Name: Vegan Christmas Wreath Doughnuts – A Festive Holiday Treat
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 30 min
Ingredients: 1 cup Dairy-Free Milk (almond or soy milk is recommended); 1 tbsp Apple Cider Vinegar (can substitute with lemon juice); 2 cups Plain Flour (gluten-free all-purpose flour is an alternative); 1 tbsp Baking Powder (ensure it's fresh); 1 tsp Ground Nutmeg (substitute with extra cinnamon if desired); 1 tbsp Ground Cinnamon (best used fresh); 1 tsp Ground Ginger (omit for a milder flavor); 1 tsp Salt; 1 cup White Sugar (coconut sugar can be a substitute); 1 tbsp Vanilla Extract (opt for pure vanilla for best flavor); 1 tsp Almond Extract (optional, exclude if nut-free); 1 tbsp Zest of 1 Orange (about 1 tablespoon, optional); 1/2 cup Melted Coconut Oil (cooled, can substitute with melted vegan butter); 1/4 cup Melted Coconut Oil (light vegetable oil can also be used); 1 tbsp Vanilla Extract; 1/4 cup Dairy-Free Milk (adjust for consistency); 1 cup Icing Sugar (powdered sugar for finer texture); 1/2 cup Dairy-Free Butter (for the buttercream); 2 cups Icing Sugar; 1 tbsp Vanilla Extract; 2-4 tbsp Dairy-Free Milk (add until pipeable); 2-3 drops Green Food Coloring (for a festive appearance); 1/4 cup Sprinkles or Mini Red Candies (optional decorations)

As I strolled through the local holiday market, my senses were tingling with the inviting aroma of spiced delights wafting through the air. Inspired, I couldn’t help but dream up a festive treat that embodies the warmth and joy of the season: Vegan Christmas Wreath Doughnuts. These baked beauties are not only a breeze to whip up, but they add a charming touch to your holiday spread, decorated to look like festive wreaths and completely plant-based! With delectable spices and a silky vanilla glaze, they’re sure to delight friends and family. Let’s dive into creating an uplifting holiday recipe that blends indulgence and wholesome ingredients—who’s ready to make their kitchen smell like the holidays?

Why Are These Doughnuts the Perfect Holiday Treat?

Delightfully Festive: These Vegan Christmas Wreath Doughnuts are a wonderful way to celebrate the season while staying true to plant-based values.

Baked Not Fried: Enjoy the guilt-free pleasure of baked doughnuts that are lighter yet equally delicious compared to traditional fried versions.

Crowd-Pleasing Appeal: Their charming wreath shape and vibrant decorations make them the star of any holiday gathering, sparking joy in kids and adults alike.

Easily Customizable: With options to swap spices or glazes, you can tailor this recipe to suit your family’s preferences, making every batch a unique treat.

Quick and Simple: Whipping up these doughnuts is a breeze—perfect for holiday events or last-minute gifts. Plus, they can be enjoyed fresh or frozen for later!

Indulge in the festive spirit and create your own delightful batch today!

Vegan Christmas Wreath Doughnuts Ingredients

For the Doughnuts

Dairy-Free Milk – Primary moisture source for the dough; almond or soy milk make great substitutes.
Apple Cider Vinegar – Activates the baking powder for rise; can be replaced with lemon juice if necessary.
Plain Flour – The base structure of the doughnuts; gluten-free all-purpose flour is a fantastic alternative.
Baking Powder – Leavening agent for a fluffy texture; ensure it’s fresh for best results.
Ground Nutmeg – Adds warm spice to the mixture; substitute with extra cinnamon if desired.
Ground Cinnamon – Provides that essential holiday flavor; best used fresh for a stronger taste.
Ground Ginger – Complements other spices; feel free to omit if you prefer a milder flavor.
Salt – Enhances overall flavor, bringing the ingredients together beautifully.
White Sugar – Sweetness for the dough; coconut sugar can be a less refined option.
Vanilla Extract – Adds depth of flavor; opt for pure vanilla for the best quality.
Almond Extract (optional) – An extra layer of flavor; exclude if nut-free.
Zest of 1 Orange (optional) – Brightens the flavor profile; lemon zest can also work for a twist.
Melted Coconut Oil (cooled) – Provides moisture and richness; can be substituted with melted vegan butter.

For the Vanilla Glaze

Melted Coconut Oil – Base for the glaze; light vegetable oil can also be a substitute.
Vanilla Extract – Enhances the flavor of the glaze.
Dairy-Free Milk – Adjusts the consistency of the glaze; any plant-based milk will work.
Icing Sugar – Adds sweetness to the glaze; powdered sugar can create a finer texture.

For the Buttercream (for wreath piping)

Dairy-Free Butter – Main fat component for the buttercream; any plant-based non-dairy margarine is perfect.
Icing Sugar – Sweetens and thickens the buttercream.
Vanilla Extract – Adds additional flavor to the buttercream.
Dairy-Free Milk – Adjusts consistency as needed; add little by little.
Green Food Coloring – For a festive appearance; use natural food colorings for a wholesome twist.
Sprinkles or Mini Red Candies – Optional decorations resembling holly berries for a festive touch.

These Vegan Christmas Wreath Doughnuts aren’t just a treat; they’re a delightful way to share love and joy during the holiday season. Happy baking!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Vegan Christmas Wreath Doughnuts

Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While it heats, gather your doughnut pans and generously grease them with coconut oil or a non-stick spray. This step ensures your Vegan Christmas Wreath Doughnuts will release easily once cooked and remain beautifully intact for decorating later.

Step 2: Prepare the Milk Mixture
In a medium bowl, combine your dairy-free milk with the apple cider vinegar and let it sit for about 5 minutes. This mixture will curdle slightly, creating a buttermilk effect that will help the doughnuts rise beautifully. Stir gently until well blended, ensuring the vinegar is fully incorporated before moving on.

Step 3: Mix the Dry Ingredients
In a large bowl, whisk together the plain flour, baking powder, ground nutmeg, ground cinnamon, ground ginger, and salt. This step allows the spices to evenly distribute, ensuring every bite of your Vegan Christmas Wreath Doughnuts is packed with flavor. Look for a light and airy blend that will provide a fluffy texture once baked.

Step 4: Combine the Wet Ingredients
In a separate bowl, mix the sugar, the milk mixture you prepared earlier, vanilla extract, almond extract, and cooled melted coconut oil. Whisk them together until the ingredients are well combined and smooth. The warmth of the oil will help incorporate everything, creating a luscious batter for your festive doughnuts.

Step 5: Fold Wet and Dry Mixtures
Gently fold the wet mixture into the dry ingredients using a spatula or wooden spoon until just combined. Be careful not to over-mix, as this can result in dense doughnuts. You should see a well-mixed batter with a few lumps still visible. This step is key in achieving the light, fluffy texture of your Vegan Christmas Wreath Doughnuts.

Step 6: Fill the Doughnut Pans
Using a spoon or a piping bag, carefully fill each doughnut cavity about halfway with the batter. Aim for uniformity to ensure even baking. Place the filled pans into your preheated oven and bake for 8-10 minutes. The doughnuts are done when they spring back lightly to the touch and have a lightly golden hue.

Step 7: Cool the Doughnuts
Once baked, remove the doughnuts from the oven and let them cool in the pan for about 5 minutes. Carefully transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely. This is important, as glazing warm doughnuts can result in a messy outcome. You want them to be perfectly cooled, ready for their festive glaze.

Step 8: Prepare the Vanilla Glaze
In a bowl, mix the melted coconut oil, vanilla extract, dairy-free milk, and icing sugar until smooth. Adjust the consistency by adding more milk for a thinner glaze or more icing sugar for a thicker one. This glaze will give your Vegan Christmas Wreath Doughnuts a beautiful shiny finish, making them irresistible.

Step 9: Glaze the Doughnuts
Once the doughnuts are completely cool, dip the tops into the prepared glaze. Rotate gently to ensure even coverage. Allow the excess glaze to drip off and place the glazed doughnuts back on the wire rack. This step adds a sweet touch that complements the spiced flavor beautifully.

Step 10: Make the Buttercream and Decorate
For the buttercream, beat dairy-free butter until fluffy, then gradually add icing sugar, vanilla extract, and dairy-free milk until pipeable. Tint the buttercream green with the food coloring. Using a piping bag fitted with a star tip, pipe the buttercream in a wreath shape onto the glazed doughnuts, adding sprinkles or mini red candies for a festive touch.

Step 11: Serve and Enjoy
Your Vegan Christmas Wreath Doughnuts are now ready to shine on your holiday table! Whether served during brunch or offered as gifts, these delightful doughnuts will spread joy and warmth, embodying the spirit of the season perfectly.

Variations & Substitutions for Vegan Christmas Wreath Doughnuts

Feel free to get creative with these delectable doughnuts and make them your own!

Nut-Free: Replace almond extract with pure vanilla extract to keep the flavor profile rich without adding nuts.
Gluten-Free: Swap plain flour for a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend to cater to those with gluten sensitivities. They will still bake beautifully!
Cinnamon Twist: Add a pinch of cardamom or nutmeg for an unexpected flavor boost that warms the soul; it adds depth to the familiar holiday spices.
Citrus Burst: For a zingy twist, substitute orange zest with lemon zest—this lightens the doughnuts and brings a delightful brightness to the flavors.
Sweetness Swap: Use maple syrup or agave in place of white sugar for a natural sweet boost; just adjust the liquids slightly to maintain texture.
Colorful Glaze: Create a rainbow of flavors by adding natural food colorings to your glaze! This is a fun way to engage kids in the decorating process.
Spiced Infusion: Mix in some pumpkin spice or chai seasoning to the dough for a unique, seasonal flavor adventure that’s sure to impress!
Heat Lovers: If you enjoy a little spice, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or chili powder to the dough. It’s a surprising twist that entertains the palate!

Feel free to explore these ideas or try your own. The kitchen is your creative canvas—have fun! And as you whip these up, consider pairing them with a warm mug of homemade spiced chai or a comforting cup of hot cocoa for a delightful holiday experience. If you’re interested in more festive ideas, take a look at my recipe for Vegan Gingerbread Cookies or Dairy-Free Hot Chocolate to complete your holiday spread!

What to Serve with Vegan Christmas Wreath Doughnuts?

Enjoying these delightful doughnuts creates a perfect festive scene, enhancing the warmth of your holiday gatherings.

Hot Cocoa: A rich and velvety drink that pairs beautifully with the spiced flavors of the doughnuts, making every bite feel jubilant.
Spiced Chai Tea: This aromatic beverage offers a comforting warmth that complements the spices in the doughnuts, adding an extra layer of cozy indulgence.
Fresh Fruit Salad: Crisp, juicy fruits bring a refreshing balance to the sweetness of the doughnuts, creating a delightful contrast that brightens your meal.
Vegan Vanilla Ice Cream: Silky, creamy ice cream adds a luxurious touch when served alongside, contrasting with the warm doughnuts for a delectable dessert experience.
Gingerbread Cookies: Embrace the holiday spirit with these traditional cookies, aligning perfectly with the festive theme and enhancing the sweet, spiced flavors.
Cinnamon Sugar Dusting: Elevate the sweetness by sprinkling a mixture of cinnamon and sugar over the doughnuts, bringing out the festive spirit in each bite.
Sparkling Cider: This bubbly beverage adds a festive touch, providing a delightful contrast to the doughnuts’ richness while enhancing the overall celebration atmosphere.
Festive Wine Spritzer: A light, fruity drink that harmonizes with the holiday flavors and keeps the gathering bright and cheerful. Perfect for an adult twist!
Holiday Themed Cheeseboard: Offer a selection of nuts, dried fruits, and vegan cheeses to create a savory addition that harmonizes with your sweet treats, providing balance to your spread.

Make Ahead Options

These Vegan Christmas Wreath Doughnuts are a fantastic candidate for meal prep, allowing busy home cooks to enjoy festive flavors without the last-minute rush. You can prepare the doughnut batter up to 24 hours in advance by mixing the wet and dry ingredients separately, then storing them in the refrigerator. For optimal taste, allow the wet ingredients to come to room temperature before mixing and baking. The baked doughnuts can be stored in an airtight container for up to 3 days; simply glaze them before serving to maintain that fresh, delightful appearance. Enjoy the season’s magic with minimal effort!

How to Store and Freeze Vegan Christmas Wreath Doughnuts

Room Temperature: Store your doughnuts in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. This keeps them moist and delicious while they’re still fresh.

Fridge: If you prefer, you can refrigerate the doughnuts for a slightly longer lifespan of up to 5 days. Just be sure to place them in a tightly sealed container to maintain their fluffiness.

Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the ungrazed doughnuts for up to a month. Wrap them well in plastic wrap and then place in a freezer bag to prevent freezer burn.

Reheating: To enjoy frozen doughnuts, simply thaw them overnight in the refrigerator, then warm up in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds. Add glaze and toppings just before serving for that fresh-baked taste!

Expert Tips for Vegan Christmas Wreath Doughnuts

Avoid Overmixing: Mix the batter until just combined to keep the doughnuts light and fluffy. Overmixing can lead to dense, heavy results.
Use Fresh Ingredients: Ensure your baking powder and spices are fresh for the best rise and flavor in your Vegan Christmas Wreath Doughnuts.
Perfect Cooling Time: Let the doughnuts cool completely before glazing to prevent a messy sticky finish. Warm doughnuts can melt the glaze.
Consistent Batter Distribution: Make sure to fill each doughnut cavity evenly to ensure they bake uniformly, resulting in perfectly shaped doughnuts.
Don’t Skip the Glaze Prep: Adjust the glaze’s consistency by adding milk for a thinner coating or more icing sugar for a thicker one, ensuring an appealing finish.

Vegan Christmas Wreath Doughnuts Recipe FAQs

How do I know when my ingredients are ripe or fresh enough to use?
Absolutely! For the best results, ensure your ingredients are fresh. Check your baking powder; it should be less than 6 months old. Look at your spices; if they’re losing aroma, it’s time to replace them. For dairy-free milk, a smell test is your best friend—if it smells off, it’s likely expired. Freshness makes a world of difference in flavor!

What is the best way to store Vegan Christmas Wreath Doughnuts?
Very! Store your doughnuts in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you want to keep them longer, the fridge is a great option—up to 5 days there! Just ensure they are tightly sealed to maintain moisture. I often layer parchment paper between them to prevent sticking!

Can I freeze these doughnuts, and if so, how?
Absolutely! For freezing, let your ungrazed doughnuts cool completely, then wrap each in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer bag. This prevents freezer burn and keeps them fresh for up to a month. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw them overnight in the refrigerator and then glaze just before serving for that freshly baked taste!

What should I do if my doughnuts turn out dense?
If your doughnuts are denser than expected, it’s likely due to overmixing the batter. Always fold the wet and dry ingredients until just combined. Also, check your baking powder’s freshness; it’s crucial for achieving that light, fluffy texture. Next time, be gentle and quick with your mixing—a perfect bounce is what you want!

Are there any dietary considerations for allergies when making these doughnuts?
Definitely! If you’re concerned about allergies, keep in mind that this recipe is already plant-based and free from dairy. For nut allergies, skip the almond extract and ensure your dairy-free milk is nut-free, like oat or soy. Always double-check ingredient labels for any hidden allergens, especially in pre-made products like the icing sugar.

How can I adjust the flavors to suit my taste preferences?
Very! This recipe is easily customizable. You can swap the ground ginger with more cinnamon for a milder spice or add cardamom for an unexpected twist. If you prefer citrus over spice, use lemon zest instead of orange. It’s all about making it your own! Feel free to experiment—after all, the more the merrier in the kitchen!