National Dougnut Day

Smiling children wearing colorful aprons, surrounded by a variety of deliciously frosted doughnuts, in a cheerful bakery setting.. — National dougnut day illustration

Hey there, doughnut lovers! Get ready to indulge in a delectable celebration of National Doughnut Day! This sweet and doughy holiday has captured the hearts (and stomachs) of people far and wide. So put on your stretchy pants, grab a cup of coffee, and let's dive into the sugary goodness that is National Doughnut Day.

When is Dougnut Day?

It's national dougnut day on the 5th June.

The Origin of National Doughnut Day

Believe it or not, National Doughnut Day has a fascinating history deeply rooted in philanthropy. It all started back in World War I when the Salvation Army volunteers decided to bring a little taste of home to the soldiers stationed overseas. They would fry doughnuts in the troops' helmets, providing them with a comforting treat amidst the chaos of war. These doughnuts became a symbol of hope and were a much-needed morale booster for the soldiers.

After the war, the Salvation Army continued their noble mission by establishing National Doughnut Day in 1938. The day was not only meant to honor those brave soldiers but also to raise funds to assist those in need during the Great Depression. Today, National Doughnut Day is celebrated on the first Friday of June each year, carrying on the spirit of goodwill and treating ourselves to those irresistible circular delights.

A Dough-licious Variety

Doughnuts come in all shapes, sizes, and flavors, making it a truly versatile treat. Whether you prefer classic glazed, jelly-filled, or sprinkled with colorful sweetness, there's a doughnut out there to satisfy every craving.

For the adventurous doughnut enthusiasts, gourmet shops and bakeries have taken this delightful pastry to a whole new level. You can now find doughnuts topped with bacon, drizzled with caramel, or even infused with unique flavors like matcha or lavender. The possibilities are endless, and each bite is a delightful surprise for your taste buds.

A Global Obsession

While National Doughnut Day originated in the United States, the love for doughnuts has spread like creamy filling around the globe. In fact, different countries have their own unique takes on this beloved pastry. From the jam-filled Berliners of Germany to the churros in Spain and the beignets of New Orleans, the joy of a fried dough treat knows no borders.

So, whether you're biting into a classic glazed doughnut or munching on a cronut (a heavenly croissant-doughnut hybrid), National Doughnut Day is the perfect excuse to indulge in this sugary delight and celebrate the happiness it brings.

Did You Know?

Did you know that the largest doughnut ever made was an enormous creation? It measured a whopping 16 feet in diameter and weighed around 3.9 tons! This colossal confectionery masterpiece was made in Utica, New York, in 1993. Imagine the number of sprinkles you'd need to cover that bad boy!

History behind the term 'Dougnut'

1809

Early Beginnings

The term 'dougnut' first appeared in Washington Irving's satirical work, 'A History of New York.' He used the term to describe fried sweet dough that was shaped like a nut, hence the name 'dough-nut.' Although Irving did not invent the food itself, he popularized the term and contributed to its early recognition.

1847

Doughnut vs. Donut

The term 'doughnut' went through an evolution in its spelling. In 1847, an American writer, Elizabeth Gregory, started making doughnuts using her son's spice and a filling to add flavor. She also decided to puncture the center of the dough with a cinnamon stick, creating the now-familiar ring-shaped doughnut. Gregory's doughnuts were known as 'doughnuts,' emphasizing the 'dough' aspect of the treat.

1920

Donut Gains Popularity

As the popularity of doughnuts continued to increase in the early 20th century, the shorter spelling of 'donut' began to appear more frequently. Advertisements and bakeries used the abbreviated form to save space and make the term catchier. The first use of 'donut' as a short form of 'doughnut' is often credited to the influential bakery chain, Dunkin' Donuts, founded in 1950.

1933

National Donut Day

National Donut Day was established in 1938 by The Salvation Army to honor the 'Lassies'—female volunteers who served doughnuts to soldiers during World War I. The day aims to celebrate the doughnut's contribution to American culture and to raise funds for charitable purposes. National Donut Day is celebrated annually on the first Friday of June, spreading the joy and history of doughnuts nationwide.

2013

The Reign of the Doughnut

With the rise of social media and culinary innovation, doughnuts have experienced a renaissance in recent years. Artisanal doughnut shops have emerged, offering unique flavors, extravagant toppings, and creative designs. The doughnut's cultural impact continues to expand, with dedicated doughnut festivals, competitions, and even a growing trend of doughnut-based weddings. The humble doughnut has transitioned from a simple treat to an iconic symbol of indulgence and creativity.