Which Krispy Kreme Donut Has the Least Calories?

November 4, 2025 •

3 min read

With the iconic Original Glazed donut coming in at just 190 calories, it's a pleasant surprise for many that some Krispy Kreme treats are not as high in calories as one might assume. However, the lowest calorie option is actually even smaller. For those seeking to indulge with less guilt, the mini versions and other simple, un-filled donuts offer the best bet, as extravagant toppings and fillings significantly increase the calorie count.

Quick Summary

A nutritional breakdown of Krispy Kreme's offerings reveals the lowest-calorie options. The article details how choices like mini donuts and plain varieties can minimize caloric impact compared to their filled and topped counterparts. Calorie comparisons for popular items help consumers decide on a treat that aligns with their dietary goals.

Key Points

Mini Original Glazed is the lowest: The smallest donut on the menu, a Mini Original Glazed, contains approximately 90 calories.
Original Glazed is a good alternative: The classic full-sized Original Glazed donut is still a relatively low-calorie choice at 190 calories.
Size and simplicity matter: Smaller, un-filled, and un-frosted donuts like the Sugar Donut (180 calories) are your best low-calorie options.
Avoid filled and topped donuts: Extravagant options with fillings and rich icings, like the Chocolate Iced Custard Filled donut, have significantly higher calorie counts, at around 300 calories.
Portion control is critical: Choosing a mini donut or limiting yourself to one treat is the most effective strategy for managing caloric intake.
Check official sources for updates: For the most accurate and current nutritional data, always refer to Krispy Kreme's official website, as product offerings and nutritional information can change.

Finding the Lowest Calorie Krispy Kreme Donut

Navigating a Krispy Kreme menu to find the lowest-calorie option requires a bit of detective work, as the nutritional information can vary based on toppings, fillings, and even regional differences. While the signature Original Glazed donut is a classic, weighing in at around 190 calories, it is not the lightest option available. For those counting calories, the best strategy is to look for smaller sizes and simpler offerings. Unsurprisingly, donuts loaded with rich fillings and sugary glazes will almost always be the heaviest choice.

The Surprising Winner: Mini Donuts

For many, the first instinct is to grab a simple, unfrosted donut, but Krispy Kreme's mini-sized offerings are the real calorie-saving champions. For instance, a single mini Original Glazed donut contains only 90 calories, making it a perfectly satisfying treat for a small indulgence. Similarly, other mini varieties, such as the Mini Chocolate Iced Glazed, are also significantly lighter than their full-sized equivalents. These portion-controlled sweets allow you to enjoy the classic Krispy Kreme taste without a significant calorie hit.

Comparing Popular Donut Choices

To help you make an informed decision, here is a comparison of the approximate calorie counts for some popular Krispy Kreme donut varieties. It's clear that less is more when it comes to keeping the calorie count down.


Donut Type	Approx. Calories	Description
Mini Original Glazed	90	A bite-sized version of the classic ring donut.
Original Glazed	190	The iconic, melt-in-your-mouth ring donut with a simple glaze.
Chocolate Iced Glazed	240	A full-sized, ring donut topped with a chocolate icing.
Sugar Donut	180	A simple, non-glazed ring donut dusted with sugar.
Glazed Chocolate Cake	250	A denser, cake-style donut with a glaze.
Chocolate Iced Custard Filled	300	A full-sized donut filled with custard and topped with chocolate icing.

A Look at Other "Healthier" Alternatives

Beyond the mini donuts, there are a few other contenders for a lighter treat. The unadorned Sugar Donut, with 180 calories, is another solid choice for those who prefer a simple, classic taste. Some regional and limited-time offerings might also present lower-calorie options, but the consistent choices remain the plain and mini varieties. It is always wise to check the most current nutritional information on the official Krispy Kreme website or in-store, as ingredients and recipes can sometimes change.

Understanding the Nutritional Trade-offs

While focusing on the lowest-calorie option is useful, it's important to remember that most donuts are still a treat, high in sugar and carbohydrates. The Mini Original Glazed, despite being low in calories, still contains a significant amount of sugar for its size. Making a conscious choice is about balancing enjoyment with nutritional awareness. Choosing a less calorically-dense donut doesn't make it a health food, but it does make it a more mindful indulgence.

Portion Control Is Key

Ultimately, the key to enjoying Krispy Kreme without derailing your diet is not just picking the right donut, but also practicing portion control. A single mini donut can satisfy a craving for a sweet treat with minimal impact. Overindulging, even in lower-calorie options, can quickly add up. Sharing a treat with a friend or opting for a single, smaller item can be the best strategy. For the most up-to-date and detailed nutritional breakdowns, it's always recommended to consult the official source.

Conclusion

For those wondering which Krispy Kreme donut has the least calories, the clear answer is the Mini Original Glazed, with only 90 calories per piece. While the classic Original Glazed is also a relatively light choice at 190 calories, opting for a mini-sized version or a simple, unfrosted variety like the Sugar Donut is the safest bet for minimizing your calorie intake. Remember that these are still indulgent treats, and moderation is the most important factor for any diet plan. Understanding these nutritional differences allows you to enjoy your next Krispy Kreme craving with a little more awareness.

For more detailed nutritional information, you can always visit the official Krispy Kreme website to view their comprehensive nutritional guide.

Frequently Asked Questions

The Krispy Kreme Mini Original Glazed donut has the least calories, with approximately 90 calories per serving.

The Original Glazed is a relatively light choice for a standard donut, containing 190 calories. However, mini varieties are even lighter.

Mini donuts are a lower-calorie alternative due to their smaller size, but they still contain sugar and should be considered an occasional treat. Portion control is their main advantage.

Filled and topped donuts, such as the Chocolate Iced Custard Filled, can have significantly higher calorie counts, around 300 calories or more per donut.

Krispy Kreme has been adding vegan-friendly options to its lineup. While these options are plant-based, their calorie content varies, and checking the nutritional information on their website is best for specifics.

The most accurate nutrition facts can be found on Krispy Kreme's official corporate website or via their allergen and nutrition matrix.

Yes, the Sugar Donut is a straightforward, unfrosted option with a relatively low calorie count of 180 calories.