Recreate the magic of Krispy Kreme glazed doughnuts right in your own kitchen with this spot-on copycat recipe. Perfectly fluffy and sweet, these doughnuts will make you forget you're not in a bakery.
Some ingredients in this recipe may not be commonly found in every kitchen, such as evaporated milk and vegetable shortening. When heading to the supermarket, make sure to check the baking aisle for these items.
Ingredients for Copycat Krispy Kreme Glazed Doughnuts Recipe
active dry yeast: Essential for the dough to rise and become fluffy.
warm water: Helps activate the yeast.
granulated sugar: Adds sweetness to the dough.
evaporated milk: Provides richness and a slight caramel flavor.
salt: Balances the sweetness and enhances flavor.
vegetable shortening: Creates a tender and flaky texture.
large egg: Adds structure and richness to the dough.
egg yolk: Contributes extra richness and color.
vanilla extract: Adds a hint of aromatic flavor.
all-purpose flour: The main structure for the dough.
unsalted butter: Used in the glaze for a rich, buttery flavor.
powdered sugar: Creates the sweet, smooth glaze.
hot water: Helps to dissolve the glaze ingredients.
One reader, Jolie Cannon says:
This copycat Krispy Kreme glazed doughnuts recipe is amazing! The doughnuts turned out fluffy and perfectly sweet, just like the original. The glaze is spot-on, adding that classic Krispy Kreme touch. Highly recommend for a delicious homemade treat!
Techniques Required for Making Copycat Krispy Kreme Glazed Doughnuts
How to activate yeast: Mix yeast with warm water and a small amount of sugar, then let it rest until it becomes frothy. How to knead dough: Use a stand mixer with a hook attachment to knead the dough until it becomes smooth and elastic. How to let dough rise: Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover it with plastic wrap, and let it rise in a warm place until it doubles in size. How to punch down dough: Gently press down on the risen dough to release the air before rolling it out. How to roll out dough: Use a rolling pin to flatten the dough to the desired thickness on a floured surface. How to cut doughnuts: Use a doughnut cutter or two round circle cutters to shape the dough into doughnuts. How to fry doughnuts: Heat shortening to the correct temperature and carefully fry the doughnuts until golden brown on both sides. How to make glaze: Mix together the glaze ingredients until smooth, ensuring the consistency is not too runny. How to glaze doughnuts: Dip the warm doughnuts into the glaze and allow it to set at room temperature.
How To Make Copycat Krispy Kreme Glazed Doughnuts
Krispy Kreme is famous for its delicious doughnuts that are soft and fluffy. This glazed doughnuts recipe lets you enjoy your favorite treat at home.
Serves:
Ingredients
For Doughnuts:
- 2¼tspactive dry yeast
- ½cupwarm water,110 degrees F
- ¼cupgranulated sugar,divided
- ¼cupevaporated milk,warmed to 110 degrees F
- ½tspsalt
- ¼cupvegetable shortening,at room temperature
- 1largeegg
- 1eggyolk
- ½tspvanilla extract
- 2½cupsall-purpose flour,then more as needed, scooped and leveled
- 4cupsvegetable shortening,for frying
For Glaze:
- 2tbspunsalted butter,melted
- 1⅓cupspowdered sugar
- 1pinchsalt
- 2tspevaporated milk
- ½tspvanilla extract
- 4tsphot water
Instructions
Doughnuts:
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In the bowl of an electric stand mixer, whisk together yeast, warm water, and ½ teaspoon of the sugar. Let rest for 5 to 10 minutes.
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Add in evaporated milk, remaining granulated sugar, salt, ¼ cup of shortening, egg, egg yolk, and vanilla.
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Add half of the flour and set mixer with the whisk attachment and blend until smooth.
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Switch mixer to hook attachment, slowly add remaining flour, and knead on low speed for about 4 to 5 minutes until smooth and elastic adding additional flour as needed.
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Transfer dough to a lightly oiled bowl, cover with plastic wrap and let rise in a warm place for about 1½ hours until double in size.
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Punch dough down and roll into an even layer onto a floured surface to slightly less than ½-inch thickness.
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Cut into doughnut shapes using a doughnut cutter or two round circle cutters (one large and one small for holes). Cover and let rise for about 30 to 40 minutes until doubled.
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Heat shortening in a cast iron dutch oven to 360 degrees F.
Glaze:
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Meanwhile, prepare the glaze by mixing together all of the glaze ingredients in a shallow dish. Make sure the mixture is not too runny.
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Carefully transfer doughnuts to oil and fry until golden on bottom, then using a wooden chopstick, flip to opposite side and fry opposite side until golden brown.
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Transfer to a wire rack and allow to cool for 1 to 2 minutes then dip the top half in glaze while still warm and return to wire rack and allow the glaze to set at room temperature.
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Best served warm. Once cool reheat in the microwave for 5 to 10 seconds if desired.
Recipe Notes
Don’t walk away from oil while preheating and don’t let it get above 375 degrees F. If that happens, remove from heat and reduce heat as needed.
Nutrition
- Calories: 842.80kcal
- Fat: 75.97g
- Saturated Fat: 19.92g
- Trans Fat: 9.64g
- Monounsaturated Fat: 30.88g
- Polyunsaturated Fat: 20.72g
- Carbohydrates: 38.38g
- Fiber: 0.90g
- Sugar: 17.95g
- Protein: 4.13g
- Cholesterol: 34.54mg
- Sodium: 126.99mg
- Calcium: 25.82mg
- Potassium: 62.02mg
- Iron: 1.40mg
- Vitamin A: 31.11µg
- Vitamin C: 0.12mg
Crucial Technique for Achieving the Perfect Glaze
When frying the doughnuts, make sure to maintain the oil temperature at a steady 360 degrees F. Use a kitchen thermometer to monitor the temperature, as fluctuating heat can result in uneven cooking and greasy doughnuts.
Time-Saving Tips for Making Glazed Doughnuts at Home
Prepare ingredients ahead: Measure and organize all ingredients before starting to streamline the process.
Use a stand mixer: Let the stand mixer do the heavy lifting for kneading the dough.
Quick rise method: Place the dough in a slightly warm oven to speed up the rising time.
Cut dough efficiently: Use a doughnut cutter for quick and uniform shapes.
Heat oil in advance: Start heating the oil while the doughnuts are rising to save time.
Make glaze early: Prepare the glaze while the dough is rising so it's ready when you need it.
Substitute Ingredients For Copycat Krispy Kreme Glazed Doughnuts Recipe
active dry yeast - Substitute with instant yeast: Instant yeast can be used in the same quantity and does not need to be dissolved in water first.
warm water - Substitute with milk: Milk can add a richer flavor and softer texture to the doughnuts.
granulated sugar - Substitute with honey: Honey can add a different sweetness profile and moisture to the dough.
evaporated milk - Substitute with whole milk: Whole milk can provide a similar richness and consistency.
salt - Substitute with sea salt: Sea salt can offer a slightly different flavor profile but works similarly in the recipe.
vegetable shortening - Substitute with butter: Butter can add a richer flavor and a slightly different texture.
large egg - Substitute with flax egg: A flax egg (1 tbsp ground flaxseed mixed with 3 tbsp water) can be used for a vegan alternative.
egg yolk - Substitute with applesauce: Applesauce can be used as a binding agent and adds moisture.
vanilla extract - Substitute with almond extract: Almond extract can provide a different but pleasant flavor.
all-purpose flour - Substitute with bread flour: Bread flour can give the doughnuts a chewier texture due to its higher gluten content.
vegetable shortening - Substitute with coconut oil: Coconut oil can be used for frying and adds a subtle coconut flavor.
unsalted butter - Substitute with margarine: Margarine can be used as a dairy-free alternative with similar consistency.
powdered sugar - Substitute with coconut sugar: Coconut sugar can be blended to a fine powder and offers a different sweetness profile.
salt - Substitute with kosher salt: Kosher salt can be used in the same quantity and provides a slightly different texture.
evaporated milk - Substitute with heavy cream: Heavy cream can add a richer texture and flavor to the glaze.
vanilla extract - Substitute with maple extract: Maple extract can provide a unique and pleasant flavor.
hot water - Substitute with warm milk: Warm milk can add a richer flavor and help dissolve the powdered sugar more smoothly.
Presenting Your Homemade Glazed Doughnuts
Serve smaller portion sizes: Cut the doughnuts into mini doughnut shapes to create bite-sized pieces. This allows for a more refined presentation and makes it easier for guests to enjoy without feeling overwhelmed.
Use decoration: Garnish the plate with a light dusting of powdered sugar around the doughnuts. Add a few edible flowers or microgreens to enhance the visual appeal.
Plate with precision: Place the doughnuts on a sleek, white plate to make the golden brown color pop. Arrange them in a circular pattern, slightly overlapping each other for a sophisticated look.
Add a dipping sauce: Serve a small ramekin of glaze on the side for dipping. This adds an interactive element to the dish and allows guests to control the sweetness.
Incorporate texture: Add a small scoop of vanilla bean ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream next to the doughnuts. The contrast in temperature and texture will elevate the tasting experience.
Highlight the glaze: Drizzle a thin line of glaze across the plate, leading to the doughnuts. This not only ties the dish together visually but also hints at the flavor profile.
Use a unique serving vessel: Present the doughnuts on a wooden board or a slate slab to add a rustic yet elegant touch. This contrasts nicely with the delicate nature of the doughnuts.
Incorporate seasonal elements: Add a few fresh berries or slices of citrus fruit around the doughnuts. This not only adds color but also introduces a fresh, tangy element to balance the sweetness.
Create height: Stack a couple of doughnuts on top of each other to add dimension to the plate. This creates a more dynamic and visually interesting presentation.
Finish with a flourish: Lightly sprinkle some edible gold leaf on top of the doughnuts for a touch of luxury. This small detail can make a big impact, especially for a high-end dining experience.
Essential Tools for Making Glazed Doughnuts at Home
Electric stand mixer: Essential for mixing and kneading the dough efficiently. It saves time and ensures a smooth, elastic dough.
Whisk attachment: Used initially to blend the wet ingredients and some of the flour until smooth.
Hook attachment: Perfect for kneading the dough, ensuring it becomes smooth and elastic.
Mixing bowl: Holds the ingredients while they are being mixed and kneaded.
Plastic wrap: Covers the dough while it rises, keeping it from drying out.
Rolling pin: Helps roll the dough to the desired thickness.
Doughnut cutter: Cuts the dough into doughnut shapes. Alternatively, two round circle cutters can be used.
Cast iron dutch oven: Ideal for frying the doughnuts, as it maintains a consistent temperature.
Thermometer: Ensures the oil is at the correct temperature (360 degrees F) for frying.
Wooden chopstick: Used to flip the doughnuts in the hot oil.
Wire rack: Allows the doughnuts to cool and the glaze to set properly.
Shallow dish: Used to mix and hold the glaze for dipping the doughnuts.
Storing and Freezing Your Homemade Glazed Doughnuts
Here are the storing and freezing guidelines for copycat Krispy Kreme glazed doughnuts:
- To store: Place the cooled doughnuts in an airtight container or resealable plastic bag. Store at room temperature for up to 2 days. To keep them fresh longer, store in the refrigerator for up to 1 week.
- To freeze: Wrap each cooled doughnut tightly in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe container or resealable plastic bag. Freeze for up to 2 months. When ready to eat, thaw the doughnuts at room temperature for about 15-20 minutes, or microwave for 10-15 seconds until soft and warm.
- For best results, wait to glaze the doughnuts until ready to serve. If you have already glazed them, allow the glaze to set completely before storing or freezing.
- To reheat stored or frozen doughnuts, microwave for 5-10 seconds until warm and soft. You can also refresh the glaze by dipping the tops of the doughnuts in a fresh batch of glaze before serving.
How To Reheat Leftover Glazed Doughnuts
Microwave: place the doughnut on a microwave-safe plate and heat for 5-10 seconds, or until warm and soft. This method is quick and easy, but may result in a slightly soggy texture.
Oven: preheat your oven to 350°f (175°c). Place the doughnuts on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and heat for 3-5 minutes, or until warm and crispy. This method will restore the crispy exterior and fluffy interior of the doughnuts.
Air fryer: set your air fryer to 350°f (175°c) and place the doughnuts in the basket. Heat for 2-3 minutes, or until warm and crispy. This method is similar to the oven, but faster and more energy-efficient.
Stovetop: heat a non-stick pan over medium-low heat. Place the doughnut in the pan and cover with a lid. Heat for 1-2 minutes on each side, or until warm and slightly crispy. This method is good for a quick reheat and will result in a crispy exterior.
Toaster oven: place the doughnut on the toaster oven rack and heat for 2-3 minutes, or until warm and crispy. This method is similar to the oven, but faster and more convenient for smaller quantities.
Interesting Trivia About Glazed Doughnuts
A fun fact about this recipe is that the glaze used on these doughnuts is what gives them their signature shine and sweetness. The Krispy Kreme glazed doughnuts are famous for their melt-in-your-mouth texture, which is achieved by frying the doughnuts at the right temperature and then dipping them in the warm glaze.
Is Making Copycat Krispy Kreme Glazed Doughnuts at Home Cost-Effective?
When evaluating the cost-effectiveness of this doughnut recipe, it's important to consider the ingredients and their quantities. The primary ingredients like flour, sugar, and vegetable shortening are relatively inexpensive and commonly found in most households. Specialty items like evaporated milk and active dry yeast might add a bit to the cost but are still affordable. For a household of 4, the approximate cost would be around $10-$12 USD. Given the yield and the delightful result, I'd rate this recipe a solid 8 out of 10 for cost-effectiveness.
Are Copycat Krispy Kreme Glazed Doughnuts Healthy or Unhealthy?
This copycat Krispy Kreme glazed doughnuts recipe is undeniably delicious but unfortunately falls into the unhealthy category. Here's why:
- The recipe is high in sugar, with both granulated sugar in the dough and powdered sugar in the glaze.
- It contains a significant amount of vegetable shortening, which is high in saturated and trans fats, known to increase the risk of heart disease and other health issues.
- Deep-frying the doughnuts adds even more unhealthy fats to the final product.
- The recipe is low in fiber and lacks any nutritional value from fruits, vegetables, or whole grains.
While enjoying a treat like this occasionally is fine, regular consumption of such high-fat, high-sugar foods can contribute to obesity, diabetes, and other chronic health problems.
To make this recipe healthier, you could try the following modifications:
- Replace some of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour to increase the fiber content.
- Reduce the amount of sugar in both the dough and the glaze, or experiment with natural sweeteners like honey or maple syrup.
- Instead of deep-frying, try baking the doughnuts in a doughnut pan or air frying them to reduce the amount of oil used.
- Incorporate healthy ingredients like mashed bananas, shredded zucchini, or carrots into the dough for added nutrition and moisture.
- Top the doughnuts with a lighter glaze or a dusting of cinnamon sugar instead of the traditional heavy glaze.
Editor's Opinion on This Copycat Krispy Kreme Glazed Doughnuts Recipe
This copycat Krispy Kreme glazed doughnuts recipe is well-structured and detailed, making it accessible for home bakers. The use of evaporated milk and vegetable shortening closely mimics the original texture and flavor. The dual rising times ensure a light, airy doughnut, while frying in shortening yields a classic, crispy exterior. The glaze, with its balanced sweetness and smooth consistency, perfectly complements the doughnut. Overall, this recipe captures the essence of Krispy Kreme's iconic treat, offering a delightful homemade alternative.
Enhance Your Copycat Krispy Kreme Glazed Doughnuts Recipe with These Unique Side Dishes:
Similar Recipes to Try If You Love Glazed Doughnuts
Appetizers and Main Dishes to Serve with Copycat Krispy Kreme Glazed Doughnuts
Why trust this Copycat Krispy Kreme Glazed Doughnuts Recipe:
This recipe meticulously replicates the iconic Krispy Kreme glazed doughnuts, ensuring you achieve that perfect, melt-in-your-mouth texture. With precise measurements and clear instructions, it guarantees consistent results. The use of evaporated milk and active dry yeast ensures a rich, fluffy dough, while the homemade glaze adds the perfect touch of sweetness. Trust this recipe for an authentic, delightful experience.
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