How many calories does an average glazed donut have?

November 4, 2025 •

3 min read

An average medium-sized glazed donut contains approximately 250-270 calories, though the number can vary significantly by brand and type. This variation depends on factors like the ingredients used, frying methods, and the exact size of the sweet treat.

Quick Summary

The calorie count of a glazed donut varies widely, averaging between 190 and 300 calories for most medium-sized options from major brands. Factors like ingredients, size, and bakery differences contribute to the range, with some cake-style glazed donuts having significantly more calories.

Key Points

Average Calorie Count: An average medium-sized glazed donut contains approximately 250-270 calories, though this can vary by brand and recipe.
Brand Variations: Calorie counts differ among brands; for example, a Krispy Kreme Original Glazed has around 190 calories, while a Dunkin' Glazed has 240 calories.
Yeast vs. Cake Dough: Yeast-based donuts are generally lighter and have fewer calories than their denser, cake-based counterparts.
Nutrient-Poor: Glazed donuts are high in sugar and refined carbs and offer minimal nutritional value, making them a source of "empty calories".
Moderation is Key: Due to their high sugar and fat content, glazed donuts should be enjoyed in moderation as an occasional treat rather than a regular dietary item.
Influencing Factors: Factors like the frying oil, glaze thickness, and dough type all influence the final calorie count of a glazed donut.

The Calorie Breakdown of a Glazed Donut

Understanding the calorie count of a glazed donut is not as straightforward as it seems. While an average figure hovers in the mid-200s, the exact nutritional information depends on several key factors. The primary variables include whether the donut is a light, airy yeast variety or a dense, heavier cake version, as well as the brand and precise recipe used.

Popular Glazed Donut Brands and Their Calories

For many, the first thought of a glazed donut brings to mind a specific brand. Here's a look at the calorie counts for a standard glazed donut from some popular chains:

Krispy Kreme Original Glazed: The iconic Original Glazed donut from Krispy Kreme is one of the lighter options, containing about 190 calories. Its light, yeast-based dough is part of the reason for its lower count compared to other varieties.
Dunkin' Glazed Donut: A standard glazed donut from Dunkin' comes in at around 240 calories. This makes it a moderately higher-calorie option compared to Krispy Kreme's classic.
Generic or Supermarket Glazed Donut: Glazed donuts found in supermarkets or from local bakeries often fall into a wider range, typically between 250 and 350 calories. These variations are due to different recipes, sizes, and glazes.

What Influences a Donut's Calorie Count?

Several factors impact the final calorie count of a glazed donut:

Type of Dough: Yeast donuts are typically lighter and lower in calories than their denser, cake-style counterparts. A cake-style glazed donut might have a higher fat and calorie content due to the ingredients and preparation.
Frying Method: The oil and frying process play a significant role. Donuts are fried to achieve their characteristic texture, and the oil they absorb contributes to the fat and calorie content.
Glaze Composition: The sugar content of the glaze is a major calorie contributor. A thick, heavy glaze adds more calories and sugar than a light, minimal one.

Nutritional Context: More Than Just Calories

Beyond the raw calorie number, it's important to consider the other nutritional components of a glazed donut. Most donuts are high in refined carbohydrates and sugar, offering little in the way of essential nutrients like protein, fiber, vitamins, or minerals. This means they are a source of "empty calories." For example, a generic glazed donut may contain around 15 grams of sugar and 15 grams of fat, with only minimal protein and fiber. This is fine as an occasional treat but less ideal for a regular part of a balanced diet.

Glazed Donut Comparison Table

Here is a quick comparison of calories and other key nutritional facts for different types of glazed donuts.


Donut Type	Approx. Calories	Key Differentiator
Krispy Kreme Original Glazed	190	Light, yeast-based dough
Dunkin' Glazed Donut	240	Moderately sized, standard glaze
Generic Yeast Glazed	180-220	Varies by bakery; lighter than cake
Generic Cake Glazed	190-350	Denser texture, higher fat content
Old Fashioned Glazed	234-480	Varies widely by brand and size; dense cake base

Making Informed Choices

For those looking to moderate their intake, several strategies can help. Opting for a smaller, yeast-based glazed donut, like the Krispy Kreme Original, is a simple way to enjoy the classic taste with fewer calories. Considering the calorie count of other food options can also put it into perspective. For example, a single glazed donut can contain as many calories as a small, balanced meal, depending on the ingredients. Being mindful of these details allows for an occasional indulgence without derailing long-term dietary goals. Ultimately, the key is moderation.

Conclusion

In summary, the calorie content of an average glazed donut varies, but generally falls within the 190 to 300 calorie range for standard sizes. While Krispy Kreme offers a lower-calorie option, other brands and denser cake varieties can significantly increase the count. For accurate nutrition information, it's always best to check the specific brand or bakery's nutritional details. Enjoying a glazed donut as a treat rather than a staple is the best approach for those managing their calorie intake. Healthline offers extensive dietary information on many foods, including donuts.

Frequently Asked Questions

No, the calorie count for glazed donuts varies significantly depending on the brand, size, ingredients (yeast vs. cake), and preparation method. Major chains and local bakeries have different recipes that affect the final number.

The difference primarily lies in the size and recipe. Krispy Kreme's Original Glazed is a lighter, yeast-based donut, while Dunkin's might be slightly larger and have a different composition, leading to a higher calorie count.

Yeast-based glazed donuts are typically lighter and have fewer calories, often in the 190-220 calorie range. Cake-based glazed donuts are denser and can contain more fat, with calorie counts sometimes exceeding 350 calories.

Glazed donuts are not a significant source of vitamins, minerals, protein, or fiber. They are generally considered a high-sugar, high-fat food that provides energy from empty calories.

To reduce the calorie impact, you can opt for a smaller, yeast-based glazed donut over a larger or denser cake variety. It's also best to view it as an occasional treat rather than a regular snack.

Plain glazed donuts are often one of the lower-calorie options compared to more heavily topped or filled donuts. Flavors with chocolate frosting, sprinkles, or cream fillings typically have significantly more calories.

Glazed donut holes contain significantly fewer calories per piece. For instance, generic yeast glazed donut holes have about 55 calories each.