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Just when you thought donuts were forever off-limits to those avoiding wheat flour and dairy, a delightful alternative emerges from the oven, challenging every preconceived notion about what a donut can be. Enter the realm of vegan and gluten-free donuts—a world where dietary restrictions do not hold sway over flavor and enjoyment.
This recipe is a testament to the fact that indulgence and health-conscious eating can indeed go hand in hand, offering a guilt-free treat that doesn't compromise on taste or texture. With carefully chosen ingredients, these donuts bring a joyously sweet and satisfying experience to everyone, proving once and for all that the essence of a great donut transcends its conventional components. Whether you're fully committed to a vegan and gluten-free lifestyle or simply curious to explore a deliciously different way to enjoy a classic favorite, these donuts promise to surprise and delight your taste buds.
Ingredients:
Dry Ingredients
2 cups gluten-free all-purpose flour (look for a blend that includes xanthan gum, or add 1/4 tsp if your blend doesn't include it)
1/2 cup almond flour (for added texture and nutrition)
3/4 cup organic sugar (coconut sugar works well for a lower glycemic index)
2 tsp baking powder
1/2 tsp baking soda
1/4 tsp salt
1 tsp cinnamon (optional, for flavor)
Wet Ingredients
1 cup almond milk (or any plant-based milk)
1/4 cup unsweetened applesauce (as an egg substitute)
1/4 cup coconut oil, melted
2 tsp vanilla extract
For Glazing (Optional)
1 cup powdered sugar
2-3 tbsp almond milk
1/2 tsp vanilla extract
Use organic plant-based food coloring if you'd like to get creative.
Nuts to be sprinkled over frosting
Instructions
Preheat Oven & Prepare Pan:
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
Grease a donut pan with a bit of coconut oil or use a silicone donut pan for easier removal.
Mix Dry Ingredients:
In a large bowl, whisk together the gluten-free all-purpose flour, almond flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and cinnamon until well combined.
Combine Wet Ingredients:
In a separate bowl, mix the almond milk, unsweetened applesauce, melted coconut oil, and vanilla extract.
Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients:
Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and stir until just combined. Be careful not to overmix to avoid a dense texture.
Fill Donut Pan:
Spoon the batter into the donut pan cavities or use a piping bag to pipe the batter in for a neater appearance. Fill each cavity about 3/4 full.
Bake:
Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the donuts are lightly golden and a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
Allow the donuts to cool in the pan for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Prepare the Glaze (Optional):
While the donuts are cooling, whisk together powdered sugar, almond milk, and vanilla extract in a bowl until smooth. Adjust the consistency by adding more almond milk or powdered sugar as needed.
Glaze the Donuts:
Once the donuts are completely cooled, dip the top of each donut into the glaze, then set them back on the wire rack to let the glaze set.
Enjoy your vegan and gluten-free donuts with a cup of tea or coffee! These donuts are best enjoyed fresh, but they can also be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for a day or two.
