There’s something truly nostalgic and comforting about biting into a warm, freshly glazed donut that tastes just like it came from Krispy Kreme. But imagine recreating that soft, airy, melt-in-your-mouth magic right in your own kitchen. That’s exactly what this Homemade Krispy Kreme Donuts recipe is all about. With simple pantry staples and a little bit of love, you can bring that iconic donut shop experience home, minus the long lines or limited hours. These donuts are perfect for weekend treats, birthday breakfasts, brunch spreads, or just when you need a little extra sweetness in your day. They’re golden, pillowy, and finished with that classic, shiny glaze that makes everyone’s eyes light up.
What makes this recipe extra special is the texture—light and fluffy inside with a delicate outer layer that holds the sweet glaze perfectly. It’s not overly greasy, and the flavor is rich without being too heavy. They also reheat beautifully, so you can enjoy them beyond the day they’re made. These donuts are guaranteed to be a family favorite and are way easier to make than most people expect.
These homemade donuts can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. For longer storage, keep them in the fridge for up to 5 days, reheating in the microwave for about 10 seconds before serving. You can also freeze the donuts (unglazed) for up to 2 months. Just thaw, warm, and glaze when ready.
This recipe yields about 12–15 donuts, depending on size. It’s a great choice for beginner bakers who want to try working with yeast dough, or seasoned pros looking for a nostalgic bake. The dough is forgiving, the glaze comes together in minutes, and the results are shockingly close to the real thing.
You’ll love this recipe because it’s fun, rewarding, and absolutely delicious. These donuts are soft, sweet, and perfect for sharing. Plus, nothing beats the smell of fresh donuts frying up in your kitchen.
To make these donuts, you’ll need: a stand mixer with dough hook (or you can knead by hand), mixing bowls, a rolling pin, donut cutter or biscuit cutter, deep frying thermometer, slotted spoon or spider, and a cooling rack.
To succeed with this recipe, make sure your yeast is fresh and your dough has plenty of time to rise. Keep your oil at the right temperature—too hot and the donuts will brown too quickly, too cold and they’ll soak up oil. Don’t skip the glaze step; it’s what gives them that signature Krispy Kreme finish.
Ingredients
For the Dough:
2 1/4 teaspoons active dry yeast
2 tablespoons warm water (110°F)
3/4 cup warm milk (110°F)
1/4 cup granulated sugar
1/2 teaspoon salt
1 egg
1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour (more if needed)
For Frying:
Vegetable oil (for deep frying)
For the Glaze:
2 cups powdered sugar
1/4 cup milk
1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
Directions
In a small bowl, dissolve yeast in warm water and let sit for 5–10 minutes until frothy. In a large bowl or stand mixer, combine milk, sugar, salt, egg, butter, and yeast mixture. Add in flour gradually until dough pulls away from the sides and is soft but not sticky. Knead for 5–7 minutes until smooth. Place dough in a greased bowl, cover, and let rise in a warm place until doubled, about 1 to 1.5 hours.
Roll dough out on a lightly floured surface to about 1/2-inch thickness. Cut with a donut cutter and place on a floured tray. Cover loosely and let rise again for 30–45 minutes.
Heat oil in a deep fryer or large pot to 350°F. Fry donuts a few at a time, about 1 minute per side or until golden. Remove and place on a cooling rack with paper towels underneath.
For the glaze, whisk together powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla until smooth. While donuts are still warm, dip each one into the glaze and let excess drip off. Place back on rack to set.
For extra flavor, try adding a dash of cinnamon to the glaze or filling the donuts with jam or custard after frying. You can also top with chocolate glaze or sprinkles for variety.