Homemade Krispy Kremes are a delightful way to recreate the beloved soft and fluffy doughnuts from the comfort of your own kitchen. These doughnuts feature a light, airy texture and a sweet glaze that mirrors the classic treat found in doughnut shops.
The process begins with activating yeast in warm water, then combining it with warm milk, butter, sugar, and eggs to create a rich dough. After kneading and allowing the dough to rise, it is rolled out and cut into doughnut shapes. The doughnuts are then fried in hot oil until golden brown and crispy on the outside.
Once fried, the doughnuts are dipped in a simple glaze made from powdered sugar, milk, corn syrup, and vanilla extract, giving them a glossy, sweet finish. The result is a batch of homemade doughnuts that are soft, fluffy, and perfectly sweet.
These Homemade Krispy Kremes are perfect for breakfast, brunch, or a special treat, offering the satisfaction of freshly made doughnuts without needing to leave the house.
Ingredients:
- 2 1/4 tsp active dry yeast (1 packet)
- 1/4 cup warm water (110°F or 45°C)
- 1 cup whole milk
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 2 large eggs
- 4 cups all-purpose flour
- Vegetable oil, for frying
For the Glaze:
- 2 cups powdered sugar
- 1/4 cup milk
- 1/4 cup light corn syrup
- 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
Instructions:
- Prepare the Yeast:
- In a small bowl, dissolve the yeast in warm water and let it sit for about 5 minutes, or until it becomes frothy.
- Mix Wet Ingredients:
- In a separate bowl, heat the milk until warm (not hot) and mix in the softened butter until melted. Stir in the granulated sugar and salt. Let this mixture cool slightly.
- Combine Ingredients:
- Add the yeast mixture and eggs to the milk mixture. Stir well to combine. Gradually add the flour, mixing until a soft dough forms.
- Knead and Rise:
- Turn the dough out onto a floured surface and knead for about 5-7 minutes, until smooth and elastic. Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with a damp cloth, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1-1.5 hours, or until doubled in size.
- Shape the Doughnuts:
- Punch down the dough and roll it out on a floured surface to about 1/2 inch thickness. Use a doughnut cutter or two round cutters (one larger and one smaller) to cut out doughnut shapes. Place the doughnuts on a floured baking sheet, cover with a cloth, and let them rise for another 30 minutes.
- Fry the Doughnuts:
- Heat vegetable oil in a deep fryer or large pot to 350°F (175°C). Fry the doughnuts in batches, turning them once, until golden brown on both sides, about 1-2 minutes per side. Remove with a slotted spoon and drain on paper towels.
- Prepare the Glaze:
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the powdered sugar, milk, corn syrup, and vanilla extract until smooth.
- Glaze the Doughnuts:
- While the doughnuts are still warm, dip them into the glaze, covering them completely. Let any excess glaze drip off, then place the glazed doughnuts on a wire rack to set.
Tips:
- Fresh Yeast: Make sure your yeast is fresh and active for the best rise and texture in your doughnuts.
- Oil Temperature: Maintain the oil temperature at 350°F (175°C) to ensure the doughnuts cook evenly and don’t become greasy.
- Avoid Overcrowding: Fry the doughnuts in batches to avoid overcrowding the pot, which can lower the oil temperature and lead to uneven frying.
- Glazing: For a thicker glaze, let it sit for a few minutes to set before applying a second coat if desired.
Enjoy your Homemade Krispy Kremes—a deliciously sweet, fluffy treat that rivals your favorite doughnut shop!
