Fluffy, moist, and studded with sweet blueberries, these baked vegan donuts are the perfect fusion of a tender cake and a light breakfast pastry. Baking instead of frying makes them a wholesome option without sacrificing indulgence.
Whether you enjoy them plain or glazed with a silky vanilla drizzle, they’re a joyful treat for mornings, brunch spreads, or afternoon coffee breaks. Plus, with just 9 simple ingredients and under 30 minutes, they’re as easy to make as they are to devour.
Full Recipe:
Ingredients:
-
¼ cup melted vegan or regular butter
-
1 ¼ cup almond milk, oat milk, or regular milk
-
1 cup sugar
-
1 ½ teaspoon baking powder
-
1 teaspoon baking soda
-
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
-
2 cups all-purpose flour (regular or gluten-free, such as King Arthur Measure for Measure)
-
1 cup fresh or frozen blueberries
Optional Glaze:
-
½ cup powdered sugar
-
1 tablespoon almond milk, oat milk, or regular milk
-
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Directions:
-
Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
-
In a large mixing bowl, combine melted butter, milk, baking soda, baking powder, sugar, and vanilla.
-
Mix in flour until just combined—do not overmix.
-
Gently fold in blueberries.
-
Spoon the batter into 14–16 greased donut molds, filling each only about ¾ full.
-
Bake for 20 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
-
Let cool slightly. For glaze, whisk powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla until smooth. Dip or drizzle over donuts.
Prep Time: 5 minutes | Cooking Time: 20 minutes | Total Time: 25 minutes
Kcal: 146 kcal per donut | Servings: 16 donuts
Baked Vegan Blueberry Donuts: A Wholesome Twist on a Classic Treat
When most people think of donuts, they picture deep-fried, sugar-coated circles of indulgence delicious, yes, but not exactly an everyday snack. The beauty of these baked vegan blueberry donuts is that they defy that stereotype. They’re light, fluffy, fruit filled, and made without animal products, yet they still deliver the satisfying bite of a traditional donut. Whether you enjoy them with your morning coffee, serve them at a brunch gathering, or sneak one in as an afternoon treat, they’re the perfect blend of comfort and freshness.
Why Bake Instead of Fry?
Baking donuts instead of frying them brings several benefits, both in taste and health. Frying often requires large amounts of oil, which not only adds excess fat but also leaves the kitchen smelling like a fryer for hours. Baking, on the other hand, uses the oven’s dry heat to create a light, cake like texture without the grease.
For many, this switch means you can enjoy donuts more often without the same heaviness you’d feel after a fried version. It also opens the door to more flavor experimentation because the baked base is a little more subtle letting ingredients like blueberries truly shine.
The Star of the Show: Blueberries
Blueberries are more than just colorful bursts of sweetness they’re nutrient powerhouses. Rich in antioxidants, vitamin C, and fiber, they add a nutritious element to each bite.
Fresh blueberries offer a bright, juicy pop, while frozen ones can create little pockets of sweet syrup inside the donut. Interestingly, frozen blueberries can also slightly tint the batter, giving your donuts a whimsical purplish hue. Either way, the fruit keeps the crumb moist while contributing natural sweetness and tang that balance the donut’s soft vanilla flavor.
The Vegan Advantage
By using plant-based butter and milk, these donuts fit beautifully into a vegan lifestyle. No eggs are needed; instead, the structure and lift come from baking soda and baking powder working together. The result is a donut that’s tender, airy, and fully plant-based.
Vegan baking also has the advantage of being more allergy-friendly. People who are lactose-intolerant or avoiding dairy for health reasons can still enjoy these treats. And with a simple switch to a gluten-free flour blend, they can be made safe for those avoiding wheat as well.
Texture and Flavor Profile
One of the first things you’ll notice about these donuts is their texture. While fried donuts tend to be chewy or slightly dense, baked blueberry donuts lean toward a soft, cake-like crumb similar to a tender muffin, but with a smoother finish.
Flavor-wise, the donut base is subtly sweet with a warm vanilla undertone. Each bite delivers the burst of blueberries, which balance the sweetness with their naturally tart juice. If you choose to add the glaze, it gives a glossy finish and an extra layer of sweetness that makes them feel even more like a bakery indulgence.
Versatility for Every Occasion
The best thing about this recipe is how adaptable it is. Need a quick breakfast option? Make a batch on Sunday and enjoy them throughout the week. Hosting a brunch? Arrange them on a platter, with some glazed and some plain, so guests can pick their favorite. Looking for a healthier dessert? Pair one with a cup of herbal tea or coffee for a satisfying, not-too-heavy ending to a meal.
They also make excellent edible gifts. Wrap them in a bakery box tied with twine, and you’ve got a thoughtful, homemade present for neighbors, friends, or family.
Gluten-Free and Kid-Friendly
With the right flour, these donuts can easily be made gluten-free without losing their fluffiness. King Arthur’s Measure for Measure blend works especially well because it mimics the behavior of regular flour in baking recipes. This means you can serve them at parties or family gatherings without worrying about excluding guests with gluten sensitivities.
Children tend to love them too not just because they’re donuts, but because the blueberries make them colorful and fun. Parents can feel good knowing that the treat is baked, not fried, and made with wholesome ingredients.
Serving Ideas
While these donuts are delicious straight from the oven, you can take them to the next level with a few serving suggestions:
-
Classic Glaze: A simple mix of powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla gives a sweet, glossy coating. Dip just the tops or drizzle in a zigzag for a modern look.
-
Dusting of Powdered Sugar: Light, elegant, and perfect for a brunch table.
-
Berry Compote: Serve with a warm blueberry sauce for a dessert-style presentation.
-
Breakfast Spread: Pair with fruit salad, yogurt, or smoothies for a vibrant start to the day.
-
Mini Versions: Use a mini donut pan for bite-sized treats great for kids or party snack tables.
Storage and Freshness Tips
While these donuts are best enjoyed the day they’re baked, you can store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a week. They also freeze surprisingly well just make sure they’re completely cooled before placing them in a freezer-safe bag or container. When ready to eat, thaw at room temperature or warm in the microwave for 20–30 seconds.
If you plan to glaze them, it’s best to do so shortly before serving, as the glaze can absorb moisture over time and lose its shine.
Healthier Indulgence
Compared to traditional fried donuts, this baked version is significantly lighter in fat while still delivering on flavor and satisfaction. By using plant-based ingredients, you also get the benefits of dairy-free baking, which can be easier on digestion for many people. The blueberries add natural sweetness, meaning you can reduce the sugar slightly if desired without sacrificing taste.
Why This Recipe Works
What makes this recipe such a winner comes down to balance:
-
The light, airy crumb comes from just the right ratio of wet to dry ingredients.
-
The blueberries bring moisture, color, and a fruity punch.
-
The vanilla enhances sweetness without overpowering the natural berry flavor.
-
Baking instead of frying keeps them wholesome without losing that “treat” factor.
It’s a recipe that checks all the boxes easy, quick, versatile, and universally loved.
A Modern Take on Comfort Food
Donuts have long been a comfort food in many cultures, a symbol of simple pleasures and shared moments. This vegan blueberry version takes that tradition and gives it a modern, health-conscious twist. You still get the joy of biting into a sweet, pillowy ring, but without the heavy feeling fried dough can leave behind.
Conclusion:
Baked vegan blueberry donuts prove that you don’t need to compromise between health and indulgence. They’re quick to make, adaptable to dietary needs, and bursting with fresh berry flavor. Perfect for breakfast, snacks, or dessert, they fit seamlessly into everyday life while still feeling special enough for gatherings.
Whether you’re already a devoted plant-based baker or just starting to explore vegan recipes, this one deserves a permanent spot in your kitchen rotation. Once you taste that tender crumb, juicy blueberry burst, and optional sweet glaze, you’ll understand why they’re destined to become a favorite in any household.