Krispy Kreme's limited-edition Pokémon 30th anniversary doughnuts experienced significant demand, initially overwhelming the pre-ordering system and leaving many fans concerned they would miss out. The promotion's website struggled with the influx of orders, offering unclear information about availability beyond the initial pre-order phase. However, a small subsequent release allowed some fans, including this reporter, to secure a "Pokémon Dozen."
The pickup process at a local Krispy Kreme store revealed a somewhat frazzled staff managing the promotion alongside regular customers. Despite the apparent chaos, a fresh batch of Squirtle-themed doughnuts was noted to be available. The website quickly reverted to "Sold Out" status shortly after the reporter's order was placed, suggesting these were among the last available.
The "Pokémon Dozen" typically includes one each of Squirtle, Bulbasaur, Charmander, Jigglypuff, and Pikachu doughnuts, a second bonus doughnut (which varied by store), two Poké Ball doughnuts, and four regular glazed doughnuts. The "Dots Cup Combo" also offered a cup featuring a Pokémon, filled with glazed doughnut holes.
Doughnut Breakdown
The tasting panel found mixed results across the Pokémon-themed doughnuts. The Poké Ball doughnut, described as having vanilla-flavored icing with chocolate drizzle, was deemed unremarkable by one tester. The Jigglypuff doughnut, featuring strawberry-flavored buttercream, was noted as good but dependent on a preference for strawberry. The Squirtle doughnut's cotton-candy flavor was questioned for its thematic connection to the Pokémon, though it was found to be acceptable. Charmander's caramel-iced doughnut with chocolate marshmallow filling was also described as average, with the filling not being particularly distinct.
The Bulbasaur doughnut, with vanilla-flavored icing, surprisingly garnered a positive reaction, though the flavor was simply identified as vanilla. The Krispy Kreme original glazed doughnuts, often considered a benchmark, were surprisingly well-received in this context, ranking as the second-best of the bunch. The "Dots Cup" doughnut holes, dusted in gold, were functional but preferred by one tester over Dunkin's Munchkins.
Pikachu Stands Out
The Pikachu doughnut, featuring a lemon-flavored kreme filling, emerged as the standout. Described as having a lemon cream cheese-like consistency, it was the only specialty doughnut one tester would actively seek out again. Even a self-proclaimed detractor of the Pikachu character admitted it was a "damn fine donut."
Despite the positive aspects of the Pikachu doughnut and the nostalgic appeal of the promotion, the overall recommendation was to reconsider the $30 price point for the Pokémon Dozen, suggesting that a less expensive assortment from a local bakery might offer better value. The limited-edition Pikachu cup, however, was considered a worthwhile bonus for some.