These gluten-free chocolate donuts are soft, moist, and baked—not fried—for a better-for-you option that’s perfect for breakfast, dessert, or snacking. Made with a simple blend of gluten-free 1:1 flour, flax eggs, and plant-based milk, they’re completely dairy-free and egg-free. Topped with a smooth vanilla glaze, these donuts are ideal for anyone following a gluten-free or vegan lifestyle. Great for baking at home, meal prepping sweet treats, or adding to a brunch spread.

Soft, rich, and chocolatey, these gluten-free baked donuts are made with wholesome ingredients and topped with a smooth vanilla glaze. They’re dairy-free, egg-free, and perfect for anyone looking for a plant-based treat without compromising on flavor or texture.

Table of Contents

Ingredients

For the Chocolate Donuts

1 ¾ cups gluten-free 1:1 baking flour
⅔ cup unsweetened cocoa powder
1 cup light brown sugar
¼ cup granulated sugar
¾ tsp salt
1 tsp baking soda
1 ¼ tsp baking powder
½ cup avocado oil
2 tbsp flax meal + 6 tbsp water (for flax eggs)
1 cup almond milk (room temperature)
2 tsp white vinegar
2 ¼ tsp vanilla extract

For the Glaze

1 ½ cups powdered sugar
3–4 tbsp plant-based heavy cream
1 tsp vanilla extract

Instructions

Prep the Oven and Pan
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a donut pan with nonstick spray.
Make the Flax Eggs
In a small bowl, mix 2 tablespoons flax meal with 6 tablespoons water. Stir and let sit for 5–8 minutes to thicken.
Combine Almond Milk and Vinegar
In a separate cup, stir together the almond milk and vinegar. Set aside to curdle slightly.
Mix the Dry Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the gluten-free flour, cocoa powder, brown sugar, granulated sugar, salt, baking soda, and baking powder.
Combine the Wet Ingredients
Add the flax eggs, avocado oil, vanilla extract, and half of the almond milk mixture to the dry ingredients. Stir with a rubber spatula until partially combined, then add the remaining almond milk mixture and stir until smooth.
Fill the Donut Pan
Transfer the batter into a piping bag or large zip-top bag. Pipe the batter into each mold, filling about ⅔ full.
Bake the Donuts
Bake for 13–15 minutes, or until donuts spring back when lightly pressed. Let cool in the pan for 10–15 minutes before transferring to a wire rack lined with parchment paper.
Make the Glaze
In a small bowl, whisk together the powdered sugar, plant-based heavy cream, and vanilla extract until smooth.
Glaze the Donuts
Dip each cooled donut into the glaze or spoon the glaze over the top. Place glazed donuts back on the wire rack.
Decorate and Set
Add sprinkles if desired. Let donuts sit at room temperature for at least 1 hour to allow the glaze to set before stacking or storing.

Tips

Don’t overfill the pan: Keep each mold about ⅔ full to avoid overflow.
Use room temperature almond milk: Helps the batter mix smoothly and bakes evenly.
Allow donuts to cool fully before glazing to prevent melting or sliding.

Variations and Substitutions

Swap almond milk for oat, soy, or coconut milk.
Use eggs if not vegan: Replace flax eggs with 2 regular eggs.
Add-ins: Fold in mini chocolate chips or chopped nuts before piping the batter.
Top with chocolate glaze instead of vanilla for double chocolate donuts.

FAQs

Can I freeze these donuts?
Yes. Freeze unglazed donuts in an airtight container for up to 2 months. Thaw and glaze before serving.

How do I store them?
Store glazed donuts in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days or refrigerate for up to 5.

Can I use a different flour blend?
Use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend with xanthan gum for best results. Other blends may change the texture.

Serving Suggestions

Pair with hot coffee or a dairy-free latte for a bakery-style treat.
Serve as part of a weekend brunch spread.
Make mini versions using a mini donut pan for parties or gifting.
Drizzle with melted chocolate or add crushed nuts for extra texture.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Gluten-free, dairy-free, and egg-free—perfect for multiple dietary needs
Baked, not fried, making them a lighter option
Rich chocolate flavor with a smooth, sweet glaze
Simple ingredients and easy steps for hassle-free baking
Customizable with endless topping and flavor options