Homemade Krispy Kreme Donuts

These Homemade Krispy Kreme–style donuts are incredibly soft, fluffy, and light, coated in a thin, glossy vanilla glaze that melts into the warm donuts—just like the original and exactly like the photo. Perfect for breakfast, brunch, or a sweet treat any time of day.

Ingredients

Donut Dough

• ¾ cup warm milk (110°F / 43°C)

• 2¼ teaspoons active dry yeast

• ¼ cup granulated sugar

• 1 egg

• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted

• ½ teaspoon salt

• 2½ cups all-purpose flour

• Vegetable oil (for frying)

Glaze

• 2 cups powdered sugar

• ¼ cup milk

• ½ teaspoon vanilla extract

Instructions

1. Activate the Yeast

In a bowl, combine warm milk, yeast, and sugar.
Let sit for 5–10 minutes until foamy.

2. Make the Dough

Add egg, melted butter, and salt.
Gradually mix in flour until a soft, slightly sticky dough forms.

Knead for 5–7 minutes until smooth and elastic.

3. First Rise

Place dough in a greased bowl, cover, and let rise in a warm place for 1 hour, until doubled in size.

4. Shape the Donuts

Roll dough to ½-inch thickness.
Cut donut shapes using a donut cutter or two round cutters.

Place on parchment-lined trays, cover lightly, and let rise again for 30–40 minutes.

5. Fry the Donuts

Heat oil to 350°F (175°C).
Fry donuts 30–45 seconds per side until lightly golden—do not overbrown.

Drain briefly on paper towels.

6. Glaze While Warm

Whisk powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla until smooth and pourable.

Dip warm donuts into glaze, coating fully.
Place on a rack and let glaze set for 5–10 minutes.

Texture & Look (Exactly Like the Photo)

• Pale golden exterior

• Ultra-soft, airy interior

• Thin, shiny glaze (not thick icing)

• Light, melt-in-your-mouth bite

Pro Tips

• Don’t over-knead—soft dough = fluffy donuts

• Glaze while donuts are still warm for that Krispy Kreme finish

• Keep oil temperature steady for even color

Storage

• Best eaten fresh

• Store at room temperature up to 24 hours

• Reheat 5–7 seconds in microwave to refresh glaze