The Sweet Legacy of Krispy Kreme: A Closer Look at the Iconic Donut Chain.
Krispy Kreme continues to innovate with unique toppings and premium fillings, but nothing beats the classic Original Glazed donut. Since its inception in the 1930s, bringing a box of these famous treats is a surefire way to make friends. Let’s explore the history behind the beloved donut chain and the secret of its irresistible glaze.
1. Almost 80 Years of Deliciousness
Krispy Kreme was founded by Vernon Rudolph on July 13, 1937, in Winston-Salem, North Carolina. He began by renting a building in Old Salem to produce donuts by the dozen, initially selling them to local grocery stores. However, the rising demand prompted him to sell directly to customers through a sidewalk window.
2. Original Glazed: The Best Seller
From the start, the enticing aroma of Original Glazed donuts has drawn customers to Krispy Kreme shops. The process begins with a unique air-pressurized extruder that shapes the yeasty dough into perfect rings. After proofing for about 30 minutes, the donuts are fried in vegetable shortening and then coated in a warm sugar glaze. This glazing method, invented by Rudolph’s engineers in the 1960s, replaced the earlier hand-glazing process conducted in a galvanized wash tub.
3. A Secret Recipe
Vernon Rudolph reportedly purchased the special donut recipe from a French chef in New Orleans. This treasured recipe is now securely stored in a vault at the Winston-Salem plant. While many speculate about its ingredients, historians suggest it likely includes whipped egg whites, mashed potatoes, sugar, shortening, skim milk, and flour. The exact composition remains a mystery.
4. The Perfect Temperature
Krispy Kreme donuts are glazed at a temperature of 120 degrees Fahrenheit. As the donuts travel down the assembly line, the glaze cools and sets. They are at their best right after glazing, which is why the “Hot Light” sign, introduced in 1992, alerts customers when fresh donuts are available for purchase.
5. A Coffee Connection
What pairs better with a fluffy donut than a hot cup of coffee? For decades, Krispy Kreme has served coffee in its signature green cups, and now offers iced coffee and new blends. Customers can even enjoy Krispy Kreme Signature Coffee Blends at home with K-Cups for their Keurig machines.
6. Long Lines for New Locations
When a new Krispy Kreme opens, customers often line up around the block. Starting at 3 PM the night before, the first 100 guests can register for a chance to win free donuts for a year, with the first in line receiving a free dozen every week.
7. The Krispy Kreme Challenge
North Carolina State University hosts an annual race where competitors run five miles through Raleigh while consuming 12 donuts (totaling 2,400 calories) within one hour. Organized by students, the event raises funds for the North Carolina Children’s Hospital.
8. Limited-Time Offerings
Krispy Kreme regularly introduces special flavors and shapes to celebrate holidays and events. These limited-edition donuts are perfect for any occasion, from Easter to baseball season.
9. A World Record Holder
Krispy Kreme made it into the Guinness Book of World Records with the largest box of donuts, weighing 297 pounds and 10 ounces. Created by the Kuwait Food Co. Americana in 2009, the box contained 2,700 Krispy Kreme donuts.
10. Racing Sponsorships
The Krispy Kreme logo is a common sight on professional race car tracks, as the company sponsors several top drivers. It seems donuts have a reputation for fueling speed!
11. Free Donut Opportunities
Krispy Kreme frequently runs promotions that allow customers to score free donuts, such as the #DayOfTheDozens campaign. Keep an eye out for these sweet deals!
Krispy Kreme’s enduring legacy and commitment to quality have made it a favorite among donut lovers everywhere. Whether indulging in an Original Glazed or trying a new flavor, there’s always a reason to celebrate this iconic brand.
Related topics: