Beyond the Glaze: Creative Recipes Inspired by Krispy Kreme’s 13-Cent Dozen Deal
Krispy Kreme’s 13-cent dozen deal is more than just a sweet promotion; it’s a culinary opportunity! While enjoying a classic glazed donut is always a treat, this incredible offer provides the perfect excuse to get creative in the kitchen. This article will explore a variety of fun and delicious recipes that go beyond the usual donut experience, transforming your Krispy Kreme haul into exciting dishes for breakfast, brunch, dessert, and even savory snacks. Get ready to elevate your donut game!
Understanding the 13-Cent Dozen Deal
Before diving into the recipes, let’s quickly recap the Krispy Kreme 13-cent dozen deal. Typically offered as a birthday promotion or special anniversary celebration, this offer allows customers to purchase a second dozen Original Glazed donuts for just 13 cents with the purchase of any regularly priced dozen. This means you’ll have plenty of donuts to experiment with! Keep an eye on Krispy Kreme’s social media and website for announcements about upcoming promotions.
Breakfast & Brunch Creations
Start your day with a donut-infused twist on classic breakfast and brunch favorites.
1. Donut French Toast
Transform your day-old Krispy Kreme donuts into a decadent French toast that’s bursting with flavor. The sweetness of the donut combined with the richness of the custard makes for an unforgettable breakfast.
**Ingredients:**
* 6 Krispy Kreme Original Glazed Donuts, sliced into 1-inch thick rounds
* 4 large eggs
* 1/2 cup milk or cream
* 1/4 cup granulated sugar
* 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
* 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
* 2 tablespoons butter, for greasing the pan
* Optional toppings: fresh berries, whipped cream, maple syrup, chocolate syrup
**Instructions:**
1. **Prepare the Custard:** In a shallow dish, whisk together the eggs, milk or cream, sugar, vanilla extract, and cinnamon until well combined.
2. **Soak the Donuts:** Dip each donut slice into the custard mixture, ensuring it’s fully coated. Let the donuts soak for about 15-20 seconds on each side, allowing them to absorb the custard without becoming soggy.
3. **Cook the French Toast:** Melt the butter in a large skillet or griddle over medium heat.
4. **Cook to Golden Brown:** Place the soaked donut slices into the hot skillet, making sure not to overcrowd the pan. Cook for 2-3 minutes per side, or until golden brown and slightly crispy.
5. **Serve:** Remove the donut French toast from the skillet and place them on a serving plate. Top with your favorite toppings like fresh berries, whipped cream, maple syrup, or chocolate syrup. Serve immediately and enjoy!
**Tips and Variations:**
* For a richer flavor, use heavy cream instead of milk.
* Add a splash of orange zest to the custard for a citrusy twist.
* Sprinkle chopped nuts on top of the French toast while it’s cooking for added texture.
* Use different flavored Krispy Kreme donuts for a unique flavor profile. The chocolate iced donuts would be amazing as chocolate french toast.
2. Donut Breakfast Sandwiches
Swap out your usual bread or English muffin for a Krispy Kreme donut to create a sweet and savory breakfast sandwich that’s sure to impress.
**Ingredients:**
* 4 Krispy Kreme Original Glazed Donuts, sliced in half horizontally
* 4 eggs, scrambled or fried
* 4 slices of cooked bacon or sausage patties
* 4 slices of cheese (cheddar, Monterey Jack, or your favorite)
* Optional: avocado slices, tomato slices, spinach
**Instructions:**
1. **Prepare the Filling:** Cook your eggs to your liking, whether scrambled or fried. Cook the bacon or sausage patties until crispy and golden brown.
2. **Assemble the Sandwich:** Place the bottom half of each donut on a plate. Layer with a slice of cheese, the cooked eggs, bacon or sausage, and any other desired toppings like avocado or tomato slices.
3. **Top it Off:** Top with the other half of the donut.
4. **Warm and Serve:** If desired, warm the assembled sandwiches in a microwave for a few seconds to melt the cheese. Serve immediately and enjoy the sweet and savory combination.
**Tips and Variations:**
* Use different types of cheese to experiment with flavors.
* Add a smear of cream cheese or a drizzle of hot sauce for extra flavor.
* Grill the donut halves for a toasted, crispy exterior.
* For a vegetarian option, use vegetarian sausage patties or grilled halloumi cheese.
3. Donut Bread Pudding
Transform your leftover Krispy Kreme donuts into a warm and comforting bread pudding that’s perfect for a weekend brunch.
**Ingredients:**
* 8 Krispy Kreme Original Glazed Donuts, cut into 1-inch cubes
* 4 large eggs
* 1 1/2 cups milk or cream
* 1/2 cup granulated sugar
* 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
* 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
* 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
* 1/4 cup raisins or dried cranberries (optional)
* 2 tablespoons butter, melted
**Instructions:**
1. **Prepare the Donut Mixture:** Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish. In a large bowl, combine the cubed donuts, raisins or dried cranberries (if using).
2. **Prepare the Custard:** In a separate bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk or cream, sugar, vanilla extract, cinnamon, and nutmeg until well combined.
3. **Combine and Bake:** Pour the custard mixture over the donut cubes, pressing down gently to ensure the donuts are soaked. Drizzle the melted butter over the top.
4. **Bake:** Bake in the preheated oven for 30-40 minutes, or until the bread pudding is golden brown and set. A knife inserted into the center should come out clean.
5. **Cool and Serve:** Let the bread pudding cool slightly before serving. Serve warm, plain, or with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a drizzle of caramel sauce.
**Tips and Variations:**
* Use a combination of different flavored Krispy Kreme donuts for a more complex flavor.
* Add chopped nuts, chocolate chips, or coconut flakes to the donut mixture.
* Soak the donuts in the custard mixture for longer (up to an hour) for a more moist bread pudding.
* Serve with a homemade caramel sauce or a dusting of powdered sugar.
Dessert Delights
Take your donut game to the next level with these decadent dessert recipes.
4. Donut Ice Cream Sandwiches
A classic treat made even better with Krispy Kreme donuts! These ice cream sandwiches are easy to make and perfect for a hot day.
**Ingredients:**
* 6 Krispy Kreme Original Glazed Donuts, sliced in half horizontally
* 1 pint of your favorite ice cream (vanilla, chocolate, strawberry, etc.)
* Optional toppings: sprinkles, chocolate chips, chopped nuts, shredded coconut
**Instructions:**
1. **Soften the Ice Cream:** Let the ice cream soften slightly at room temperature for about 5-10 minutes to make it easier to spread.
2. **Assemble the Sandwiches:** Place the bottom half of each donut on a flat surface. Spread a generous layer of ice cream on top of each donut half.
3. **Add Toppings (Optional):** Sprinkle your favorite toppings like sprinkles, chocolate chips, chopped nuts, or shredded coconut on top of the ice cream.
4. **Top it Off:** Top with the other half of the donut.
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:** Remove the ice cream sandwiches from the freezer a few minutes before serving to allow them to soften slightly. Enjoy immediately!
**Tips and Variations:**
* Use different flavors of ice cream to create unique combinations.
* Dip the finished ice cream sandwiches in melted chocolate and sprinkle with toppings.
* Use mini Krispy Kreme donuts for bite-sized ice cream sandwiches.
* Roll the edges of the ice cream sandwiches in sprinkles or chopped nuts.
5. Donut Trifle
A layered dessert that’s both beautiful and delicious. The combination of donuts, cream, fruit, and custard makes for a delightful treat.
**Ingredients:**
* 12 Krispy Kreme Original Glazed Donuts, cut into 1-inch cubes
* 1 (3.4 ounce) package instant vanilla pudding mix
* 2 cups milk
* 1 (8 ounce) container whipped topping, thawed
* 1 pint fresh berries (strawberries, blueberries, raspberries, etc.), sliced
* Optional: chocolate shavings, caramel sauce
**Instructions:**
1. **Prepare the Pudding:** In a large bowl, whisk together the instant vanilla pudding mix and milk until smooth. Let the pudding set for a few minutes according to package directions.
2. **Layer the Trifle:** In a large trifle bowl or individual serving glasses, create layers by alternating the donut cubes, vanilla pudding, whipped topping, and sliced berries. Start with a layer of donut cubes, followed by a layer of pudding, then a layer of whipped topping, and finally a layer of berries. Repeat the layers until all the ingredients are used.
3. **Chill:** Cover the trifle bowl with plastic wrap and chill in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour to allow the flavors to meld together.
4. **Serve:** Before serving, garnish with chocolate shavings or a drizzle of caramel sauce, if desired. Serve chilled and enjoy the layers of deliciousness!
**Tips and Variations:**
* Use different flavors of pudding mix for a variety of flavor combinations.
* Add a layer of crumbled cookies or graham crackers for added texture.
* Soak the donut cubes in a flavored syrup or liqueur for extra flavor.
* Use different types of fruit to create a seasonal trifle.
6. Donut Cake Pops
These adorable cake pops are perfect for parties and celebrations. They’re easy to make and can be customized with different decorations.
**Ingredients:**
* 6 Krispy Kreme Original Glazed Donuts
* 4 ounces cream cheese, softened
* 12 ounces melting chocolate (milk chocolate, dark chocolate, or white chocolate)
* Cake pop sticks
* Sprinkles, edible glitter, or other decorations
**Instructions:**
1. **Crumble the Donuts:** In a large bowl, crumble the Krispy Kreme donuts into fine crumbs.
2. **Mix with Cream Cheese:** Add the softened cream cheese to the donut crumbs and mix until well combined. The mixture should form a dough-like consistency.
3. **Shape into Balls:** Roll the donut mixture into small, evenly sized balls. Place the balls on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. **Chill:** Place the baking sheet in the refrigerator and chill the donut balls for at least 30 minutes to firm up.
5. **Melt the Chocolate:** While the donut balls are chilling, melt the melting chocolate according to package directions.
6. **Dip the Cake Pops:** Remove the donut balls from the refrigerator. Dip the tip of a cake pop stick into the melted chocolate and then insert it into the center of each donut ball. Dip each donut ball into the melted chocolate, ensuring it’s fully coated.
7. **Decorate:** Immediately decorate the chocolate-covered cake pops with sprinkles, edible glitter, or other desired decorations.
8. **Set and Serve:** Place the decorated cake pops on a styrofoam block or a cake pop stand to allow the chocolate to set. Once the chocolate is set, the cake pops are ready to serve and enjoy!
**Tips and Variations:**
* Use different colors of melting chocolate to create a variety of looks.
* Add a few drops of food coloring to the melted chocolate for custom colors.
* Dip the cake pops in chopped nuts, shredded coconut, or crushed candies.
* Wrap the finished cake pops in cellophane bags and tie with ribbon for a party favor.
Savory Surprises
Who says donuts can only be sweet? These savory recipes will challenge your perceptions of what a donut can be.
7. Donut Grilled Cheese
A surprisingly delicious twist on the classic grilled cheese sandwich. The sweetness of the donut complements the savory cheese perfectly.
**Ingredients:**
* 2 Krispy Kreme Original Glazed Donuts, sliced in half horizontally
* 2 slices of your favorite cheese (cheddar, Monterey Jack, provolone, etc.)
* 1 tablespoon butter
**Instructions:**
1. **Prepare the Sandwich:** Place a slice of cheese between the two halves of a donut.
2. **Butter the Donuts:** Spread butter on the outside of both donut halves.
3. **Grill the Sandwich:** Heat a skillet over medium heat. Place the donut sandwich in the hot skillet and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, or until golden brown and the cheese is melted and gooey.
4. **Serve:** Remove the grilled cheese from the skillet and serve immediately. Enjoy the sweet and savory combination!
**Tips and Variations:**
* Use different types of cheese to experiment with flavors.
* Add a slice of ham or bacon to the grilled cheese for a meatier sandwich.
* Spread a thin layer of Dijon mustard on the inside of the donut for extra flavor.
* Grill the sandwich in a panini press for a crispier exterior.
8. Donut Croutons for Salad
Add a touch of sweetness and texture to your salads with these unexpected donut croutons. They’re a fun way to use up leftover donuts.
**Ingredients:**
* 4 Krispy Kreme Original Glazed Donuts, cut into 1/2-inch cubes
* 1 tablespoon olive oil
* 1/4 teaspoon salt
* 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
**Instructions:**
1. **Prepare the Donut Cubes:** Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Cut the Krispy Kreme donuts into small, even cubes.
2. **Toss with Oil and Seasoning:** In a bowl, toss the donut cubes with olive oil, salt, and pepper until evenly coated.
3. **Bake:** Spread the donut cubes in a single layer on a baking sheet. Bake in the preheated oven for 10-15 minutes, or until golden brown and crispy.
4. **Cool and Serve:** Let the donut croutons cool completely before adding them to your favorite salads. They’re especially delicious on salads with mixed greens, berries, and goat cheese.
**Tips and Variations:**
* Use different flavored Krispy Kreme donuts for a unique flavor profile.
* Add herbs like rosemary or thyme to the donut croutons for extra flavor.
* Store the cooled donut croutons in an airtight container to keep them crispy.
* Try using the donut croutons as a topping for soups or stews.
9. Donut Crusted Chicken
A truly adventurous recipe! Crushing up Krispy Kreme donuts and using them as a breading for chicken creates a sweet and savory dish that’s sure to be a conversation starter.
**Ingredients:**
* 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
* 6 Krispy Kreme Original Glazed Donuts, crushed into fine crumbs
* 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
* 2 large eggs, beaten
* 1 teaspoon salt
* 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
* 1/4 teaspoon paprika
* Vegetable oil, for frying
**Instructions:**
1. **Prepare the Chicken:** Cut the chicken breasts into smaller, bite-sized pieces if desired.
2. **Set Up the Breading Station:** Place the flour in one shallow dish, the beaten eggs in another, and the crushed donut crumbs in a third. Season the flour with salt, pepper, and paprika.
3. **Bread the Chicken:** Dredge each piece of chicken in the flour, then dip it in the beaten eggs, and finally coat it thoroughly with the crushed donut crumbs. Press the crumbs firmly onto the chicken to ensure they adhere well.
4. **Fry the Chicken:** Heat about 1/2 inch of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Carefully place the breaded chicken pieces in the hot oil, making sure not to overcrowd the pan.
5. **Cook Until Golden Brown:** Cook the chicken for 5-7 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through. The internal temperature of the chicken should reach 165°F (74°C).
6. **Drain and Serve:** Remove the fried chicken from the skillet and place it on a wire rack to drain excess oil. Serve immediately with your favorite dipping sauces, such as honey mustard, BBQ sauce, or ranch dressing.
**Tips and Variations:**
* Bake the chicken instead of frying it for a healthier option. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C) and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until cooked through.
* Add spices like garlic powder, onion powder, or cayenne pepper to the donut crumbs for extra flavor.
* Use different flavored Krispy Kreme donuts for a unique flavor profile.
* Serve the donut-crusted chicken on slider buns with coleslaw for a fun and flavorful appetizer.
Storage Tips for Your Donut Creations
* **Leftover donuts:** Store leftover Krispy Kreme donuts in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. They can also be frozen for longer storage, but the texture may change slightly upon thawing.
* **Donut French Toast:** Leftover donut French toast can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat in a skillet or microwave before serving.
* **Donut Bread Pudding:** Store leftover donut bread pudding in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving.
* **Donut Ice Cream Sandwiches:** Keep the ice cream sandwiches frozen until ready to serve. They are best consumed immediately after removing from the freezer.
* **Donut Trifle:** Store the donut trifle in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. The donuts may become slightly soggy over time, but the flavor will still be delicious.
* **Donut Cake Pops:** Store the finished cake pops at room temperature in a cool, dry place. They are best consumed within 3-4 days.
* **Donut Grilled Cheese:** The donut grilled cheese is best consumed immediately after making.
* **Donut Croutons:** Store cooled donut croutons in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week.
* **Donut Crusted Chicken:** Leftover donut crusted chicken can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving.
Conclusion
Krispy Kreme’s 13-cent dozen deal is a fantastic opportunity to indulge your sweet tooth and unleash your culinary creativity. From decadent breakfast dishes to savory surprises, the possibilities are endless when it comes to transforming these iconic donuts into exciting new recipes. So, grab a dozen (or two!), get into the kitchen, and start experimenting. You might just discover your new favorite dish! Remember to share your creations and tag Krispy Kreme on social media – you might inspire others to get creative too. Happy cooking (and eating)!