Krispy Kreme Summer 2024 Deals: Doughnut-Inspired Recipes and Sweet Savings!

Summer 2024 is heating up, and Krispy Kreme is here to make it even sweeter with a delightful array of deals and promotions! But why stop at just enjoying their delectable doughnuts when you can bring the Krispy Kreme magic into your own kitchen? This article will not only keep you updated on the latest Krispy Kreme summer deals but also provide you with fun and creative recipes inspired by their iconic flavors. Get ready to indulge in doughnut-inspired delights and maximize your savings this summer!

## Krispy Kreme Summer 2024 Deals: What to Expect

Before we dive into the recipes, let’s explore what kind of deals Krispy Kreme typically offers during the summer months. While the official 2024 summer promotions are yet to be fully revealed, we can look back at previous years’ trends to anticipate some exciting possibilities.

* **Free Doughnuts for Graduates:** This is a classic Krispy Kreme tradition! In past years, high school and college graduates have been offered a free Original Glazed dozen when they wear their graduation cap and gown or present a diploma. Keep an eye out for this promotion, as it’s a fantastic way to celebrate your academic achievements.
* **National Doughnut Day Deals:** National Doughnut Day (usually the first Friday in June) is Krispy Kreme’s Super Bowl. Expect incredible deals, often including a free doughnut of your choice! Check their website and social media for the exact details closer to the date.
* **Summer-Themed Doughnuts:** Krispy Kreme is known for its limited-edition doughnuts that capture the essence of the season. Think bright colors, fruity flavors, and creative toppings. These special doughnuts often come with promotional offers.
* **Rewards Program Perks:** Being a Krispy Kreme Rewards member unlocks a world of sweet benefits. Expect exclusive deals, birthday freebies, and points earned on every purchase that can be redeemed for free doughnuts and drinks. Sign up for the rewards program to stay in the loop!
* **Weekly Deals and Promotions:** Krispy Kreme frequently offers weekly deals, such as discounted dozens, BOGO offers, or special pricing on specific doughnut flavors. Follow them on social media and check their website regularly to stay informed.
* **Sweet Treat for Straight-A Students**: In previous years, Krispy Kreme has offered one free Original Glazed doughnut for every A on your report card (up to six A’s). While it has to be confirmed for 2024, it’s still worth keeping on your radar.
* **Original Glazed Dozen Deals**: Throughout the summer, keep a lookout for deals on Krispy Kreme’s iconic Original Glazed Dozen. These are perfect for sharing (or not!) and often come with discounted pricing.

**How to Stay Updated on Krispy Kreme Deals:**

* **Krispy Kreme Website:** The official Krispy Kreme website is your go-to source for the most up-to-date information on promotions and deals.
* **Krispy Kreme App:** Download the Krispy Kreme app for exclusive deals and easy ordering.
* **Krispy Kreme Social Media:** Follow Krispy Kreme on Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter to stay informed about flash sales and limited-time offers.
* **Email Newsletter:** Sign up for the Krispy Kreme email newsletter to receive announcements about upcoming promotions directly in your inbox.

## Krispy Kreme-Inspired Recipes: Bringing the Doughnut Magic Home

Now, let’s get to the fun part: recreating the Krispy Kreme experience in your own kitchen! These recipes are inspired by Krispy Kreme’s most popular flavors and textures, allowing you to enjoy doughnut-inspired treats whenever the craving strikes.

**Recipe 1: Homemade Glazed Doughnuts (The Original Glazed Copycat)**

This recipe aims to replicate the light, airy texture and iconic sweet glaze of Krispy Kreme’s Original Glazed doughnuts.

**Ingredients:**

* **For the Doughnuts:**
* 1 cup warm milk (105-115°F)
* 2 ¼ teaspoons active dry yeast (1 packet)
* ¼ cup granulated sugar
* 1 teaspoon salt
* 2 large eggs
* ¼ cup unsalted butter, melted
* 4 cups all-purpose flour, plus more for dusting
* Vegetable oil, for frying

* **For the Glaze:**
* 4 cups powdered sugar
* ½ cup hot milk
* 2 tablespoons light corn syrup
* 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

**Instructions:**

1. **Activate the Yeast:** In a large bowl, combine warm milk, yeast, and granulated sugar. Let stand for 5-10 minutes, or until foamy. This indicates the yeast is active.
2. **Combine Wet Ingredients:** Add salt, eggs, and melted butter to the yeast mixture. Whisk to combine.
3. **Add Dry Ingredients:** Gradually add the flour, one cup at a time, mixing with a wooden spoon or stand mixer until a shaggy dough forms.
4. **Knead the Dough:** Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface. Knead for 8-10 minutes, or until the dough is smooth and elastic. Alternatively, use a stand mixer with a dough hook for 5-7 minutes.
5. **First Rise:** Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, turning to coat. Cover with plastic wrap and let rise in a warm place for 1-1.5 hours, or until doubled in size.
6. **Roll and Cut the Dough:** Punch down the dough to release the air. Turn it out onto a lightly floured surface and roll it out to ½-inch thickness. Use a doughnut cutter (or two different sized round cookie cutters) to cut out doughnut shapes. Re-roll scraps to cut out more doughnuts.
7. **Second Rise:** Place the doughnuts on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Cover with plastic wrap and let rise for 30-45 minutes, or until slightly puffed.
8. **Prepare the Glaze:** While the doughnuts are rising, prepare the glaze. In a large bowl, whisk together powdered sugar, hot milk, corn syrup, and vanilla extract until smooth. The glaze should be thin enough to easily coat the doughnuts.
9. **Fry the Doughnuts:** Heat about 3 inches of vegetable oil in a large, heavy-bottomed pot or deep fryer to 350°F (175°C). Carefully place a few doughnuts at a time into the hot oil. Fry for 1-2 minutes per side, or until golden brown.
10. **Glaze the Doughnuts:** Remove the doughnuts from the oil and place them on a wire rack to cool slightly. While the doughnuts are still warm, dip them into the glaze, coating both sides. Place the glazed doughnuts back on the wire rack to allow the excess glaze to drip off.
11. **Serve and Enjoy:** Enjoy your homemade Original Glazed doughnuts while they’re fresh and warm! They are best enjoyed the day they are made.

**Tips for the Perfect Glazed Doughnuts:**

* **Temperature is Key:** Make sure the milk is warm but not too hot when activating the yeast. Too hot, and it will kill the yeast.
* **Don’t Over-Knead:** Over-kneading can result in tough doughnuts. Knead until the dough is smooth and elastic, but no longer.
* **Maintain Oil Temperature:** Use a thermometer to monitor the oil temperature. If the oil is too hot, the doughnuts will brown too quickly on the outside and remain raw on the inside. If the oil is not hot enough, the doughnuts will absorb too much oil and become greasy.
* **Thin Glaze is Better:** A thin glaze is essential for achieving that signature Krispy Kreme look and texture. If the glaze is too thick, it will be heavy and clumpy.
* **Glaze While Warm:** Glazing the doughnuts while they are still warm allows the glaze to adhere better and create a smooth, even coating.

**Recipe 2: Chocolate Iced Doughnut Cupcakes (Inspired by Krispy Kreme’s Chocolate Iced)**

If you’re looking for a slightly easier way to satisfy your doughnut craving, these chocolate iced doughnut cupcakes are a perfect choice. They capture the essence of Krispy Kreme’s Chocolate Iced doughnuts in a convenient cupcake form.

**Ingredients:**

* **For the Cupcakes:**
* 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
* 1 ½ teaspoons baking powder
* ½ teaspoon baking soda
* ¼ teaspoon salt
* ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
* ¾ cup granulated sugar
* 2 large eggs
* 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
* ¾ cup buttermilk

* **For the Chocolate Icing:**
* 2 cups powdered sugar
* ½ cup unsweetened cocoa powder
* ¼ cup unsalted butter, melted
* ¼ cup milk, plus more as needed
* ½ teaspoon vanilla extract

**Instructions:**

1. **Preheat and Prepare:** Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a muffin tin with cupcake liners.
2. **Combine Dry Ingredients:** In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
3. **Cream Butter and Sugar:** In a large bowl, cream together softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.
4. **Add Eggs and Vanilla:** Beat in eggs one at a time, then stir in vanilla extract.
5. **Alternate Wet and Dry Ingredients:** Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, alternating with the buttermilk, beginning and ending with the dry ingredients. Mix until just combined. Do not overmix.
6. **Fill Cupcake Liners:** Fill each cupcake liner about two-thirds full.
7. **Bake the Cupcakes:** Bake for 18-20 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
8. **Cool the Cupcakes:** Let the cupcakes cool in the muffin tin for 5 minutes, then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely.
9. **Prepare the Chocolate Icing:** In a medium bowl, whisk together powdered sugar, cocoa powder, melted butter, milk, and vanilla extract until smooth. Add more milk, 1 tablespoon at a time, until the icing reaches your desired consistency.
10. **Ice the Cupcakes:** Once the cupcakes are completely cool, ice them with the chocolate icing.
11. **Add Sprinkles (Optional):** For an extra touch of fun, sprinkle the iced cupcakes with your favorite sprinkles.
12. **Serve and Enjoy:** Enjoy your chocolate iced doughnut cupcakes! They are a delicious and easy way to satisfy your doughnut cravings.

**Tips for the Perfect Chocolate Iced Cupcakes:**

* **Don’t Overmix:** Overmixing the cupcake batter can result in tough cupcakes. Mix until just combined.
* **Use Room Temperature Ingredients:** Using room temperature butter and eggs will help the ingredients to combine more easily and create a smoother batter.
* **Cool Completely Before Icing:** Make sure the cupcakes are completely cool before icing them, or the icing will melt.
* **Adjust Icing Consistency:** Adjust the amount of milk in the icing to achieve your desired consistency. For a thicker icing, use less milk. For a thinner icing, use more milk.

**Recipe 3: Strawberry Glazed Doughnut Smoothie (Inspired by Krispy Kreme’s Strawberry Iced)**

Beat the summer heat with this refreshing and flavorful strawberry glazed doughnut smoothie. It’s a delicious and healthy way to enjoy the flavors of Krispy Kreme’s Strawberry Iced doughnuts.

**Ingredients:**

* 1 frozen banana
* 1 cup frozen strawberries
* ½ cup milk (dairy or non-dairy)
* ¼ cup vanilla yogurt (Greek yogurt for extra protein)
* 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup (optional, for added sweetness)
* ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
* Pinch of salt
* 1-2 drops of red food coloring (optional, for a vibrant pink color)
* Small piece of glazed doughnut (optional, for added doughnut flavor and garnish)

**Instructions:**

1. **Combine Ingredients:** In a blender, combine frozen banana, frozen strawberries, milk, yogurt, honey (if using), vanilla extract, salt, and red food coloring (if using).
2. **Blend Until Smooth:** Blend until smooth and creamy. If the smoothie is too thick, add more milk, 1 tablespoon at a time, until it reaches your desired consistency.
3. **Taste and Adjust:** Taste the smoothie and adjust sweetness as needed. Add more honey or maple syrup if desired.
4. **Pour and Garnish:** Pour the smoothie into a glass. If using, crumble a small piece of glazed doughnut on top for garnish.
5. **Serve and Enjoy:** Enjoy your strawberry glazed doughnut smoothie immediately!

**Tips for the Perfect Strawberry Glazed Doughnut Smoothie:**

* **Use Frozen Fruit:** Using frozen fruit will create a thick and creamy smoothie without the need for ice.
* **Adjust Sweetness to Taste:** Adjust the amount of honey or maple syrup to your liking. You can also use other sweeteners, such as agave nectar or stevia.
* **Add Protein:** For a more filling smoothie, add a scoop of protein powder or use Greek yogurt instead of regular yogurt.
* **Experiment with Flavors:** Feel free to experiment with other flavors. Add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg for a warm and spicy flavor.
* **Get Creative with Garnishes:** Get creative with your garnishes. Add whipped cream, sprinkles, or a drizzle of strawberry syrup.

**Recipe 4: Lemon Filled Doughnut Bars (Inspired by Krispy Kreme’s Lemon Kreme Filled)**

These Lemon Filled Doughnut Bars are a delightful twist on Krispy Kreme’s Lemon Kreme Filled doughnuts. They offer the same tangy and sweet lemon flavor in an easy-to-bake bar form.

**Ingredients:**

* **For the Doughnut Bars:**
* 2 cups all-purpose flour
* 1 teaspoon baking powder
* ½ teaspoon baking soda
* ¼ teaspoon salt
* ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
* ¾ cup granulated sugar
* 2 large eggs
* 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
* ¾ cup buttermilk

* **For the Lemon Filling:**
* ½ cup granulated sugar
* 2 tablespoons cornstarch
* ¼ teaspoon salt
* 1 cup water
* ¼ cup lemon juice
* 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
* 1 teaspoon lemon zest

* **For the Glaze:**
* 2 cups powdered sugar
* ¼ cup milk
* 1 tablespoon lemon juice
* ½ teaspoon vanilla extract

**Instructions:**

1. **Prepare the Lemon Filling:** In a medium saucepan, whisk together sugar, cornstarch, and salt. Gradually whisk in water and lemon juice. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the mixture comes to a boil and thickens. Remove from heat and stir in butter and lemon zest. Let cool completely.
2. **Preheat and Prepare:** Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9×13 inch baking pan.
3. **Combine Dry Ingredients:** In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
4. **Cream Butter and Sugar:** In a large bowl, cream together softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.
5. **Add Eggs and Vanilla:** Beat in eggs one at a time, then stir in vanilla extract.
6. **Alternate Wet and Dry Ingredients:** Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, alternating with the buttermilk, beginning and ending with the dry ingredients. Mix until just combined. Do not overmix.
7. **Pour into Pan:** Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan and spread evenly.
8. **Bake the Bars:** Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
9. **Cool the Bars:** Let the bars cool completely in the pan.
10. **Prepare the Glaze:** In a medium bowl, whisk together powdered sugar, milk, lemon juice, and vanilla extract until smooth.
11. **Frost and Fill:** Spread the glaze evenly over the cooled bars. Then, using a piping bag or a spoon, carefully create wells in the bars and fill them with the cooled lemon filling.
12. **Slice and Serve:** Slice the bars into squares and serve. Enjoy your Lemon Filled Doughnut Bars!

**Tips for the Perfect Lemon Filled Doughnut Bars:**

* **Cool the Filling:** Make sure the lemon filling is completely cool before filling the bars, or the glaze will melt.
* **Don’t Overbake:** Overbaking the bars can result in dry bars. Bake until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
* **Adjust Lemon Flavor:** Adjust the amount of lemon juice and lemon zest in the filling and glaze to your liking.
* **Use Fresh Lemon Juice:** Using fresh lemon juice will give the filling and glaze a brighter and more intense lemon flavor.

## Making the Most of Krispy Kreme Summer Deals

Now that you’re armed with these delicious Krispy Kreme-inspired recipes, let’s talk about maximizing your savings this summer. Here are some strategies to help you get the most bang for your buck at Krispy Kreme:

* **Take Advantage of Free Doughnuts:** Keep an eye out for free doughnut promotions, such as the graduate deal and National Doughnut Day. These are great opportunities to enjoy a sweet treat without spending a dime.
* **Utilize the Rewards Program:** Sign up for the Krispy Kreme Rewards program and earn points on every purchase. Redeem your points for free doughnuts and drinks.
* **Look for BOGO Offers:** Krispy Kreme often offers Buy One Get One (BOGO) deals on dozens of doughnuts. These are perfect for sharing with friends and family.
* **Check for Weekly Deals:** Regularly check the Krispy Kreme website and social media for weekly deals and promotions. You might find discounts on your favorite doughnuts or special offers on seasonal items.
* **Purchase in Bulk:** If you’re planning a party or gathering, consider purchasing doughnuts in bulk. Krispy Kreme often offers discounts on large orders.
* **Combine Deals and Rewards:** In some cases, you may be able to combine deals and rewards to maximize your savings. For example, you might be able to use a reward for a free doughnut in addition to taking advantage of a BOGO offer.
* **Consider Purchasing Gift Cards:** Purchasing Krispy Kreme gift cards can be a great way to budget your doughnut spending and take advantage of potential discounts on gift cards.

## Conclusion

Summer 2024 promises to be filled with sweet treats and exciting deals at Krispy Kreme. By staying informed about the latest promotions and trying out these delicious doughnut-inspired recipes, you can enjoy the Krispy Kreme experience to the fullest. Whether you’re indulging in a free doughnut, whipping up a batch of homemade glazed doughnuts, or sipping on a refreshing strawberry smoothie, there’s no shortage of ways to satisfy your sweet tooth this summer. So, get ready to embrace the sunshine, savor the flavors, and make the most of Krispy Kreme’s summer offerings!

Enjoy and happy baking (and doughnut hunting)!