
Beyond the Glaze: Creative Recipes to Elevate Your Krispy Kreme Dollar Dozens This December
Ah, December! A time for twinkling lights, cozy sweaters, and the glorious return of Krispy Kreme’s dollar dozen deals. For many, this means a delightful sugar rush and a happy wallet. But what if you could take those iconic glazed rings beyond a simple snack and transform them into culinary creations that will wow your family and friends? This article explores innovative and delicious recipes that make the most of your Krispy Kreme dollar dozens, offering exciting ways to enjoy these treats throughout the holiday season and beyond.
**Why Krispy Kreme Dollar Dozens are a December Delight**
Before diving into the recipes, let’s acknowledge the magic of the Krispy Kreme dollar dozen. This promotion, typically offered on select days in December, allows you to purchase an additional dozen of Original Glazed doughnuts for just $1 (with the purchase of any dozen). It’s an incredible deal that often results in an abundance of sugary goodness. While enjoying them fresh out of the box is undeniably satisfying, having a surplus opens the door to culinary experimentation. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a kitchen novice, these recipes will inspire you to think outside the box (pun intended!).
**Recipe Categories: Sweet and Savory**
We’ll explore recipes spanning both sweet and savory categories. Yes, you read that right! Krispy Kreme doughnuts can surprisingly lend themselves to savory dishes, adding a touch of sweetness and unique texture. Get ready to be amazed!
**Sweet Sensations: Doughnut-Based Desserts**
Let’s start with what we know and love: desserts! These recipes enhance the inherent sweetness of Krispy Kreme doughnuts, creating decadent treats that are perfect for holiday gatherings, potlucks, or simply satisfying your sweet tooth.
**1. Krispy Kreme Bread Pudding:**
This is a classic comfort food with a Krispy Kreme twist. The doughnuts add a delightful sweetness and unique texture to the traditional bread pudding.
**Ingredients:**
* 1 dozen Krispy Kreme Original Glazed doughnuts, cut into 1-inch cubes
* 4 large eggs
* 2 cups milk (whole milk or half-and-half for extra richness)
* 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
* Optional: 1/2 cup raisins, chocolate chips, or chopped nuts
**Instructions:**
1. **Prepare the Doughnuts:** Cut the Krispy Kreme doughnuts into 1-inch cubes. You can leave them out to dry slightly for an hour or so, which will help them absorb the custard better (optional but recommended).
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. **Combine Doughnuts and Custard:** Gently fold the cubed doughnuts into the custard mixture. Ensure all the doughnut pieces are coated.
4. **Add Optional Ingredients:** If using raisins, chocolate chips, or chopped nuts, fold them into the mixture as well.
5. **Pour into Baking Dish:** Pour the doughnut mixture into a greased 9×13 inch baking dish.
6. **Bake:** Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 45-55 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the custard is set. A knife inserted into the center should come out clean.
7. **Cool and Serve:** Let the bread pudding cool slightly before serving. You can serve it warm or at room temperature. Add a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a drizzle of caramel sauce for an extra indulgent treat.
**Variations:**
* **Chocolate Krispy Kreme Bread Pudding:** Use chocolate-glazed Krispy Kreme doughnuts and add 1/4 cup of cocoa powder to the custard mixture.
* **Apple Cinnamon Krispy Kreme Bread Pudding:** Add 1 cup of chopped apples and 1/4 teaspoon of ground cloves to the custard mixture.
* **Bourbon Caramel Krispy Kreme Bread Pudding:** Add 2 tablespoons of bourbon to the custard mixture and drizzle with caramel sauce before serving.
**2. Krispy Kreme Doughnut Trifle:**
This trifle is a visually stunning and delicious dessert that’s perfect for parties. The layers of doughnuts, cream, and berries create a delightful combination of textures and flavors.
**Ingredients:**
* 1 dozen Krispy Kreme Original Glazed doughnuts, cut into bite-sized pieces
* 1 package (8 ounces) cream cheese, softened
* 1/2 cup granulated sugar
* 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
* 2 cups heavy cream, whipped
* 1 pint fresh strawberries, sliced
* 1 pint fresh blueberries
* Optional: Raspberry jam, chocolate shavings, chopped nuts
**Instructions:**
1. **Prepare the Cream Cheese Mixture:** In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with the sugar and vanilla extract until smooth and creamy.
2. **Fold in Whipped Cream:** Gently fold the whipped cream into the cream cheese mixture until well combined.
3. **Assemble the Trifle:** In a large trifle bowl or individual serving dishes, layer the doughnut pieces, cream cheese mixture, strawberries, and blueberries. Repeat the layers until all the ingredients are used, ending with a layer of whipped cream.
4. **Garnish:** Garnish with fresh berries, chocolate shavings, or chopped nuts, if desired. You can also spread a thin layer of raspberry jam between the doughnut layers for added flavor.
5. **Chill:** Cover the trifle and chill in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours before serving to allow the flavors to meld together.
**Variations:**
* **Chocolate Krispy Kreme Doughnut Trifle:** Use chocolate-glazed Krispy Kreme doughnuts and add a layer of chocolate pudding or chocolate ganache.
* **Tropical Krispy Kreme Doughnut Trifle:** Use a combination of pineapple, mango, and coconut flakes.
* **Peanut Butter Cup Krispy Kreme Doughnut Trifle:** Add a layer of peanut butter cups, chopped.
**3. Krispy Kreme Doughnut Ice Cream Sandwiches:**
This is a simple yet satisfying treat that’s perfect for a quick dessert or a fun activity with kids.
**Ingredients:**
* Krispy Kreme Original Glazed doughnuts, sliced in half horizontally
* Your favorite ice cream (vanilla, chocolate, strawberry, etc.)
* Optional: Sprinkles, chocolate chips, chopped nuts, shredded coconut
**Instructions:**
1. **Prepare the Doughnuts:** Slice the Krispy Kreme doughnuts in half horizontally.
2. **Scoop Ice Cream:** Place a scoop of ice cream on the bottom half of each doughnut.
3. **Top with Doughnut:** Top with the other half of the doughnut to create a sandwich.
4. **Add Toppings:** Roll the edges of the ice cream sandwich in sprinkles, chocolate chips, chopped nuts, or shredded coconut, if desired.
5. **Freeze (Optional):** If you want the ice cream sandwiches to be firmer, wrap them individually in plastic wrap and freeze for at least 30 minutes before serving.
**Variations:**
* **Grilled Doughnut Ice Cream Sandwiches:** Grill the sliced doughnuts for a few seconds per side before adding the ice cream for a warm and toasty treat.
* **Doughnut Sundae Sandwiches:** Add hot fudge, caramel sauce, whipped cream, and a cherry on top before closing the sandwich for a doughnut sundae experience.
**4. Krispy Kreme Doughnut French Toast:**
Upgrade your breakfast or brunch with this decadent French toast made with Krispy Kreme doughnuts.
**Ingredients:**
* 6 Krispy Kreme Original Glazed doughnuts, sliced in half
* 2 large eggs
* 1/2 cup milk
* 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
* 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
* Pinch of salt
* Butter, for greasing the pan
* Optional: Maple syrup, powdered sugar, fresh berries
**Instructions:**
1. **Prepare the Batter:** In a shallow dish, whisk together the eggs, milk, vanilla extract, cinnamon, and salt.
2. **Dip the Doughnuts:** Dip each doughnut half into the egg mixture, making sure both sides are coated.
3. **Cook the French Toast:** Melt butter in a skillet or griddle over medium heat. Cook the doughnut French toast for 2-3 minutes per side, or until golden brown and heated through.
4. **Serve:** Serve immediately with maple syrup, powdered sugar, and fresh berries, if desired.
**Variations:**
* **Stuffed Krispy Kreme Doughnut French Toast:** Spread a layer of cream cheese or Nutella between two doughnut halves before dipping them in the egg mixture.
* **Savory Krispy Kreme Doughnut French Toast:** Omit the cinnamon and vanilla extract from the egg mixture and add a pinch of salt and pepper. Top with fried eggs, bacon, and cheese.
**Savory Surprises: Doughnut-Infused Dishes**
Now for the unexpected! These recipes demonstrate that Krispy Kreme doughnuts can be used in savory dishes, adding a touch of sweetness and unique texture to familiar favorites.
**5. Krispy Kreme Doughnut Grilled Cheese:**
This might sound crazy, but trust us, it works! The sweetness of the doughnut complements the savory cheese perfectly.
**Ingredients:**
* 2 Krispy Kreme Original Glazed doughnuts, sliced in half
* 2 slices of your favorite cheese (cheddar, mozzarella, provolone, etc.)
* Butter, for greasing the pan
**Instructions:**
1. **Prepare the Doughnuts:** Slice the Krispy Kreme doughnuts in half.
2. **Assemble the Sandwich:** Place one slice of cheese on the bottom half of one doughnut. Top with the other half of the doughnut.
3. **Cook the Grilled Cheese:** Melt butter in a skillet over medium heat. Cook the grilled cheese sandwich for 2-3 minutes per side, or until golden brown and the cheese is melted and gooey.
4. **Serve:** Serve immediately.
**Variations:**
* **Bacon Krispy Kreme Doughnut Grilled Cheese:** Add a slice of cooked bacon to the sandwich.
* **Ham and Cheese Krispy Kreme Doughnut Grilled Cheese:** Add a slice of ham to the sandwich.
* **Spicy Krispy Kreme Doughnut Grilled Cheese:** Add a slice of pepper jack cheese or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes.
**6. Krispy Kreme Doughnut Burger Buns:**
Swap out your regular burger buns for Krispy Kreme doughnuts for a sweet and savory burger experience.
**Ingredients:**
* Krispy Kreme Original Glazed doughnuts, sliced in half
* Your favorite burger patty
* Your favorite burger toppings (lettuce, tomato, onion, cheese, bacon, etc.)
**Instructions:**
1. **Prepare the Doughnuts:** Slice the Krispy Kreme doughnuts in half.
2. **Cook the Burger Patty:** Cook the burger patty to your desired doneness.
3. **Assemble the Burger:** Place the burger patty on the bottom half of one doughnut. Add your favorite burger toppings. Top with the other half of the doughnut.
4. **Serve:** Serve immediately.
**Variations:**
* **Breakfast Krispy Kreme Doughnut Burger:** Top with a fried egg, bacon, and cheese.
* **BBQ Krispy Kreme Doughnut Burger:** Top with BBQ sauce, coleslaw, and pulled pork.
* **Spicy Krispy Kreme Doughnut Burger:** Top with jalapenos, pepper jack cheese, and sriracha mayo.
**7. Krispy Kreme Doughnut Croutons:**
Add a touch of sweetness and crunch to your salads with these doughnut croutons.
**Ingredients:**
* Krispy Kreme Original Glazed doughnuts, cut into small cubes
* Olive oil
* Salt and pepper
* Optional: Garlic powder, onion powder, Italian seasoning
**Instructions:**
1. **Prepare the Doughnuts:** Cut the Krispy Kreme doughnuts into small cubes.
2. **Toss with Olive Oil and Seasonings:** In a bowl, toss the doughnut cubes with olive oil, salt, pepper, and any other desired seasonings.
3. **Bake:** Spread the doughnut cubes in a single layer on a baking sheet. Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes, or until golden brown and crispy.
4. **Cool and Serve:** Let the doughnut croutons cool completely before adding them to your salads.
**Variations:**
* **Cinnamon Sugar Krispy Kreme Doughnut Croutons:** Toss the doughnut cubes with cinnamon and sugar before baking.
* **Parmesan Krispy Kreme Doughnut Croutons:** Toss the doughnut cubes with grated Parmesan cheese before baking.
* **Herb Krispy Kreme Doughnut Croutons:** Toss the doughnut cubes with dried herbs, such as rosemary, thyme, and oregano, before baking.
**8. Krispy Kreme Doughnut Stuffing (Dressing):**
This unique stuffing adds a touch of sweetness and unique texture to your holiday meals.
**Ingredients:**
* 1 dozen Krispy Kreme Original Glazed doughnuts, cut into 1-inch cubes
* 1 pound sausage, cooked and crumbled
* 1 onion, chopped
* 2 celery stalks, chopped
* 1/2 cup chopped fresh parsley
* 1 teaspoon dried sage
* 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
* 1/4 teaspoon salt
* 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
* 2 cups chicken broth
* 2 eggs, beaten
**Instructions:**
1. **Prepare the Doughnuts:** Cut the Krispy Kreme doughnuts into 1-inch cubes. You can leave them out to dry slightly for an hour or so (optional but recommended).
2. **Sauté Vegetables:** In a large skillet, sauté the onion and celery until softened.
3. **Combine Ingredients:** In a large bowl, combine the doughnuts, sausage, sautéed vegetables, parsley, sage, thyme, salt, and pepper.
4. **Add Broth and Eggs:** Pour the chicken broth and beaten eggs over the mixture and stir to combine.
5. **Bake:** Pour the stuffing into a greased 9×13 inch baking dish. Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 30-40 minutes, or until golden brown and heated through.
6. **Serve:** Serve hot.
**Variations:**
* **Cranberry Krispy Kreme Doughnut Stuffing:** Add 1 cup of dried cranberries to the stuffing mixture.
* **Apple Krispy Kreme Doughnut Stuffing:** Add 1 cup of chopped apples to the stuffing mixture.
* **Mushroom Krispy Kreme Doughnut Stuffing:** Add 1 cup of sautéed mushrooms to the stuffing mixture.
**Tips for Working with Krispy Kreme Doughnuts in Recipes:**
* **Freshness Matters:** While slightly stale doughnuts can work well in some recipes (like bread pudding), fresher doughnuts are generally better for most dishes.
* **Adjust Sweetness:** Because Krispy Kreme doughnuts are already quite sweet, you may need to adjust the amount of sugar in your recipes accordingly. Taste as you go!
* **Don’t Overmix:** When combining doughnuts with other ingredients, be gentle to avoid breaking them down too much.
* **Experiment!** These recipes are just a starting point. Feel free to get creative and experiment with your own flavor combinations.
* **Freezing Doughnuts:** If you want to save some of your dollar dozen for later use, you can freeze them. Wrap them individually in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. They can be thawed at room temperature.
**Beyond the Recipes: Sharing the Doughnut Delight**
Krispy Kreme’s dollar dozen deals are not just about individual indulgence; they’re also about sharing the joy. Consider using these recipes to create treats for your neighbors, coworkers, or holiday gatherings. A batch of Krispy Kreme bread pudding or a platter of doughnut ice cream sandwiches is sure to be a crowd-pleaser.
**Conclusion: A Sweet and Savory Adventure**
The next time you find yourself with a surplus of Krispy Kreme doughnuts during their December dollar dozen promotion, don’t just settle for eating them straight from the box (though that’s perfectly acceptable, too!). Embrace the culinary adventure and try one of these creative recipes. Whether you’re craving a sweet dessert or a surprisingly savory dish, Krispy Kreme doughnuts can be a versatile and delicious ingredient. So go ahead, unleash your inner chef and transform those glazed rings into something truly extraordinary. Happy baking (and cooking)!