National Doughnut Donut Day

A young woman enjoying a glazed doughnut, wearing a retro polka dot dress, in a colorful 1950s style diner.. — National doughnut donut day illustration

Hey there, doughnut lovers and confectionery enthusiasts! Get ready to indulge in the sugary goodness of National Doughnut Day.

When is Doughnut Donut Day?

It's national doughnut donut day on the 5th June.

History of National Doughnut Day

Picture this: It's 1938, and the Great Depression is in full swing. The Salvation Army comes to the rescue by organizing a way to feed hungry souls and simultaneously sweeten their spirits. On the first Friday of June, they establish National Doughnut Day to honor the brave women who served doughnuts to soldiers during World War I. And just like that, a delectable tradition is born.

Fast forward to the internet age, where every day seems to have a national holiday. National Doughnut Day, however, has managed to retain its popularity and bring joy to millions of doughnut lovers around the world. It's a day when people can forget their worries and treat themselves to their favorite fried circular goodness.

How to Celebrate National Doughnut Day

Celebrating National Doughnut Day is as easy as pie...or should we say doughnut! All you need to do is head to your favorite doughnut shop or bakery, or maybe even whip up a batch at home. Treat yourself to a scrumptious glazed, powdered, or jelly-filled delight. And don't forget to share the love by buying a box of doughnuts for your friends, family, or even random strangers.

If you're feeling extra adventurous, why not organize a doughnut-eating contest? See who can devour the most doughnuts in a set amount of time. Just make sure to have plenty of napkins on hand!

Did You Know?

Did you know that the first doughnut machine was invented in 1920 by a Russian immigrant named Adolph Levitt? This invention revolutionized the doughnut-making process and paved the way for the mass production of everyone's favorite fried treat.

History behind the term 'Doughnut Donut'

1847

Birth of the Original Doughnut

In 1847, the term 'doughnut' was first cited in a Washington Irving's satirical book, 'A History of New York,' where he poked fun at the treats' shape and called them 'dough-nuts.' These early doughnuts were fried dough balls, often infused with nutmeg or cinnamon, and were not yet fully formed into the familiar ring shape we know today.

1809

Origins of the Term 'Doughnut'

The term 'doughnut' is believed to have originated in 1809 when Washington Irving mentioned 'doughnuts' in his book 'A History of New York.' However, the exact origin of the word is unclear. Some theories suggest that the term was derived from the Dutch word 'oliekoek' or 'oily cake,' which described small, deep-fried pastries.

1809

The Birth of the Term 'Doughnut'

In the year 1809, the term 'doughnut' made its first appearance in print. Washington Irving, an American author, used the term in his satirical work called 'A History of New York.' Irving described doughnuts as 'balls of sweetened dough, fried in hog's fat.' Interestingly, the term 'doughnut' was initially spelled as 'dough-nut', emphasizing its nut-like shape rather than its modern spelling.

1847

The Birth of the Doughnut

The term 'doughnut' is first used to refer to a sweet treat that is made of dough. The exact origin of the word is unclear, but it is believed to come from the Dutch word 'oliekoek' which means 'oil cake.' These early doughnuts were typically made by frying dough in oil until they turned golden brown. They were often enjoyed with a sprinkle of sugar.

1809

The First Recorded Use of the Term

The term 'doughnut' was first recorded in Washington Irving's satirical publication 'A History of New York' in 1809. Irving used the term to refer to the fried pieces of dough that were commonly eaten in New York at the time.

1809

The First Recorded Mention

The term 'doughnut' made its first appearance in an American cookbook called "American Cookery" by Amelia Simmons. Published in 1809, the book featured a recipe for 'dough-nuts' which were described as being made with sugar, baking soda, and nutmeg. This early mention established the term in American culinary culture.

1809

Origin of the term 'doughnut'

The term 'doughnut' first appeared in Washington Irving's book 'A History of New York' where he described fried balls of sweetened dough as 'doughnuts.' The term was likely a combination of the Dutch word 'oliekoecken,' meaning oil cakes, and 'dough,' referring to the dough used to make them.

1809

A 'dough-nut' is mentioned in print

The term 'doughnut' was first mentioned in print in Washington Irving's book 'A History of New York' published in 1809. In the book, Irving refers to a pastry called a 'dough-nut' and describes it as 'balls of sweetened dough, fried in hog's fat, and called doughnuts or olykoeks.' This early reference provides insight into the origins of the term.

1809

The Origin of the Term

The term 'doughnut' was first recorded in Washington Irving's book, 'A History of New York.' In this satirical work, he referred to fried, sweetened dough as 'doughnuts.' However, at this time, the term was spelled as 'dough-nut,' emphasizing the nut-like shape of the treat.

1847

Alternative Spelling: 'Donut'

In 1847, an American author named Hanson Crockett Gregory claimed to have invented the ring-shaped doughnut that we know today. However, it wasn't until the late 19th century that the term 'donut' came into use. The shortened spelling 'donut' is often credited to the influence of doughnut vendor Elizabeth Gregory, who supposedly made the pastries with her son's bobby pin in the center, creating the iconic ring shape.

1847

Transition to 'donut'

The first recorded use of the term 'donut' can be traced back to an American cookbook titled 'Mrs. Hannah Goldberg's Practical Cookery Book.' In this cookbook, it was mentioned that the common name for fried cakes of sweetened dough was 'donuts.' This variation of the term 'doughnut' is believed to have originated from an earlier phonetic spelling of 'doughnuts.'

1847

The Simplified Spelling

As the popularity of the treat grew, the term 'doughnut' underwent a simplification in spelling. Washington Irving, a renowned American author, used the simplified form 'donut' in his satirical work called "Knickerbocker's History of New York" published in 1847. This altered spelling gained traction and became an alternative way to refer to the popular treat.

1847

The Introduction of 'Donut'

In 1847, a New England-based captain named Hanson Gregory is credited with abbreviating the term 'doughnut' to 'donut'. Gregory, being tired of the commonly long spelling of the word, decided to simplify it. The story goes that while aboard a ship, he impaled the dough with a spoke of a ship's wheel to create a hole in the center, allowing for more even cooking and a quicker preparation time. Over time, the term 'donut' gained popularity due to its shortened and catchy form.

1847

The term 'donut' emerges

The term 'donut' starts to gain popularity after it is used in a cookbook entitled 'The Complete Cook' by J.H. Gregory in 1847. Gregory includes a recipe for 'doughnuts' but abbreviates the word as 'donut.' This abbreviation catches on and becomes an alternative spelling of the term.

1847

The Birth of the Modern Spelling

Hansen Gregory, an American ship captain, is credited with the modern spelling of 'doughnut.' Frustrated with the greasiness in the center of the fried dough, he decided to punch a hole in the middle, creating the ring shape we commonly associate with doughnuts today. As a result, the term 'doughnut' replaced the old conceptualization of 'dough-nut.'

mid-19th century

American Innovation: Doughnut Cutter

The step towards the modern doughnut came in the mid-19th century when an American ship captain named Hanson Gregory decided he wanted a more evenly cooked and easier-to-digest doughnut. Around 1847, Gregory, while on board a ship, started using the top of a round tin pepper can to cut the centers out of the dough, giving birth to the ring-shaped doughnut we are familiar with now.

1847

Hansen Gregory's Inventive Punch

In 1847, a sea captain named Hansen Gregory claimed to have invented the modern doughnut shape. Tired of the greasy centers and uncooked dough of the traditional doughnuts, Gregory decided to punch a hole in the center using the ship's tin pepper box. This change allowed for more even cooking and a more enjoyable eating experience.

1809

The Donut Variation

The simplified spelling 'donut' starts gaining popularity. This spelling variation is first used in a cookbook by Washington Irving called 'A History of New York.' Irving refers to the sweet treat as 'doughnuts, or as they are vulgarly called, dough nuts.' The term 'donut' gradually becomes an accepted variation of 'doughnut' in American English.

1920s

The Rise of Donut Shops

During the 1920s, small shops dedicated solely to producing and selling donuts started popping up across America. Some of the earliest and most famous were The Mayflower Donut Shop in New York City and Dunkin' Donuts in Quincy, Massachusetts. These dedicated donut shops played a significant role in popularizing and commercializing donuts, contributing to their status as a beloved treat.

1920s

The Rise of the Doughnut Industry

The doughnut gains significant popularity during the 1920s as the rapidly rising middle class in America seeks affordable indulgences. This leads to the establishment of doughnut shops and chains, making doughnuts more accessible to the public. The term 'doughnut' becomes firmly embedded in American culture as a beloved sweet treat.

1900s

The Rise of the Alternate Spelling

In the early 1900s, the simplified spelling 'donut' began to emerge as an alternative to 'doughnut.' The shorter variant gained popularity due to its simplicity and ease of use. Both spellings were widely accepted, but 'donut' became more common in everyday usage.

1920s

Doughnut Chains and Popularity

In the 1920s, doughnut shops and chains began to proliferate across the United States. Companies like Dunkin' Donuts and Krispy Kreme helped popularize the treat and made it more accessible to a wider audience. This period marked a shift in eating habits and the rise of the doughnut as a staple breakfast food.

1900

Donuts gain commercial success

In the early 20th century, donuts become a staple of American cuisine and gain significant commercial success. The inexpensive pastries are popularized by doughnut shops and bakeries, particularly in urban centers. Their affordability and delicious taste make them a favorite treat among people from all walks of life.

1929

Establishment of the 'National Donut Day'

In 1929, the Salvation Army created 'National Donut Day' as a way to honor the 'Lassies' (female Salvation Army volunteers) who served doughnuts to soldiers during World War I. The day was also intended to raise funds for charitable causes. Since then, 'National Donut Day' has been celebrated annually on the first Friday of June.

1870s

The Donut Spreads Nationwide

As doughnuts became increasingly popular, they spread throughout the United States during the 1870s. Dutch settlers brought the concept of the olykoeks, meaning 'oily cakes,' which were essentially doughnuts without the hole. By this time, variations of doughnuts were being made, including twists, jellied, and sugared doughnuts.

1900

Simplified spelling as 'donut'

In the early 20th century, the spelling of 'doughnut' began to change as people started using the shortened form 'donut.' This simplified spelling was popularized and made famous by the American doughnut chain Dunkin' Donuts, which opened its first store in 1950. The shorter spelling 'donut' quickly gained wide acceptance and became commonly used.

1920

The Rise of Dunkin' Donuts

In 1950, a man named William Rosenberg opened a coffee and donut shop called Dunkin' Donuts. This marked a significant milestone in the history of the term 'donut'. With the rise of Dunkin' Donuts, the simplified spelling 'donut' became even more widely recognized and used. The franchise's success helped solidify 'donut' as a common name for the treat.

World War I

The Doughnut Connection

During World War I, American volunteers known as 'Doughnut Dollies' distributed doughnuts to soldiers as a way to boost morale and provide a taste of home. This association with the military further elevated the cultural significance of doughnuts in American society, solidifying their place as an iconic treat.

1950s

The Rise of Donut Shops

During the 1950s, donut shops began to flourish across the United States. One notable example is Dunkin' Donuts, which opened its first store in 1950. The introduction of automatic donut machines during this time made it easier to produce large quantities of donuts and contributed to their growing popularity as a breakfast treat.

1934

The Doughnut-Donut Dilemma

In 1934, the Associated Press officially adopted the term 'donut' instead of 'doughnut' in their style guide for journalists. This decision was largely driven by printing economy and brevity. Although some purists argued for the traditional 'doughnut' spelling, over time, 'donut' has become the more widely accepted and recognized term.

1988

Official recognition of the term 'donut'

In 1988, the Associated Press (AP) officially recognized 'donut' as an alternative spelling for 'doughnut' in their stylebook. This acknowledgement further solidified the widespread use of the term 'donut' in American English. However, both spellings are still considered acceptable and commonly used today.

1920s

Mass Production and National Popularity

During the 1920s, doughnuts experienced a surge in popularity, partly due to the introduction of mechanized doughnut machines. These machines enabled mass production and distribution, making doughnuts more readily available and affordable. The delicious treats quickly became a beloved staple of American culture.

1933

Creating the Spelling Unification

In 1933, the spelling of 'doughnut' underwent a formal change. The dictionary publishers settled on the standardized spelling 'doughnut', relegating 'donut' to merely an informal or slang variation. This decision aimed to maintain consistency and clarity in written communication.

1934

National Doughnut Day

The Salvation Army creates National Doughnut Day to honor the women who served doughnuts to soldiers during World War I. Originally celebrated on the first Friday in June, this day commemorates the significant role that doughnuts played in boosting the morale of soldiers. National Doughnut Day continues to be observed to this day, celebrating the deliciousness and cultural significance of doughnuts.

World War I

Doughnuts for the Troops

During World War I, the Salvation Army brought comfort to the American troops by serving doughnuts to soldiers on the front lines. These doughnuts were often cooked inside soldiers' helmets. This act of generosity and the association between doughnuts and patriotism helped solidify the treat's place in American culture and created a lasting association between doughnuts and American soldiers.

1920s

Doughnut machines revolutionize production

In the 1920s, the invention of doughnut machines revolutionizes the mass production of donuts. These machines automate the doughnut-making process and allow for faster and more efficient production. As a result, doughnuts become even more accessible and are readily available in various shapes and flavors, leading to their widespread popularity.

1938

National Donut Day is established

National Donut Day, celebrated on the first Friday of June each year, is established in 1938 by The Salvation Army. Its purpose is to honor the Doughnut Lassies, female volunteers who provided comfort and support to soldiers during World War I. This day has since become a beloved national observance, highlighting the cultural significance and appreciation for donuts.

1993

The Donut Emoji

In 1993, the Unicode Consortium introduced the donut emoji with Unicode 6.0. This addition to digital communication allowed people to express their love for donuts in the form of a small pictorial icon. Today, the donut emoji has become widely used and symbolizes not only the pastry itself but also indulgence, sweetness, and happiness.

2010s

The Alternative Spelling Emerges

In recent years, an alternative spelling of 'doughnut' has gained popularity. The simplified version, 'donut,' is now widely accepted and used. This shift is often attributed to the influence of Dunkin' Donuts, a major doughnut chain, which officially adopted the 'donut' spelling in 1950. Both spellings now coexist and are recognized interchangeably.

2013

National Donut Day

In 2013, the first Friday of June was designated as National Donut Day in the United States. This day celebrates the history, cultural impact, and deliciousness of donuts. It has become a popular observance, with donut shops across the nation offering special promotions and giveaways. National Donut Day further cemented the term 'donut' in the cultural lexicon.

1920s

The Simplified Spelling: Donut

In the 1920s, the simplified spelling 'donut' began to gain popularity due to a marketing campaign by the Boston-based chain Dunkin' Donuts. The term 'donut' was easier to fit on signs and became widely accepted by Americans, eventually becoming an alternative spelling for the traditional 'doughnut.'

1937

The Birth of National Doughnut Day

National Doughnut Day was established in 1937 to honor the Doughnut Lassies, volunteers who provided vital support to soldiers during World War I. This day, celebrated on the first Friday of June, pays homage to the historical and cultural significance of doughnuts in American society.

1950s

Donuts Go Mainstream

In the 1950s, donuts went from being primarily a regional treat to achieving nationwide popularity. The increased availability of donuts in supermarkets and the introduction of automated donut-making machines contributed to this widespread popularity. Donut shops started becoming a common sight in cities and towns, catering to the growing demand for these sugary delights.

21st Century

The Donut Craze and Creative Variations

In the 21st century, donuts have taken on a whole new level of innovation and creativity. Gourmet donut shops began popping up, offering intriguing flavors like bacon maple and lavender hibiscus. In recent years, social media has played a significant role in fueling the donut craze, with viral videos showcasing unique donut creations and inspiring people to experiment with their own homemade donut recipes. From rainbow-colored donuts to donut ice cream sandwiches, this iconic treat continues to evolve and delight donut lovers around the world.

1950s

Donut chains and franchises emerge

The 1950s mark the rise of donut chains and franchises. Companies like Dunkin' Donuts and Krispy Kreme revolutionize the donut industry with their standardized production methods and extensive distribution networks. These chains introduce new flavors, marketing campaigns, and convenient locations, further fueling the popularity of donuts and establishing them as a symbol of American fast food culture.