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 Artemis II mission, which marks a significant milestone as it will be the first crewed mission to the Moon in over 50 years.
The Artemis II Doughnut features a vibrant 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 confection is part of the Artemis II Specialty Dozen, which includes six Original Glazed doughnuts, allowing fans to indulge in a delicious way while commemorating this historic event.
The Artemis II crew consists of four astronauts: Reid Wiseman, Victor Glover, Christina Koch, and Jeremy Hansen. Notably, Glover and Koch will make history as the first person of color and 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, adding to the significance of this mission.
The Artemis II mission is planned as a 10-day flight, potentially taking the astronauts further from Earth than any prior mission. This ambitious endeavor is part of NASA’s broader Artemis program, which aims to return humans to the Moon for long-term exploration and utilization, ultimately paving the way for human exploration of Mars.
Krispy Kreme has a history of celebrating NASA missions with special doughnuts, having previously released themed treats for both Artemis I and Apollo 11. This tradition not only highlights the excitement surrounding space exploration but also brings communities together through shared experiences and delicious offerings.
As the countdown to the Artemis II mission continues, anticipation builds not only for the astronauts’ journey but also for the unique culinary tribute from Krispy Kreme. Tim Hortons in Canada has even joined the celebration by renaming its doughnut holes to “Moonbits” in honor of the mission. Details remain unconfirmed regarding any additional promotions or collaborations that may arise as the launch date approaches.