Krispy Kreme–Style Glazed Donuts

These Krispy Kreme–style glazed donuts are light, fluffy, golden, and coated in a smooth vanilla glaze. They make a delicious homemade breakfast or sweet treat and are best enjoyed while they’re fresh and warm.

Ingredients

For the Donuts

• 2¼ teaspoons active dry yeast
• ¾ cup warm whole milk
• ¼ cup granulated sugar
• 2 large eggs
• 3 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 3 cups all-purpose flour
• ½ teaspoon salt
• Vegetable oil, for frying

For the Glaze

• 2 cups powdered sugar
• ¼ cup whole milk
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 2 tablespoons melted unsalted butter
• Pinch of salt

Directions

1. Activate the Yeast

Pour the warm milk into a large bowl.

Stir in the sugar and yeast.

Let stand for 5–10 minutes, until foamy.

2. Make the Dough

Whisk in the eggs, melted butter, and vanilla.

Add the flour and salt gradually, stirring until a soft dough forms.

Knead the dough on a lightly floured surface for 5–7 minutes, until smooth and elastic.

3. Let the Dough Rise

Place the dough in a lightly greased bowl.

Cover with a clean kitchen towel or plastic wrap.

Let rise in a warm place for approximately 1–1½ hours, or until doubled in size.

4. Cut the Donuts

Transfer the dough to a lightly floured surface.

Roll it to approximately ½-inch thickness.

Cut into donut shapes using a donut cutter or two round cutters.

Place the donuts on a parchment-lined baking sheet.

Cover loosely and let them rise for another 30–45 minutes.

5. Fry the Donuts

Heat several inches of vegetable oil in a deep pot to 350°F (175°C).

Carefully lower the donuts into the oil in small batches.

Fry for approximately 1–2 minutes per side, until puffed and lightly golden.

Remove with a slotted spoon and place on a wire rack lined with paper towels.

Allow the excess oil to drain.

6. Make the Glaze

Whisk together the powdered sugar, milk, vanilla, melted butter, and salt until smooth.

If the glaze is too thick, add a little more milk.

If it’s too thin, add a little more powdered sugar.

7. Glaze the Donuts

While the donuts are still warm, dip the tops into the glaze.

Allow the excess glaze to drip off.

Place the donuts on a wire rack and let the glaze set for several minutes.

8. Serve

Enjoy the donuts while they’re fresh and slightly warm.

Recipe Tips

• The milk should be warm, not hot, when activating the yeast.
• Don’t add too much flour; a slightly soft dough helps create light, fluffy donuts.
• Keep the oil close to 350°F (175°C) for even frying.
• Avoid overcrowding the pot because it can lower the oil temperature.
• Glaze the donuts while they’re warm so the coating spreads smoothly.
• These donuts are best eaten the same day.
• Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days.

Prep & Cooking Time

Prep Time: 25 minutes
Rise Time: 1½–2 hours
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Servings: 12–14 donuts

Meta Description

Make fluffy Krispy Kreme–style glazed donuts at home with a soft yeast-raised dough and sweet vanilla glaze. Light, airy, golden, and delicious.