Name: Vegan Christmas Wreath Doughnuts for a Festive Delight
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 30 min
Ingredients: 1 cup Dairy-Free Milk (almond, soy, or oat milk); 1 tablespoon Apple Cider Vinegar (or lemon juice); 2 cups Plain Flour (or gluten-free all-purpose flour); 1 tablespoon Baking Powder (ensure freshness); 1/4 teaspoon Ground Nutmeg (or extra cinnamon); 1 teaspoon Ground Cinnamon (fresh is best); 1/2 teaspoon Ground Ginger (optional); 1/4 teaspoon Salt; 3/4 cup White Sugar (or coconut sugar); 1 teaspoon Vanilla Extract (pure recommended); 1/2 teaspoon Almond Extract (optional); 1 tablespoon Zest of 1 Orange (optional); 1/4 cup Melted Coconut Oil (or melted vegan butter); 1/4 cup Melted Coconut Oil (or light vegetable oil); 1 teaspoon Vanilla Extract; 2 tablespoons Dairy-Free Milk (for consistency); 1 cup Icing Sugar (or powdered sugar); 1/2 cup Dairy-Free Butter; 1 cup Icing Sugar; 1 teaspoon Vanilla Extract; 1 tablespoon Dairy-Free Milk (for pipeable consistency); a few drops Green Food Coloring (for decoration); as desired Sprinkles/Mini Red Candies (optional)

Amid the hustle and bustle of the holiday season, few things can bring a smile quite like the sight of warm doughnuts fresh from the oven. Enter my Vegan Christmas Wreath Doughnuts, an enchanting twist on a classic treat that’s perfect for sharing. These delightful baked goodies not only add a pop of festive cheer to your holiday table but are also a breeze to whip up—no frying required! With endless customizable options to cater to dietary needs and a hint of spiced goodness, they’re sure to become a seasonal staple. Will you decorate them with a luscious vanilla glaze or go all out with festive buttercream? Let’s dive into the sweet details and create some holiday magic!

Why are these doughnuts a holiday must?

Festively Fun: These Vegan Christmas Wreath Doughnuts are not just a treat but a conversation starter, beautifully shaped to resemble holiday wreaths.

Customizable Delights: Tailor the flavors to your taste, from zesty orange to a spicy ginger kick, making every batch unique.

Quick and Easy: Made in under 30 minutes, these baked goodies are a perfect last-minute addition to festivities!

Family-Friendly: Everyone will love getting involved in the decoration, creating sweet memories together.

Healthier Indulgence: With just 180 calories per doughnut, they offer a delightful alternative to traditional fried desserts.

Pair these with a cup of your favorite warm drink for a cozy holiday experience. Why not check out our guide on easy vegan baking to keep the deliciousness coming this season?

Vegan Christmas Wreath Doughnuts Ingredients

For the Doughnut Batter

Dairy-Free Milk – Adds moisture to the batter; almond or soy milk is great, and oat milk is perfect for nut-free versions.
Apple Cider Vinegar – Provides acidity to curdle the milk, creating a buttermilk effect; lemon juice can be a good substitute.
Plain Flour – The main structure component of the doughnut; use gluten-free all-purpose flour for a gluten-free option.
Baking Powder – Acts as a leavening agent for fluffiness; make sure it’s fresh for the best rise.
Ground Nutmeg – Adds a cozy warm flavor; you can replace it with extra cinnamon if preferred.
Ground Cinnamon – Enhances the festive taste; using fresh cinnamon ensures the best flavor.
Ground Ginger – Provides a nice spice kick; omit if you prefer a milder doughnut.
Salt – Balances sweetness and elevates flavors.
White Sugar – Sweetens the doughnuts; coconut sugar offers a deeper, caramel-like sweetness.
Vanilla Extract – Infuses deep flavor; pure vanilla is recommended for the best taste.
Almond Extract – Optional for that delightful nutty hint; omit for nut-free doughnuts.
Zest of 1 Orange – Adds a burst of citrus brightness; feel free to skip this if desired.
Melted Coconut Oil – Provides moisture and richness; melted vegan butter is also a fantastic option.

For the Vanilla Glaze

Melted Coconut Oil – Serves as the base for the glaze; light vegetable oil is a suitable alternative.
Vanilla Extract – Flavors the glaze beautifully.
Dairy-Free Milk – Adjusts the consistency for a perfect glaze.
Icing Sugar – Sweetens and gives texture; opt for powdered sugar for a fine finish.

For the Buttercream

Dairy-Free Butter – The main fat for the buttery richness.
Icing Sugar – Sweetens and helps thicken the buttercream.
Vanilla Extract – Enhances the flavor profile of the buttercream.
Dairy-Free Milk – Makes the buttercream pipeable when mixed in.
Green Food Coloring – Adds a festive touch for decorating.
Sprinkles/Mini Red Candies – Optional decorative elements for a joyful finish.

These Vegan Christmas Wreath Doughnuts are not just visually appealing; they’re stuffed with delightful flavors and wholesome ingredients, making them an irresistible treat for the holiday season!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Vegan Christmas Wreath Doughnuts

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While it’s heating, grease your doughnut pans with a little coconut oil or non-stick spray to ensure the doughnuts release easily after baking. This step is crucial for achieving those beautiful, festive shapes for your Vegan Christmas Wreath Doughnuts.

Step 2: Create the Vegan Buttermilk
In a medium bowl, combine the dairy-free milk and apple cider vinegar. Let this mixture sit for about 5 minutes until it curdles slightly, creating a vegan buttermilk effect. This tangy element will enhance the flavor and texture of your doughnuts, making them light and fluffy.

Step 3: Mix the Dry Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the plain flour, baking powder, ground nutmeg, ground cinnamon, ground ginger, and salt. This dry mixture will serve as the foundation for your Vegan Christmas Wreath Doughnuts, providing the perfect balance of flavors. Make sure to sift the flour for a smoother batter consistency.

Step 4: Combine Wet Ingredients
In a separate bowl, mix the sugar, prepared dairy-free buttermilk, vanilla extract, almond extract (if using), and melted coconut oil. Stir until smooth and well combined. This sweet mixture will provide moisture and flavor, ensuring your doughnuts are soft and delicious.

Step 5: Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures
Gently fold the wet mixture into the dry ingredients until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this could lead to dense doughnuts. Lightly blending the ingredients helps maintain the fluffy texture that we’re aiming for in our Vegan Christmas Wreath Doughnuts.

Step 6: Fill the Doughnut Pans
Using a piping bag or a spoon, fill each doughnut cavity halfway with the batter. This allows space for the doughnuts to rise without overflowing. Make sure they’re evenly filled for consistent baking and to achieve those lovely wreath shapes.

Step 7: Bake to Perfection
Place the filled doughnut pans in the preheated oven and bake for 8-10 minutes. The doughnuts are ready when they are lightly golden and spring back when touched. Keep an eye on them to ensure they don’t over-bake and dry out.

Step 8: Cool and Transfer
Once baked, remove the pans from the oven and let them cool for about 5 minutes. Gently transfer the doughnuts to a wire rack to cool completely. This step is essential to prevent them from becoming soggy when you glaze them later.

Step 9: Prepare the Vanilla Glaze
In a mixing bowl, combine melted coconut oil, vanilla extract, dairy-free milk, and icing sugar. Stir until smooth, adjusting the milk for the desired consistency. The glaze should be thick enough to adhere to the doughnuts yet runny enough for that beautiful drip effect.

Step 10: Glaze the Doughnuts
Once the doughnuts are completely cool, dip the tops into the glaze, allowing the excess to drip off. Place them back on the wire rack and let the glaze set for a few minutes. This step ensures a shiny finish on your festive Vegan Christmas Wreath Doughnuts.

Step 11: Make the Buttercream
Beat the dairy-free butter in a bowl until creamy. Gradually add icing sugar, vanilla extract, and dairy-free milk until you reach a pipeable consistency. Color with green food coloring for a festive touch, and mix until fully incorporated.

Step 12: Decorate and Serve
Pipe the green buttercream onto the glazed doughnuts in a wreath shape, adding sprinkles or mini red candies for a charming festive touch. Serve these delightful Vegan Christmas Wreath Doughnuts to friends and family, and watch them light up with joy!

Make Ahead Options

These Vegan Christmas Wreath Doughnuts are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts looking to save time during the busy holiday season! You can prepare the doughnut batter up to 24 hours in advance; just mix your dry ingredients and wet ingredients separately, and refrigerate the wet mixture to keep it fresh. Additionally, the baked doughnuts can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or in the fridge for up to 5 days. To maintain their delightful texture, simply reheat them slightly before glazing. When you’re ready to serve, dip them in the vanilla glaze and decorate with buttercream for that festive touch, ensuring they remain just as delicious as when freshly baked!

How to Store and Freeze Vegan Christmas Wreath Doughnuts

Room Temperature: Keep baked doughnuts in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days to maintain their fluffy texture and delightful flavor.

Fridge: If you prefer them chilled, place the doughnuts in the fridge for up to 5 days. Make sure they are in a sealed container to prevent them from drying out.

Freezer: For longer storage, freeze ungrazed doughnuts in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container. They can be frozen for up to 1 month.

Reheating: To enjoy them warm, pop the frozen doughnuts in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-7 minutes, or until heated through, then glaze as desired.

Vegan Christmas Wreath Doughnuts Variations

Customize your baking adventure with these delightful twists that elevate your Vegan Christmas Wreath Doughnuts to a whole new level of festive joy!

Nut-Free: Omit the almond extract and choose dairy-free milk that suits your needs, like oat milk for a nut-free option.
Gluten-Free: Swap plain flour for a gluten-free all-purpose blend to cater to gluten sensitivities without sacrificing flavor.
Flavor Enhancements: Add spices like cardamom or a hint of cayenne for an unexpected depth. Orange or lemon zest can brighten the batter and lift spirits!
Sweetness Alternatives: Substitute white sugar for maple syrup or agave nectar; just adjust your liquid ratios to maintain batter consistency.
Berry Bliss: Toss in a handful of dried cranberries or chopped dates for a chewy texture and bursts of natural sweetness with every bite.
Spiced Treasure: Boost up the warm notes by adding a dash of cloves or even a sprinkle of nutmeg for a comforting holiday twist.
Chocolatey Delight: Throw in some vegan chocolate chips for a decadent touch that melts beautifully into the soft doughnuts.
Fruity Fusion: Use mashed bananas or unsweetened applesauce instead of half the sugar for a fruitier version that adds natural sweetness and moisture.

Feel free to mix and match these variations! If you’re curious about broader baking ideas, check out our guide on easy vegan baking to keep your holiday treats exciting!

What to Serve with Vegan Christmas Wreath Doughnuts

Warm up your holiday gatherings with these delightful treats, perfect alongside your favorite seasonal pairings.

Spiced Chai Latte: The warm spices in chai beautifully complement the flavors of these doughnuts, creating a cozy winter experience.
Rich Hot Cocoa: A sweet indulgence that pairs perfectly with the velvety glaze, enhancing the festive vibe of your celebration.
Fresh Fruit Salad: A refreshing contrast to the sweetness, with citrus fruits bringing brightness that lifts the doughnut experience.
Gingerbread Cookies: Embrace the season by serving these classic cookies alongside your doughnuts, enhancing the festive flavor profile.
Vegan Eggnog: Creamy and spiced, this traditional drink adds a nostalgic touch that harmonizes with the doughnut’s sweet charm.
Maple Syrup Drizzle: Elevate each doughnut with a drizzle of maple syrup, adding a touch of sweetness that enhances their flavor.

These delectable Vegan Christmas Wreath Doughnuts become a real showstopper when served with these perfect accompaniments, making your holiday gathering unforgettable!

Expert Tips for Vegan Christmas Wreath Doughnuts

Gentle Mixing: Avoid overmixing the batter to keep your Vegan Christmas Wreath Doughnuts light and fluffy. Fold just until combined for the best texture.
Fresh Ingredients: Ensure your baking powder and spices are fresh. Old baking powder will lead to flat doughnuts, while stale spices can dull the delightful flavors.
Cooling Time: Let your doughnuts cool completely before glazing. This prevents the glaze from slipping off and ensures a beautiful finish.
Piping Perfection: For stunning decoration, use a piping bag with a star tip for the buttercream. This adds a festive flair to your doughnuts, making them even more special!
Flavor Tweaks: Feel free to play with flavors! Substituting orange zest or adding a hint of cardamom can create a unique twist on the traditional recipe.
Storing Leftovers: Store any uneaten doughnuts in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. They’re best enjoyed fresh, but will still be delicious!

Vegan Christmas Wreath Doughnuts Recipe FAQs

How do I select ripe ingredients for my Vegan Christmas Wreath Doughnuts?
Absolutely! When choosing dairy-free milk, look for fresh brands without any additives that can alter the flavor. For fruits like citrus, seek vibrant oranges with firm skin—avoid any that have dark spots or seem soft. Fresh spices, particularly ground cinnamon and nutmeg, should be aromatic. If you can grind spices fresh, that’s even better for flavor!

How should I store Vegan Christmas Wreath Doughnuts, and how long will they last?
These delightful doughnuts can be stored at room temperature for up to 3 days when kept in an airtight container. If you’d like them to last longer, pop them in the fridge for up to 5 days. Just remember to seal them well to ensure they stay moist and fluffy! When serving, I recommend giving them a little warm-up before enjoying.

Can I freeze my Vegan Christmas Wreath Doughnuts?
Certainly! To freeze ungrazed doughnuts, first, lay them out on a baking sheet in a single layer for about 1-2 hours. Once they are frozen solid, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container, where they can stay fresh for up to 1 month. When you’re ready to enjoy them, simply reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5-7 minutes, then add your glaze for that fresh-baked taste!

What should I do if my doughnuts come out too dense?
Very common! If your doughnuts turn out dense, ensure you didn’t overmix the batter—gently fold the wet and dry ingredients together until just combined for optimal fluffiness. Also, check that your baking powder is fresh; expired baking powder won’t leaven effectively, resulting in dense doughnuts. For next time, be cautious with measuring; the right flour-to-liquid ratio is essential.

Are these doughnuts suitable for those with allergies?
Yes, indeed! The Vegan Christmas Wreath Doughnuts are perfect for various dietary needs. To make them nut-free, simply omit almond extract and use oat milk. They can also easily be adjusted to be gluten-free using a gluten-free flour blend. Always check labels for any cross-contamination if allergies are a concern, especially with ingredients like baking powder or specialty dairy-free options.