In the bustling heart of Toronto, a culinary affair awaits, one glazed, sprinkled, and filled with delightful surprises – we’re talking about the city’s donuts, of course! Toronto, a melting pot of cultures and flavors, has seamlessly embraced the art of donut-making, creating some of the most mouthwatering, Instagram-worthy, and simply irresistible treats. From traditional classics to innovative fusions, the donut scene in this Canadian metropolis is nothing short of legendary. Whether you’re a local with a sweet tooth or a traveler hunting for the city’s best bites, this guide promises to lead you on a sugary adventure through the top donut havens of Toronto. Prepare to embark on a delicious journey that will leave your taste buds craving more!
Here are the 17 best donuts in Toronto:
- Glory Hole Doughnuts
- SanRemo Bakery
- Daddy O Doughnuts and British Baked Goods
- Krispy Kreme
- Dipped Donuts
- Bloomer’s
- The Rolling Pin
- Fugo Desserts
- Emma’s Country Kitchen
- Through Being Cool Vegan Baking Co.
- Grandad’s Donuts
- Bakerbots Baking
- Epi Breads
- The Donuterie
- Cops Doughnuts
- Makers Doughnuts
- Machino Donuts
Glory Hole Doughnuts
Located in the heart of Toronto’s Parkdale neighborhood, Glory Hole Doughnuts has quickly become a favorite spot for many Torontonians and visitors alike. Established in 2012, the shop embodies a perfect blend of traditional methods and inventive flavors. What sets Glory Hole Doughnuts apart? Its commitment to handcrafting each donut with utmost precision, ensuring freshness and a burst of flavor with every bite. They’re particularly known for their classic yeast donuts which boast a perfect fluffiness, but their cake donuts shouldn’t be overlooked either. The shop’s signature donut, the Toast & Butter, offers a tantalizing taste of brown butter and cinnamon. With an ever-evolving menu, the store ensures there’s always something new for regulars, but their consistent quality remains unchanged, making it a must-visit for all donut lovers.
Location: 1505 Gerrard St E, Toronto, ON M4L 2A4, Canada
SanRemo Bakery
A staple in the Etobicoke community for decades, SanRemo Bakery combines tradition with mouthwatering quality. Founded in 1969, the bakery offers more than just donuts, but it’s their range of delectable donuts that often draws a line out the door. What’s their specialty? A mix of traditional favorites and some modern twists, ensuring that there’s something for everyone. From their classic Boston Cream to more adventurous flavors like Tiramisu, each donut is a testament to SanRemo’s dedication to quality and taste. While all their offerings are noteworthy, their signature Red Velvet donut, with its rich flavor and impeccable cream cheese icing, has garnered quite the reputation. Visit SanRemo, and you’ll instantly understand why it has remained a beloved institution in Toronto’s culinary scene.
Location: 374 Royal York Rd, Etobicoke, ON M8Y 2R3, Canada
Daddy O Doughnuts and British Baked Goods
Situated in Mississauga, Daddy O Doughnuts and British Baked Goods provides a unique blend of British charm with Canadian flair. With its fun, quirky designs and flavor-packed bites, this shop stands out for offering more than just the conventional donut. Their assortment ranges from the Unicorn Fart, a vibrant, colorful delight, to the British-inspired Biscoff S’mores. But it doesn’t stop at donuts; their British baked goods are equally worth a try, providing a nostalgic touch for UK expats and a new experience for locals. The shop’s standout signature, however, remains the Maple Bacon donut – a harmonious blend of sweet maple syrup and savory crispy bacon. In a world of cookie-cutter chains, Daddy O Doughnuts’ unique offerings and commitment to quality make it a must-visit for anyone seeking an unparalleled donut experience.
Location: 589 N Service Rd, Mississauga, ON L5A 1B2, Canada
Krispy Kreme
Originating from the American South, Krispy Kreme has stamped its mark in Toronto as the go-to place for that iconic Original Glazed donut. What sets Krispy Kreme apart is not just their consistently light and airy donuts, but the “Hot Now” light – a beacon that lures in patrons with the promise of a fresh, hot donut right off the line. As tempting as the wide array of flavors is, it’s the classic Original Glazed that remains their signature, epitomizing the brand’s commitment to simplicity and quality. This international chain, while known globally, ensures a consistent quality that makes every visit feel special. A warm Original Glazed donut from Krispy Kreme, with its melt-in-the-mouth goodness, is an experience every donut lover should have.
Location: 400 Spadina Ave., Toronto, ON M5T 2G7, Canada
Dipped Donuts
Situated in Kensington Market, Dipped Donuts is a testament to handcrafted gourmet excellence. Renowned for its unique and unconventional flavors, this spot adds a delightful twist to the donut scene in Toronto. From Spicy Pineapple to Lavender Earl Grey, each flavor showcases creativity and a passion for pushing the boundaries. Their Blueberry Basil is a particular standout, merging sweetness with a hint of herbaceous freshness. It’s not just about taste; the visual appeal of these donuts, with their vibrant glazes and toppings, makes them truly Instagram-worthy. Dipped Donuts emphasizes freshness, ensuring that every bite is a burst of flavor, setting them apart in a city filled with donut options.
Location: 161 Baldwin St #1, Toronto, ON M5T 1L9, Canada
Bloomer’s
For those seeking delectable treats without any animal products, Bloomer’s is a haven. Located on Bloor Street, this vegan hotspot has redefined what plant-based indulgence can taste like. Specializing in donuts that are both mouthwatering and cruelty-free, Bloomer’s offers flavors that cater to traditionalists and adventurers alike. Their signature Oreo donut is a fan favorite, boasting a rich chocolatey base topped with Oreo crumble. What’s truly special about Bloomer’s is their commitment to inclusivity, ensuring that vegans don’t have to compromise on flavor or texture. Every donut here is a testament to the fact that vegan treats can rival, if not surpass, their non-vegan counterparts.
Location: 873 Bloor St W, Toronto, ON M6G 1M4, Canada
The Rolling Pin
Nestled on Yonge Street, The Rolling Pin takes the art of donut-making to a whole new level. Renowned for their dessert-inspired donuts, walking into The Rolling Pin feels like stepping into a dessert wonderland. They’ve creatively infused flavors of popular desserts into their donuts, with options like Tiramisu, Creme Brulee, and Red Velvet Cheesecake. Their signature donut? The Birthday Cake, a fun and festive treat reminiscent of classic birthday flavors. But The Rolling Pin doesn’t stop at donuts; their menu boasts an array of pastries, all prepared with meticulous attention to detail. It’s this fusion of classic desserts with the humble donut that sets The Rolling Pin apart, making it a must-visit for those with a sweet tooth.
Location: 1970 Avenue Rd.
Fugo Desserts
Tucked away in the vibrant cityscape of Toronto, Fugo Desserts is not your everyday donut shop. Fusing contemporary tastes with time-tested donut-making, Fugo is renowned for its innovative twists on classic favorites. Delighting the city with flavors inspired from around the globe, it’s a place where East meets West on a plate. A particularly standout flavor is their Crème Brûlée donut, which perfectly captures the essence of the traditional French dessert in donut form. However, their pièce de résistance is the Cookie Monster, a delightful concoction featuring a mini-cookie and blue drizzle. With an ever-evolving menu and an emphasis on quirky, fresh flavors, Fugo Desserts offers an exciting, palate-expanding experience in the world of donuts.
Location: 265 Queen St W, Toronto, ON M5V 1Z4, Canada
Emma’s Country Kitchen
At the heart of St. Clair West, Emma’s Country Kitchen serves up more than just nostalgic memories of home-cooked meals. While renowned for its brunch offerings, its donuts have carved out a niche following. Freshly made every morning, these donuts often come with a seasonal spin, ensuring there’s always something new to tantalize regulars. A particularly noteworthy mention is their Apple Fritter, which perfectly captures the essence of autumn in each bite. But it’s their classic flavors, like the ever-popular Boston Cream, that remind patrons of the comforts of a country kitchen. Emma’s isn’t just about the taste; it’s about recreating the warmth and comfort of home with every bite.
Location: 810 St Clair Ave W, Toronto, ON M6E 1A7, Canada
Through Being Cool Vegan Baking Co.
With a name that emanates a punk rock vibe, Through Being Cool Vegan Baking Co. is the embodiment of modern vegan pastries done right. Located in the heart of Toronto, this vegan bakery shines for its unwavering commitment to plant-based ingredients without a trace of compromise on flavor or texture. One of their standout features is their delicious vegan donuts, which are indistinguishable from their non-vegan counterparts. Their signature? The Salted Caramel donut, a perfect blend of sweet caramel balanced with a hint of salt. What truly sets them apart is the seamless marriage of taste and ethics, ensuring that every bite is cruelty-free and utterly delicious.
Location: 1277 Bloor Street West Toronto, ON M6H 1N7.
Grandad’s Donuts
Positioned a bit further out in Hamilton, Grandad’s Donuts is worth every minute of the journey. This establishment pays homage to the traditional donut-making art, offering donuts that are both large in size and flavor. While they offer a variety of flavors, their Apple Fritter stands out as a fan favorite – crispy edges, soft insides, and a perfect mix of sweetness and cinnamon. Another signature is the Blueberry Blast, a celebration of fresh blueberries in donut form. Grandad’s Donuts isn’t about fancy toppings or avant-garde flavors; it’s about perfecting the classics, ensuring every visit is a delightful trip down memory lane.
Location: 574 James St N #1, Hamilton, ON L8L 1J7, Canada
Bakerbots Baking
Nestled in the Bloorcourt area, Bakerbots Baking elevates the art of baking to new heights. While they’re widely celebrated for their ice creams and cookies, their donuts are an equal match in terms of flavor and craft. Each piece showcases the passion and expertise of the bakers behind the scenes. One can’t miss their signature Oreo donut, a delightful amalgamation of crushed Oreos, cream, and rich chocolate. What sets Bakerbots apart is their emphasis on using high-quality ingredients and the intricate balance of flavors in each treat, making every visit a gourmet experience.
Location: 1242 Bloor St W, Toronto, ON M6H 1N5, Canada
Epi Breads
Situated in Toronto’s East End, Epi Breads, at its core, is a bakery that emphasizes fresh, artisanal breads. However, this establishment isn’t limited to just loaves; their foray into the world of donuts has garnered attention from locals and tourists alike. While they might not be a dedicated donut shop, the attention to detail, freshness, and flavor they invest in their breads extends beautifully to their donuts. Their offerings, though occasionally in rotation, always emphasize quality. The standout among their range is the classic Chocolate Glazed donut, which boasts a rich cocoa flavor complemented by the soft, fluffy texture of the donut itself. What sets Epi Breads apart is their commitment to baking excellence, ensuring every bite, be it bread or donut, resonates with artisanal quality.
Location: 1526 Bayview Ave, Toronto, ON M4G 3B4, Canada
The Donuterie
The Donuterie in Toronto stands as a testament to the belief that sometimes, simplicity is key. Offering a compact but impressive range of flavors, The Donuterie prioritizes quality over quantity. Each donut is meticulously crafted, ensuring a harmonious blend of flavors and textures. Among their delightful selection, the Lemon Poppy Seed donut emerges as a signature. The tang of the lemon, combined with the slight crunch of poppy seeds, makes for an invigorating taste experience. What truly differentiates The Donuterie is their dedication to authenticity. Every flavor feels genuine, every ingredient tastes real, and every bite is a journey into what traditional donut-making feels like.
Location: 327 Carlaw Ave, Toronto, ON M4M 2S1, Canada
Cops Doughnuts
With a minimalist approach both in design and menu, Cops Doughnuts stands out in Toronto’s bustling donut scene. Their motto is simple: make few things, but make them exceptionally well. Housed in a minimalistic, aesthetically pleasing space, Cops offers straightforward flavors, eliminating the overwhelming choice paradox for customers. Every donut here is a testament to perfection in simplicity. The clear standout is their Basic B*tch, a traditional vanilla bean glazed donut that epitomizes the essence of what a donut should be – soft, sweet, and utterly satisfying. Cops Doughnuts is not about reinventing the wheel; it’s about perfecting it. Their straightforward approach, combined with impeccable taste, ensures every visit is consistently delightful.
Location: 445 Adelaide St W, Rear entrance enter on, Morrison St, Toronto, ON M5V 1T1, Canada
Machino Donuts
Blending the traditional art of donut-making with contemporary tastes, Machino Donuts has emerged as a favorite amongst Toronto’s dessert aficionados. With a nod to French pastry techniques, Machino offers donuts that are both rich in flavor and light in texture. Each flavor is thoughtfully curated, offering a delightful blend of classic and experimental. Their signature offering, the Raspberry Rose, combines the tartness of raspberries with the subtle floral notes of rose, creating a multi-layered taste experience. But beyond just flavor, Machino Donuts emphasizes aesthetic appeal. Each donut, with its precise glaze and toppings, is an Instagrammable delight. The marriage of taste and aesthetics, coupled with a nod to traditional baking techniques, ensures that Machino Donuts stands out in Toronto’s vibrant culinary landscape.
Location: 1556 Bloor St W, Toronto, ON M6P 1A4, Canada
Healthier Alternatives: Where to Find Guilt-Free Donuts in Toronto
As the world grows more health-conscious, even the indulgent world of donuts isn’t exempt from the trend. Many Torontonians, while still wanting to indulge their sweet tooth, are on the lookout for healthier alternatives that won’t leave them ridden with guilt. Responding to this demand, several Toronto establishments have risen to the occasion, offering donuts that are as close to guilt-free as they can get.
One such spot is Sweet Hart Kitchen, which specializes in vegan and gluten-free treats. Their donuts not only cater to those with dietary restrictions but also to anyone looking to indulge without the usual heaviness of traditional donuts.
For those who love the sweet pleasure of donuts and are searching for more nut-free options, Toronto’s best nut-free bakeries offer a variety of safe and delicious treats. Our guide provides a comprehensive list of bakeries specializing in nut-free baked goods, ensuring everyone can indulge worry-free.
Another noteworthy spot is Bloomer’s, a bakery that serves up vegan donuts that are both rich in flavor and light in guilt. These establishments highlight Toronto’s dedication to blending culinary indulgence with health-conscious choices, ensuring every resident and visitor finds their perfect treat.
Unique Donut Flavors Exclusive to Toronto
Toronto, a melting pot of cultures, traditions, and flavors, has imbued its essence into every facet of the city, including its donuts. Several establishments in this bustling metropolis have crafted donuts that are not just a treat to the taste buds but also a nod to the city’s vibrant tapestry of experiences.
Dipped Donuts, for instance, often comes up with flavors that mirror Toronto’s eclectic vibe, like their Spicy Pineapple, a delightful blend of sweet and heat. Another standout is Fugo Desserts with their Crème Brûlée donut, fusing the traditional French dessert with the classic donut to create a treat that’s uniquely Toronto. The Donuterie too brings in a touch of the city’s flair with their Lemon Poppy Seed donut, capturing the freshness of Toronto’s summer in a bite.
Toronto’s donut scene is just the beginning of your dessert journey. Expand your horizons with a visit to Richmond Hill’s premier dessert bakeries, where an array of exquisite baked goods awaits.
Donut Events and Festivals in Toronto
Toronto’s love for donuts isn’t just a fleeting craving; it’s a celebrated affair marked by annual events that pull in crowds from every corner of the city. One of the most anticipated is the Toronto Donut Festival. Held annually, usually in the heart of summer, this festival boasts an array of local vendors showcasing their best and most innovative flavors. It’s an event where traditional meets experimental, and donut lovers can indulge to their heart’s content. The festival typically takes place in the vibrant downtown area, making it easily accessible and ensuring a day filled with sugary treats, fun activities, and the collective appreciation of Toronto’s donut scene.
Caring for Your Donuts
Donuts are best enjoyed fresh, but sometimes we might want to save some for later or buy in bulk for an upcoming gathering. To ensure they remain as delectable as when first bought:
- If possible, lay your donuts side by side in a single layer to prevent them from getting squished.
- Store your donuts in airtight containers. This helps in retaining their freshness and prevents them from becoming stale.
- It’s best to store donuts at room temperature for up to one day. Refrigerating can alter their texture.
- If you’ve stored your donuts and want to enjoy them the next day, consider warming them up in the oven for a few minutes to get that just-baked feel.
Pairing Donuts
Donuts, while delightful on their own, can elevate in taste when paired correctly.
- Classic Donuts and Coffee: There’s a reason this pairing is iconic. The robustness of coffee balances the sweetness of a donut, making it a match made in heaven. Many places in Toronto, like Machino Donuts, are known for their perfect donut-coffee combo.
- Filled Donuts and Tea: The subtle flavors of tea can beautifully complement a rich, filled donut, ensuring neither overshadows the other.
- Chocolate Donuts and Red Wine: Sounds unconventional, but a rich red wine with a chocolate-based donut can be a delightful experience.
- Savory Donuts and Craft Beer: With the rise of savory donuts, pairing them with a good craft beer can enhance their taste. Cops Doughnuts, with its minimalistic approach, often has beverage recommendations for their offerings.
Complement your donut tasting in Toronto with a visit to one of the city’s top study cafes. Ideal for students, remote workers, or anyone in need of a quiet spot, our guide covers the best cafes in each neighborhood for studying or unwinding.
Key Takeaways
- The city boasts a diverse array of donut shops, offering everything from classic flavors to innovative, globally-inspired creations.
- Establishments like Sweet Hart Kitchen and Bloomer’s cater to health-conscious consumers, offering guilt-free, vegan, and gluten-free donut options.
- Annual celebrations, particularly the Toronto Donut Festival, spotlight the city’s passion for donuts, offering a platform for vendors to showcase their specialties.
- Donuts are best enjoyed fresh, but with proper care using airtight containers and avoiding stacking, their freshness can be prolonged. Brief reheating can restore a just-baked feel.
- Donuts can be paired with a variety of beverages, from the classic coffee to more unconventional choices like red wine. Establishments such as Machino Donuts and Cops Doughnuts even offer recommended beverage pairings.
- Toronto’s multicultural vibe reflects in its donut offerings, with shops like Dipped Donuts and Fugo Desserts introducing flavors inspired by the city’s rich cultural tapestry.
- While donuts are best consumed fresh, those looking to enjoy them later should store them at room temperature in airtight containers, avoiding stacking to maintain their form and texture.
If you’re enchanted by Toronto’s best donuts, extend your sweet exploration to the city’s array of bakeries. Our delicious guide to the best bakeries in Toronto’s neighborhoods offers a myriad of baked treats, from artisan bread to mouth-watering pastries.
FAQs
- Are there vegan donut options in Toronto?
Yes, places like Sweet Hart Kitchen and Bloomer’s offer vegan donuts. For those interested in plant-based options, our guide showcases the finest vegan desserts crafted by Toronto’s premier bakeries. Indulge in these guilt-free delicacies.
- When is the Toronto Donut Festival held?
The festival is held annually, usually during the summer months.
- Which Toronto shop is known for pairing donuts with beverages?
Machino Donuts is known for its perfect coffee and donut combo. Complement your donut experience in Toronto with a visit to Yorkville’s finest cafes. Our carefully curated list guides you through Yorkville’s ultimate cafes, where you can unwind with a perfect cup of coffee in a chic and inviting atmosphere.
- Where can I find unique donut flavors inspired by Toronto’s culture?
Shops like Dipped Donuts and Fugo Desserts offer flavors inspired by the city’s cultural vibe.
- Are there gluten-free donuts available in Toronto?
Absolutely, Sweet Hart Kitchen is one spot known for its gluten-free treats. After indulging in the sweet delight of Toronto’s best donuts, consider exploring the city’s gluten-free dining scene. Our guide to the top gluten-free restaurants in Toronto offers a variety of delicious and health-conscious options, perfect for those following a gluten-free diet.
- Are there any donut shops in Toronto that merge dessert concepts with donuts?
The Rolling Pin is known for infusing popular dessert flavors into their donuts.
- Which donut shop in Toronto offers a lemon poppy seed flavor?
The Donuterie offers a notable Lemon Poppy Seed donut.
- Is it possible to buy donuts in bulk and store them without losing freshness?
Yes, by storing them in airtight containers at room temperature and reheating briefly before consumption.