There’s something incredibly satisfying about turning simple ingredients into a treat that brings joy with every bite. As the rich scent of warm milk, yeast, and butter fills the air, I can’t help but feel a wave of nostalgia, reminiscent of childhood mornings spent at the local donut shop. Today, I’m thrilled to share my rendition of Sourdough Krispy Kreme Donuts — a delightful fusion of tradition and innovation that’s sure to reinvigorate your weekend baking routine.
Imagine biting into a soft, pillowy donut that’s perfectly glazed with a sweet, creamy finish, all crafted from sourdough starter that’s often overlooked. This recipe not only gives a second life to your sourdough discard but also provides a surprisingly easy way to create donuts that are just as delicious as those from your favorite shop, if not better!
So, grab your apron and let’s dive into making these delightful treats that will surely impress family and friends, transforming any gathering into a sweet celebration.
Sourdough Krispy Kreme Donuts: Why You’ll Love Them
Simplicity at your fingertips: This recipe utilizes basic ingredients you probably already have at home, making it a convenient choice for any baking enthusiast.
Deliciously unique: Revitalize your sourdough starter with these light and fluffy donuts that capture the essence of classic Krispy Kreme without the takeout hassle.
Versatile flavors: Feel free to experiment with glazes, such as the suggested strawberry glaze, to personalize your donut experience and wow your guests.
Perfect for sharing: These donuts are crowd-pleasers, making them ideal for parties, brunches, or just a fun weekend treat with loved ones.
Time-saving: Although they require some rise and proofing time, the hands-on prep is minimal, allowing you to enjoy the process and the delightful end result.
So why not give your sourdough discard a delicious second chance? Check out other creative ways to use sourdough starter in your cooking adventures!
Sourdough Krispy Kreme Donuts Ingredients
For the Dough
• Milk (3/4 cup / 180ml) – Warm the milk to ~110F for optimal yeast activation.
• Granulated Sugar (1/4 cup / 55g, divided) – Dividing it helps feed the yeast and sweeten the dough.
• Active Dry Yeast (2 1/2 tsp / 11g) – Essential for that perfect rise and light texture.
• Salted Butter (1/2 cup / 113g) – Melted and cooled, it adds richness to the donuts.
• Sourdough Discard or Active Starter (1/2 cup / 140g) – A fantastic way to use up your sourdough discard in these Sourdough Krispy Kreme Donuts.
• Eggs (2, at room temperature) – Help bind the ingredients and contribute to a fluffy texture.
• All-Purpose Flour (3 1/3 cups / 430g) – Provides structure to your donuts.
• Salt (1 tsp) – Balances the sweetness and enhances flavor.
For Frying
• Oil of Choice – Use avocado oil (or your favorite) for frying until golden brown and crispy.
For the Glaze
• Powdered Sugar (3 cups / 360g) – The base for sweet, sticky glaze that makes these donuts unforgettable.
• Heavy Cream (3/4 cup / 180ml) – Gives the glaze a rich and creamy consistency.
• Vanilla Extract or Paste (1 tbsp / 12g) – Infuses the glaze with warm, aromatic sweetness.
• Pinch of Salt – Enhances the flavor of the glaze by balancing sweetness.
For the Strawberry Glaze
• Plain Glaze (1/2 of the above) – This serves as the base for adding fruity flavor.
• Blended Strawberries (2 tbsp / 30ml) – Adds freshness and vibrant color to the glaze.
• Crushed Freeze-Dried Strawberries (1oz) – Provides a concentrated strawberry flavor with a delightful crunch.
Gather these ingredients, and let’s create those delicious Sourdough Krispy Kreme Donuts that will brighten anyone’s day!
How to Make Sourdough Krispy Kreme Donuts
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Activate the Yeast
Begin by pouring warm milk into a bowl, adding 1 tablespoon of granulated sugar, and sprinkling the yeast over the top. Stir gently and let it sit for 3-5 minutes until it becomes frothy—this is your yeast magic in action! -
Combine Ingredients
Add the melted butter, sourdough discard or active starter, eggs, and the remaining sugar into the yeast mixture. Whisk everything together until well combined, creating a lovely rich blend. -
Knead the Dough
Sprinkle in the flour and salt, then knead the mixture for about 5-6 minutes until the dough turns elastic and smooth. It should feel soft and slightly tacky—this is the perfect texture for your donuts! -
Let it Rise
Place the dough into a lightly greased large bowl. Cover with a cloth and let it rise in a warm spot for 1 hour or until it doubles in size. This step is key to making those fluffy donuts! -
Prepare Baking Sheets
While the dough rises, line 1-2 baking sheets with parchment paper and dust lightly with flour. This will help prevent the donuts from sticking and make transferring easier. -
Shape the Donuts
Once risen, turn the dough onto a floured surface and roll it out to approximately 1/2-inch thickness. Use a 3-inch cutter to cut out donuts, and use a smaller cutter to cut holes in the center. -
Proof the Donuts
Transfer the shaped donuts to the prepared baking sheets and cover them loosely with plastic wrap. Let them proof for 45 minutes, allowing them to puff up beautifully. -
Make the Glaze
While the donuts are proofing, whisk together all glaze ingredients until smooth. For the strawberry glaze, pour half of the plain glaze into a separate bowl, adding blended strawberries and crushed freeze-dried strawberries, then mix until smooth. -
Heat the Oil
Fill a large pot or Dutch oven with oil and heat it on medium-high until it reaches 350°F-370°F. This hot oil will give your donuts that delicious golden color! -
Prepare for Frying
Line a wire cooling rack with paper towels to catch excess oil. -
Fry the Donuts
Carefully lower 3-4 donuts into the hot oil, frying them for about 1-2 minutes on each side or until they turn golden brown. Keep a close eye on them; it goes quick! -
Drain the Donuts
Once fried, transfer the donuts to the rack lined with paper towels and repeat with the remaining donuts. They’ll look so tempting—resist the urge to eat them just yet! -
Glaze the Donuts
Dip the warm donuts into your desired glaze(s), making sure to coat them well. Then, place them on a cooling rack or parchment paper to let the glaze set. -
Serve and Enjoy!
Finally, gather your loved ones, and serve these incredible donuts hot! Watch their faces light up with joy as they take that first heavenly bite.
Optional: Add some sprinkles or chopped nuts on top for an extra festive touch!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Expert Tips for Sourdough Krispy Kreme Donuts
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Check Yeast Freshness: Always ensure your yeast is active by checking its expiration date and looking for froth after mixing with warm milk. Stale yeast can lead to dough that won’t rise.
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Perfect Dough Texture: Avoid adding too much flour during kneading; the dough should be slightly tacky. This ensures your Sourdough Krispy Kreme Donuts remain light and fluffy.
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Temperature Control: Maintain oil temperature between 350°F-370°F while frying. Too hot can burn the outside while leaving the inside uncooked, and too cool can result in greasy donuts.
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Glazing Tip: Glaze while the donuts are still warm for better adhesion. This allows the glaze to soak into the donuts, making them even more delightful!
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Creative Variations: Feel free to swap out glazes or toppings based on your preferences. For a fruity twist, the strawberry glaze is a fantastic choice that complements the richness of these donuts beautifully.
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Make Ahead: If time is short, prepare the dough a day in advance and refrigerate it after the first rise. Shape and proof the donuts the next day for freshly fried treats in no time!
Make Ahead Options
These Sourdough Krispy Kreme Donuts are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the dough up to 24 hours in advance by following the first five steps of the recipe. After kneading, cover the dough tightly and refrigerate it. When you’re ready to enjoy fresh donuts, simply let the dough sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before rolling, shaping, and proofing. Additionally, the glaze can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days—just give it a good whisk before using. This strategic prep will save you time on busy mornings while ensuring your donuts remain just as delicious and delightful!
Sourdough Krispy Kreme Donuts Variations & Substitutions
Feel free to unleash your creativity in the kitchen with these customizable twists that will elevate your donut experience.
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Dairy-Free: Substitute milk with almond or oat milk, and use coconut oil instead of butter for an equally tasty treat.
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Gluten-Free: Replace all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free baking blend to ensure everyone can enjoy these delightful donuts.
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Sweet Spice: Add 1 teaspoon of cinnamon or nutmeg into the dough for a warm, aromatic flavor that enhances every bite.
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Chocolate Lovers: Incorporate cocoa powder into the dough or drizzle melted chocolate on top of the glazed donuts for a decadent twist.
Indulge in the rich contrast of chocolate and sweet glaze! Each bite will be an explosion of flavor that satisfies all your cravings.
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Zesty Citrus: Mix in the zest of one lemon or an orange into the dough for a refreshing flavor that brightens up the sweetness.
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Nutty Crunch: Top glazed donuts with chopped nuts or oat clusters for added texture and a delightful crunch that complements the softness.
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Spicy Kick: For those who love heat, add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the glaze for a surprising spicy finish that pairs wonderfully with the sweetness.
Explore these variations, and make your Sourdough Krispy Kreme Donuts truly your own!
What to Serve with Sourdough Krispy Kreme Donuts?
Indulging in freshly made donuts is a delightful experience, and pairing them with the right accompaniments can elevate your treat to new heights.
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Fresh Fruit Salad: Bright and refreshing, a mix of seasonal fruits offers a perfect contrast to the sweet, rich donuts and adds a burst of color to your plate.
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Flavored Coffee: Enhance the experience with a warm cup of flavored coffee; think vanilla or hazelnut to complement the sweetness of the donuts. The comforting aromas will make your morning feel truly special.
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Creamy Yogurt Parfait: Layering tangy yogurt with granola and berries provides a creamy texture that balances the sweetness of the donuts. This adds a wholesome touch to your breakfast spread.
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Chocolate Milk: Indulge your inner child with a glass of cold chocolate milk; its sweet richness pairs beautifully with the soft, pillowy donuts, creating a nostalgic treat for all ages.
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Ice Cream Scoop: For a decadent dessert, serve a scoop of vanilla or strawberry ice cream alongside your warm donuts. The melting ice cream adds an extra layer of indulgence that’s hard to resist.
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Maple Syrup Drizzle: A drizzle of pure maple syrup can enhance the flavors of the donuts and add a comforting, cozy feel to your snack time.
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Herbal Tea: For a lighter option, a warm cup of herbal tea, like chamomile or mint, offers a soothing complement to the sweetness of the donuts, providing balance in every bite.
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Nutty Granola Bars: If you want a more filling option, serve nutty granola bars alongside for a satisfying crunch that pairs well with the soft texture of the donuts.
These delightful pairings transform your Sourdough Krispy Kreme Donuts into the centerpiece of a fantastic meal or gathering, creating a joyful experience that sidesteps fast food cravings proudly!
Storage Tips for Sourdough Krispy Kreme Donuts
Room Temperature: Store cooled donuts in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days to maintain their freshness without becoming too dry.
Fridge: If you want to keep them longer, these donuts can be refrigerated for up to 5 days. Just be sure to place them in an airtight container to prevent them from absorbing moisture.
Freezer: For long-term storage, freeze unfrosted donuts in a sealed plastic bag or container for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply thaw them at room temperature and glaze them while they’re still slightly warm.
Reheating: Reheat in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds or in a preheated oven at 350°F for 5-10 minutes to restore their delightful texture before serving. Enjoy your Sourdough Krispy Kreme Donuts!
Sourdough Krispy Kreme Donuts Recipe FAQs
How can I tell if my sourdough discard is still good to use?
Absolutely! If your sourdough discard has been kept in the fridge, it should smell pleasantly sour and have a bubbly appearance. If you see any dark spots or it smells off, it’s best to discard it and start fresh.
How should I store my Sourdough Krispy Kreme Donuts?
To maintain their delightful texture, store cooled donuts in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. For longer storage, place them in the fridge where they can last up to 5 days.
Can I freeze Sourdough Krispy Kreme Donuts?
Yes! You can freeze unfrosted donuts for up to 2 months. Just place them in a sealed plastic bag or container, and when you’re ready to enjoy, thaw them at room temperature. For the best results, glaze them while still warm.
What should I do if my donuts turn out too greasy?
Very well! If your donuts are greasy, it could be due to frying at too low a temperature. Make sure the oil is between 350°F-370°F before adding your donuts. If this happens, allow them to drain on paper towels and try adjusting the heat next time.
Are these donuts safe for my pets?
It’s best to keep these Sourdough Krispy Kreme Donuts away from pets as they contain sugar and butter, which can be harmful to animals in large quantities. Always check with your vet regarding specific ingredients.
What can I use instead of all-purpose flour?
For an alternative, you could try using a gluten-free flour blend that’s designed for baking. Be aware that the texture and flavor might vary slightly. Make sure to check the packaging for substitution ratios, as they can differ!
Delicious Sourdough Krispy Kreme Donuts You Can Make at Home
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Activate the Yeast: Pour warm milk into a bowl, add 1 tablespoon of granulated sugar and sprinkle the yeast over the top. Let it sit for 3-5 minutes until frothy.
- Combine Ingredients: Add melted butter, sourdough discard, eggs, and remaining sugar to the yeast mixture. Whisk until well combined.
- Knead the Dough: Add flour and salt, knead for 5-6 minutes until elastic and smooth.
- Let it Rise: Place dough in a greased bowl, cover, and let it rise for 1 hour until doubled.
- Prepare Baking Sheets: Line baking sheets with parchment and dust with flour.
- Shape the Donuts: Roll out dough to 1/2-inch thickness, cut out donuts and holes.
- Proof the Donuts: Transfer donuts to baking sheets, cover with plastic wrap, and let proof for 45 minutes.
- Make the Glaze: Whisk together all glaze ingredients until smooth.
- Prepare for Frying: Heat oil in a pot until it reaches 350°F-370°F.
- Fry the Donuts: Fry donuts for 1-2 minutes on each side until golden brown.
- Drain the Donuts: Transfer fried donuts to paper towels to drain excess oil.
- Glaze the Donuts: Dip warm donuts into glaze and let set on a cooling rack.
- Serve and Enjoy: Gather loved ones and serve hot donuts.