Craving the soft, airy texture of Krispy Kreme doughnuts? You can recreate this beloved treat at home with just a few simple ingredients. Follow this step-by-step guide to make Homemade Krispy Kreme Doughnuts that are just as fluffy and delicious as the originals.
Ingredients for Homemade Krispy Kreme Doughnuts
For the Doughnuts:
- 2 1/4 teaspoons active dry yeast (1 packet): Helps the dough rise, creating that fluffy texture.
- 1/2 cup warm water (110°F/45°C): Activates the yeast and hydrates the dough.
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar: Adds sweetness to the dough.
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted: Adds richness and moisture.
- 1/4 cup whole milk, warmed: Provides moisture and enhances the flavor.
- 1 large egg: Binds the ingredients together and adds richness.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt: Enhances the flavor of the doughnuts.
- 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour, plus more for rolling: Provides structure to the dough.
- Vegetable oil for frying: Used to fry the doughnuts to a golden perfection.
For the Glaze:
- 2 cups powdered sugar: Sweetens the glaze.
- 1/4 cup whole milk: Thins the glaze to the perfect consistency.
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract: Adds flavor to the glaze.
Instructions: How to Make Homemade Krispy Kreme Doughnuts
Step 1: Prepare the Dough
- Activate the Yeast:
- In a small bowl, combine 2 1/4 teaspoons of active dry yeast with 1/2 cup of warm water. Let it sit for 5-10 minutes until the mixture becomes frothy.
- Mix the Dough:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the activated yeast mixture with 1/4 cup granulated sugar, 2 tablespoons melted butter, 1/4 cup warmed whole milk, 1 large egg, and 1/2 teaspoon salt. Stir until well combined.
- Gradually add 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour, mixing until a soft dough forms. If the dough is too sticky, add a little more flour, a tablespoon at a time, until it is manageable.
- Knead the Dough:
- Turn the dough out onto a floured surface and knead for about 5-7 minutes, or until the dough is smooth and elastic.
- Let the Dough Rise:
- Place the dough in a lightly greased bowl, cover it with a clean kitchen towel, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1-1.5 hours, or until it has doubled in size.
Step 2: Shape the Doughnuts
- Roll Out the Dough:
- Once the dough has risen, punch it down and turn it out onto a lightly floured surface. Roll the dough out to about 1/2-inch thickness.
- Cut the Doughnuts:
- Using a doughnut cutter or two round cutters (one large and one small for the hole), cut out as many doughnuts as possible. Re-roll the scraps and cut out additional doughnuts.
- Second Rise:
- Place the doughnuts on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, cover with a kitchen towel, and let them rise for another 30-45 minutes, or until they have puffed up.
Step 3: Fry the Doughnuts
- Heat the Oil:
- In a large, deep pot, heat about 2-3 inches of vegetable oil to 350°F (175°C). Use a thermometer to maintain the temperature.
- Fry the Doughnuts:
- Carefully add 2-3 doughnuts to the hot oil at a time, frying for about 1-2 minutes on each side, or until golden brown. Use a slotted spoon or tongs to flip them.
- Drain the Doughnuts:
- Remove the doughnuts from the oil and place them on a paper towel-lined plate to drain any excess oil. Repeat with the remaining doughnuts and doughnut holes.
Step 4: Make the Glaze
- Prepare the Glaze:
- In a medium mixing bowl, whisk together 2 cups powdered sugar, 1/4 cup whole milk, and 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract until smooth. The glaze should be thin enough to dip the doughnuts but thick enough to coat them.
Step 5: Glaze the Doughnuts
- Dip the Doughnuts:
- While the doughnuts are still warm, dip each one into the glaze, allowing any excess to drip off. Place the glazed doughnuts on a wire rack set over a baking sheet to catch any drips.
- Serve:
- Allow the glaze to set for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy your homemade Krispy Kreme doughnuts while they’re still warm and fresh!
🍽 Cook’s Notes & Tips
- Yeast Activation: Make sure the water is warm, not hot, to properly activate the yeast. Water that’s too hot can kill the yeast.
- Oil Temperature: Maintaining the correct oil temperature is crucial for perfectly fried doughnuts. If the oil is too hot, the doughnuts may brown too quickly on the outside and remain raw inside.
- Storage: These doughnuts are best enjoyed fresh. However, you can store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days.
Variations of Homemade Krispy Kreme Doughnuts
Here are some ways to customize your Homemade Krispy Kreme Doughnuts:
- Chocolate Glaze: Add 2-3 tablespoons of cocoa powder to the glaze for a chocolate version.
- Cinnamon Sugar: Instead of glazing, roll the warm doughnuts in a mixture of cinnamon and sugar for a classic flavor.
- Filled Doughnuts: Skip cutting out the holes and fill the doughnuts with your favorite filling, like jam, custard, or Nutella, after frying.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can I bake these doughnuts instead of frying?
Yes, you can bake the doughnuts at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-12 minutes until they are golden and cooked through. However, they won’t have the same texture as fried doughnuts.
2. How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftover doughnuts in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. Reheat in the microwave for a few seconds to soften them.
3. Can I freeze the dough?
Yes, you can freeze the dough after cutting it into shapes. Place the unbaked doughnuts on a baking sheet, freeze until solid, then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag. Let them thaw and rise before frying.
4. What can I do with the doughnut holes?
Fry the doughnut holes the same way you fry the doughnuts, then glaze or roll them in sugar for a delicious treat.
5. Can I use instant yeast instead of active dry yeast?
Yes, you can use instant yeast. Just mix it directly with the dry ingredients without proofing it in water first.
A Delicious Homemade Treat
Homemade Krispy Kreme Doughnuts are a sweet, fluffy, and delicious treat that you can easily make at home. With a light, airy texture and a classic glaze, these doughnuts are perfect for breakfast, dessert, or a special snack. Whether you’re making them for a family gathering or just because, these doughnuts are sure to be a hit.
So gather your ingredients and enjoy the process of making these delightful, homemade doughnuts that taste just like the ones from your favorite doughnut shop!
