Sourdough Krispy Kreme Donuts
These Sourdough Krispy Kreme Donuts are soft, fluffy, and melt-in-your-mouth tender, with a subtle tang from sourdough discard or active sourdough starter that adds incredible depth of flavor. They’re fried to golden, pillowy perfection and coated in a classic vanilla glaze or a sweet strawberry glaze. Whether you're craving a nostalgic treat or want to use up your sourdough discard, these donuts are the perfect bakery-style indulgence made right at home.
If you try out this recipe, I’d love to see it! Leave a comment with a star rating below and tag @wellmadebykiley on Instagram and hashtag it #wellmadebykiley
Ingredients You Need:
Full ingredients and recipe are in the recipe card below. Read through this section for all the ingredients substitution and baking tips!
Milk
Granulated sugar
Active dry yeast
Salted butter
Sourdough discard or active starter
Eggs
All-purpose flour
Salt
Powdered sugar
Heavy cream
Vanilla extract
Salt
Blended strawberries
Freeze-dried strawberries
Why You’ll Love Sourdough Krispy Kreme Donuts:
Soft and Fluffy Texture: These donuts have that signature pillowy interior you love from Krispy Kreme—thanks to the sourdough dough that's perfectly proofed and fried.
Made with Sourdough Discard or Starter: A great way to use your sourdough discard or active starter, adding a subtle tang that balances the sweetness.
Golden and Crispy Exterior: Fried to perfection, each donut has a light, golden crust that gives just the right bite before melting in your mouth.
Custom Glaze Options: Choose between a classic vanilla glaze or a fruity, vibrant strawberry glaze—both shiny and sweet.
Better Than Store-Bought: These homemade sourdough donuts are fresher, richer, and more flavorful than anything you'd get from a drive-thru
Great for Sourdough Bakers: If you're maintaining a starter, this is a fun and indulgent recipe to add to your sourdough rotation.
Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it's a weekend treat, brunch centerpiece, or a homemade gift, these donuts will impress every time.
Tips for Making Sourdough Krispy Kreme Donuts:
Use a Fed or Active Starter for a Stronger Rise: If you want maximum fluffiness, use an active sourdough starter. Discard will still work great, but the dough may need a slightly longer rise.
Let the Dough Rise Until Doubled: Don’t rush the proofing process—make sure the dough has doubled in size before rolling it out. This ensures a light, airy texture.
Cut with Light Pressure: Use a floured donut cutter or cookie cutter and press straight down—don’t twist. Twisting can seal the edges and prevent even puffing during frying.
Fry at the Right Temperature: Keep your oil between 350°F and 365°F. Too low, and the donuts will absorb oil and become greasy; too high, and they’ll brown too fast without cooking through.
Don’t Overcrowd the Pot: Fry a few donuts at a time to maintain consistent oil temperature and ensure even cooking.
Glaze While Warm: Dip the donuts in glaze while they’re still slightly warm so it sets into that beautiful shiny coating.
Strawberry Glaze Tip: For the strawberry glaze, use fresh strawberry puree and freeze-dried strawberry powder for the most intense flavor and vibrant color.
Cool on a Wire Rack: Place glazed donuts on a wire rack over a sheet tray to let excess glaze drip off and prevent sogginess.
Eat the Same Day for Best Texture: These donuts are best enjoyed the day they’re made for peak fluffiness and crisp glaze.
How to Store Sourdough Krispy Kreme Donuts:
Room Temperature (Best for Same-Day Enjoyment): Store glazed donuts in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 day. This helps maintain their fluffy texture and prevents the glaze from getting too sticky.
Refrigerator (Short-Term Storage): If storing longer than a day, place the donuts in a single layer in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Keep in mind the glaze may lose its shine and the texture may firm up slightly.
Freezer (Best for Un-glazed Donuts): For longer storage, freeze un-glazed donuts in a single layer on a baking sheet. Once frozen, transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container for up to 2 months. Thaw at room temperature and warm in the oven before glazing and serving.
Reheating Tips: To refresh donuts, warm them in a 300°F oven for 5–7 minutes. If already glazed, reheat briefly and expect a softer glaze texture. For a crispier finish, reheat un-glazed donuts and glaze after warming.
Strawberry Glazed Donuts: These are best enjoyed fresh, as the fruit glaze may soften the exterior over time. If storing, place parchment between layers and refrigerate for up to 2 days.
FAQs:
Q: Can I use active sourdough starter instead of discard?
A: Yes! You can use either active sourdough starter or sourdough discard in this recipe. Active starter may give the dough a slightly quicker rise, while discard adds that subtle tangy flavor.
Q: How long does the dough need to rise?
A: The dough typically needs about 1 hour to rise in a warm environment, or you can cold-proof it overnight in the fridge for more flavor and flexibility in timing.
Q: Can I bake these donuts instead of frying?
A: These donuts are best when fried for that classic crispy-on-the-outside, fluffy-on-the-inside texture. Baking them will result in a denser, bread-like texture—not quite the Krispy Kreme vibe!
Q: What oil is best for frying?
A: Neutral oils like avocado and coconut t oil are great for frying these donuts. Heat the oil to 350°F for the best golden finish.
Q: How do I make the strawberry glaze?
A: The strawberry glaze is made by mixing powdered sugar with strawberry puree or freeze-dried strawberry powder and a splash of milk or vanilla extract until smooth.
Q: Can I make the dough ahead of time?
A: Yes! After the first rise, the dough can be covered and refrigerated overnight. Shape and proof the donuts the next day before frying.
Q: Can I freeze these donuts?
A: Yes—it's best to freeze them before glazing. Let them cool completely after frying, then freeze in a single layer before transferring to a sealed container or bag. Reheat and glaze before serving.
Q: Do I need a stand mixer for this recipe?
A: A stand mixer makes kneading easier, but you can absolutely knead the dough by hand until smooth and elastic—about 8–10 minutes.
Q: What’s the best way to store glazed donuts?
A: Store them in a single layer in an airtight container at room temperature for 1 day or refrigerate for up to 3 days. Note: the glaze may become slightly sticky over time.
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Make sure to tag me @wellmadebykiley on Instagram and leave a review or comment if you make these sourdough krispy kreme donuts. Happy baking!
