If you’ve ever longed for that melt-in-your-mouth magic of a fresh donut, this Homemade Krispy Kremes Recipe will absolutely win your heart. From their feather-light, pillowy interiors to the legendary sweet glaze that gently cracks with every bite, these donuts bring the iconic bakery experience right to your own kitchen. Whether you’re stirring up a special breakfast or simply craving a little comfort, this recipe will have everyone reaching for seconds (and probably thirds!).

Homemade Krispy Kremes Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

The magic of the Homemade Krispy Kremes Recipe lies in its short list of pantry staples, each playing an essential role. From fluffy dough to glossy glaze, every ingredient shines to deliver authentic taste and irresistible texture.

Active dry yeast (2 1/4 teaspoons): The key to that signature rise and airy donuts; be sure it’s fresh for best results.
Warm water (1/2 cup at 110°F): Activates the yeast and helps kick off the dough’s lovely lift.
Granulated sugar (1/4 cup): Feeds the yeast and brings a subtle sweetness to every bite.
Whole milk (1/4 cup, room temperature): Adds richness and a tender crumb to the dough.
Heavy cream (1/4 cup): Ups the decadence factor and results in softer, more luscious donuts.
Unsalted butter (2 tablespoons, melted): Offers supple texture and buttery flavor—don’t skip it!
Large egg (1): Binds everything together while adding lightness and structure.
Salt (1/2 teaspoon): Just a touch balances the sweet notes and intensifies flavor.
All-purpose flour (2 1/2 to 3 cups): Provides structure—start with 2 1/2 cups and add more as needed for a soft, slightly sticky dough.
Vegetable oil (for frying): Neutral flavor and high smoke point make these golden donuts crisp outside, tender inside.
Powdered sugar (2 cups): Essential for that dreamy, melt-on-your-tongue glaze.
Whole milk (1/4 cup, for glaze): Brings together your glaze into a silky-smooth icing.
Vanilla extract (1/2 teaspoon): Adds warmth and classic sweetness to the glaze.

How to Make Homemade Krispy Kremes Recipe

Step 1: Activate the Yeast

Sprinkle the yeast into a small bowl of warm water with a pinch of sugar. Let it sit for 5 to 10 minutes, and get ready for a bubbly, foamy layer—this means your yeast is alive and ready to work its magic on your dough.

Step 2: Whisk Your Wet Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the rest of the sugar, milk, heavy cream, melted butter, egg, and salt. This velvety mixture sets the stage for irresistible richness and that iconic donut softness.

Step 3: Make the Dough

Pour the activated yeast mixture into your wet ingredients and stir to combine. Gradually mix in 2 1/2 cups of flour, adding more as needed (up to 3 cups) until you have a soft, slightly sticky dough—think more plush than firm, but not so sticky it clings to everything.

Step 4: Knead and First Rise

Turn your dough onto a lightly floured surface and knead for 5 to 7 minutes, until smooth and elastic. You’ll feel it get springier under your hands! Pop it into a greased bowl, cover, and let it rise in a warm, cozy spot for 1 to 1 1/2 hours until doubled in size.

Step 5: Shape the Donuts

Punch down the dough to remove any air, then roll it out to a half-inch thickness. Using a donut cutter or two round cutters, create classic rings and donut holes. Arrange them on parchment paper-lined trays, cover lightly, and let them rise for another 30 to 45 minutes—they’ll puff up beautifully.

Step 6: Fry to Perfection

Heat vegetable oil in a deep fryer or heavy pot to 350°F. Gently fry your donuts in batches, about 1 to 2 minutes per side, until golden brown with a hint of crisp outside. Drain on paper towel-lined racks for just a moment—try your best not to sneak one before glazing!

Step 7: Glaze and Set

Whisk together powdered sugar, 1/4 cup milk, and vanilla extract to form a smooth, pourable glaze. Dip each warm donut into the glaze, then place them on a wire rack so the excess can drip away. Let the glaze set, and get ready for pure happiness.

How to Serve Homemade Krispy Kremes Recipe

Garnishes

While these donuts truly need no dressing up, a light sprinkle of rainbow jimmies, a dusting of edible glitter, or a drizzle of melted chocolate can turn your Homemade Krispy Kremes Recipe into a celebratory showstopper. For a seasonal touch, try a little freshly grated citrus zest or crushed freeze-dried strawberries on top before the glaze sets.

Side Dishes

Keep the magic going with a tall glass of cold milk, a hot mug of freshly brewed coffee, or an indulgent hot chocolate on the side. For a brunch spread, pair the donuts with fresh fruit, yogurt parfaits, or even crispy bacon to balance out the sweetness.

Creative Ways to Present

Display these beauties on a festive tiered tray, thread them onto skewers as playful donut “bouquets,” or stack them into a donut tower centerpiece for your next celebration. Wrap individual donuts in parchment and twine for thoughtful homemade gifts everyone will remember from your Homemade Krispy Kremes Recipe baking adventure.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftover donuts from your Homemade Krispy Kremes Recipe in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. They’re best enjoyed fresh but will keep their lovely texture overnight—just keep them away from drafts or moisture.

Freezing

For longer storage, freeze glazed or unglazed donuts tightly wrapped in plastic and sealed in freezer bags for up to two months. If freezing glazed donuts, separate them with parchment paper to prevent sticking. Thaw at room temperature for an hour before indulging.

Reheating

To bring back that just-made softness, pop a donut in the microwave for about 8–10 seconds. This little burst of heat revives both the tender crumb and the glossy glaze, making leftovers taste freshly fried all over again.

FAQs

Can I use instant yeast instead of active dry yeast?

Absolutely! If using instant yeast, you can skip the blooming step and add it directly to your dry ingredients. The rest of the process for the Homemade Krispy Kremes Recipe remains the same.

What’s the best oil for frying these donuts?

Vegetable oil is your go-to for its neutral flavor and high smoke point, but canola or peanut oil will also work great. Avoid olive oil, which adds an unwanted flavor and can burn at high heat.

How do I know if my dough has risen enough?

The dough should look doubled in size and feel pillowy to the touch. If you press a finger in and the indentation lingers, your Homemade Krispy Kremes Recipe dough is ready for the next step.

Can I make these donuts with cake flour?

Yes! Subbing cake flour for all-purpose flour gives the donuts an even softer, more tender crumb that’s even closer to the classic shop texture. Just use the same quantity and watch the dough—it may be slightly stickier.

Why are my donuts greasy after frying?

If your donuts seem greasy, the oil might be too cool. Keep it steady at 350°F; too cool and the dough will absorb extra oil, too hot and the outside will brown before the inside is cooked. A kitchen thermometer is your best friend here.

Final Thoughts

If you’re ready to witness pure delight and fill your kitchen with the scent of bakery-fresh treats, this Homemade Krispy Kremes Recipe is your golden ticket. Whether you’re a donut lover, an occasional indulger, or someone eager to try baking from scratch, you owe yourself the pleasure of making a batch. Gather your loved ones, share the joy, and get ready for the fluffiest, most irresistible donuts ever!

Homemade Krispy Kremes Recipe

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4.8 from 17 reviews

Author: admin
Total Time: 2 hours 30 minutes (includes rising)
Yield: 12 donuts + holes 1x
Diet: Vegetarian

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Description

Learn how to make delicious homemade Krispy Kreme-style glazed donuts right in your own kitchen. These fluffy, sweet treats will delight your taste buds and impress your friends and family!

Ingredients

Scale

Dough:

2 1/4 teaspoons active dry yeast (1 packet)
1/2 cup warm water (about 110°F)
1/4 cup granulated sugar
1/4 cup whole milk (room temperature)
1/4 cup heavy cream
2 tablespoons unsalted butter (melted)
1 large egg
1/2 teaspoon salt
2 1/2 to 3 cups all-purpose flour

Glaze:

2 cups powdered sugar
1/4 cup whole milk
1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract

Others:

vegetable oil (for frying)

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Instructions

Prepare the Dough: Dissolve yeast in warm water, then combine with sugar, milk, cream, butter, egg, and salt. Mix in flour to form a dough. Knead until smooth.
Rise and Shape: Let the dough rise until doubled. Roll out and cut into donut shapes. Allow to rise again.
Fry the Donuts: Heat oil to 350°F and fry the donuts until golden brown.
Glaze: Mix powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla for the glaze. Dip warm donuts in the glaze.

Notes

For a more authentic texture, use cake flour instead of all-purpose flour.
You can reheat leftover donuts in the microwave for a few seconds to restore softness.
Add sprinkles or chocolate drizzle for variation.

Prep Time: 25 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Category: Dessert
Method: Frying
Cuisine: American