FOOD NEWS
The Krispy Kreme Doughnut Smoothies That Flopped Hard
By Brianna Corley
Krispy Kreme may have released doughnut milkshakes and ice cream cones in 2022, but that was not the first time it tried to turn its famous original glazed doughnut into a frozen dessert. The chain released doughnut-inspired frozen treats in 2004 when it debuted not milkshakes but smoothies, and many customers were not asking for a refill.
In the summer of 2004, the chain launched a line of doughnut smoothies, and the failed sips were made with nothing more than water, ice, and specially designed flavored powder. Despite Krispy Kreme's hopes, the doughnut-loving public seemed to reach the same conclusion fast — smoothies and doughnuts should stay 50 feet from each other at all times.
By the end of the year these smoothies debuted, The New York Times reported that Krispy Kreme's sales had dropped rather than increased. While the smoothies were eventually taken off the menu, Krispy Kreme did make a fast food world comeback, as in 2021, Restaurant Business reported that the chain saw an increase in sales.