Name: Vegan Christmas Wreath Doughnuts for a Joyful Holiday Treat
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 30 min
Ingredients: 1 cup Dairy-Free Milk (almond or soy milk, or oat milk for a nut-free option); 1 tablespoon Apple Cider Vinegar (or lemon juice as a substitute); 2 cups Plain Flour (can be replaced with gluten-free all-purpose flour); 2 teaspoons Baking Powder (ensure it’s fresh for optimal fluffiness); 1 teaspoon Ground Nutmeg (could be substituted with extra cinnamon); 1 teaspoon Ground Cinnamon (using fresh ground will enhance flavor); 1/2 teaspoon Ground Ginger (omit for a milder flavor); 1 pinch Salt (enhances overall flavor); 1 cup White Sugar (consider coconut sugar for a healthier alternative); 1 teaspoon Vanilla Extract (use pure vanilla for best taste); 1/2 teaspoon Almond Extract (optional for flavor; omit for nut-free); Zest of 1 Orange (or lemon zest can be used); 1/3 cup Melted Coconut Oil (or vegan butter); 1/4 cup Melted Coconut Oil (base for the glaze); 1 cup Icing Sugar (use powdered sugar for a finer texture); 1 teaspoon Vanilla Extract (for flavor enhancement); 2 tablespoons Dairy-Free Milk (to achieve desired consistency)

The scent of cinnamon and nutmeg wafted through my kitchen as I whipped up a festive surprise—Vegan Christmas Wreath Doughnuts! These delightful baked treats, cleverly shaped into holiday wreaths, are not only a feast for the eyes but also a treat for the taste buds, embodying all the joy of the season. Best of all, they come together in under 30 minutes, making them the perfect quick addition to any holiday celebration. With their light, fluffy texture and silky vanilla glaze, these doughnuts are sure to impress guests while being completely plant-based and adaptable to gluten-free and nut-free diets. Curious how to create these festive delights? Let’s dive into the recipe and get you baking in no time!

Why are these doughnuts a must-try?

Quick and Easy: You can whip up these Vegan Christmas Wreath Doughnuts in under 30 minutes, perfect for those busy holiday schedules.

Festive Appeal: Their charming wreath shape adds a delightful touch to your holiday table, making them ideal for parties and gatherings.

Customizable Flavors: With options to swap in your favorite spices or sweeteners, you can easily adapt this recipe to your taste preferences or dietary needs.

Light and Fluffy Texture: Baked instead of fried, these treats are not only healthier but also light and airy, letting the flavors shine through without guilt.

Perfect Pairing: These doughnuts pair beautifully with hot cocoa or spiced chai, creating a cozy dessert experience for family and friends.

Why not embrace the joy of baking this season? Check out other holiday treats for more festive inspiration!

Vegan Christmas Wreath Doughnuts Ingredients

• Get ready to bake delightful treats!

For the Batter

Dairy-Free Milk – Adds moisture and acts as the liquid base; you can use almond or soy milk, or oat milk for a nut-free option.
Apple Cider Vinegar – This acts as a souring agent to help create a buttermilk-style mix; lemon juice is a good substitute.
Plain Flour – Provides structure and can be replaced with gluten-free all-purpose flour if needed.
Baking Powder – A crucial leavening agent for that perfect rise; ensure it’s fresh for optimal fluffiness.
Ground Nutmeg – Adds warmth and a hint of spice; could be substituted with extra cinnamon if desired.
Ground Cinnamon – Essential for a classic holiday flavor; using fresh ground will enhance flavor even more.
Ground Ginger – Contributes to the delightful holiday spice profile; you may omit for a milder flavor.
Salt – Enhances the overall flavor of the doughnuts.
White Sugar – Sweetens the batter; consider coconut sugar for a healthier alternative.
Vanilla Extract – Adds rich flavor; I recommend using pure vanilla for the best taste.
Almond Extract (optional) – Enhances the flavor; feel free to omit this if making nut-free versions.
Zest of 1 Orange (optional) – Infuses a lovely citrus note; you can also swap it with lemon zest.
Melted Coconut Oil – Provides fat for moisture and richness; vegan butter can also be used.

For the Glaze

Melted Coconut Oil – This serves as the base for the glaze, contributing to its silky smooth texture.
Icing Sugar – Creates a sweet glaze that complements the doughnuts perfectly; use powdered sugar for a finer texture.
Vanilla Extract – Adds a delectable flavor to the glaze; include pure vanilla for the best results.
Dairy-Free Milk – Used to achieve the desired consistency for the glaze; oat milk works great for a nut-free choice.

Get ready to make these fabulous Vegan Christmas Wreath Doughnuts and wow your holiday guests!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Vegan Christmas Wreath Doughnuts

Step 1: Preheat the Oven and Prepare Pans
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While it heats, grease your doughnut pans with a light coating of coconut oil or non-stick spray to ensure easy release after baking. This step is crucial for achieving perfect, beautifully shaped Vegan Christmas Wreath Doughnuts.

Step 2: Create the Vegan Buttermilk
In a mixing bowl, combine 1 cup of dairy-free milk with 1 tablespoon of apple cider vinegar. Stir gently and let it sit for about 5 minutes. This will curdle the milk slightly, creating a vegan buttermilk that adds moisture to the doughnut batter and enhances that delightful, fluffy texture.

Step 3: Whisk the Dry Ingredients
In a separate large bowl, whisk together 2 cups of plain flour, 2 teaspoons of baking powder, 1 teaspoon of ground nutmeg, 1 teaspoon of ground cinnamon, ½ teaspoon of ground ginger, and a pinch of salt. Make sure these ingredients are evenly distributed, as they create the foundation of flavors in your Vegan Christmas Wreath Doughnuts.

Step 4: Mix the Wet Ingredients
In another bowl, combine 1 cup of sugar, the vegan buttermilk mixture, 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract, ½ teaspoon of almond extract (if using), and ⅓ cup of melted coconut oil. Mix until the ingredients are smooth and well blended, creating a rich, creamy batter that will infuse your doughnuts with moisture and flavor.

Step 5: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients
Gently fold the wet ingredients into the dry mixture using a spatula or a wooden spoon. Stir just until combined—be careful not to overmix, as this can lead to dense doughnuts. The dough should be thick yet pourable, embodying the essence of your holiday baking spirit in the Vegan Christmas Wreath Doughnuts.

Step 6: Fill the Doughnut Pans
Using a spoon or a piping bag (for precision), fill each doughnut cavity halfway with the batter. This will allow enough room for the doughnuts to rise without overflowing. Place the filled pans in the preheated oven and bake for 8-10 minutes until they are golden brown and spring back when touched gently.

Step 7: Cool the Doughnuts
Once baked, remove the pans from the oven and let the doughnuts cool in the pans for about 5 minutes. Carefully transfer the doughnuts to a wire rack to cool completely. This step is essential to prevent the glaze from melting off the warm doughnuts, ensuring a beautifully finished Vegan Christmas Wreath Doughnut.

Step 8: Prepare the Vanilla Glaze
While the doughnuts cool, prepare the vanilla glaze by whisking together ¼ cup of melted coconut oil, 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract, 2 tablespoons of dairy-free milk, and 1 cup of icing sugar in a bowl. Continue mixing until smooth and glossy, creating the perfect sweet finish for your festive treats.

Step 9: Glaze the Doughnuts
Once the doughnuts are completely cooled, dip the tops into the vanilla glaze, allowing any excess to drip off. Place the glazed doughnuts back on the wire rack. This step not only adds sweetness but also creates a beautiful, shiny finish, elevating your Vegan Christmas Wreath Doughnuts.

Step 10: Decorate the Doughnuts
For an extra festive touch, prepare a simple buttercream by beating together ½ cup of dairy-free butter with 1 cup of icing sugar, 1 teaspoon of vanilla, and a splash of dairy-free milk until fluffy. Pipe the buttercream in wreath shapes on top of the glazed doughnuts, then sprinkle with festive decorations like mini red candies or edible glitter for a jolly holiday appearance.

What to Serve with Vegan Christmas Wreath Doughnuts

Indulge your senses by creating a full festive feast that perfectly complements these delightful treats.

Hot Cocoa: Rich and creamy, a cup of hot cocoa adds warmth and sweetness, making every bite of doughnut feel like a cozy embrace.
Spiced Chai: The aromatic spices in this tea harmonize beautifully with the cinnamon and nutmeg of the doughnuts, offering a comforting holiday vibe.
Fresh Fruit Salad: A refreshing mix of seasonal fruits like pomegranate, oranges, and apples balances the sweetness of the doughnuts and adds a burst of freshness.
Vegan Vanilla Ice Cream: The creaminess of vegan ice cream brings a decadent contrast to the fluffy doughnuts, elevating your dessert experience to new heights.
Dairy-Free Whipped Cream: Light and airy, a dollop of whipped cream smooths over the glaze and offers an extra touch of indulgence that’s always welcome.
Mulled Wine: The warm spices and hints of citrus in mulled wine echo the flavors in your doughnuts and create a lovely pairing for holiday gatherings.

Let your festive spirit shine as you enjoy these delicious combinations to enhance your Vegan Christmas Wreath Doughnuts!

Vegan Christmas Wreath Doughnuts Customizations

Feel free to make these delightful treats your own with these fun and easy variations!

Gluten-Free: Substitute plain flour with a measure-for-measure gluten-free flour blend to accommodate those with gluten sensitivities. The texture will still remain fluffy and enjoyable!
Nut-Free: Swap almond extract with extra vanilla extract for flavor without the nuts. This ensures everyone can enjoy your festive doughnuts without worry.
Spice it Up: Add a pinch of cardamom or some pumpkin pie spice for a unique flavor twist. These unexpected notes will make your doughnuts even more memorable.
Natural Sweeteners: Replace white sugar with maple syrup or agave nectar for a plant-based sweetener. Not only does it enhance the flavor, but it also keeps the recipe wholesome and fresh.
Citrusy Zing: Integrate the zest of lemon instead of orange for a different citrus profile. The bright notes will add a festive vibrancy to your doughnuts.
Extra Decadence: Drizzle dark chocolate over the glazed doughnuts for an indulgent touch. This chocolate addition will take your festive treats to another level of deliciousness.
Decorative Glaze: Use beet juice or spirulina for natural food coloring in your glaze, allowing you to create beautiful and colorful variations that are still wholly plant-based.

Enjoy experimenting with these variations! If you’re looking for more inspiration, how about trying additional holiday treats that will delight your family this season?

Make Ahead Options

These Vegan Christmas Wreath Doughnuts are a fantastic choice for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy festive treats without the last-minute rush! You can prepare the doughnut batter up to 24 hours in advance; simply mix the wet and dry ingredients separately, combine, and refrigerate until you’re ready to bake. When it’s time to indulge, just preheat your oven and bake the batter for a delightful treat that’s just as fluffy and delicious. Additionally, if you want to save even more time, glaze the doughnuts ahead and store them in an airtight container for up to 3 days at room temperature. Enjoy the ease of having these beautiful doughnuts ready to serve your guests!

Storage Tips for Vegan Christmas Wreath Doughnuts

Room Temperature: Store your Vegan Christmas Wreath Doughnuts in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days to maintain their delightful texture and flavor.
Fridge: If you need to keep them longer, refrigerate the doughnuts in a sealed container for up to 5 days, but expect a slight change in texture.
Freezer: For long-term storage, freeze ungrazed doughnuts in a single layer, then transfer to an airtight bag or container for up to 1 month. Glaze them after thawing for the best taste and presentation.
Reheating: To reheat, warm them in the microwave for 10-15 seconds or in an oven at 350°F (175°C) for a few minutes, restoring their fluffy goodness before serving.

Expert Tips for Vegan Christmas Wreath Doughnuts

Avoid Overmixing: Gently fold the wet ingredients into the dry to maintain a light, fluffy texture in your Vegan Christmas Wreath Doughnuts. Overmixing can lead to dense results.
Check Ingredient Freshness: Ensure your baking powder and spices are fresh to achieve the best rise and flavor in your doughnuts. Old ingredients can hinder the doughnut’s fluffiness.
Cool Completely Before Glazing: Let your doughnuts cool entirely before dipping in glaze. Glazing warm doughnuts can cause the glaze to melt off, ruining the presentation.
Proper Flour Measurement: Spoon the flour into your measuring cup instead of scooping to avoid packing it down, which can lead to excessively dense doughnuts.
Experiment with Flavors: Feel free to customize your doughnuts with different spices or extracts for unique variations, ensuring they fit your taste perfectly.
Use a Piping Bag for Precision: For a beautiful finish, use a piping bag to fill each doughnut cavity and to pipe the buttercream decoration, giving your Vegan Christmas Wreath Doughnuts a professional touch.

Vegan Christmas Wreath Doughnuts Recipe FAQs

How do I choose the best dairy-free milk for this recipe?
Absolutely! You can use almond or soy milk for a creamy base, but if you’re catering to nut allergies, oat milk is a fantastic nut-free substitute. Look for unsweetened varieties to ensure a balanced flavor.

How should I store my Vegan Christmas Wreath Doughnuts?
You can keep your doughnuts in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you wish to extend their shelf life, they can be refrigerated for up to 5 days; just be aware that the texture might be a little denser.

Can I freeze the doughnuts, and if so, how?
Yes, indeed! To freeze your Vegan Christmas Wreath Doughnuts, allow them to cool completely and then place them in a single layer on a baking sheet. Once frozen, transfer them to an airtight container or a zip-top bag. They can be kept frozen for up to 1 month. When you’re ready to enjoy them, simply thaw at room temperature and glaze after reheating for the best taste.

What should I do if my doughnuts come out dense?
If your doughnuts turn out dense, it might be due to overmixing the batter. To ensure fluffiness, mix until the wet and dry ingredients are just combined. Also, make sure your baking powder is fresh; expired leavening agents can prevent the doughnuts from rising properly.

Are these doughnuts suitable for different dietary needs?
Very! This recipe is not only vegan but can be easily adapted to be gluten-free by using a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend. You can also customize the sweetness by substituting white sugar with coconut sugar or using natural sweeteners like maple syrup. It’s always wise to check ingredient labels for allergens to ensure they fit your dietary requirements.

How can I customize the flavors in my Vegan Christmas Wreath Doughnuts?
The more the merrier! Feel free to swap out spices—try cardamom for a unique twist, or omit ginger for a milder flavor. You can also add the zest of lemon instead of orange for a different citrus profile. Experiment with extracts, like using vanilla instead of almond for nut-free versions, and enjoy creating your personalized festive doughnuts!