There’s something undeniably magical about biting into a warm, fluffy donut, especially when it’s a Krispy Kreme. These iconic treats have become a staple for sweet tooth enthusiasts everywhere. Today, I’m excited to share a delightful homemade version that captures that same irresistible flavor and texture. With just a few simple ingredients and a little bit of love, you can create your very own Krispy Kreme-style donuts right in your kitchen. Let’s get started!
Why This Krispy Kreme Donut Recipe Stands Out

This Krispy Kreme Donut Recipe is the perfect blend of simplicity and indulgence. Unlike store-bought donuts, these homemade gems are made from scratch, ensuring fresh flavors and a melt-in-your-mouth experience. The dough rises beautifully, creating that signature fluffy texture, while the glaze is sweet yet light, making it the perfect finishing touch. Plus, you can customize them with your favorite toppings or fillings! Whether it’s a lazy Sunday morning or a special occasion, these donuts are sure to impress.
Ingredient Rundown
To create these delightful donuts, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- 3/4 cup milk: Warm milk helps activate the yeast and gives the donuts a soft texture.
- 1 large egg: Adds richness and helps bind the ingredients together.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil or coconut oil: Provides moisture and a subtle flavor.
- 1 tablespoon sugar: Sweetens the dough and aids in browning.
- 1 teaspoon salt: Enhances the overall flavor of the donuts.
- 1 tablespoon baking powder: Gives the donuts their rise and fluffy texture.
- 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour: The main structure of the donuts.
- 1/2 cup confectioners sugar: For the sweet glaze.
- 2 tablespoons milk: To mix with the confectioners sugar for glazing.
Equipment Breakdown
Before diving into the recipe, let’s ensure you have the right tools:
- Mixing bowls: For combining your ingredients.
- Whisk: To blend the wet ingredients thoroughly.
- Donut cutter: To shape your donuts perfectly.
- Frying pan or deep fryer: For frying the donuts to golden perfection.
- Cooling rack: To let the donuts cool after frying.
Krispy Kreme Donut Recipe: How It’s Done

Ready to make your homemade Krispy Kreme donuts? Follow these simple steps:
Step 1: Prepare the Dough
In a large mixing bowl, combine the warm milk, sugar, and yeast. Allow it to sit for about 5 minutes until frothy. This indicates that the yeast is active.
Step 2: Mix Wet Ingredients
Add the egg and olive oil (or coconut oil) to the yeast mixture. Whisk until everything is well combined.
Step 3: Combine Dry Ingredients
In another bowl, mix together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add this mixture to the wet ingredients, stirring until a soft dough forms. You may need to adjust the flour slightly, depending on humidity and other factors.
Step 4: Knead the Dough
Turn the dough out onto a floured surface and knead it for about 5 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic.
Step 5: Let it Rise
Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover it with a clean kitchen towel, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until it has doubled in size.
Step 6: Shape the Donuts
Once the dough has risen, punch it down and roll it out to about 1/2 inch thick. Use a donut cutter to cut out donuts and holes. Place them on a floured surface and cover them to rise again for another 30 minutes.
Step 7: Heat the Oil
In a frying pan or deep fryer, heat oil to 350°F (175°C). Make sure there’s enough oil to submerge the donuts for even cooking.
Step 8: Fry the Donuts
Carefully place the donuts in the hot oil, frying a few at a time. Fry for about 1-2 minutes on each side until golden brown. Remove them with a slotted spoon and let them drain on a cooling rack.
Step 9: Prepare the Glaze
While the donuts are cooling, mix together the confectioners sugar and 2 tablespoons of milk in a bowl until smooth.
Step 10: Glaze the Donuts
Dip the warm donuts into the glaze, ensuring they’re coated well. Allow the excess glaze to drip off, then place the glazed donuts back on the cooling rack.
Dairy-Free/Gluten-Free Swaps

If you need to cater to dietary restrictions, here are some handy substitutions:
- Dairy-Free: Use almond milk or oat milk in place of regular milk.
- Gluten-Free: Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend.
- Egg-Free: Replace the egg with a flax egg (1 tablespoon flaxseed meal mixed with 2.5 tablespoons water).
Testing Timeline
To ensure your donuts come out perfectly every time, consider this testing timeline:
- 1 hour for the first rise
- 30 minutes for the second rise
- Frying time of approximately 2 minutes per batch
Save for Later: Storage Tips
To keep your Krispy Kreme donuts fresh and delicious:
- Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days.
- If you need to keep them longer, freeze them in a single layer, then transfer to a freezer bag for up to 2 months.
- To enjoy frozen donuts, thaw at room temperature or warm them slightly in the microwave.
Your Top Questions
Can I bake these donuts instead of frying them?
Yes! For a healthier option, you can bake the donuts at 375°F (190°C) for about 10-12 minutes, or until golden brown.
What can I do if my donuts don’t rise properly?
Ensure your yeast is fresh and that you’re using warm (not hot) milk to activate it. Temperature is crucial for proper rising.
Can I add flavors to the donut batter?
Absolutely! You can add vanilla extract, nutmeg, or even cinnamon to enhance the flavor of your donuts.
What are some great toppings for my donuts?
Consider adding sprinkles, chocolate glaze, or even a drizzle of caramel for extra sweetness. For a seasonal twist, try a pumpkin spice glaze!
Desserts to Finish
If you love this Krispy Kreme Donut Recipe, you might also enjoy these delightful treats:
- Apple Fritter Cake – A delicious twist on a classic favorite!
- Soft Pretzel Bites – Perfect for snacking or sharing with friends!
See You at the Table
I hope you enjoy making and devouring these homemade Krispy Kreme donuts as much as I do! There’s nothing quite like the satisfaction of creating your own sweet treats. The joy of sharing them with family and friends makes it even better. So, gather your loved ones, brew a pot of coffee, and indulge in the warm, sugary goodness of these delightful donuts. Happy baking, and I’ll see you at the table!

Krispy Kreme Donut Recipe
Ingredients
- 3/4 cup milk warm
- 1 large egg
- 2 tablespoons olive oil or coconut oil
- 1 tablespoon sugar
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 tablespoon baking powder
- 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup confectioners sugar
- 2 tablespoons milk for glazing
Instructions
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the warm milk, sugar, and yeast. Allow it to sit for about 5 minutes until frothy.
- Add the egg and olive oil (or coconut oil) to the yeast mixture. Whisk until everything is well combined.
- In another bowl, mix together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add this mixture to the wet ingredients, stirring until a soft dough forms.
- Turn the dough out onto a floured surface and knead it for about 5 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic.
- Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover it with a clean kitchen towel, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until it has doubled in size.
- Once the dough has risen, punch it down and roll it out to about 1/2 inch thick. Use a donut cutter to cut out donuts and holes.
- In a frying pan or deep fryer, heat oil to 350°F (175°C). Carefully place the donuts in the hot oil, frying a few at a time.
- Fry for about 1-2 minutes on each side until golden brown. Remove them with a slotted spoon and let them drain on a cooling rack.
- While the donuts are cooling, mix together the confectioners sugar and 2 tablespoons of milk in a bowl until smooth.
- Dip the warm donuts into the glaze, ensuring they're coated well. Allow the excess glaze to drip off, then place the glazed donuts back on the cooling rack.
Equipment
- Mixing bowls
- Whisk
- Donut cutter
- Frying pan or deep fryer
- Cooling rack
Notes
- Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days.
- Freeze them in a single layer, then transfer to a freezer bag for up to 2 months.
- Thaw frozen donuts at room temperature or warm them slightly in the microwave.
