The numbers
Krispy Kreme is launching a limited edition Artemis II Doughnut, available from March 31 to April 2, 2026. This special treat is designed to celebrate NASA’s upcoming Artemis II mission, marking a significant milestone in space exploration.
The Artemis II Doughnut features a delightful blue vanilla-flavored icing, topped with Oreo crunch and white nonpareils, finished off with a cookies-and-cream flavored buttercream dollop and a striking red chevron. This unique creation is part of the Artemis II Specialty Dozen, which includes six Original Glazed doughnuts, ensuring that fans can indulge in a sweet treat while commemorating this historic event.
The Artemis II mission is particularly noteworthy as it includes a diverse crew: Reid Wiseman, Victor Glover, Christina Koch, and Jeremy Hansen. Glover and Koch will make history as the first person of color and the first woman, respectively, to leave low Earth orbit. Hansen will also be the first astronaut from a country other than the U.S. to fly to the moon, showcasing the international spirit of space exploration.
This mission is a 10-day flight that may take the astronauts further from Earth than any prior mission. As NASA aims to return humans to the Moon for long-term exploration and utilization, the Artemis II mission stands as a testament to the agency’s commitment to advancing human presence in space.
Alison Holder from Krispy Kreme expressed the excitement surrounding this launch, stating, “Big moments bring people together, and it doesn’t get much bigger than humans heading back into deep space.” She further added, “We took our iconic Original Glazed doughnut and gave it a mission worthy makeover so fans can celebrate Artemis II in a fun, delicious way, right alongside history.” This sentiment resonates with many who are eager to witness the next chapter in space exploration.
Krispy Kreme has a rich history of celebrating NASA missions, having previously released special doughnuts for the Artemis I and Apollo 11 missions. In fact, Krispy Kreme’s doughnuts were sold at the Kennedy Space Center during the Apollo 11 launch in 1969, creating a nostalgic connection between the beloved treat and the excitement of space travel.
As the countdown to the Artemis II mission continues, the community eagerly anticipates the launch and the opportunity to enjoy the Artemis II Doughnut. With the mission set to take place in 2026, the excitement is palpable, and the doughnut serves as a delicious reminder of the journey ahead. Details remain unconfirmed about any additional celebrations or events that may accompany the launch, but one thing is certain: the spirit of exploration is alive and well, and Krispy Kreme is ready to sweeten the experience for everyone involved.
