Vegan NYC: Cloudy Donut Co.
Cloudy Donut Co. | Multiple Locations
On a crisp, cold January Sunday, we bundled up and made our way to the Nolita location of Cloudy Donut Co., eager to experience some of New York City’s most celebrated vegan donuts. The air outside was brisk, but anticipation made the short walk feel like part of the adventure. Known for their innovative flavors and perfectly light, pillowy textures, Cloudy Donut Co. has built a reputation as a must-visit destination for both vegans and curious sweet-tooth seekers alike.
Stepping inside, the warmth of the bakery was instantly welcoming. The aroma of freshly baked donuts mingled with hints of sugar, spice, and seasonal ingredients, creating an inviting contrast to the winter chill outside. The interior strikes a balance between modern minimalism and playful charm, with cheerful displays of donuts that immediately make your eyes wander from one flavor to the next. Each creation looks like a tiny work of art, and the colorful glazes, sprinkles, and toppings hint at the care put into both flavor and presentation.
While vegan bakeries in NYC are growing in popularity, what sets Cloudy Donut Co. apart is their ability to combine texture, flavor, and creativity without ever compromising the plant-based nature of their ingredients. Each donut promises a satisfying bite—soft and airy, yet with just enough density to feel indulgent. Bundled up against the January cold, tasting their famed offerings felt like the perfect cozy treat, the kind of experience that reminds you why a dedicated vegan bakery in the city is so special.
Our Cloudy Donut Order
The Double Chocolate donut was pure indulgence in every bite. Pillowy and soft, it practically melted in the mouth, while the rich chocolate glaze added a glossy, decadent layer of sweetness. Chocolate chips on top provided a slight crunch, contrasting perfectly with the tender interior. Deeply satisfying but never heavy, it struck the ideal balance between airy texture and rich cocoa flavor—proof that vegan donuts can be just as luxurious and comforting as any traditional treat.
For our 16-year-old, we ordered the Apple Pie donut, and it was an absolute hit. He, usually skeptical of vegan pastries, took one bite and couldn’t believe it was vegan. The cinnamon-spiced apple filling was perfectly balanced with a tender, pillowy donut, while the subtle glaze added just the right touch of sweetness. Each bite was comforting and flavorful, leaving him genuinely impressed and happily reconsidering his vegan pastry assumptions.
The Maple Butter Pecan donut was a cozy, decadent delight. Its pillowy base was perfectly soft, providing the ideal canvas for the rich maple glaze, which offered just the right touch of sweetness without overwhelming the palate. Toasted pecans sprinkled on top added a satisfying crunch and nutty depth, creating a lovely contrast in texture. Every bite felt comforting and indulgent, a perfect winter treat that showcased how inventive and delicious vegan donuts can truly be.
The Sweet Potato Cinnamon Rolls were an irresistible twist on a classic favorite. Soft, tender, and slightly sweet from the natural sweetness of the sweet potato, each roll was perfectly spiced with cinnamon and a hint of warmth. A delicate glaze added just enough sweetness to elevate the flavors without overpowering them. Comforting, flavorful, and satisfyingly pillowy, these vegan cinnamon rolls felt indulgent yet light—a true standout for anyone seeking a cozy, winter-friendly treat.
The Pistachio donut was a nut-lover’s dream. Its soft, pillowy base was crowned with a vibrant, crunchy pistachio glaze that delivered rich, buttery flavor in every bite. Topped with salted pistachio pieces, it added a delightful crunch and a savory-sweet balance that made each mouthful addictive. Bold yet refined, this donut showcased how thoughtfully crafted vegan pastries can layer texture and flavor to create a truly memorable indulgence.
Visiting Cloudy Donut Co. was a delightful way to spend a chilly January Sunday, proving that vegan donuts can be just as indulgent, creative, and satisfying as their traditional counterparts. From the pillowy Double Chocolate to the warmly spiced Apple Pie, the nutty Pistachio, cozy Maple Butter Pecan, and comforting Sweet Potato Cinnamon Rolls, every bite showcased thoughtful flavor combinations, perfect textures, and playful presentation. Even our skeptical teen was impressed. With its welcoming atmosphere, inventive menu, and undeniably delicious treats, Cloudy Donut Co. is a must-visit for anyone craving plant-based sweets that are truly memorable.
