem to strike just as the leaves begin to change, and what better way to embrace the season than with these Vegan Pumpkin Spice Doughnuts? These soft, pillowy treats are not only quick to whip up but also a guilt-free indulgence that feels like a warm hug from your oven. With a rich pumpkin flavor balanced by the warm spices of fall, they offer a delightful homemade taste that leaves store-bought options in the dust. Whether you’re a seasoned home-chef or simply seeking a healthier dessert alternative, I promise these doughnuts will be a crowd-pleaser. Curious how to make this seasonal sensation? Let’s dive in!

Why are these doughnuts a must-try?

Irresistible Flavors: The warm pumpkin spice and creamy filling create a rich taste that will elevate your dessert game.

Vegan Delight: These doughnuts are completely vegan, ensuring everyone can indulge without guilt, making them perfect for gatherings.

Quick and Easy: With minimal prep time and straightforward steps, you’ll have homemade deliciousness in no time, ideal for busy bakers.

Cellophane-Wrapped Memories: Serve fresh out of the fryer with a side of warm apple cider for an unforgettable fall treat.

Versatile Creations: Customize to your heart’s content by experimenting with fillings or toppings, from maple cream to delightful chocolate chips.

Don’t miss out on creating this seasonal sensation that embodies the essence of fall!

Vegan Pumpkin Spice Doughnut Ingredients

Here’s everything you need to create these delightful Vegan Pumpkin Spice Doughnuts!

For the Dough

All-Purpose Flour – Provides structure; use gluten-free flour blends for a gluten-free option.
Pumpkin Purée – Adds moisture and rich pumpkin flavor; ensure it’s pure pumpkin without additives.
Sugar – Sweetener for the dough and coating; coconut sugar can be substituted for a lower glycemic index.
Active Yeast – Acts as a leavening agent for fluffy texture. Ensure freshness for best results.
Flax Egg – Serves as a vegan binder; can substitute with a regular egg if not vegan.
Pumpkin Spice – Flavoring blend of warm spices; feel free to make your own blend if preferred.
Melted Vegan Butter – Adds richness; replace it with oil or applesauce for a lower-fat alternative.
Non-Dairy Milk – Hydrates the dough; any plant milk like almond, soy, or oat works beautifully.

For the Filling

Vegan Cream Cheese – Provides a creamy filling; swap with blended nuts for a different texture.

For the Coating

Pumpkin Spice Sugar – For coating; combine sugar with pumpkin spice to enhance the flavor; adjust to taste.

Enjoy making these Vegan Pumpkin Spice Doughnuts, where warm flavors and textures come together for an unforgettable treat!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Vegan Pumpkin Spice Doughnuts

Step 1: Activate Yeast
Begin by gently warming ¾ cup of non-dairy milk to about 110°F (43°C). Stir in 2 tablespoons of sugar and 2 teaspoons of active yeast, then let it sit for 5–10 minutes until frothy. This step is crucial for ensuring your Vegan Pumpkin Spice Doughnuts rise beautifully, so keep an eye out for bubbles forming on the surface.

Step 2: Prepare Dough
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together 2 cups of all-purpose flour and 2 teaspoons of pumpkin spice. Once your yeast mixture is frothy, add it to the dry ingredients along with 1 flax egg (made from mixing a tablespoon of ground flaxseed with 2.5 tablespoons of water), ¼ cup of melted vegan butter, and ½ cup of pumpkin purée. Mix until combined and then knead the dough until it becomes smooth and elastic, about 5 minutes.

Step 3: First Proving
Place the kneaded dough into a lightly greased bowl and cover it with a clean kitchen towel. Let the dough rise in a warm area for 1 to 2 hours, or until it has doubled in size. You’ll know it’s ready when you gently press your finger into the dough and the indentation remains, indicating proper fermentation for your Vegan Pumpkin Spice Doughnuts.

Step 4: Shape Doughnuts
After the dough has risen, transfer it to a floured surface and roll it out to about ½-inch thick. Use a cookie cutter to cut out doughnut shapes, then create a pumpkin shape by gently using kitchen string as a guide. Place the formed doughnuts on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, cover them, and let them rise again until puffed, about 30 minutes.

Step 5: Fry Doughnuts
Heat about 2 inches of oil in a large, deep pan over medium heat to around 350°F (175°C). Carefully place a few doughnuts in the hot oil, frying them for 2–4 minutes on each side until golden brown. Use a slotted spoon to remove the doughnuts from the oil, letting the excess drip off. This frying step is essential for achieving that soft, pillowy texture in your Vegan Pumpkin Spice Doughnuts.

Step 6: Coat in Sugar
In a shallow bowl, mix ½ cup of sugar with 1 teaspoon of pumpkin spice for coating. While the doughnuts are still warm, roll each one in the sugar mixture until evenly coated. This adds a delightful sweet crunch to your Vegan Pumpkin Spice Doughnuts, enhancing their fall-inspired flavors.

Step 7: Fill Doughnuts
Using a piping bag fitted with a round tip, fill each doughnut with vegan cream cheese. Inject the filling into the center of each doughnut slowly to avoid bursting them. If desired, you can top the filled doughnuts with a decorative cinnamon stick for a festive presentation that captures the autumn spirit beautifully.

Storage Tips for Vegan Pumpkin Spice Doughnuts

Room Temperature: Keep Vegan Pumpkin Spice Doughnuts in an airtight container for up to 2 days. Enjoy them fresh for the best taste and texture.

Fridge: If you need to store them longer, place them in the fridge in an airtight container for up to a week. Reheat slightly in the oven or microwave before serving to restore softness.

Freezer: For extended storage, freeze the doughnuts individually wrapped in plastic wrap, then place in a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months. Reheat directly from the freezer in the oven.

Reheating: To reheat, place the frozen doughnuts in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes. This helps create that fresh-out-of-the-fryer experience again!

Make Ahead Options

These Vegan Pumpkin Spice Doughnuts are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time! You can prepare the dough (steps 1-4) up to 24 hours in advance; just cover the shaped doughnuts and refrigerate them. This will allow the flavors to meld beautifully while keeping them fresh. When you’re ready to fry them, let the doughnuts sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before proceeding with frying (step 5). To maintain their fluffy texture, be sure to keep them covered as they rise. Once fried and cooled, coat them in sugar (step 6) and fill with the vegan cream cheese (step 7) just before serving for that delightful fresh taste. Enjoy your fall baking without the rush!

Expert Tips for Vegan Pumpkin Spice Doughnuts

Fresh Ingredients: Ensure your yeast is fresh and active; old yeast can lead to dense, flat doughnuts that won’t rise properly.
Perfect Temperature: Monitor the oil temperature carefully when frying; too hot can burn the outside while leaving the inside raw.
Adjusting Sweetness: If the doughnuts are too sweet for your taste, reduce the sugar in the dough, while still achieving a delightful coating with pumpkin spice sugar.
Allow to Cool: Let the doughnuts cool slightly after frying before coating them in sugar; this prevents the sugar from melting and ensures a lovely finish.
Creative Fillings: Don’t hesitate to experiment with different fillings for your Vegan Pumpkin Spice Doughnuts, such as flavored jams or custards that complement the pumpkin spice.

Vegan Pumpkin Spice Doughnut Variations

Feel free to give your vegan pumpkin spice doughnuts a personal touch with these delightful twists!

Sweet Potato Swap: Replace pumpkin purée with sweet potato purée for a subtly different flavor. The sweetness and texture will still create a comforting treat.
Chocolate Chip Delight: Add vegan chocolate chips to the dough for an exciting flavor contrast. Each bite will surprise you with gooey richness, bringing joy to your autumn indulgence.
Nutty Crunch: Incorporate chopped walnuts or pecans into the dough for an added crunchy texture. This variation lends a lovely surprise within each bite, enhancing the loving warmth of fall flavors.
Maple Cream Filling: Swap the vegan cream cheese filling for a maple cream filling for a unique twist. The sweetness of maple combined with pumpkin spice creates an irresistible harmony.
Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the dough for a subtle heat that enhances the pumpkin spice flavor. It’s a wonderful way to awaken your taste buds while keeping that cozy vibe intact!
Baked Version: Rather than frying, bake the doughnuts for a healthier option. Adjust baking time to about 15-20 minutes at 350°F (175°C), yielding a deliciously soft texture without the oil.
Dairy-Free Chocolate Glaze: Drench the warm doughnuts in a melted dairy-free chocolate glaze instead of the sugar coating for a rich dessert experience. It’s a luxurious upgrade that chocolate lovers will adore.

Feel free to mix and match these variations to tailor your vegan pumpkin spice doughnuts. If you’re looking for more inspiration, check out how to make your doughnuts gluten-free or try filling them with a creamy vegan custard!

What to Serve with Vegan Pumpkin Spice Doughnuts

Nothing warms the heart quite like a delightful array of flavors that complements the cozy essence of autumn.

Creamy Apple Cider: Perfectly spiced for fall, warm apple cider enhances the pumpkin flavors while inviting cozy vibes to your table. It’s like a hug in a mug!
Rich Chocolate Ganache: Dip your doughnuts in silky, vegan chocolate ganache for an indulgent twist. The contrast of rich chocolate and warm spices sings with every bite.
Maple Drizzle: A light drizzle of maple syrup adds sweetness and extra depth. It beautifully elevates the flavors of pumpkin and warms the soul during chilly evenings.
Coconut Whipped Cream: Light and airy, coconut whipped cream provides a luscious contrast to your doughnuts. This dairy-free delight is a perfect way to crown your treats!
Fresh Fruit Salad: A vibrant medley of fall fruits like pears and pomegranates adds freshness and crunch, balancing the sweet, hearty flavors of the doughnuts.
Hazelnut Coffee: The nutty notes of hazelnut coffee enhance the warm spices, making each sip a delightful companion for your decadent doughnuts.
Spiced Tea: A hot cup of spiced chai brings a warming kick that pairs perfectly with the comforting flavors of the doughnuts. Sip while savoring each treat!
Caramel Sauce: For the sweet tooth, a drizzle of vegan caramel sauce over your doughnuts invites an unforgettable sticky sweetness that’ll keep everyone coming back for more.

Vegan Pumpkin Spice Doughnuts Recipe FAQs

How do I choose the right pumpkin purée?
Absolutely! When selecting pumpkin purée, make sure to choose 100% pure pumpkin without any additives or preservatives on the label. Freshly made pumpkin purée from roasted pumpkins is an excellent option if you’re feeling adventurous. Just remember, consistency is key for that perfect doughnut texture!

What is the best way to store Vegan Pumpkin Spice Doughnuts?
You can store your Vegan Pumpkin Spice Doughnuts in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. If you want to keep them longer, refrigerate them for up to a week in a sealed container. Reheating them slightly before enjoying ensures they retain their soft and fluffy texture.

Can I freeze these doughnuts?
For sure! To freeze your Vegan Pumpkin Spice Doughnuts, wrap each one individually in plastic wrap and place them into a freezer-safe bag. They will stay fresh for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, reheat directly from the freezer in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes for a warm, delectable treat!

What if my dough doesn’t rise?
Very! If your dough isn’t rising as expected, there could be a few factors at play. First, ensure your yeast is fresh; old or expired yeast won’t activate. Additionally, the warmth of your environment is crucial; if it’s too cold, the yeast may struggle. Try placing the dough in a warm, draft-free area or near a warm oven. If stuck, you can also extend the proving time to give it a better chance to rise.

Are these doughnuts safe for those with nut allergies?
Absolutely! If you need to avoid nuts, make sure to use a nut-free plant milk like oat or rice milk in your dough. For the filling, opt for a nut-free cream cheese substitute that fits your dietary needs. It’s always great to check the labels of all ingredients to ensure they meet your allergy requirements.