Introduction

Indulging in sweet treats doesn’t have to mean compromising on dietary choices. These Vegan Blueberry Donuts are a delightful and health-conscious option that satisfies cravings without the use of animal products. They are light, fluffy, and bursting with fresh blueberries, making them perfect for breakfast, brunch, or a snack. This comprehensive guide provides everything you need to know about making these delicious donuts, from ingredients to instructions, along with nutritional information and tips for success.

Ingredients

For the Donuts:

  • 1 cup all-purpose flour (or gluten-free flour blend)
  • 1/2 cup almond flour
  • 1/2 cup coconut sugar (or brown sugar)
  • 1/4 cup unsweetened applesauce
  • 1/2 cup non-dairy milk (such as almond or oat milk)
  • 1/4 cup coconut oil, melted (or vegetable oil)
  • 1 tbsp ground flaxseed mixed with 2.5 tbsp water (flax egg)
  • 1 tsp baking powder
  • 1/2 tsp baking soda
  • 1/4 tsp salt
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
  • 1 cup fresh blueberries (or frozen, thawed)

For the Glaze (optional):

  • 1 cup powdered sugar (or coconut sugar blended into powder)
  • 2-3 tbsp non-dairy milk
  • 1/2 tsp vanilla extract

Equipment Needed

  • Donut pan (12-cavity)
  • Mixing bowls
  • Whisk
  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • Spatula
  • Piping bag or zip-top bag (for glazing)
  • Cooling rack

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

  1. Set the Temperature: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This allows the donuts to bake evenly and become perfectly fluffy.

Step 2: Prepare the Flax Egg

  1. Mix the Flaxseed: In a small bowl, combine the ground flaxseed with 2.5 tablespoons of water. Stir well and let it sit for about 5 minutes until it thickens. This will act as a binding agent in place of eggs.

Step 3: Combine Dry Ingredients

  1. Mix Flour and Sugar: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, almond flour, coconut sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. This ensures that the leavening agents are evenly distributed.

Step 4: Mix Wet Ingredients

  1. Combine Wet Mixtures: In a separate bowl, combine the melted coconut oil, applesauce, non-dairy milk, vanilla extract, and the prepared flax egg. Mix until smooth.

Step 5: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients

  1. Incorporate Together: Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and gently stir until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; a few lumps are okay.

Step 6: Fold in Blueberries

  1. Add the Berries: Gently fold in the fresh blueberries, taking care not to break them. If using frozen blueberries, ensure they are thawed and drained before adding to the batter.

Step 7: Prepare the Donut Pan

  1. Grease the Pan: Lightly grease your donut pan with non-stick spray or coconut oil. This helps in easy removal after baking.

Step 8: Fill the Donut Pan

  1. Transfer the Batter: Spoon the batter into a piping bag or zip-top bag, cut the corner, and pipe the batter into each cavity of the donut pan, filling each about 3/4 full.

Step 9: Bake the Donuts

  1. Place in Oven: Bake in the preheated oven for 15-18 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. The donuts should be lightly golden and spring back when touched.

Step 10: Cool the Donuts

  1. Let Them Rest: Once baked, remove the donuts from the oven and let them cool in the pan for about 5 minutes. Then, carefully transfer them to a cooling rack to cool completely.

Step 11: Prepare the Glaze (optional)

  1. Mix Glaze Ingredients: In a small bowl, whisk together the powdered sugar, non-dairy milk, and vanilla extract until smooth. Adjust the consistency by adding more milk for a thinner glaze or more powdered sugar for a thicker one.

Step 12: Glaze the Donuts

  1. Dip or Drizzle: Once the donuts are completely cool, dip the tops into the glaze or use a piping bag to drizzle it over the donuts. Allow the glaze to set for a few minutes.

Step 13: Serve and Enjoy

  1. Ready to Enjoy: Serve the donuts immediately or store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. These donuts also freeze well—just thaw before serving.

Nutritional Information (Per Donut, Makes Approximately 12 Donuts)

  • Calories: 150
  • Total Fat: 6g
  • Saturated Fat: 3g
  • Carbohydrates: 22g
  • Fiber: 3g
  • Sugar: 4g
  • Protein: 3g

SmartPoints Information

  • Weight Watchers SmartPoints: 5 points per donut (without glaze)

Tips for Success

  1. Blueberry Freshness: For the best flavor, use fresh blueberries. If using frozen, ensure they are thawed and drained to avoid excess moisture in the batter.
  2. Flaxseed Alternatives: If you don’t have ground flaxseed, you can substitute with chia seeds in the same ratio to create a chia egg.
  3. Donut Variations: Feel free to experiment with different add-ins such as lemon zest, poppy seeds, or nuts for added texture and flavor.

Conclusion

Vegan Blueberry Donuts are a wonderful way to enjoy a classic treat without compromising on health or ethical standards. These donuts are fluffy, flavorful, and full of wholesome ingredients, making them a perfect addition to your breakfast or snack rotation. With this detailed recipe, you can create delicious homemade donuts that will impress your family and friends while staying true to your dietary preferences. Enjoy the process of baking and the delightful aroma that fills your kitchen as you whip up these scrumptious vegan treats!