Name: Vegan Apple Puff Pastry Doughnuts
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: PT-490415H28M21S
Cuisine: American / Fusion
Ingredients: Vegan puff pastry sheets (thawed if frozen); 2 medium apples (e.g. Granny Smith or Honeycrisp), peeled and diced; 2 tablespoons brown sugar or coconut sugar; 1 teaspoon cinnamon; 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg (optional); 1 teaspoon cornstarch or arrowroot powder; 1 tablespoon lemon juice; 2 tablespoons plant‑based milk (for brushing); 1/4 cup cinnamon + granulated sugar mixture (for coating); Optional: melted vegan butter or coconut oil (for brushing before coating)

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Vegan Apple Puff Pastry Doughnuts are one of my favorite quick treats when I want something sweet, crispy, and cozy with minimal effort. These doughnuts are made from flaky puff pastry, filled with spiced apples, and baked (or air-fried) until golden and crisp. They’re finished with a cinnamon-sugar coating that gives them that classic doughnut feel—without any dairy, eggs, or frying.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I love this recipe because it’s simple, plant-based, and feels like a bakery treat made right in my kitchen. Using puff pastry saves time and gives the doughnuts that irresistible flaky texture. The apple filling brings all the warmth of a classic apple pie, while the cinnamon-sugar coating adds the perfect finishing touch. It’s a fun dessert or snack that comes together fast and disappears even faster. Vegan Apple Puff Pastry Doughnuts

Ingredients

(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Vegan puff pastry sheets (thawed if frozen)
Apples (I like Honeycrisp or Granny Smith), peeled and diced
Brown sugar or coconut sugar
Cinnamon
Nutmeg (optional)
Cornstarch or arrowroot powder
Lemon juice
Plant-based milk (for brushing)
Cinnamon and granulated sugar (for coating)
Vegan butter or coconut oil (optional, for brushing or flavor)

Directions

I preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
In a small saucepan, I cook the diced apples with brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, cornstarch, and lemon juice over medium heat until soft and jammy—about 5 to 7 minutes. I let the filling cool slightly.
I roll out the puff pastry on a lightly floured surface and cut out circles using a cookie cutter or glass.
I place a spoonful of the apple mixture in the center of half the circles.
I top each one with another pastry circle and press the edges together using a fork to seal.
I cut a small slit in the top for steam to escape, then brush the tops with plant-based milk.
I bake for 15–20 minutes, or until the doughnuts are puffed and golden.
While still warm, I brush them lightly with melted vegan butter (optional) and toss them in cinnamon sugar.

Servings and timing

This recipe makes about 6 to 8 mini doughnuts, depending on the size of the cutter. It takes around 15 minutes to prep, 20 minutes to bake, and another 5 minutes to coat—ready in under 45 minutes total.

Variations

Sometimes I add a spoonful of dairy-free caramel sauce inside for a caramel-apple twist. I’ve also made a spiced pear version by swapping the apples for chopped pears. For a festive touch, I drizzle them with a simple glaze made from powdered sugar and almond milk. If I want to air fry them, I cook at 375°F (190°C) for about 10–12 minutes until golden and crispy.

Storage/Reheating

I store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. To reheat, I pop them in a toaster oven or air fryer for a few minutes to bring back the crispiness. I avoid microwaving since it softens the pastry too much. Vegan Apple Puff Pastry Doughnuts

FAQs

Can I make these gluten-free?

Yes, I use a gluten-free vegan puff pastry if available. The filling stays the same and works perfectly.

What kind of apples are best?

I like using tart-sweet apples like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp—they hold up well during cooking and give great flavor.

Can I make these ahead of time?

I prep and fill them, then store them unbaked in the fridge for a few hours. I bake them fresh when I’m ready to serve.

Do I need to peel the apples?

I usually do for a smoother filling, but if I’m in a hurry, I leave the peels on—it adds a bit of texture.

Can I fry them instead of baking?

Technically yes, but puff pastry is meant to be baked. Frying can make it overly greasy and heavy, so I stick to baking or air frying.

Conclusion

Vegan Apple Puff Pastry Doughnuts are a sweet little shortcut to deliciousness. With crisp layers of pastry, warm apple filling, and a cinnamon-sugar finish, they deliver the nostalgic flavor of apple doughnuts—without the deep fryer or animal products. Whether I’m making them for guests or treating myself, these are always a hit straight from the oven.