Discover how to make homemade Krispy Kreme doughnuts that are soft, fluffy, and covered in a delicious glaze.
Table of Contents
Introduction:
Nothing beats the taste of a fresh, warm Krispy Kreme doughnut with its delicate, fluffy texture and that iconic sweet glaze. While it might seem challenging to recreate these treats at home, this recipe will guide you through each step for an authentic Krispy Kreme experience in your own kitchen. With a few ingredients and some simple techniques, you’ll have soft, airy doughnuts that rival the ones you get at the store. So, get ready to treat yourself to a batch of warm, homemade Krispy Kreme doughnuts that are perfect for any occasion!
Ingredients Overview
Here’s a closer look at the ingredients you’ll need to make these light and fluffy glazed doughnuts.
- All-Purpose Flour: Provides the structure for the doughnuts, ensuring they’re soft yet sturdy enough to hold their shape.
- Milk and Water: The blend of milk and water adds moisture to the dough, helping create a soft and tender texture.
- Butter: Adds richness and flavor to the dough, making each bite indulgent.
- Sugar: Sweetens the dough and activates the yeast for rising.
- Yeast: Responsible for the light, airy texture of the doughnuts by creating air pockets as it ferments.
- Eggs: Help bind the ingredients together, adding richness and enhancing the dough’s elasticity.
- Glaze Ingredients: Powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract make up the classic glaze that gives these doughnuts their irresistible, glossy finish.
Ingredients List:
For the doughnut:
- 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup whole milk, warmed
- 1/4 cup water, warmed
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 packet (2 1/4 tsp) active dry yeast
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1 large egg, room temperature
- Extra flour for dusting
For the Glaze:
- 1 1/2 cups powdered sugar
- 2-3 tbsp whole milk
- 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
Instructions:
- Activate the Yeast
Start by mixing the warm water and a pinch of sugar in a small bowl, then add the yeast. Let it sit for about 5-10 minutes until it becomes foamy. This step ensures that the yeast is active and ready to help the dough rise. - Prepare the Dough
In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, sugar, and salt. In a separate bowl, mix the milk, softened butter, and egg until well combined. Pour the yeast mixture and milk mixture into the dry ingredients, then stir until the dough begins to form.
- Knead the Dough
Transfer the dough onto a lightly floured surface and knead for about 5-7 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic. If the dough is too sticky, add a little extra flour as you go. Once kneaded, shape it into a ball. - Let the Dough Rise
Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl and cover it with a clean kitchen towel. Allow it to rise in a warm place for 1-1.5 hours or until it doubles in size. This rising time helps develop the dough’s airy texture. - Shape the Doughnuts
Once the dough has risen, punch it down gently to release any air bubbles. Roll the dough to about 1/2 inch thickness on a floured surface. Use a doughnut cutter (or a round cookie cutter and a smaller cutter for the hole) to shape the doughnuts. Place them on a parchment-lined baking sheet, leaving space between each. - Second Rise
Cover the doughnuts lightly with a kitchen towel and let them rise for another 30 minutes. This second rise allows them to become even fluffier, achieving that classic Krispy Kreme texture. - Fry the Doughnuts
In a deep pan, heat oil to 350°F (175°C). Carefully place a few doughnuts in the hot oil, frying them for about 1-2 minutes on each side or until golden brown. Transfer the cooked doughnuts to a paper towel-lined plate to remove excess oil. - Make the Glaze
While the doughnuts cool slightly, mix powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract in a bowl until smooth. Dip each warm doughnut in the glaze, allowing the excess to drip off. Place the glazed doughnuts on a wire rack for the glaze to set.
Tips for the Best Doughnuts
- Oil Temperature: Keep the oil between 350°F to 375°F. If it’s too hot, the doughnuts will brown too quickly; too cool, and they’ll absorb more oil and become greasy.
- Dough Consistency: The dough should be slightly sticky but manageable. Avoid adding too much flour during kneading to keep the doughnuts soft and airy.
- Glazing: Dip the doughnuts in glaze while they’re warm, as it will stick better and create that classic Krispy Kreme finish.
Storage and Reheating Tips
- Storage: Freshly made doughnuts are best enjoyed the same day, but they can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days.
- Reheating: To bring back the fresh-from-the-fryer taste, warm the doughnuts in a microwave for about 8-10 seconds before serving.
Recipe Variations
- Chocolate-Glazed Doughnuts: Add cocoa powder to the glaze for a chocolate twist. Top with sprinkles or mini chocolate chips for extra indulgence.
- Filled Doughnuts: Instead of cutting out holes, leave the doughnuts whole and fill them with jam, custard, or chocolate after frying.
- Cinnamon Sugar Doughnuts: Skip the glaze and roll the warm doughnuts in a mixture of cinnamon and sugar for a classic cinnamon doughnut taste.
Serving Suggestions
Homemade Krispy Kreme doughnuts are best served warm with a cup of coffee, tea, or hot cocoa. Enjoy them as a breakfast treat, a midday snack, or a dessert to share with friends and family!
Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I make the doughnuts without frying?
Yes! You can bake the doughnuts at 375°F for about 10 minutes, though they may have a different texture than traditional fried doughnuts. - What if I don’t have a doughnut cutter?
Use a large round cutter (like a drinking glass) and a smaller cutter (like a bottle cap) to create the doughnut shape and center hole. - Can I freeze these doughnuts?
Yes, freeze unglazed doughnuts by wrapping them individually in plastic wrap. To enjoy, reheat in the microwave, then dip in the glaze.
“”Once you try these warm, glazed doughnuts at home, you’ll know there’s nothing quite like a freshly made Krispy Kreme doughnut from your own kitchen!”
