Introduction

There’s nothing quite like biting into a warm Krispy Kreme donut: soft, airy, melt-in-your-mouth, and coated in that iconic glossy glaze.
With this homemade recipe, you can recreate that classic bakery taste right in your own kitchen. Whether you’re making them for breakfast,
holidays, or as a sweet treat for friends and family, these donuts are guaranteed to impress.

Description

These Homemade Krispy Kreme Donuts are light, fluffy yeast-raised donuts that fry up golden and tender.
The simple vanilla glaze gives the donuts their signature shine and sweetness. They taste incredibly close to the real thing—fresh and warm is the best way to enjoy them!

Ingredients

For the Donut Dough

• 2 ¼ teaspoons active dry yeast (1 packet)
• ½ cup warm water (110°F / 43°C)
• ¼ cup granulated sugar
• ¼ cup whole milk, warmed
• ¼ cup unsalted butter, melted
• 1 large egg
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour (plus more for dusting)
• ½ teaspoon salt
• Oil for frying (vegetable or canola)

For the Krispy Kreme-Style Glaze

• 2 cups powdered sugar
• ¼ cup whole milk
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• Pinch of salt

Instructions

1. Activate the Yeast

In a bowl, mix warm water and sugar. Sprinkle yeast on top and let it sit for 5–10 minutes, until foamy.

2. Make the Dough

Add milk, melted butter, egg, vanilla, flour, and salt. Mix until a soft dough forms. Knead for 5–8 minutes until smooth and elastic.

3. First Rise

Place dough in a greased bowl, cover, and let rise 1 hour, or until doubled.

4. Shape the Donuts

Roll dough on a floured surface to ½-inch thickness. Cut into donut circles and let rise again for 30 minutes.

5. Heat the Oil

Heat oil in a deep pan to 350°F (175°C).

6. Fry the Donuts

Fry 1–2 donuts at a time for 45–60 seconds per side. Remove and drain on paper towels.

7. Make the Glaze

Whisk powdered sugar, milk, vanilla, and salt until smooth.

8. Glaze the Donuts

Dip each warm donut into the glaze. Let the glaze set before serving.

Tips

• Use warm—not hot—liquids to keep the yeast active.
• Do not over-rise the dough to avoid collapsing donuts.
• Fry in small batches to maintain proper oil temperature.
• Glaze donuts while warm for a classic Krispy Kreme shine.
• Use a food thermometer for best frying results.

Corrections

• Too dense? Yeast may be old or dough wasn’t kneaded enough.
• Greasy donuts? Oil temperature was too low.
• Burned outside, raw inside? Oil was too hot.
• Glaze too thick? Add a bit more milk.
• Glaze too thin? Add more powdered sugar.

Enjoy

Serve your donuts fresh and warm for the ultimate Krispy Kreme experience!
Pair them with coffee, milk, or hot chocolate—each bite is pure sweet perfection. Enjoy!