Did you know? Canada has more doughnut shops per capita than any other nation in the world! And what better thing to do during a pandemic than try a new flavour or two? In celebration of National Doughnut Day on June 4th, we decided to take a look inside the best doughnut shops across Canada. Whether you’re up for something new and fun or a good ol’ cinnamon sugar, here are the best spots to pick up the most scrumptious doughnuts across this big ol’ country.
Holy Cow Gelato & Donuts, Calgary, AB
HOLY COW is right! This small shop in Calgary is the definition of innovative. They started out as gelato shop, expanded to doughnuts and are now offering burgers too. With this shop offering six new doughnuts options per month, there is never a shortage of flavours (like everything bagel, lemon meringue and orange blossom).
Daddy O Doughnuts, Mississauga, ON
Whether it’s old-fashioned doughnut, something vegan or an entirely creative and new sweet treat, Daddy O Doughnuts has it all. Their secret? An old family recipe passed down from generation to generation and only the finest, wholesome ingredients. Better get there early because rain or shine, they always sell out quick!
Trou de Beigne, Montreal, QC
Trou de Beigne doughnuts are hand-rolled, fried and glazed every morning, ensuring customers are getting the finest, fluffiest and most flavourful bite in each doughnut. They go above and beyond when creating flavours, whether it’s Nutella and banana, cookie dough, bourbon lemonade (yes, you heard that right) alongside vegan or gluten-free options. This doughnut shop never disappoints.
Related: Nostalgic Desserts That Will Take You Down Memory Lane
Cops Doughnuts, Toronto, ON
Cops Doughnuts has gone viral on multiple social media outlets. Their slogan “too many options is a prison“ means that they have three flavours including original, cinnamon sugar and original sour cream glaze, along with a rotating selection each week. Let me tell you: the Oreo left me with a full tummy of happiness. Friendly staff!
Grandads Donuts, Hamilton, ON
This family-owned doughnut shop has been operating since the early 2000s. They use the best ingredients possible to create the freshest doughnuts — the same way grandad did — to keep you coming back for more. A must-stop if you’re ever in Hamilton. Hot tip: go on an empty stomach so you can try as many as you can!
Related: Gourmet Cookie Recipes Perfect for Any Special Occasion
Cartems Donuts, Vancouver, BC
Almost 2,000 Google reviews will tell you this is the best place in Vancouver to fill your doughnuts cravings. They make doughnuts from scratch every day. Flavours include vanilla bean, smoked maple walnut, Earl Grey, as well as many vegan and gluten-free options.
Glory Hole Doughnuts, Toronto, ON
With almost 40,000 Instagram followers, this local Toronto shop is the trendsetter for everything doughnuts. With two locations in Parkdale and on Gerrard, the award-winning Glory Hole does not fail to please. From cake doughnuts to yeast doughnuts and beyond.
Donut Monster, Hamilton ON
This shop’s 45,000+ followers on Instagram can’t be wrong! They have every flavour you can imagine, from butter tart pecan to whiskey sour. They even have a doughnut ice cream sandwich. Their light, airy dough will unquestionably make your summer sweeter!
Bronuts, Winnipeg, MB
Your friendly neighbourhood doughnut shop has captured the attention of many worldwide by naming their doughnuts after people, like Max, Debbie, Margot or Arthur. Flavours range from salted chocolate, pistachio white chocolate and caramel blondie.
Fortune Doughnut, Halifax, NS
Considered one of best shops to grab doughnuts on the East Coast, Fortune makes a variety of fun flavours and has plenty of vegan options too. Their vegan flavours are stellar — from Boston cream and maple bacon to raspberry gummy bears and chocolate Oreo.
Want to try making doughnuts at home? Try these matcha and raspberry mochi doughnuts (they require just 10 ingredients!).