From the stereotypical breakfast of choice for cops to the morning routine for those of us with a sweet tooth, the donut is an American breakfast staple.
Over the last decade, donuts have gone from just the classic flavors to an extensive menu of gourmet developments. Some famous trends include 1990s’ cereal-themed donuts, donut breakfast sandwiches, savory donut toppings, and even marketing partnerships with alcohol companies. But how did we get here?
Although tracing the donut back to its roots is nearly impossible, The Smithsonian magazine says to have found that the donut first came to America by way of Manhattan with the original Dutch name of olykoeks — “oily cakes.” The magazine reports that, “The first doughnut machine did not come along until 1920, in New York City, when Adolph Levitt, an enterprising refugee from czarist Russia, began selling fried doughnuts from his bakery. Hungry theater crowds pushed him to make a gadget that churned out the tasty rings faster, and he did.” Since then, local donut shops have become very popular across the country, and Greater Lakeland doesn’t fall behind on this trend.
We’ve rounded up our favorite local donut shops!
HOLE IN ONE DONUTS
It’s all about the classics at Hole In One, whether you’re in the mood for a warm glazed donut or a strawberry donut glazed with sprinkles, Hole in One donuts are always hot, fresh, and ready.
410 N. Alexander Street, Plant City, FL 33563
facebook.com/holeinonedonuts1
THE DONUT MAN
Known as the “Home of the Amazing Apple Fritter,” The Donut Man offers a variety of donuts as well as bagel sandwiches and croissants.
1290 6th Street NW, Winter Haven, FL 33881
facebook.com/thedonutmanWH
DONUT PALACE
In the mood for something sweet and savory? The Donut Palace’s menu is complete with sweets and savory breakfast items like breakfast tacos, biscuits. and croissant sandwiches.
2697 Recker Highway, Winter Haven, FL 33880
BAKING DONUTS PLUS
Classic donuts and breakfast aside, at Baking Donuts Plus you can enjoy bacon donuts, coffee, and bubble tea as well.
913 6th Street NW, Winter Haven, FL 33881
bakingdonutsplus.business.site
REASEY DONUTS
From cereal donuts to cinnamon twists and glazed croissants, Reasey Donuts serves their creative twist on your favorite treats along with the classics.
202 E. Canal Street, Mulberry, FL 33860
CHARLIE’S MINI DONUTS AND COFFEE
Bite-sized donuts in classic and creative flavors for everyone to enjoy.
1023 E. County Road 540A, Lakeland, FL 33813
facebook.com/charliesminidonutcoffee