Indulge in the delectable world of vegan donuts with this easy-to-follow recipe. These tender treats are a dream come true for anyone in search of a delectable gluten-free and vegan option. If espresso isn’t your cup of tea, feel free to skip it and relish these delightful gluten-free vegan chocolate donuts. Are you a donut enthusiast? Then you won’t want to miss out on my GLUTEN-FREE PUMPKIN MUFFINS. Plus, if you’re aiming for a vegan twist, you can effortlessly substitute a flax egg for an egg, ensuring everyone can enjoy these scrumptious treats.

GLUTEN-FREE VEGAN DONUTS
Discover a budget-friendly secret: making your own gluten-free vegan donuts is not only a culinary delight, but it’s also lighter on the wallet compared to store-bought options. With just a modest investment in a donut pan, typically priced at less than £10, you’ll be on your way to baking up a storm. This vegan donut recipe is a treasure for those with dietary restrictions, being not only gluten-free but also free from most common food allergens. Keep an eye on your inbox for further details!
These gluten-free vegan chocolate espresso donuts offer a symphony of tenderness and rich chocolatey goodness, with subtle notes of invigorating espresso. Not a coffee fan? No problem! Simply omit the ground espresso for an equally delightful batch of gluten-free vegan chocolate donuts.
In crafting this vegan donut recipe, I opted for the gluten-free vegan chocolate from Enjoy Life Foods to create a luscious glaze, but feel free to use your chocolate of choice. If you prefer a different finish, you can forego the chocolate glaze and opt for a dusting of powdered sugar instead. Happy baking!
VEGAN DONUTS
In crafting this gluten-free vegan donut recipe, I turned to the trusty flax-egg as my egg substitute, a blend of 1 tablespoon of water and 3 tablespoons of flaxseed meal. To achieve the desired consistency, equivalent to 2 flax eggs, I adjusted the ratio slightly to ¼ cup of water and 2 tablespoons of flaxseed meal.
Unlike traditional donut recipes that often rely on a combination of eggs, milk, and occasionally butter for that tender crumb, this vegan version calls for oil, a dairy-free milk, and an egg substitute. The texture may vary depending on your choice of egg replacer, but rest assured, the results are delightful.
The best part? You’d be hard-pressed to discern that these delectable vegan donuts are also gluten-free. The texture is spot-on, ensuring you’ll relish every mouthwatering bite. Happy baking!

WORKING WITH GLUTEN-FREE FLOURS
For precise results when handling gluten-free flour, it’s recommended to spoon the flour into the measuring cup and then level it off. Avoid the temptation to scoop the measuring cup directly into the gluten-free flour, as this can lead to inaccurate measurements.
While the most accurate approach is to weigh the gluten-free flour, I regret to inform you that I don’t have the specific ingredient weights for all my recipes at this time. Rest assured, though, I’m continuously working towards providing this additional level of detail in the future. Happy baking!
DAIRY FREE MILK IN VEGAN DONUTS
Using dairy-free milk is a key component in crafting delectable vegan donuts. This plant-based alternative ensures that your donuts are entirely free from dairy products, catering to a vegan diet. Whether you prefer almond, soy, oat, or any other dairy-free milk, the choice is yours, allowing you to customise your donuts to your taste preferences and dietary needs. So go ahead and experiment with different dairy-free milks to create the perfect batch of vegan donuts that suit your individual palate. Happy baking!
INGREDIENTS IN VEGAN DONUTS
Here’s the list of ingredients you’ll need to whip up these delightful gluten-free vegan chocolate espresso donuts:
- Ground flaxseed (for preparing the flax egg)
- Water (for creating the flax egg)
- All-purpose gluten-free flour blend
- Unsweetened cocoa
- Finely ground coffee beans (espresso grind)
- Gluten-free baking powder
- Baking soda
- Xanthan gum
- Salt
- Sugar
- Avocado oil (or your preferred choice of oil)
- Dairy-free milk
- 2 Enjoy Life Foods boomCHOCOboom Dark Chocolate Bars (or your chocolate of choice)
With these carefully selected ingredients, you’re all set to embark on a delightful baking adventure! Enjoy creating these scrumptious gluten-free vegan chocolate espresso donuts. Happy baking!
It’s worth noting that the addition of ground coffee beans is entirely optional, allowing you to tailor the flavour to your personal preference. If your chosen flour blend already contains xanthan gum, remember to exclude it from the recipe to achieve the best results.
Donuts hold a special place in our hearts as one of our cherished indulgences. As a tradition, we eagerly anticipate enjoying a donut every Friday to mark the culmination of another successful week.
Among our selection of gluten-free vegan donuts, these chocolate espresso delights stand out as a particular favourite, especially when shared with dear friends. Whenever a batch of these delectable treats is prepared, you can be sure we’ll be spreading the joy with those around us. Happy baking!

HOW TO MAKE VEGAN DONUTS
In a medium mixing bowl, combine the gluten-free flour, cocoa, espresso grinds, baking powder, baking soda, xanthan gum, and salt. Stir until the ingredients are well combined.
Next, add the sugar, oil, dairy-free milk, and flax eggs to the mixture. Stir vigorously until all the ingredients are fully incorporated.
Using a spoon, carefully portion the batter into your prepared donut pans, filling each cavity to about halfway (approximately ¼ cup of batter). Follow the specified baking instructions for the perfect result.
Once baked, allow the donuts to cool in the pan for about 5 minutes. Gently run a rubber spatula along the sides of the donuts to loosen them, then carefully flip the donuts out onto a cooling rack.
These delightful treats can be enjoyed as they are, or for an extra indulgence, dip them in melted chocolate or dust them with powdered sugar. The choice is yours!
The steps provided above are perfectly aligned with the corresponding images, serving as visual aids to guide you through the process. However, for a comprehensive list of all the ingredients required for this delectable vegan donut recipe, please refer to the printable version included below.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I omit the ground espresso?
- Yes, absolutely! If you’re not a fan of coffee or prefer a milder flavour, feel free to skip the ground espresso. The donuts will still be wonderfully chocolatey.
- What is xanthan gum, and can I omit it?
- Xanthan gum is a common gluten substitute that helps bind the ingredients in gluten-free baking. If your flour blend already contains xanthan gum, you can omit it from this recipe.
- Can I use a different type of flour?
- This recipe is specifically designed for a gluten-free flour blend. Using a different type of flour may yield different results.
- Can I substitute the flax egg with something else?
- If you prefer not to use flaxseed, you can try using a different egg substitute like chia seeds or a commercial egg replacer.
- Can I use a different type of oil?
- Yes, you can substitute avocado oil with another neutral-flavoured oil like vegetable or melted coconut oil.
- How should I store these donuts?
- Store the donuts in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. For longer storage, you can freeze them for up to three months.
- Can I top these donuts with something other than melted chocolate or powdered sugar?
- Absolutely! You can get creative with toppings. Consider using a glaze made from icing sugar, a dusting of cocoa powder, or even a sprinkle of chopped nuts.

SERVING SUGGESTIONS
- Classic Glaze:
- Dip the cooled donuts into a simple glaze made from icing sugar and a splash of dairy-free milk. Allow the glaze to set before serving.
- Chocolate Drizzle:
- Melt some dairy-free chocolate and drizzle it over the donuts for an extra indulgent touch.
- Powdered Sugar Dusting:
- Sift a generous layer of powdered sugar over the tops of the donuts for a sweet and elegant finish.
- Nutty Crunch:
- Sprinkle chopped nuts like almonds, hazelnuts, or pecans over a layer of melted chocolate on top of the donuts.
- Coconut Flakes:
- Toasted coconut flakes can add a delightful crunch and tropical flair to your donuts.
- Espresso Glaze:
- Combine icing sugar with a shot of strong brewed espresso for a coffee-infused glaze that complements the flavour of the donuts.
- Fruit Compote:
- Serve the donuts with a side of fruit compote or fresh berries for a refreshing contrast to the rich chocolate.
- Ice Cream Sandwich:
- Slice the donuts in half and use them as a base for an ice cream sandwich. Add a scoop of your favourite dairy-free ice cream between the halves.
- Caramel Drizzle:
- Drizzle a dairy-free caramel sauce over the donuts for an added layer of sweetness and decadence.
How to Store
To keep your Gluten-Free Vegan Chocolate Espresso Donuts fresh and delicious, follow these storage instructions:
- Room Temperature (Short Term):
- If you plan to consume the donuts within 1-2 days, store them in an airtight container at room temperature. Place a piece of parchment paper between layers to prevent sticking.
- Refrigeration (Extended Freshness):
- For longer freshness, store the donuts in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They can last up to 4-5 days when chilled.
- Freezing (Long Term):
- To keep donuts for an extended period, wrap them individually in plastic wrap and place them in an airtight container or a freezer-safe bag. Label with the date for reference. They can be stored in the freezer for up to 2-3 months.
Before Serving:
- If you’ve refrigerated or frozen the donuts, allow them to come to room temperature for about 20-30 minutes before serving. This helps restore their texture and flavour.
How to Freeze
- Cool Completely: Allow the donuts to cool completely on a wire rack before freezing. This prevents condensation and maintains their texture.
- Wrap Individually: Individually wrap each donut tightly in plastic wrap. This helps to prevent freezer burn and maintain freshness.
- Store in an Airtight Container or Bag: Place the wrapped donuts in an airtight container or a resealable freezer bag. Make sure to remove as much air as possible before sealing.
- Label and Date: It’s a good practice to label the container or bag with the contents and date. This way, you can easily identify them later.
- Freeze: Put the container or bag in the freezer. Try to place them in a way that prevents them from getting squished.
- Use within 2-3 Months: While the donuts will be safe to eat beyond this time frame, they will be best in terms of quality if consumed within 2-3 months.
- Thawing: When you’re ready to enjoy a donut, remove it from the freezer and let it thaw at room temperature for about 20-30 minutes. You can also gently reheat it in the oven at a low temperature for a few minutes.
Why You’ll Love These Recipe
- Irresistible Flavour Combination: The rich blend of cocoa, espresso, and dark chocolate creates a decadent and indulgent taste experience.
- Allergy-Friendly: This recipe is both gluten-free and vegan, making it suitable for those with dietary restrictions or preferences.
- Simple Preparation: With straightforward steps and easy-to-find ingredients, these donuts are convenient to make and enjoy.
- Versatile: Whether you’re a coffee lover or not, you can tailor these donuts to your preference by including or omitting the ground espresso.
- Budget-Friendly: Making these donuts at home is a cost-effective way to enjoy a delicious treat without the need for store-bought alternatives.
- Perfect for Sharing: These delectable treats are ideal for sharing with friends and family, spreading joy with each bite.
- Customizable Toppings: Whether you prefer a dusting of powdered sugar or a dip in melted chocolate, you have the freedom to add your favourite finishing touch.

Nutrition Information
- Serving Size: 1 Donut
- Calories: 210 kcal
- Total Fat: 11g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
- Sodium: 180mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 29g
- Dietary Fiber: 3g
- Sugars: 14g
- Protein: 3g
Note: Nutritional values are approximate and may vary based on specific ingredients and portion sizes used.