Homemade Krispy Kreme-Style Donuts

These Krispy Kreme-style donuts are light, fluffy, and coated with a signature sweet glaze. Perfectly soft and melt-in-your-mouth delicious, they bring the famous taste of Krispy Kreme into your own kitchen!

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Yield

12 donuts + donut holes

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Ingredients

For the Donut Dough:

• 2 1/4 teaspoons active dry yeast (1 packet)
• 1/2 cup warm water (about 100°F or 38°C)
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar
• 1/4 cup whole milk, warmed
• 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
• 1 large egg
• 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• Vegetable oil for frying

For the Glaze:

• 2 cups powdered sugar
• 1/4 cup whole milk
• 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract

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Instructions

1. Activate the Yeast

1. In a small bowl, combine the yeast, warm water, and 1 tablespoon of sugar. Stir gently and let it sit for 5-10 minutes until foamy. This means the yeast is active.

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2. Make the Dough

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the remaining sugar, warm milk, melted butter, egg, and vanilla extract. Stir to combine.
2. Add the yeast mixture and stir until well incorporated.
3. Gradually add the flour and salt, mixing until a soft dough forms.
4. Turn the dough onto a floured surface and knead for 5-7 minutes, or until smooth and elastic. Alternatively, use a stand mixer with a dough hook for about 4-5 minutes.
5. Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with a clean kitchen towel, and let it rise in a warm place for 1-1.5 hours, or until doubled in size.

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3. Shape the Donuts

1. Once the dough has risen, punch it down gently and roll it out to about 1/2 inch thickness on a floured surface.
2. Use a donut cutter or two round cutters (one larger for the donut and one smaller for the hole) to cut out the shapes.
3. Place the donuts and holes on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Cover lightly with a towel and let them rise again for 30 minutes, or until puffy.

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4. Fry the Donuts

1. Heat about 2 inches of vegetable oil in a deep skillet or pot to 350°F (175°C). Use a thermometer to maintain the correct temperature.
2. Fry the donuts in batches for 1-2 minutes per side, or until golden brown.
3. Remove with a slotted spoon and place on a wire rack lined with paper towels to drain excess oil.

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5. Make the Glaze

1. In a medium bowl, whisk together the powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract until smooth.
2. Dip each warm donut into the glaze, allowing the excess to drip off, and place them back on the wire rack to set.

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6. Serve and Enjoy

Enjoy the donuts warm for the ultimate Krispy Kreme experience. Store any leftovers in an airtight container for up to 2 days.

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Tips for Success

• Activate Yeast Properly: Ensure your water is warm but not too hot to avoid killing the yeast.
• Oil Temperature: Maintain the frying oil at 350°F (175°C) for evenly cooked donuts. Too hot, and they’ll burn; too cool, and they’ll absorb oil.
• Double Dip for Extra Glaze: For a thicker glaze, let the first coat set, then dip the donuts a second time.

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These homemade Krispy Kreme-style donuts are soft, sweet, and irresistible—a perfect treat for any time of day!