Krispy Kreme Doughnuts

I’ve been on a deliciously daring quest to recreate the magic of Krispy Kreme doughnuts right in my own kitchen, and guess what? I nailed it! After a few trials (and a whole lot of taste testing), I’ve perfected a copycat recipe that’s so close to the real deal, you’ll do a double-take.

How To Make Copycat Krispy Kreme Doughnuts

Ready to make your own Krispy Kreme doughnuts? Let’s get started with this easy recipe that’ll bring those famous, fluffy treats right to your kitchen.

Ingredients

For the Doughnuts:

• Instant Yeast: Acts as a leavening agent, helping the dough to rise and become light and airy.
• Warm Water: Activates the yeast and provides moisture for the dough.
• Granulated Sugar: Sweetens the dough and contributes to the browning and texture of the doughnuts.
• Salt: Enhances the overall flavor of the dough.
• Unsalted Butter: Adds richness and tenderizes the dough.
• Egg: Provides structure and richness to the dough.
• Egg Yolk: Adds extra richness and helps in creating a tender texture.
• Vanilla Extract: Infuses the dough with a sweet aroma and flavor.
• All-Purpose Flour: The primary structure-forming ingredient, giving the doughnuts their body and texture.
• Vegetable Shortening: Used for frying the doughnuts, giving them a crispy exterior and light, fluffy interior.

For the Glaze:

• Powdered Sugar: Forms the base of the glaze, providing sweetness and a smooth texture.
• Water: Thins the powdered sugar to create a glaze consistency.
• Vanilla Extract: Adds flavor to the glaze, complementing the sweetness.

Directions

1. Yeast Mixture: In a mixer, combine 2¼ teaspoons of instant yeast with ¾ cup of warm water. Let it stand for 10 minutes.
2. Dough Preparation: To the yeast mixture, add ⅓ cup of granulated sugar, ½ teaspoon of salt, ¼ cup of unsalted butter, 1 medium egg, 1 medium egg yolk, and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract. Gradually mix in 2½ to 3 cups of all-purpose flour until a soft dough forms.
3. First Rise: Transfer the dough to a greased bowl, cover it, and let it rise in a warm place for 2 hours until it doubles in size.
4. Refrigerate Overnight: Place the dough in the refrigerator overnight to firm up.
5. Shape Doughnuts: Roll out the dough to about ½ inch thickness. Cut out doughnuts using a doughnut cutter or round cookie cutter.
6. Second Rise: Place the cut doughnuts on a baking sheet, cover, and let them rest for 1 hour.
7. Frying: Heat 3 to 4 cups of vegetable shortening in a deep fryer or large pot to 375°F (190°C). Fry the doughnuts for about 1 minute on each side or until golden brown.
8. Prepare Glaze: While doughnuts are frying, whisk together 2 cups of powdered sugar, ¼ cup of water, and 1½ teaspoons of vanilla extract in a bowl to make the glaze.
9. Glaze Doughnuts: Dip each hot doughnut into the glaze, coating both sides. Place on a wire rack to let excess glaze drip off.
10. Serve: Enjoy the doughnuts warm for the best taste and texture.

Video

Tips & Tricks

Yeast Selection: Use instant yeast to keep the dough light and ensure a nice rise. Instant yeast is crucial for achieving the airy texture that Krispy Kreme doughnuts are famous for.

Dough Consistency: The dough should be soft and tacky, but not overly sticky. If it’s too sticky, add more flour a tablespoon at a time until the desired consistency is achieved.

Proper Proofing: Allow the dough to rise in a warm, draft-free spot for 2 hours, then refrigerate it overnight. This two-step rising process is essential for developing the dough’s flavor and texture.

Rolling and Cutting: Roll the dough out to a ½-inch thickness for uniformity. Use a doughnut cutter for consistent shape and size, ensuring even cooking.

Frying Temperature: Maintain the oil temperature between 360 to 370 degrees Fahrenheit when frying. This temperature range is key to achieving a golden brown color without burning or undercooking the doughnuts.

What makes Krispy Kreme donuts so fluffy?

Krispy Kreme donuts are so fluffy due to the use of instant yeast in the dough, which creates a light and airy texture, and a precise two-step proofing process that allows the dough to develop the right consistency and flavor.

Does Krispy Kreme baked or fry their donuts?

Krispy Kreme fries their donuts.

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Wrapping Up

there you have it, folks – your very own batch of homemade Krispy Kreme doughnuts! Who knew you could bring such joy and deliciousness into your kitchen with just a bit of flour and sugar? Go ahead, take a bite, do the happy dance, and don’t forget to share (or not, we won’t judge!). Happy doughnut making!