Homemade Krispy Kremes

Soft, fluffy, and perfectly sweet, these homemade Krispy Kreme doughnuts are a classic treat! With a light and airy texture and a rich vanilla glaze, they’re the ultimate indulgence for breakfast or dessert.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Authentic Flavor: Capture the magic of Krispy Kreme doughnuts right in your own kitchen.
• Perfectly Sweet: The vanilla glaze adds just the right amount of sweetness.
• Fluffy Texture: The dough is light, airy, and melts in your mouth.
• Fun to Make: A satisfying baking project that’s great for sharing.

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

For the Doughnuts:

• 3 tablespoons milk
• 3 tablespoons boiling water
• 1 teaspoon dry active yeast
• 8 oz all-purpose flour (approximately 2 cups)
• 1 1/2 oz sugar (about 3 tablespoons)
• 1 egg
• 1 oz butter, cold to room temperature
• Dash of salt
• Enough oil to cover the bottom few inches of a wok or deep fryer

For the Glaze:

• 1/3 cup butter
• 2 cups confectioners’ sugar
• 1 1/2 teaspoons vanilla extract
• 4 tablespoons hot water (or as needed)

Directions

Step 1: Prepare the Dough

1. In a large measuring jug, combine the milk and boiling water. Add 1 teaspoon of sugar and the yeast. Stir gently and let it sit in a warm place to activate, about 5–10 minutes.
2. In a large mixing bowl, mix the flour, remaining sugar, and salt. Cut in the butter until the mixture resembles crumbs.
3. Add the egg and yeast mixture to the flour mix. Stir to combine, then knead into a smooth dough for about 5 minutes.

Step 2: Knead and Rise

1. Transfer the dough onto a lightly floured surface and knead for 5–10 minutes until springy.
2. Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with a damp cloth, and let it rise for about 1 hour or until it doubles in size.

Step 3: Shape the Doughnuts

1. Once risen, divide the dough into 4 pieces. Stretch each piece into ropes and cut into strips. Roll the strips into balls or shape them into rings.
2. Let the shaped doughnuts rise for another 30 minutes.

Step 4: Fry the Doughnuts

1. Heat oil in a wok or deep fryer to 375°F. Carefully fry the doughnuts in batches, about 2 minutes per side, until golden brown.
2. Remove and drain on a wire rack or paper towels.

Step 5: Make the Glaze

1. In a small saucepan, melt the butter over low heat. Stir in the confectioners’ sugar, vanilla, and hot water until smooth. Adjust the consistency as needed.

Step 6: Glaze and Serve

1. While the doughnuts are still warm, dip each one into the glaze, ensuring even coverage.
2. Let the glaze set before serving. Enjoy fresh!

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 12 doughnuts
• Prep Time: 30 minutes
• Cooking Time: 15 minutes
• Total Time: 1 hour 45 minutes

Variations

• Chocolate Glaze: Replace vanilla extract with cocoa powder and add a splash of milk to the glaze.
• Cinnamon Sugar: Toss the warm doughnuts in a mixture of cinnamon and sugar instead of glazing.
• Filled Doughnuts: Pipe jam, custard, or cream into the center of the doughnuts.
• Decorative Toppings: Sprinkle with chopped nuts, sprinkles, or coconut after glazing.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Keep leftover doughnuts in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days.
• Reheating: Warm in the microwave for 10–15 seconds for a fresh-from-the-fryer taste.
• Freezing: Freeze unglazed doughnuts in an airtight container for up to 2 months. Thaw and glaze before serving.

FAQs

1. Can I bake these doughnuts instead of frying?

Yes, bake at 375°F for about 10–12 minutes or until golden brown. However, they won’t have the same airy texture as fried doughnuts.

2. Can I use instant yeast instead of active dry yeast?

Yes, but skip the activation step and mix the instant yeast directly into the dry ingredients.

3. How do I make the doughnuts fluffier?

Allow the dough to rise fully in a warm, draft-free area, and avoid over-kneading.

4. Can I use a stand mixer for the dough?

Absolutely! Use the dough hook attachment and knead on medium speed for about 5 minutes.

5. What oil is best for frying doughnuts?

Neutral oils like vegetable, canola, or peanut oil are ideal for frying.

6. Can I glaze the doughnuts with other flavors?

Yes, experiment with lemon glaze, maple glaze, or caramel drizzle.

7. How do I prevent the doughnuts from absorbing too much oil?

Ensure the oil is at the correct temperature (375°F). If it’s too low, the doughnuts will absorb excess oil.

8. Can I make the dough ahead of time?

Yes, refrigerate the dough after the first rise and bring it to room temperature before shaping and frying.

9. Why is my glaze too thick?

Add a tablespoon of hot water at a time until you reach the desired consistency.

10. How do I make smaller doughnuts?

Divide the dough into smaller portions and adjust the frying time to 1–1.5 minutes per side.

Conclusion

These Homemade Krispy Kremes are the perfect way to satisfy your doughnut cravings without leaving home. With their light texture, sweet glaze, and endless customization options, they’re sure to become a favorite for breakfasts, desserts, or any time in between!

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