Beyond the Box: Creative Recipes Using Costco Krispy Kreme Doughnuts
Costco’s Krispy Kreme doughnuts. Those glazed rings of sugary perfection. A siren song to anyone wandering the aisles, they beckon with their glossy sheen and the promise of a sweet indulgence. But what happens when you buy that colossal box, and the initial excitement starts to wane? Do you resign yourself to eating them plain, day after day? Absolutely not! These doughnuts are a blank canvas, begging to be transformed into culinary masterpieces. Prepare to unleash your inner pastry chef and discover a world of delicious possibilities beyond simply eating them straight from the box. This article will guide you through several creative and surprisingly easy recipes that elevate Costco Krispy Kreme doughnuts from a simple treat to the star ingredient of delightful desserts and even savory surprises.
Why Costco Krispy Kreme Doughnuts are Perfect for Recipes
Before we dive into the recipes, let’s explore why these doughnuts are particularly well-suited for culinary experimentation:
* **Texture:** The light and airy texture of Krispy Kreme doughnuts makes them incredibly versatile. They absorb flavors well without becoming soggy, and they can be easily manipulated into different shapes.
* **Sweetness:** Their inherent sweetness provides a perfect base for both sweet and savory dishes. You can easily balance the sweetness with other ingredients to create complex and satisfying flavor profiles.
* **Availability:** Let’s be honest, if you have a Costco membership, these doughnuts are readily available and relatively inexpensive. This makes them a perfect pantry staple for impromptu baking adventures.
* **Nostalgia:** There’s a certain nostalgic charm associated with Krispy Kreme doughnuts. They evoke feelings of childhood, special occasions, and simple pleasures, which can add an extra layer of enjoyment to your creations.
Recipe 1: Krispy Kreme Doughnut Bread Pudding
This is a classic dessert that gets a major upgrade with the addition of Krispy Kreme doughnuts. The doughnuts soak up the custard beautifully, creating a rich and decadent bread pudding with a hint of doughnut glaze.
**Ingredients:**
* 6-8 Costco Krispy Kreme Doughnuts, cut into 1-inch cubes
* 4 large eggs
* 2 cups whole milk
* 1 cup heavy cream
* 1/2 cup granulated sugar
* 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
* 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
* Pinch of salt
* Optional: 1/2 cup raisins, chocolate chips, or chopped nuts
**Instructions:**
1. **Prepare the Doughnuts:** Cut the doughnuts into 1-inch cubes and spread them out on a baking sheet. Let them sit out for about 30 minutes to dry out slightly. This will help them absorb the custard better.
2. **Make the Custard:** In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, heavy cream, sugar, vanilla extract, cinnamon, and salt until well combined.
3. **Combine Doughnuts and Custard:** Place the doughnut cubes in a greased 9×13 inch baking dish. Pour the custard mixture evenly over the doughnuts, making sure they are all soaked. Gently press down on the doughnuts to submerge them in the custard. If using, sprinkle raisins, chocolate chips, or chopped nuts over the top.
4. **Rest (Important!):** Cover the baking dish with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or preferably overnight. This allows the doughnuts to fully absorb the custard and creates a more flavorful and moist bread pudding.
5. **Bake:** Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Remove the plastic wrap from the baking dish and bake for 45-55 minutes, or until the bread pudding is golden brown and set. A knife inserted into the center should come out clean.
6. **Cool and Serve:** Let the bread pudding cool slightly before serving. You can serve it warm or at room temperature. Top with a dusting of powdered sugar, a scoop of vanilla ice cream, or a drizzle of caramel sauce, if desired.
**Tips and Variations:**
* **Add-ins:** Get creative with your add-ins! Try dried cranberries, chopped apples, or even a splash of bourbon to the custard.
* **Spice it up:** Experiment with different spices like nutmeg, cardamom, or ginger.
* **Chocolate Lover’s Delight:** Use chocolate Krispy Kreme doughnuts and add chocolate chips to the custard for an extra-rich chocolate bread pudding.
* **Caramel Sauce:** Drizzle with homemade or store-bought caramel sauce for an extra layer of indulgence. A salted caramel would be especially delicious to balance the sweetness.
Recipe 2: Krispy Kreme Doughnut French Toast
Why settle for ordinary French toast when you can have Krispy Kreme French toast? This recipe transforms the classic breakfast dish into a truly decadent treat. The doughnuts create a soft and fluffy texture with a hint of glaze that will make your mornings extra special.
**Ingredients:**
* 4-6 Costco Krispy Kreme Doughnuts, sliced in half horizontally
* 2 large eggs
* 1/2 cup milk
* 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
* Pinch of salt
* Butter, for greasing the pan
* Optional: Powdered sugar, maple syrup, fresh berries, for serving
**Instructions:**
1. **Prepare the Doughnuts:** Slice the doughnuts in half horizontally.
2. **Make the Custard:** In a shallow dish, whisk together the eggs, milk, vanilla extract, and salt until well combined.
3. **Soak the Doughnuts:** Dip each doughnut half into the custard mixture, making sure both sides are well coated. Let the doughnuts soak for a few seconds on each side, but don’t oversoak them, or they will become too soggy.
4. **Cook the French Toast:** Heat a lightly buttered griddle or frying pan over medium heat. Cook the doughnut halves for 2-3 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through.
5. **Serve:** Serve immediately with your favorite toppings. Dust with powdered sugar, drizzle with maple syrup, and top with fresh berries, if desired.
**Tips and Variations:**
* **Don’t Oversoak:** The key to perfect Krispy Kreme French toast is to avoid oversoaking the doughnuts. They are already very soft, so they only need a brief dip in the custard.
* **Low and Slow:** Cook the French toast over medium heat to ensure that the doughnuts cook through without burning.
* **Cinnamon Sugar:** Add a pinch of cinnamon sugar to the custard for extra flavor.
* **Savory Twist:** Try dipping the doughnuts in a savory custard made with eggs, milk, cheese, and herbs for a unique savory French toast.
Recipe 3: Krispy Kreme Doughnut Ice Cream Sandwiches
This recipe is ridiculously easy and incredibly satisfying. It’s the perfect way to cool down on a hot day and indulge in a sweet treat. The combination of the soft doughnuts and cold ice cream is simply irresistible.
**Ingredients:**
* Costco Krispy Kreme Doughnuts, sliced in half horizontally
* Your favorite ice cream (vanilla, chocolate, strawberry, or coffee all work well)
* Optional: Sprinkles, chocolate chips, chopped nuts, for rolling
**Instructions:**
1. **Prepare the Doughnuts:** Slice the doughnuts in half horizontally.
2. **Soften the Ice Cream:** Let the ice cream soften slightly at room temperature for a few minutes, making it easier to spread.
3. **Assemble the Sandwiches:** Spread a generous scoop of ice cream onto the bottom half of a doughnut. Top with the other half of the doughnut. Press gently to secure.
4. **Roll in Toppings (Optional):** If desired, roll the edges of the ice cream sandwich in sprinkles, chocolate chips, or chopped nuts.
5. **Freeze:** Wrap each ice cream sandwich in plastic wrap and freeze for at least 30 minutes to allow the ice cream to firm up.
6. **Serve:** Serve straight from the freezer and enjoy!
**Tips and Variations:**
* **Experiment with Flavors:** Try different combinations of doughnut flavors and ice cream flavors to create your perfect ice cream sandwich.
* **Gourmet Ice Cream:** Use high-quality gourmet ice cream for an extra-special treat.
* **Doughnut Holes:** Use Krispy Kreme doughnut holes instead of sliced doughnuts for mini ice cream sandwiches.
* **Chocolate Dipped:** Dip the ice cream sandwiches in melted chocolate and then roll them in toppings for an even more decadent treat.
Recipe 4: Krispy Kreme Doughnut Trifle
A trifle is a layered dessert that’s as beautiful as it is delicious. This recipe uses Krispy Kreme doughnuts as the base, creating a soft and sweet foundation for layers of fruit, custard, and whipped cream. It’s a show-stopping dessert that’s perfect for parties and special occasions.
**Ingredients:**
* 8-10 Costco Krispy Kreme Doughnuts, cut into 1-inch pieces
* 1 (3.4 ounce) package instant vanilla pudding mix
* 2 cups cold milk
* 1 (8 ounce) container whipped topping, thawed
* 1 pint fresh berries (strawberries, blueberries, raspberries), sliced
* Optional: Chocolate shavings, chopped nuts, for garnish
**Instructions:**
1. **Prepare the Doughnuts:** Cut the doughnuts into 1-inch pieces.
2. **Make the Pudding:** In a medium bowl, whisk together the instant vanilla pudding mix and cold milk until smooth. Let stand for 5 minutes to thicken.
3. **Assemble the Trifle:** In a large trifle bowl or glass serving dish, layer the ingredients in the following order:
* A layer of doughnut pieces
* A layer of pudding
* A layer of whipped topping
* A layer of fresh berries
4. **Repeat Layers:** Repeat the layers until all the ingredients are used, ending with a layer of whipped topping and berries.
5. **Garnish (Optional):** Garnish with chocolate shavings and chopped nuts, if desired.
6. **Chill:** Cover the trifle and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or preferably overnight, to allow the flavors to meld.
7. **Serve:** Serve chilled and enjoy!
**Tips and Variations:**
* **Different Pudding Flavors:** Experiment with different pudding flavors, such as chocolate, butterscotch, or banana cream.
* **Other Fruits:** Use your favorite fruits in the trifle, such as peaches, kiwi, or mango.
* **Cake Instead of Doughnuts:** If you don’t have doughnuts on hand, you can use pound cake or angel food cake instead.
* **Liquor Infused:** Add a splash of liquor, such as rum or brandy, to the pudding or whipped cream for an extra kick.
Recipe 5: Krispy Kreme Doughnut Grilled Cheese (Yes, Really!)
This recipe might sound crazy, but trust us, it works! The sweetness of the doughnuts complements the savory cheese beautifully, creating a surprisingly delicious and addictive grilled cheese sandwich. It’s a fun and unexpected twist on a classic comfort food.
**Ingredients:**
* 2 Costco Krispy Kreme Doughnuts, sliced in half horizontally
* 2 slices cheddar cheese (or your favorite cheese)
* 2 tablespoons butter, softened
**Instructions:**
1. **Prepare the Doughnuts:** Slice the doughnuts in half horizontally.
2. **Assemble the Sandwich:** Place one slice of cheese between the two halves of a doughnut.
3. **Butter the Doughnuts:** Spread softened butter on the outside of both doughnut halves.
4. **Grill the Sandwich:** Heat a griddle or frying pan over medium heat. Place the sandwich in the pan and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, or until golden brown and the cheese is melted and gooey.
5. **Serve:** Serve immediately and enjoy!
**Tips and Variations:**
* **Different Cheeses:** Experiment with different cheeses, such as brie, Gruyere, or provolone.
* **Add Bacon:** Add cooked bacon to the sandwich for an extra layer of flavor.
* **Sweet and Spicy:** Add a drizzle of hot sauce or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for a sweet and spicy kick.
* **Savory Spread:** Instead of butter, try spreading the outside of the doughnuts with a savory spread, such as garlic butter or pesto.
Recipe 6: Doughnut Croutons
Turn stale doughnuts into delicious croutons for salads or soups. The subtle sweetness adds a unique flavor dimension.
**Ingredients:**
* Stale Costco Krispy Kreme Doughnuts, cut into 1/2-inch cubes
* 2 tablespoons olive oil
* 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
* 1/4 teaspoon onion powder
* Pinch of salt and pepper
**Instructions:**
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Toss doughnut cubes with olive oil, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
3. Spread on a baking sheet in a single layer.
4. Bake for 10-15 minutes, or until golden brown and crispy, flipping halfway through.
5. Let cool completely before storing in an airtight container.
**Tips and Variations:**
* Use different herbs and spices, like Italian seasoning or paprika.
* For sweeter croutons, skip the garlic and onion powder and sprinkle with cinnamon sugar after baking.
Recipe 7: Krispy Kreme Doughnut Smoothie
Blend a doughnut into your smoothie for a surprisingly delicious and indulgent treat.
**Ingredients:**
* 1 Costco Krispy Kreme Doughnut, broken into pieces
* 1/2 cup milk (dairy or non-dairy)
* 1/2 banana, frozen
* 1/4 cup yogurt (optional)
* Ice cubes, as needed
**Instructions:**
1. Combine all ingredients in a blender.
2. Blend until smooth, adding more milk if needed to reach desired consistency.
3. Add ice cubes for a thicker smoothie.
4. Pour into a glass and enjoy immediately.
**Tips and Variations:**
* Add protein powder for a more filling smoothie.
* Use different fruits, like berries or mango.
* Add a drizzle of chocolate syrup for extra sweetness.
Recipe 8: Doughnut Cake Pops
Transform leftover doughnuts into adorable cake pops. These are perfect for parties and a fun activity to do with kids.
**Ingredients:**
* Costco Krispy Kreme Doughnuts, crumbled
* 1/4 cup cream cheese, softened
* Candy melts (various colors)
* Lollipop sticks
* Sprinkles or other decorations
**Instructions:**
1. In a bowl, combine crumbled doughnuts and softened cream cheese. Mix well until a dough forms.
2. Roll the dough into small balls.
3. Melt candy melts according to package directions.
4. Dip the tip of a lollipop stick into the melted candy and insert it into a doughnut ball.
5. Dip the entire doughnut ball into the melted candy, coating completely.
6. Add sprinkles or other decorations before the candy hardens.
7. Place the cake pops in a styrofoam block to dry completely.
**Tips and Variations:**
* Use different colored candy melts for a variety of cake pops.
* Add food coloring to white candy melts to create custom colors.
* Dip the cake pops in chocolate and then roll them in crushed nuts or sprinkles.
Recipe 9: Krispy Kreme Doughnut Pudding Parfaits
Similar to a trifle, but easier to assemble in individual glasses.
**Ingredients:**
* Costco Krispy Kreme Doughnuts, cubed
* Vanilla pudding (instant or homemade)
* Whipped cream
* Berries or other fruit
**Instructions:**
1. Layer cubed doughnuts, pudding, whipped cream, and fruit in individual glasses or parfait dishes.
2. Repeat layers until the glass is full.
3. Chill for at least 30 minutes before serving.
**Tips and Variations:**
* Use different flavors of pudding to match the fruit.
* Add granola for a crunchy layer.
* Drizzle with chocolate or caramel sauce.
Recipe 10: Doughnut Ice Cream Bowl Sundae
A fun and easy way to enjoy a sundae, using a doughnut as the bowl!
**Ingredients:**
* Costco Krispy Kreme Doughnuts
* Ice cream (your favorite flavor)
* Chocolate syrup
* Sprinkles
* Whipped cream (optional)
* Cherry (optional)
**Instructions:**
1. Slice a doughnut in half horizontally.
2. Scoop ice cream onto the bottom half of the doughnut.
3. Drizzle with chocolate syrup and sprinkle with sprinkles.
4. Add whipped cream and a cherry on top (optional).
5. Top with the other half of the doughnut and enjoy!
**Tips and Variations:**
* Toast the doughnut halves lightly before adding the ice cream for a warm and crispy base.
* Use different toppings like crushed cookies, chopped nuts, or fresh fruit.
* Drizzle with caramel sauce or hot fudge instead of chocolate syrup.
Recipe 11: Krispy Kreme Doughnut Breakfast Casserole
This is a sweeter, more decadent take on traditional breakfast casserole. It is perfect for brunch or a special occasion.
**Ingredients:**
* 6-8 Costco Krispy Kreme Doughnuts, cut into 1-inch cubes
* 6 eggs
* 1 cup milk
* 1/2 cup heavy cream
* 1/4 cup sugar
* 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
* 1/4 teaspoon cinnamon
* 1/2 cup blueberries
* 1/2 cup raspberries
**Instructions:**
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, heavy cream, sugar, vanilla extract, and cinnamon.
3. Add the doughnut cubes, blueberries, and raspberries to the egg mixture. Gently stir to combine.
4. Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish.
5. Bake for 35-40 minutes, or until the casserole is set and golden brown.
6. Let cool slightly before serving.
**Tips and Variations:**
* Add chopped nuts or chocolate chips for extra flavor and texture.
* Use different berries or fruits depending on your preference.
* Drizzle with maple syrup or powdered sugar before serving.
Recipe 12: Krispy Kreme Doughnut Pizza
This is a fun and crazy recipe that’s sure to impress! It’s like a giant doughnut cookie pizza.
**Ingredients:**
* Costco Krispy Kreme Doughnuts (enough to cover a pizza pan)
* Cream cheese frosting
* Fresh fruit (strawberries, blueberries, kiwi, etc.)
* Chocolate shavings (optional)
* Sprinkles (optional)
**Instructions:**
1. Arrange the doughnuts on a pizza pan to form a solid base.
2. Spread a layer of cream cheese frosting over the doughnuts.
3. Arrange fresh fruit on top of the frosting.
4. Sprinkle with chocolate shavings and sprinkles (optional).
5. Slice and serve immediately.
**Tips and Variations:**
* Use different types of frosting, like chocolate or vanilla.
* Add nuts or coconut flakes for extra flavor and texture.
* Create a themed pizza with different colors and toppings.
Beyond the Recipes: Storage Tips for Your Costco Doughnuts
To maintain the freshness of your Costco Krispy Kreme doughnuts, especially if you’re not planning to use them immediately in a recipe, proper storage is key:
* **Airtight Container:** The most important thing is to store the doughnuts in an airtight container at room temperature. This will prevent them from drying out.
* **Freezing:** For longer storage, you can freeze the doughnuts. Wrap each doughnut individually in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer bag. They can be frozen for up to 2-3 months. To thaw, simply remove them from the freezer and let them thaw at room temperature for about 30 minutes.
* **Microwave Reheating:** If you want to warm up a doughnut, you can microwave it for a few seconds. Be careful not to overheat it, or it will become tough.
Final Thoughts
So, the next time you find yourself with a box of Costco Krispy Kreme doughnuts, remember that you have a world of culinary possibilities at your fingertips. From decadent bread pudding to surprisingly delicious grilled cheese, these recipes will transform your doughnuts into unforgettable treats. Get creative, experiment with different flavors, and most importantly, have fun! The possibilities are endless when you unleash your inner pastry chef and embrace the versatility of the humble Krispy Kreme doughnut. Enjoy the sweet adventure!