Homemade Krispy Kreme Donut Holes: The Ultimate Copycat Recipe for Fluffy Glazed Perfection

There’s nothing quite like the melt-in-your-mouth experience of a warm, glazed Krispy Kreme donut. Now, imagine recreating that iconic, irresistible treat in miniature form, right in your own kitchen! This meticulously crafted copycat recipe for Krispy Kreme Donut Holes makes it incredibly easy to enjoy those same soft, fluffy, and decadently glazed bites at home. Forget the drive-thru; a batch of these golden gems, paired with a fresh cup of hot coffee, transforms any morning into a special occasion.

If you’re as passionate about homemade donut recipes as we are, you’ll be thrilled with this simple yet rewarding copycat creation. These donut holes capture the essence of the original Krispy Kreme glazed donuts, offering a light texture and a sweet, shiny glaze that’s truly addictive. Beyond these delectable bites, be sure to explore our other fantastic donut variations, including Italian Donuts, Air Fryer Donuts, a delightful Donut Cake Recipe, and classic Homemade Glazed Donuts. And for a unique twist, don’t miss our Glazed Donut Popcorn!

Why You’ll Adore This Copycat Recipe

This Krispy Kreme donut hole recipe isn’t just easy; it consistently delivers results that will impress even the most discerning donut connoisseur. Each bite-sized donut is incredibly light and possesses that signature pillowy texture Krispy Kreme is known for. The glaze isn’t just sweet; it’s a rich, buttery, vanilla-infused blanket that perfectly complements the delicate donut. It’s truly decadent without being overly heavy. What truly sets this recipe apart is its simplicity. You don’t need to be an experienced baker to achieve perfect, fluffy, glazed donut holes. With clear, easy-to-follow steps, anyone can master this recipe and bring the joy of Krispy Kreme home.

Gather Your Ingredients for Donut Hole Bliss

Creating these delightful donut holes begins with selecting the right ingredients. Quality makes a difference in achieving that signature Krispy Kreme taste and texture. Below is a detailed look at what you’ll need for both the light-as-air donut holes and their famous, sweet glaze.

Essential Ingredients for the Donut Holes

• Milk: For the richest flavor and most tender crumb, we recommend using whole milk. Its higher fat content contributes to a wonderfully soft and moist donut hole.
• Boiling Water: This is crucial for activating the yeast properly and creating the ideal environment for the dough to rise. Ensure it’s truly boiling for the best results.
• All-Purpose Flour: Accuracy in measuring flour is key for proper dough consistency. Spoon the flour into your measuring cup and level it off with a straight edge rather than scooping directly from the bag to avoid compacting it.
• Sugar: Regular white granulated sugar provides the necessary sweetness and also helps feed the yeast, aiding in the dough’s rise and tender texture.
• Dry Active Yeast: This is the leavening agent that gives the donuts their characteristic airy and fluffy structure. Make sure your yeast is fresh for optimal activation.
• Salt: A pinch of salt balances the sweetness and enhances all the flavors in the donut dough.
• Butter: Real butter, melted, adds richness and a delightful flavor to the dough, contributing to its tender quality.
• Egg: The egg provides structure, moisture, and helps enrich the dough, leading to a softer, more luxurious texture.
• Vegetable Oil: Essential for deep frying the donut holes to a perfect golden brown. Choose an oil with a high smoke point, such as vegetable, canola, or peanut oil.

Crafting the Signature Krispy Kreme Glaze

The iconic Krispy Kreme glaze is simple yet perfect. Here’s what you’ll need:

• Powdered Sugar: Also known as confectioners’ sugar, this fine sugar is essential for a smooth, lump-free glaze. Sifting it beforehand ensures the silkiest consistency.
• Vanilla Extract: Pure vanilla extract provides that authentic, warm, and comforting flavor that is a hallmark of Krispy Kreme’s glaze. Avoid artificial extracts for the best taste.
• Melted Butter: Just like in the donut dough, real melted butter enriches the glaze, giving it a depth of flavor that a simple sugar glaze can’t achieve.
• Boiling Water: Used to achieve the perfect consistency for the glaze. Adjust the amount slightly to reach your desired thickness.

For the complete list of precise measurements, please refer to the detailed recipe card at the bottom of the page.

Step-by-Step Guide to Making Fluffy Krispy Kreme Donut Holes

Making these copycat Krispy Kreme donut holes is a fun and rewarding process. Follow these detailed steps to achieve perfectly soft, glazed treats.

Step 1: Activate the Yeast. In a large mixing bowl, combine the milk and boiling water. You can also use the bowl of a stand mixer fitted with a dough hook if you prefer. Stir in the dry active yeast and 1 teaspoon of the granulated sugar. Let this mixture sit undisturbed for about 5 minutes. This allows the yeast to activate; you’ll know it’s ready when a foamy layer forms on the surface, indicating the yeast is alive and well.

Step 2: Prepare Dry Ingredients. While the yeast is activating, in a separate medium bowl, stir together the all-purpose flour, the remaining granulated sugar, and the salt. This ensures these dry ingredients are well-distributed before combining with the wet mixture.

Step 3: Combine Wet and Dry. Once the yeast mixture is foamy, add the melted butter and the egg to it. Mix briefly until just combined. Then, gradually add the dry flour mixture to the wet ingredients. If using a stand mixer, mix on low speed with the dough hook until a rough dough forms.

Step 4: Form the Dough. Continue mixing or stirring until all ingredients are well incorporated and a cohesive dough comes together. The dough should begin to pull away from the sides of the bowl, but it will still be slightly sticky and soft. Add a tiny bit more flour, one tablespoon at a time, only if the dough is excessively wet and not forming.

Step 5: Knead the Dough. Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface. Knead the dough by hand for approximately 4-5 minutes, or continue with a stand mixer for 3-4 minutes, until it becomes smooth and elastic. It should feel pliable and bouncy to the touch. Avoid adding too much extra flour during kneading, as this can make your donuts tough.

Step 6: First Rise. Lightly oil a large clean bowl. Place the kneaded dough into the oiled bowl, turning it once to coat all sides. Cover the bowl tightly with plastic wrap or a clean kitchen towel. Let the dough rise in a warm, draft-free place for at least 1 hour, or until it has visibly doubled in size. This crucial step develops the flavor and creates the airy texture.

Step 7: Prepare for Shaping. Once the dough has doubled, gently punch it down to release the air. Transfer the dough onto a piece of wax paper or parchment paper that has been lightly floured.

Step 8: Shape the Donut Holes. Divide the dough into 4 equal sections. Take one section and roll it into a long rope, approximately 1 inch thick. Then, cut the rope into 1-inch pieces. Take each small piece and roll it gently between your palms to form a smooth, round ball. Repeat with the remaining dough sections.

Step 9: Second Rise. As you shape the donut holes, place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, leaving a little space between each. Cover the baking sheet with a clean cloth while you prepare the frying oil. This allows them a short second rise, which helps them become even fluffier when fried.

Step 10: Heat the Oil. Pour vegetable oil into a large stockpot or deep fryer, ensuring it’s at least 3-4 inches deep. Heat the oil to 375°F (190°C). Use a candy thermometer or a deep-fry thermometer to monitor the temperature accurately. Maintaining the correct oil temperature is vital for perfectly cooked donuts—too cool and they’ll be greasy, too hot and they’ll burn outside and be raw inside.

Step 11: Fry the Donut Holes. Carefully drop a few donut holes into the hot oil, working in small batches to avoid overcrowding the pot. Overcrowding will lower the oil temperature and result in greasy donuts. Fry for about 1-2 minutes per side, or until they are beautifully golden brown and cooked through. Use a slotted spoon or spider to carefully turn them as they fry.

Step 12: Drain Excess Oil. Once golden, remove the fried donut holes from the oil with a slotted spoon and immediately transfer them to a plate lined with paper towels. This allows excess oil to drain off, keeping them light and non-greasy. Keep them warm while you prepare the glaze.

Step 13: Prepare the Glaze. In a medium bowl, whisk together the powdered sugar, vanilla extract, melted butter, and boiling water until smooth and lump-free. The glaze should be fluid enough to coat the donut holes but thick enough to cling. If it’s too thick, add a tiny bit more boiling water; if too thin, add more powdered sugar. It’s best if the glaze is warm, as this helps it adhere better to the warm donut holes.

Step 14: Glaze the Donut Holes. While the donut holes are still warm (this helps the glaze set beautifully), dunk each one into the warm glaze. You can use a fork or tongs to fully submerge them, ensuring an even coating on all sides. Allow any excess glaze to drip off back into the bowl.

Step 15: Cool and Serve. Place the glazed donut holes on a wire rack set over a baking sheet. This allows the excess glaze to drip off and the glaze to set. Once the donut holes have cooled slightly and the glaze has set, they are ready to be served and enjoyed immediately! These are truly best when fresh and warm.

Step 16: Enjoy! Gather your loved ones and savor these homemade delights. The soft, fluffy interior and the sweet, shiny glaze are a perfect combination that will transport you straight to your favorite donut shop.

Storing Your Delicious Donut Holes for Lasting Freshness

While these Krispy Kreme donut holes are undoubtedly best enjoyed fresh and warm, you might find yourself with a few leftovers (though it’s unlikely!). To store them, place any remaining donut holes in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1-2 days. For longer storage, you can refrigerate them for up to 3-4 days. When you’re ready to enjoy the refrigerated leftovers, a quick reheat in the microwave for 10-15 seconds will help restore some of their soft texture and warm the glaze. You can also freeze unfrosted donut holes for up to 1 month. Thaw them at room temperature and then warm and glaze as directed.

Expert Tips for Perfect Krispy Kreme Donut Holes Every Time

Achieving bakery-quality Krispy Kreme donut holes at home is easier than you think, especially with these expert tips:

• Choose Your Frying Vessel: A sturdy stockpot or a dedicated deep fryer both work perfectly for this recipe. Ensure the pot is heavy-bottomed to maintain a consistent oil temperature.
• Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: This is a golden rule for frying! Frying in small batches is essential. Overfilling the pot will drastically lower the oil’s temperature, leading to greasy, unevenly cooked donut holes. Patience here results in crispy exteriors and fluffy interiors.
• Allow for Proper Rising: The dough’s rising time is crucial for the light, airy texture. Ensure the dough doubles in size during both the first and second rises. A warm, draft-free spot (like a slightly warmed, turned-off oven) is ideal for this process.
• Maintain Oil Temperature: Use a kitchen thermometer to keep your oil at a steady 375°F (190°C). Fluctuations can ruin your donuts. If the oil gets too hot, remove it from the heat for a minute or two to cool slightly before continuing.
• Glaze While Warm: The best time to glaze your donut holes is immediately after they’ve drained on paper towels and are still warm. The warmth helps the glaze melt slightly and adhere beautifully, creating that signature Krispy Kreme sheen.
• Sift Your Powdered Sugar: For the smoothest, lump-free glaze, always sift your powdered sugar before mixing. This simple step makes a big difference in the final texture of your glaze.

More Delectable Copycat Dessert Recipes to Explore

If you’ve enjoyed mastering this Krispy Kreme donut hole recipe, you’re in for a treat! We love recreating beloved bakery and store-bought favorites right in our own kitchens. Expand your copycat baking repertoire with these other fantastic recipes:

• Copycat Swiss Roll Cake Recipe: That classic chocolate cake with creamy filling, now homemade!
• Copycat Little Debbie Brownies: Indulge in nostalgic fudgy goodness with that iconic white swirl.
• Copycat Ding Dong Cake: A chocolate lover’s dream, recreating the popular snack cake.
• Copycat Dairy Queen Cake: Learn how to make a delicious ice cream cake just like the famous DQ classic.

These bite-sized treats are so easy to prepare, you can absolutely whip them up today! We are confident you’ll fall in love with these homemade Krispy Kreme Donut Holes. Don’t forget to leave a comment once you try this recipe and let us know what you think!