What Dough Mixer Does Krispy Kreme Use?

Krispy Kreme began as a small shop in Winston-Salem, N.C., in 1937 and has since grown into a globally recognized doughnut brand best known for its Original Glazed® doughnut. Most locations offer high-scale production, which is supported by mixers built for repeated, large-batch operation.

To keep up with production needs, Krispy Kreme uses Varimixer models, particularly the brand's V Series. This includes the V100PL, a 100-quart planetary floor mixer equipped with a 4-horsepower variable-speed drive, high-torque transmission, and powered bowl lift. This mixer provides the capacity and operating characteristics needed for high-volume dough production.

How Krispy Kreme Dough Mixers Work

A planetary mixer moves its agitator in two directions. The attachment rotates on its own axis while traveling around the mixing bowl, and this motion moves the attachment through the entire batch, helping the mixer incorporate ingredients consistently. For dough production, a dough hook folds and kneads the mixture as gluten develops.

Krispy Kreme favors the Varimixer V100PL for its large bowl capacity. The mixer uses a high-torque, belt-driven transmission to drive the agitator, and the mixing speed can be adjusted between 47 and 257 RPM to accommodate different stages of production, from incorporating the initial flour and liquid to developing the finished dough. Because the transmission uses belts rather than an oil-filled gear system, it eliminates the risk of transmission oil leaking into the bowl.

The Benefits of Varimixer Dough Mixers

Varimixer V Series mixers combine high-capacity production with controls and safeguards designed for repeated mixing. These features can support the demanding production schedules of doughnut shops, bakeries, and commissaries:

• Large-Capacity Bowls: The V30, V40, V60, V80, and V100PL provide bowl capacities of 30, 40, 60, 80, and 100 quarts, respectively. Their listed dough capacities vary by dough type and range from 35 pounds for the V30 to 155 pounds for the V100PL. Operators should compare these sizes with their expected production needs when shopping for a commercial mixer by capacity.
• Variable Speeds: Each V Series model has an adjustable agitator speed. The V30 operates from 57 to 311 RPM, while the V100PL operates from 47 to 257 RPM, supporting different stages of ingredient incorporation, mixing, and dough development.

• High-Torque, Belt-Driven Operation: Belt-driven transmissions transfer power to the agitator without an oil-filled transmission. Motor power increases with capacity, ranging from 2 horsepower in the V30 to 4 horsepower in the V80 and V100PL.
• Timed Batch Control: V Series models include a 90-minute timer that helps staff follow standardized mixing periods while completing other prep tasks.
• Bowl Handling: The V30, V40, V60, and V80 use a hydraulic bowl damper to lower the bowl, while the V100PL features a powered bowl lift operated from the front control panel.
• Integrated Safety Systems: Overload protection, emergency-stop controls, limit switches, and bowl-guard interlocks help ensure safe operation. Specific safeguards vary by model.
• Included Attachments: V Series mixers include a bowl, dough hook, wire whip, flat beater, and ingredient chute, enabling operators to prepare dough as well as batter, icing, whipped ingredients, and other recipes. The V30 through V80 models also include a No. 12 attachment hub for compatible accessories.

How Dough Mixers Can Improve Your Commercial Kitchen

A high-capacity planetary mixer can help a doughnut shop or bakery produce more uniform batches while reducing the physical labor involved in hand mixing and kneading. Adjustable speeds and timed operation also support standardized procedures, which can simplify employee training and reduce variation between batches. The capacity range and versatile attachments available across the Varimixer V Series enable operators to select a mixer that fits production needs without sacrificing flexibility. Smaller models can support bakeries and doughnut shops preparing moderate batches, while the V80 and V100PL suit high-volume operations processing heavier loads.

Operators should also consider each mixer's installation requirements and production limits. A 100-quart mixer requires significant floor space and suitable electrical service, so it may be too large for a small retail bakery. Before selecting a mixer, operators should evaluate expected batch weight, dough density, production frequency, available space, and utility requirements.

For additional planning guidance, read KaTom's article on Starting a Doughnut Shop.

Find Dough Mixers at KaTom for High-Volume Production

KaTom offers a broad selection of dough mixers for doughnut shops, bakeries, and restaurants, including those sold by Varimixer. Available configurations include versatile planetary mixers for dough, batter, icing, and fillings, as well as spiral mixers designed primarily for bulk dough production. Compare capacities, motor sizes, attachments, and controls to find the right equipment for your operation.

For additional help choosing a mixer, KaTom's Commercial Mixer Buyers' Guide can help explain how to balance production and space requirements.