So when are Krispy Kreme doughnuts hot? It's not random!
The Secret to Getting Hot, Fresh Doughnuts at Krispy Kreme
Updated on May 28, 2025
Anyone who has ever had one knows that there are doughnuts, and then there are Krispy Kreme doughnuts. From the flavors to the textures, there’s nothing quite like them. But the only thing better than an Original Glazed Doughnut from Krispy Kreme might just be a hot Original Glazed Doughnut from Krispy Kreme. But when are Krispy Kreme doughnuts hot? Because this food fact could mean the difference between good and unbelievably great.
To find out the perfect time to head to Krispy Kreme for your doughnut fix, Reader’s Digest we went straight to the source and spoke with Krispy Kreme’s chief growth officer, David Skena. Read on for the skinny on how to get fresh, hot doughnuts every time you visit one of their shops.
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When are Krispy Kreme doughnuts hot?
“Krispy Kreme shops make fresh doughnuts throughout the day,” says Skena. But you’ll have the best shot of finding those perfectly hot, fresh doughnuts at two very specific times: between 7 a.m. and 9 a.m. and between 5 p.m. and 7 p.m. daily. Depending on how busy the shop is, though, workers might make fresh doughnuts at other times as well.
How can you get hot doughnuts every time?
There’s no need to cheat the system or learn about a secret menu. As long as you’re using the tools that Krispy Kreme provides, you can easily get a hot, fresh doughnut every time you visit a shop. Here’s how.
Learn Krispy Kreme’s “Hot Light” hours
Every Krispy Kreme location has a Hot Light, which is a neon sign either beneath the large, freestanding sign or in the window. “When Krispy Kreme’s Hot Light is on, it signals that hot, fresh Original Glazed Doughnuts are coming off the glazer line,” Skena says.
The Hot Light is usually on during the two-hour windows noted above, which are the most common times for shops to be making doughnuts. But if you have a local location that you frequent, you can ask for their Hot Light hours so you know for sure—they may be slightly different depending on when the shop is the busiest.
Use the Krispy Kreme app
These days, you don’t need to see the Hot Light in person to know that it’s on. Like so many things in our lives now, you can use an app. “Fans can customize their Krispy Kreme app to notify them when shops have turned on the Hot Light and hot, fresh Original Glazed Doughnuts are available,” Skena shares. This is the best strategy to use if you have a go-to location.
If you’re away from home and looking for hot, fresh doughnuts, you can use the app for that too. When you’re searching for a location to order from, you’ll see a mini version of the Hot Light next to every shop. If it’s red instead of gray, it means that it’s on and hot doughnuts are available.
How can you get free doughnuts from Krispy Kreme?
While we’re certainly willing to pay to get our Krispy Kreme fix, a free doughnut does always seem to taste just a little bit sweeter. Here are a few ways you can get free doughnuts from Krispy Kreme.
Go when the Hot Light is on
Yep, we’re talking about the Hot Light again! You may have heard the rumor that you can get a free doughnut when the Hot Light is on. Turns out, it’s not a myth. “It is customary for Krispy Kreme shops to offer guests a free Original Glazed Doughnut during Hot Light hours—no purchase necessary,” confirms Skena.
Join the rewards program
Especially if you’re using the Krispy Kreme app to track the Hot Light, make sure to create an account to collect points toward free goodies. “Last year, Krispy Kreme Rewards transitioned to a more generous points system that makes it faster for members to earn and easier to redeem free doughnuts and beverages,” Skena says. “Plus, you’ll get access to exclusive offers and rewards, including a welcome treat just for joining, a special gift from us every year for your birthday and a free limited-time-offer doughnut with every limited-time offer.”
Bring in your report card
Sadly, only kids between kindergarten and 12th grade can take advantage of this method. “All K–12 students can celebrate each semester with a free doughnut for each A (up to six) on their report card at participating shops, one time per semester,” says Skena. “Students must be present, and the report card must be from the current term.” How’s that for some excellent incentive for your kids?
How do you keep Krispy Kreme doughnuts fresh?
Yes, we know it’s virtually impossible to carry around a box of fresh Krispy Kreme doughnuts without scarfing them down right away. But just in case you’re bringing a bag to a friend’s house or a box to brunch, there are a few things you need to know to keep your doughnuts fresh.
Skena says that for optimal deliciousness, it’s best to eat your Krispy Kreme doughnuts on the same day that you buy them. “The ideal condition for storage of a Krispy Kreme doughnut is in the original packaging at room temperature,” he adds. “We do not recommend storing them in the fridge, in plastic storage bags or boxes, or near a heat source.” This could change the texture of the doughnut and, therefore, the eating experience.
That said, if it’s been a couple of hours and you still want that fresh-out-of-the-glazer taste, you can get close to it. Skena recommends popping your doughnuts in the microwave for about 8 seconds to recreate the taste and texture of a fresh Krispy Kreme doughnut. You’re welcome!
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At Reader’s Digest, we’re committed to producing high-quality content by writers with expertise and experience in their field in consultation with relevant, qualified experts. We rely on reputable primary sources, including government and professional organizations and academic institutions as well as our writers’ personal experiences where appropriate. For this piece answering “When are Krispy Kreme doughnuts hot?” Alyssa Sybertz tapped her experience as a longtime food and health reporter and the author of The OMAD Diet: Intermittent Fasting with One Meal a Day to Burn Fat and Lose Weight to ensure that all information is accurate and offers the best possible advice to readers. Read more about our team, our contributors and our editorial policies.
Source:
- David Skena, chief growth officer at Krispy Kreme; interviewed, May 2025
