National Doughnut Appreciation Day

Young girl with messy hair and wearing a donut-themed t-shirt, surrounded by colorful donut balloons, in a whimsical bakery setting.. — National doughnut appreciation day illustration

Hey there doughnut lovers! Get ready to celebrate National Doughnut Appreciation Day, a day dedicated to showing some sweet love to everyone's favorite fried treat. Whether you're a fan of glazed, jelly-filled, or sprinkled, this is the perfect occasion to indulge in these sugary delights. So grab a cup of coffee, take a seat, and let's dive into the deep-fried history of National Doughnut Appreciation Day!

When is Doughnut Appreciation Day?

It's national doughnut appreciation day on the 5th November.

A Hole Lot of History

Did you know that the origins of the doughnut date back to the 19th century? Legend has it that a ship captain named Hanson Gregory decided to punch a hole through the center of his fried dough to ensure even cooking. And voila, the doughnut as we know it was born!

As for National Doughnut Appreciation Day, it first appeared on the internet radar around November 5, 2015, igniting a wave of doughnut mania across the web. Since then, doughnut enthusiasts far and wide have been celebrating this delectable day with glazed enthusiasm!

Doughnut Delights Around the World

While doughnuts are undoubtedly an American favorite, these delectable pastries have also made their way onto the international stage. In India, you'll find a savory version of the doughnut called vada, often served with chutney or sambar. In Poland, pączki take center stage, rich in flavor and typically filled with rosehip jam or sweet cream. And let's not forget the beignets of France, which are like fluffy squares of fried happiness that pair perfectly with a cup of cafe au lait.

Fun Facts to Fry Your Mind

Did you know that the largest doughnut ever made weighed a whopping 1.7 tons? It was created in Utica, New York, in 1993, measuring 16 feet in diameter. That's a whole lot of doughnut! And if you're feeling ambitious, the Guinness World Record for eating the most doughnuts in three minutes is 29. Better start practicing!

History behind the term 'Doughnut Appreciation'

1809

The Birth of the Doughnut

In the year 1809, the first written record of the term 'doughnut' appeared in Washington Irving's novel 'A History of New York.' In the book, Irving describes individuals eating 'balls of sweetened dough, fried in hog's fat.' This marked the earliest mention of the culinary delight that would later become known as the doughnut.

1847

The Doughnut's Journey to America

In 1847, the doughnut made its way to America. A Dutchwoman named Elizabeth Gregory used her son's spice and nutmeg cargo, along with lemon rind, to create a traditional fried dough. She would place hazelnuts or walnuts in the center to avoid the undercooked dough in the middle. These handmade treats were called 'doughnuts' due to their round and doughy nature.

1920

Doughnuts Go Mainstream

During World War I, American troops were introduced to doughnuts or 'doughboys,' as they were often referred to. The Salvation Army started a campaign to provide doughnuts and coffee to soldiers, boosting their morale. After the war, doughnuts gained popularity and began appearing in bakeries and coffee shops across the United States.

1938

National Doughnut Day

In 1938, the Salvation Army established National Doughnut Day to honor the 'doughnut lassies' who served soldiers during World War I. This day, celebrated annually on the first Friday of June, not only acknowledges the doughnut's role in history but also celebrates the joy and comfort it brings to people's lives.