Beyond the Glaze: Creative Krispy Kreme November Doughnut Recipes
November, a month synonymous with cozy sweaters, falling leaves, and the anticipation of Thanksgiving feasts, also brings a delightful array of seasonal flavors. Krispy Kreme often joins in the festivities with special doughnut releases that capture the essence of the season. But what if you could take those already delicious doughnuts and transform them into even more spectacular desserts and culinary creations? This article explores a range of creative recipes using Krispy Kreme’s November doughnuts (or similarly flavored alternatives if you’re reading this outside of November!). Get ready to venture beyond the glaze and discover the versatility of these sweet treats.
Understanding Krispy Kreme’s November Flavors (and Substitutions)
Krispy Kreme’s November offerings frequently include doughnuts infused with flavors like pumpkin spice, maple, pecan pie, and caramel apple. These flavors perfectly complement the autumnal vibe and provide a fantastic base for building upon. To make these recipes accessible year-round, we’ll also suggest readily available alternatives or how to recreate the flavors yourself.
* **Pumpkin Spice:** If pumpkin spice Krispy Kremes aren’t available, use regular glazed doughnuts and enhance them with pumpkin pie spice. You can also make a quick pumpkin glaze by mixing pumpkin puree, powdered sugar, milk, and pumpkin pie spice.
* **Maple:** Maple-glazed doughnuts are a great substitute or starting point. Alternatively, create a maple glaze using maple syrup, powdered sugar, and a touch of vanilla extract.
* **Pecan Pie:** While harder to replicate precisely, using a doughnut with nuts (like a glazed doughnut sprinkled with pecans) and a caramel drizzle will get you close.
* **Caramel Apple:** Green apple-flavored doughnuts are sometimes available. If not, you can use regular glazed doughnuts and create a caramel apple topping (recipe provided below).
Recipe 1: Krispy Kreme Doughnut Bread Pudding with Bourbon Caramel Sauce
This decadent bread pudding elevates the humble doughnut to a sophisticated dessert perfect for a Thanksgiving gathering or a cozy weekend treat. The bourbon caramel sauce adds a warm, boozy note that complements the doughnut flavors beautifully.
**Ingredients:**
* 6 Krispy Kreme doughnuts (a mix of pumpkin spice and maple works well), 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
* 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
* 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
* Pinch of salt
**For the Bourbon Caramel Sauce:**
* 1 cup granulated sugar
* 1/4 cup water
* 6 tablespoons (3 ounces) unsalted butter, cut into pieces
* 1/2 cup heavy cream
* 2 tablespoons bourbon (or substitute with vanilla extract for a non-alcoholic version)
* Pinch of salt
**Instructions:**
1. **Prepare the Doughnut Cubes:** Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9×13 inch baking dish. Spread the doughnut cubes evenly in the prepared dish.
2. **Make the Custard:** In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, heavy cream, sugar, vanilla extract, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt until well combined.
3. **Soak the Doughnuts:** Pour the custard mixture evenly over the doughnut cubes, pressing down gently to ensure the doughnuts are soaked. Let the mixture sit for at least 30 minutes (or up to an hour) to allow the doughnuts to absorb the custard.
4. **Bake the Bread Pudding:** Cover the baking dish with foil and bake for 30 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the bread pudding is golden brown and set.
5. **Make the Bourbon Caramel Sauce:** While the bread pudding is baking, prepare the caramel sauce. In a medium saucepan, combine the sugar and water. Cook over medium heat, without stirring, until the sugar dissolves and turns into a deep amber color. This will take about 5-7 minutes. Watch carefully to prevent burning.
6. **Add Butter and Cream:** Remove the saucepan from the heat and carefully whisk in the butter until melted and smooth. Gradually whisk in the heavy cream. Be careful, as the mixture will bubble up.
7. **Stir in Bourbon and Salt:** Stir in the bourbon (or vanilla extract) and salt. Return the saucepan to low heat and cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly, until the sauce is smooth and slightly thickened.
8. **Serve:** Let the bread pudding cool slightly before serving. Drizzle generously with the bourbon caramel sauce. Enjoy warm!
Recipe 2: Krispy Kreme Doughnut Trifle with Caramel Apple Compote
This trifle is a show-stopping dessert that’s surprisingly easy to assemble. The layers of doughnuts, caramel apple compote, whipped cream, and crunchy pecans create a delightful textural and flavor experience.
**Ingredients:**
* 6 Krispy Kreme doughnuts (caramel apple or plain glazed), cut into bite-sized pieces
* 4 cups whipped cream (store-bought or homemade)
* 1 cup caramel apple compote (recipe below)
* 1/2 cup toasted pecans, chopped
* Optional: Caramel sauce for drizzling
**For the Caramel Apple Compote:**
* 3 medium apples (Granny Smith or Honeycrisp), peeled, cored, and diced
* 1/4 cup brown sugar
* 2 tablespoons butter
* 1/4 cup apple cider or apple juice
* 1 teaspoon cinnamon
* 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
* Pinch of salt
**Instructions:**
1. **Prepare the Caramel Apple Compote:** In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the diced apples and cook for 5-7 minutes, until slightly softened.
2. **Add Sugar and Spices:** Stir in the brown sugar, apple cider (or juice), cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt. Bring to a simmer and cook for 5-10 minutes, or until the apples are tender and the sauce has thickened slightly. Let cool completely.
3. **Assemble the Trifle:** In a large trifle bowl or individual dessert cups, layer the doughnut pieces, caramel apple compote, whipped cream, and toasted pecans. Repeat the layers until all the ingredients are used, finishing with a layer of whipped cream and pecans.
4. **Chill and Serve:** Cover the trifle and chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld. Drizzle with caramel sauce before serving, if desired.
Recipe 3: Pumpkin Spice Doughnut French Toast Casserole
Transform leftover (or freshly bought!) pumpkin spice doughnuts into a comforting and easy breakfast casserole. This is a great way to use up doughnuts and creates a flavorful and satisfying start to the day.
**Ingredients:**
* 6 Pumpkin Spice Krispy Kreme Doughnuts (or regular glazed doughnuts with pumpkin spice seasoning), cut into 1-inch cubes
* 6 large eggs
* 1 1/2 cups milk
* 1/2 cup heavy cream
* 1/4 cup packed brown sugar
* 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
* 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
* 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
* Pinch of salt
* Optional: Maple syrup or powdered sugar for serving
**Instructions:**
1. **Prepare the Doughnut Cubes:** Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish. Spread the doughnut cubes evenly in the prepared dish.
2. **Make the Custard:** In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, heavy cream, brown sugar, vanilla extract, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt until well combined.
3. **Soak the Doughnuts:** Pour the custard mixture evenly over the doughnut cubes, pressing down gently to ensure the doughnuts are soaked. Cover the dish and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, or preferably overnight.
4. **Bake the Casserole:** Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the casserole, uncovered, for 30-40 minutes, or until it is golden brown and the custard is set.
5. **Serve:** Let the casserole cool slightly before serving. Drizzle with maple syrup or sprinkle with powdered sugar, if desired. Enjoy warm!
Recipe 4: Maple Doughnut Grilled Cheese Sandwich
Yes, you read that right! This savory-sweet combination is surprisingly delicious. The sweetness of the maple doughnut complements the savory cheese, creating a unique and satisfying grilled cheese experience.
**Ingredients:**
* 2 Maple Krispy Kreme Doughnuts (or regular glazed doughnuts with maple glaze), sliced in half horizontally
* 2 slices of cheddar cheese (or your favorite cheese)
* 2 tablespoons butter, softened
**Instructions:**
1. **Prepare the Doughnuts and Cheese:** Spread butter on the outside of the doughnut halves. Place a slice of cheese between the doughnut halves.
2. **Grill the Sandwich:** Heat a skillet over medium heat. Place the sandwich in the skillet and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, or until the doughnuts are golden brown and the cheese is melted and gooey.
3. **Serve:** Cut the sandwich in half and serve immediately. Enjoy this surprisingly delicious savory-sweet treat!
Recipe 5: Krispy Kreme Doughnut Ice Cream Sandwiches
This is the ultimate easy dessert! Simply slice doughnuts in half and sandwich your favorite ice cream in between. The perfect way to cool down after a warm meal.
**Ingredients:**
* Krispy Kreme Doughnuts (any flavor works!), sliced in half horizontally
* Your favorite ice cream (vanilla, chocolate, or pumpkin spice are great choices)
* Optional: Sprinkles, chocolate sauce, caramel sauce, chopped nuts
**Instructions:**
1. **Soften the Ice Cream:** Let the ice cream soften slightly at room temperature for a few minutes to make it easier to spread.
2. **Assemble the Sandwiches:** Spread a generous scoop of ice cream on one half of a doughnut. Top with the other half of the doughnut.
3. **Add Toppings (Optional):** Roll the edges of the ice cream sandwich in sprinkles, drizzle with chocolate sauce or caramel sauce, or sprinkle with chopped nuts.
4. **Freeze (Optional):** For a firmer ice cream sandwich, wrap each sandwich in plastic wrap and freeze for at least 30 minutes.
5. **Serve:** Enjoy immediately!
Recipe 6: Doughnut Hole Turkeys (Perfect for Thanksgiving!)
These adorable doughnut hole turkeys are a fun and festive treat to make with kids for Thanksgiving. They’re simple to assemble and guaranteed to bring smiles.
**Ingredients:**
* Doughnut holes (glazed or chocolate)
* Candy corn
* Mini chocolate chips
* Orange or red icing (in a piping bag or with a small tip)
* Pretzel sticks, broken in half
**Instructions:**
1. **Attach the Feathers:** Insert candy corn pieces into the back of each doughnut hole to create the turkey’s feathers.
2. **Add the Eyes:** Use a dab of icing to attach two mini chocolate chips to the front of the doughnut hole for the eyes.
3. **Create the Beak and Wattle:** Use orange or red icing to pipe a small beak and wattle below the eyes.
4. **Add the Legs:** Insert two broken pretzel sticks into the bottom of each doughnut hole for the legs.
5. **Serve:** Arrange the doughnut hole turkeys on a platter and serve. These are sure to be a hit with kids and adults alike!
Recipe 7: Krispy Kreme Doughnut Parfaits
A light and delightful dessert that is simple to make and visually appealing. This parfait combines the sweetness of doughnuts with the freshness of yogurt and the crunch of granola.
**Ingredients:**
* Krispy Kreme Doughnuts (any flavor), cut into small pieces
* Greek Yogurt (vanilla or plain)
* Granola
* Fresh Berries (strawberries, blueberries, raspberries)
* Optional: Honey or maple syrup for drizzling
**Instructions:**
1. **Prepare Ingredients:** Cut the Krispy Kreme doughnuts into small, bite-sized pieces. Wash and prepare the fresh berries.
2. **Layer the Parfait:** In a glass or parfait cup, start with a layer of Greek yogurt. Add a layer of doughnut pieces, followed by a layer of granola and fresh berries.
3. **Repeat Layers:** Repeat the layers until the glass is full, finishing with a layer of berries and a drizzle of honey or maple syrup, if desired.
4. **Chill and Serve:** Chill the parfaits in the refrigerator for at least 15 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld.
Recipe 8: Leftover Doughnut Croutons
Don’t let those leftover doughnuts go to waste! Turn them into sweet and crunchy croutons for salads or even as a topping for ice cream.
**Ingredients:**
* Leftover Krispy Kreme Doughnuts, cut into 1/2-inch cubes
* 2 tablespoons melted butter (optional)
* Cinnamon sugar (optional)
**Instructions:**
1. **Preheat Oven:** Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C).
2. **Prepare Doughnut Cubes:** Spread the doughnut cubes on a baking sheet in a single layer.
3. **Bake:** Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the croutons are dry and crispy, flipping halfway through.
4. **Add Flavor (Optional):** While the croutons are still warm, drizzle with melted butter and sprinkle with cinnamon sugar.
5. **Cool and Store:** Let the croutons cool completely before storing them in an airtight container.
Recipe 9: Doughnut Milkshake
Indulge in a creamy and decadent milkshake made with your favorite Krispy Kreme doughnut. This is a quick and easy treat for any doughnut lover.
**Ingredients:**
* 1 Krispy Kreme Doughnut (any flavor)
* 2 scoops vanilla ice cream
* 1/2 cup milk
* Optional: Whipped cream, sprinkles, chocolate sauce for topping
**Instructions:**
1. **Combine Ingredients:** In a blender, combine the doughnut, vanilla ice cream, and milk.
2. **Blend:** Blend until smooth and creamy.
3. **Pour and Top:** Pour the milkshake into a glass. Top with whipped cream, sprinkles, or chocolate sauce, if desired.
4. **Serve:** Enjoy immediately!
Recipe 10: Krispy Kreme Doughnut Cake Pops
Cake pops made easy! These doughnut cake pops require no baking and are perfect for parties or as a fun activity with kids.
**Ingredients:**
* Krispy Kreme Doughnuts (any flavor), crumbled
* Cream cheese frosting
* Melting chocolate (various colors)
* Lollipop sticks
* Sprinkles or other decorations
**Instructions:**
1. **Combine Doughnut and Frosting:** In a bowl, combine the crumbled doughnuts and cream cheese frosting. Mix well until a dough-like consistency is formed.
2. **Shape into Balls:** Roll the mixture into small balls.
3. **Insert Lollipop Sticks:** Dip the tip of a lollipop stick into the melted chocolate and insert it into the center of each doughnut ball. This helps the stick stay in place.
4. **Chill:** Place the doughnut balls on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and chill in the freezer for at least 30 minutes.
5. **Dip in Chocolate:** Melt the melting chocolate according to package instructions. Dip each doughnut ball into the melted chocolate, coating it completely.
6. **Decorate:** Before the chocolate sets, decorate with sprinkles, chocolate shavings, or other decorations.
7. **Let Set:** Place the cake pops back on the baking sheet and let the chocolate set completely.
8. **Serve:** Serve and enjoy these delicious and easy doughnut cake pops!
These recipes offer a glimpse into the versatility of Krispy Kreme doughnuts, especially the special November flavors. Whether you’re looking for a sophisticated dessert or a fun treat to make with kids, there’s a doughnut-inspired recipe for everyone. So, grab a box of your favorite Krispy Kremes and get creative in the kitchen!