What are the healthiest donuts at Krispy Kreme?

November 29, 2025 •

3 min read

A single Krispy Kreme Original Glazed doughnut can contain as few as 190 calories, showing that not all indulgences are created equal. For those seeking better-for-you options, knowing what are the healthiest donuts at Krispy Kreme is key to enjoying a sweet treat without derailing your diet goals.

Quick Summary

Analyzes the nutritional facts of Krispy Kreme's donut menu, comparing popular options like the Original Glazed and seasonal minis based on calories, fat, and sugar content. Explains how to make more mindful selections, emphasizing smaller sizes and less complex toppings.

Key Points

Original Glazed is a top choice: The classic Original Glazed doughnut is one of the lowest-calorie full-size options on the menu, containing approximately 190 calories.
Mini doughnuts offer portion control: Opting for the Mini Original Glazed is the best way to reduce calorie intake, with each mini containing around 90 calories.
Avoid heavy fillings and toppings: Doughnuts with creamy fillings, excessive icing, and rich toppings dramatically increase calories, sugar, and fat content.
Simple is best: For a less-heavy treat, choose simple options like a plain doughnut or the basic glazed variety over complex, filled, or cake-based ones.
Check for seasonal options: Some limited-edition flavors can be lower in calories, like the UK's berry burst and lemon crunch options, which were under 200 calories.
Size matters most: The single most effective strategy for making a "healthier" choice at Krispy Kreme is simply to pick the smallest doughnut available.
Be mindful of ingredients: Always check the official Krispy Kreme nutritional matrix for the most accurate information on allergens and ingredient lists.

Understanding 'Healthy' in the World of Doughnuts

When considering "healthy" in the context of Krispy Kreme, it's important to set realistic expectations. Doughnuts are, by nature, high in sugar and refined carbohydrates. The goal is not to find a truly healthy food, but rather to identify the best-in-class options that have the lowest impact on your daily caloric and sugar intake. Generally, the healthiest choices will be those that are smaller in size, feature minimal toppings and fillings, and avoid decadent additions like cream, chocolate, and caramel.

The Core Contenders: Original and Simple Doughnuts

The foundation of the Krispy Kreme menu, and often the best choice for a lighter treat, is the Original Glazed. At around 190 calories per doughnut, it is one of the lowest-calorie options available. The simplicity of its thin, sweet glaze and light, fluffy texture means it avoids the heavy calorie counts associated with richer alternatives. Other simple options can also offer a relative advantage, including plain cake doughnuts or those with less frosting.

The Rise of Mini Doughnuts

Krispy Kreme has recognized the demand for smaller treats, offering "Minis" and "Donut Dots" in various markets. These are an excellent way to indulge your craving while significantly reducing your portion size and overall intake. A single Mini Original Glazed doughnut contains approximately 90 calories, making it a much more diet-friendly option. The assorted mini boxes also often include simpler, less-processed flavors.

Comparing Popular Krispy Kreme Doughnuts

To make the most informed decision, comparing the nutritional breakdown of different options is essential. Here is a table comparing some popular choices based on available information.


Doughnut Variety	Approximate Calories	Approximate Sugars	Additional Notes
Mini Original Glazed	90	5g	Best for strict portion control.
Original Glazed Doughnut	190	10g	The classic, but with a moderate impact.
Strawberry Iced Donut	190	N/A	Lower calorie for an iced option.
Chocolate Iced Glazed	240	N/A	Higher calories due to added icing.
Chocolate Iced w/ Custard	300	N/A	Higher in calories and sugar due to filling.
New York Cheesecake	320	N/A	One of the most indulgent, high-calorie options.

Strategy for Making a Smarter Choice

Beyond just picking the lowest-calorie item, a savvy consumer can employ several strategies for mindful indulgence.

Stick to the basics: The simpler the doughnut, the better. Plain or simply glazed varieties will always be your safest bet.
Embrace the mini: Opt for the mini versions to satisfy your craving with a fraction of the calories.
Skip the extras: Avoid doughnuts with excessive toppings, sprinkles, or creamy fillings, which dramatically increase sugar and fat content.
Check the seasonal menu: Seasonal flavors can be a gamble, with some lighter (like certain berry versions) and others being extremely heavy (like caramel or cheesecake-themed ones).
Portion control: Limiting yourself to a single doughnut is the most important factor in managing your intake.

The Takeaway

While no doughnut is a health food, you can make smarter choices at Krispy Kreme. Your best bet is almost always a Mini Original Glazed doughnut or a single regular Original Glazed. Always check the official Krispy Kreme nutritional information for the most accurate and up-to-date values, as some menu items and ingredients can vary by location. By being mindful of your selection, you can enjoy a delicious treat responsibly. As Krispy Kreme UK states on their website, the Original Glazed is just 195 calories, and their Minis are even lighter, helping customers manage their treat without excessive guilt.

Conclusion: Savoring a Lighter Krispy Kreme

Ultimately, finding the healthiest doughnuts at Krispy Kreme isn't about eliminating dessert but rather about making educated decisions. By choosing smaller sizes like the mini doughnuts or sticking to the classic Original Glazed, you can enjoy the iconic taste with less caloric and sugar density. Remember, moderation is key to a balanced diet, and even a beloved indulgence like a Krispy Kreme doughnut can be enjoyed mindfully. Always treat yourself responsibly and prioritize portion control.

This article is for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical or nutritional advice.

Frequently Asked Questions

The Mini Original Glazed doughnut has the fewest calories, containing approximately 90 calories per serving.

A standard Original Glazed Krispy Kreme doughnut contains approximately 190 calories.

Yes, Krispy Kreme mini doughnuts are a healthier option because their smaller size allows for better portion control and significantly reduces your total calorie and sugar intake.

Yes, doughnuts with fillings like custard or Kreme generally have a much higher calorie and sugar count than plain or simple glazed doughnuts.

Yes, Krispy Kreme offers vegan-friendly options, such as the Original Glazed Vegan doughnut, though menu availability can vary by location.

If minis are not available, your best alternative is to choose the classic Original Glazed or another simple doughnut without fillings, heavy icings, or extensive toppings.

Generally, yeast-based doughnuts like the Original Glazed are lighter and have fewer calories than denser cake doughnuts, especially when the cake version has added icing or flavorings.