Vegan Red Velvet Donuts with Cream Cheese Frosting

Name: Vegan Red Velvet Donuts with Cream Cheese Frosting
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 35 min
Ingredients: 1 1/4 cup unsweetened almond or oat milk; 1/2 cup melted vegan butter; 1 cup sugar; 1/4 cup cocoa powder; 1 tsp vanilla extract; 1 1/2 tsp baking powder; 1 tsp baking soda; 2 cup regular or gluten free all purpose flour; 3 tsp red food coloring; 1 1/2 cup powdered sugar; 4 oz vegan cream cheese; 4 tbsp vegan butter

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These vegan red velvet donuts are soft, cakey, and perfectly moist with a rich cocoa flavor and a vibrant red color. They’re baked instead of fried, making them an easy and healthier indulgence! Topped with a luscious vegan cream cheese frosting, these donuts taste just like red velvet cake but in handheld form. They’re perfect for holidays, special occasions, or whenever you’re craving a decadent treat!

Ingredients

Vegan Red Velvet Donuts

1 ¼ cup unsweetened almond or oat milk
½ cup melted vegan butter
1 cup sugar
¼ cup cocoa powder
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 ½ teaspoon baking powder
1 teaspoon baking soda
2 cups regular or gluten-free all-purpose flour (King Arthur Measure for Measure recommended for GF)
3 teaspoons red food coloring

Vegan Cream Cheese Frosting

1 ½ cup powdered sugar
4 oz vegan cream cheese
4 tablespoons softened vegan butter

Instructions

Make the Donuts

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease 14 silicone donut molds.
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together almond milk, melted vegan butter, sugar, cocoa powder, vanilla extract, baking powder, and baking soda.
Add the flour and mix just until a smooth batter forms—do not overmix.
Stir in the red food coloring until fully combined.
Fill each donut mold about ¾ full with batter.
Bake for about 30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the donuts comes out clean.
Remove from the oven and allow to cool completely before frosting.

Make the Frosting

Enjoy immediately or store in an airtight container!
In a bowl, use an electric hand mixer to beat powdered sugar, vegan cream cheese, and softened vegan butter until smooth.
Once the donuts are fully cooled, spread or pipe the frosting on top.

Tips for Perfect Vegan Red Velvet Donuts

? Don't overmix – Stir the batter just until combined to keep the donuts light and fluffy.
? Use gel food coloring – If using liquid food coloring, you may need to add extra to achieve a vibrant red hue.
? Check for doneness – Insert a toothpick; if it comes out clean, they’re ready!
? Cool before frosting – Let the donuts cool completely to prevent the frosting from melting.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make these without food coloring?

Yes! The red food coloring is purely for appearance. You can omit it and still have delicious chocolate-flavored donuts. If you're looking for a healthier alternative to red food coloring, you can choose a non-toxic food dye or even use a scoop of beet root powder to color your donuts.

What can I use if I don’t have a donut pan?

You can use muffin pans to turn these into cupcakes! Click here for the full instructions on how do make vegan red velvet cupcakes.

How do I store these donuts?

Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days or refrigerate for up to a week. If freezing, store them unfrosted and add the frosting after thawing.