Homemade Krispy Kreme–Style Donuts

Introduction

There’s nothing quite like biting into a soft, airy donut covered in a sweet, glossy glaze that melts in your mouth.
Homemade Krispy Kreme–style donuts bring that bakery-fresh experience right into your kitchen.
These classic yeast-raised donuts are light, fluffy, and perfectly sweet—ideal for breakfast,
dessert, or a special treat with coffee or tea. With a little patience and the right technique,
you can recreate that iconic taste at home.

Ingredients

For the Donuts:

• 2 ¼ teaspoons (1 packet) active dry yeast
• ¾ cup warm milk (about 110°F / 43°C)
• ¼ cup granulated sugar
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
• 1 large egg
• ½ teaspoon salt
• 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour (plus more for dusting)
• Vegetable oil (for frying)

For the Glaze:

• 2 cups powdered sugar
• ¼ cup whole milk
• ½ teaspoon vanilla extract

Instructions

Step 1: Activate the Yeast

In a small bowl, combine warm milk and yeast. Let it sit for 5–10 minutes until foamy.
This means the yeast is active.

Step 2: Make the Dough

In a large bowl, mix sugar, melted butter, egg, and salt. Add the yeast mixture and stir.
Gradually add flour, mixing until a soft dough forms.

Step 3: Knead the Dough

Transfer the dough to a lightly floured surface and knead for 8–10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
Place it in a greased bowl, cover, and let rise in a warm place for 1–2 hours, or until doubled in size.

Step 4: Shape the Donuts

Roll the dough out to about ½-inch thickness. Use a donut cutter (or two round cutters) to cut out donut shapes.
Place them on a floured tray, cover lightly, and let rise again for 30–45 minutes until puffy.

Step 5: Fry the Donuts

Heat vegetable oil in a deep pot to 350°F (175°C). Fry donuts 1–2 minutes per side until golden brown.
Remove with a slotted spoon and drain on paper towels.

Step 6: Prepare the Glaze

Whisk powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla until smooth. Dip warm donuts into the glaze,
then place on a wire rack to set.

Description

These donuts are incredibly soft inside with a delicate golden crust outside.
The thin, sweet glaze creates that signature crackly finish once it sets.
They’re best enjoyed warm when the glaze is slightly gooey and the inside is pillowy and light.

Tips for Success

• Make sure your milk is warm, not hot—too much heat will kill the yeast.
• Let the dough rise in a warm, draft-free area for best results.
• Use a thermometer to maintain proper oil temperature.
• Don’t overcrowd the pot while frying.
• Glaze the donuts while they’re still slightly warm for a smooth finish.

Corrections & Common Mistakes

• Dense donuts? The dough may not have risen long enough.
• Oily donuts? The oil temperature was too low.
• Burnt outside, raw inside? Oil temperature was too high.
• Flat donuts? Over-proofing can cause them to deflate when handled.

Enjoy!

Serve your homemade Krispy Kreme–style donuts fresh with a cup of coffee, tea, or cold milk.
They’re perfect for sharing with family and friends—or keeping all to yourself as a sweet homemade indulgence!