Imagine biting into a cloud-like donut that bursts with bright, tangy lemon flavor and a delightful crunch of poppy seeds - all without a single animal product! These vegan lemon poppy seed donuts are about to transform your breakfast game, proving that plant-based treats can be just as indulgent and mouthwatering as traditional recipes. Whether you're a committed vegan, a curious foodie, or simply someone who loves a delicious morning treat, this recipe will make you fall in love with plant-based baking.
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 10 mins
Total Time: 25 mins
Cuisine: Vegan
Serves: 12 donuts
Ingredients
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup sugar
- 1 tsp baking powder
- 1/2 tsp baking soda
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1/2 cup almond milk
- 1/4 cup vegetable oil
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- 1 tbsp lemon zest
- 1 tbsp poppy seeds
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease a 12-cavity donut pan with non-stick cooking spray.
- In a large mixing bowl, sift together the all-purpose flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt to ensure no lumps remain.
- In a separate medium bowl, whisk together the almond milk, vegetable oil, lemon juice, and lemon zest until well combined.
- Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and gently mix with a spatula until just combined. Be careful not to overmix the batter.
- Fold in the poppy seeds until evenly distributed throughout the batter.
- Transfer the batter to a piping bag or a zip-lock bag with a corner cut off for easy filling of the donut pan.
- Carefully pipe the batter into each donut cavity, filling each about 2/3 to 3/4 full to allow room for rising.
- Tap the donut pan gently on the counter to remove any air bubbles.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean and the edges are lightly golden.
- Remove from the oven and let the donuts cool in the pan for 5 minutes.
- Carefully remove the donuts from the pan and transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
- Optional: Once cooled, dust with powdered sugar or drizzle with a simple lemon glaze for extra flavor.
Tips
- Sifting is crucial: Always sift your dry ingredients to prevent lumps and ensure a smooth, tender donut texture.
- Don't overmix: Gently fold the wet and dry ingredients together. Overmixing can lead to tough, dense donuts.
- Use fresh lemon zest: For the most vibrant citrus flavor, use freshly grated lemon zest rather than dried.
- Check doneness early: Ovens can vary, so start checking your donuts around the 10-minute mark to prevent overbaking.
- Cool completely before decorating: Let donuts cool entirely to ensure any glaze or powdered sugar sticks properly.
- Storage tip: These donuts are best enjoyed fresh but can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for 1-2 days.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 180kcal
Carbohydrates: 25g
Protein: 2g
Fat: 9g
Saturated Fat: 1g
Cholesterol: 0mg

