Warm the milk in the microwave until 100°F. Add yeast and coconut sugar, stir lightly, and cover for 10 minutes.

Add yeast mixture, applesauce, vegan butter, vanilla, and 2 cups of flour to stand mixer. mix on low speed using dough hook. Gradually add 2 more cups of flour until dough forms.

Grease a bowl and place the dough inside. Cover and let rise in a warm place for 30 minutes.

After 30 minutes, section the dough out on a floured surface into 6-10 sections. Roll each section of dough into a flattened ball until there are no creases.

Place each ball on a parchment-lined baking sheet, cover, and let rest for 15 minutes while heating oil.

Heat 2 inches of oil in a pot to 375°F. Fry donuts for 2 minutes on the first side and 1 minute on the other side until golden. place on a cooling rack. (air fryer alternative - cook on 350 for 5 minutes on both sides)

Roll donuts in granulated sugar. Cut a slit in each donut and pipe any filling of your choice into the center using a piping bag. Enjoy!