20 Sweet Donuts You’ve Never Tried But Should

Sure, you’ve had glazed, chocolate, and jelly-filled. But the donut world goes way deeper than the basics. From international flavors to creative spins by local bakeries, these 20 sweet donuts are unexpected, drool-worthy, and worth tracking down for your next sugary fix.

1. Ube Donut

The Ube Donut is a delightful creation made from purple yam, known for its distinct earthy sweetness. With a stunning lavender glaze that catches the eye, each bite offers a perfect harmony of flavors and textures. Imagine the rich, natural hue of the ube merging with a gentle sweetness that isn’t overpowering. The texture is soft and inviting, making it an irresistible treat. Originating from the Philippines, ube is not only a visual delight but a culinary adventure. This donut is perfect for those looking to explore unique flavors beyond the ordinary.

2. Guava Cream Cheese Donut

Tropical delight meets comfort in the Guava Cream Cheese Donut. This donut takes you on a vacation with its luscious guava filling paired with smooth, rich cream cheese. The combination is both tart and creamy, enveloped in a tender dough that melts in your mouth. With each bite, you are transported to sunlit beaches and gentle ocean breezes. Guava, a staple in many tropical cuisines, introduces a playful tanginess that beautifully complements the creaminess. Indulge in this sweet escape that feels both exotic and familiar, all in one delicious bite.

3. Lemon Poppyseed Donut

Bright and zesty, the Lemon Poppyseed Donut is a refreshing twist on a classic favorite. Each mouthful offers a burst of citrusy brightness from the lemon glaze, perfectly balanced by the subtle crunch of poppy seeds. It’s like enjoying your favorite lemon poppyseed muffin, but elevated to new heights with the added joy of a fried donut. The aroma of fresh lemon zest invigorates your senses, making every bite an uplifting experience. This donut showcases how simplicity can be truly delightful when executed with the right balance of flavors.

4. Churro Donut

For those who love the classic churro, the Churro Donut is a dream come true. Dusted generously with cinnamon sugar, its ridges perfectly capture every drop of caramel or chocolate drizzle you might add. The texture is delightfully crispy on the outside but soft and tender within, echoing the traditional Spanish treat. This donut invites indulgence, whether enjoyed at a fair or during a cozy morning. A nostalgic favorite, it brings joy with every bite, capturing the essence of churros in a new and exciting form. Perfect for churro lovers everywhere.

5. Crème Brûlée Donut

The Crème Brûlée Donut is a sophisticated confection that reimagines the classic French dessert. Enveloped in a rich, creamy custard and topped with a caramelized sugar shell, it offers a delightful contrast of creamy and crunchy textures. Each bite is a luxurious experience, as the torched sugar topping cracks under gentle pressure, revealing the smooth custard within. This donut is perfect for those who appreciate the finer things, combining the elegance of crème brûlée with the comfort of a donut. It’s a marriage of two beloved desserts, creating a unique treat.

6. Tiramisu Donut

The Tiramisu Donut is where coffee lovers find their sweet haven. Infused with the classic flavors of Italian tiramisu, this donut offers a mascarpone cream filling that is nothing short of indulgent. Each bite is a delightful journey through layers of coffee syrup-soaked dough, enhanced by a gentle dusting of cocoa powder. It’s a dessert that brings the best of tiramisu into the palm of your hand, perfect for savoring alongside your morning espresso. Whether enjoyed as a morning treat or an afternoon delight, this donut is a tribute to Italy’s favorite dessert.

7. Maple Bacon Long John

In the world of sweet and savory, the Maple Bacon Long John reigns supreme. With its sweet maple glaze and a generous topping of crispy bacon, this donut offers a delightful contradiction that satisfies on multiple levels. The rich, smoky flavor of the bacon complements the sweetness of the maple, creating a harmonious balance that is truly irresistible. Perfect for breakfast or as a hearty snack, this donut celebrates the joy of combining unexpected flavors. It’s a bold choice for those who enjoy pushing the boundaries of traditional taste experiences.

8. Matcha Glazed Donut

For a taste that is both earthy and sweet, the Matcha Glazed Donut offers something truly special. The vibrant green tea glaze delivers a smooth, balanced flavor that contrasts beautifully with the donut’s inherent sweetness. Matcha, famed for its health benefits and distinct taste, provides a serene and calming presence in every bite. This donut is an exploration of Japanese flavors, bringing a touch of Zen to the bustling world of desserts. Whether enjoyed with a cup of green tea or as a stand-alone treat, it’s a refreshing take on the classic donut.

9. Mango Chile Donut

Sweetness and spice collide in the Mango Chile Donut, offering a tantalizing experience for adventurous eaters. The sweet mango glaze is tempered by a subtle heat from the chile, creating a complex flavor profile that excites the palate. Each bite is a journey through tropical sweetness and a gentle spicy kick, embodying the essence of culinary exploration. This donut symbolizes the fusion of contrasting elements, celebrating both vibrant flavors and unexpected pairings. Perfect for those who enjoy a little heat with their sweets, it’s a bold choice for the daring donut enthusiast.

10. Brown Butter Old-Fashioned

Simplicity meets sophistication in the Brown Butter Old-Fashioned Donut. Its delightful nutty aroma is a testament to the rich, browned butter glaze that coats this classic cake donut. Each bite offers a comforting familiarity, enhanced by the mature, deep flavors of the brown butter. It’s a grown-up twist on a beloved classic, perfect for those who appreciate a sophisticated take on traditional flavors. This donut invites a moment of reflection, perhaps paired with a steaming cup of coffee, showcasing how nuanced simplicity can be utterly satisfying.

11. Strawberry Shortcake Donut

Dessert lovers rejoice, for the Strawberry Shortcake Donut brings a beloved classic into the donut realm. This delightful treat is adorned with fresh strawberries, light whipped cream, and a scattering of cake crumbs, evoking imagery of summer picnics and sweet nostalgia. With each bite, the freshness of the strawberries mingles with the creamy richness of the whipped topping. It’s dessert disguised as breakfast, allowing you to indulge in the best of both worlds. This donut is a celebration of simplicity and joy, perfect for those who cherish life’s sweet moments.

12. Pistachio Rose Donut

With its fragrant aroma and delicate flavors, the Pistachio Rose Donut offers a unique sensory experience. The rose glaze is subtly floral, providing a gentle sweetness that pairs beautifully with the rich, nutty pistachios. Each bite is a journey through a garden of flavors, with the crunch of the nuts contrasting against the soft, tender dough. This donut is both bold and delicate, demanding attention with its vibrant colors and intriguing taste. Perfect for those who crave something a little different, it’s a culinary adventure that’s both unexpected and delightful.

13. Biscoff Donut

Indulge in the comforting warmth of the Biscoff Donut, a treat that’s as addictive as it sounds. Stuffed with creamy Biscoff spread and topped with crushed speculoos cookies, each bite offers a sweet, buttery flavor reminiscent of cozy afternoons. The unique taste of speculoos brings a hint of cinnamon and spice, perfectly complementing the donut’s tender dough. It’s a dessert that warms the soul, making every moment feel a little more special. Perfect for those who love comforting flavors, this donut is a must-try for anyone seeking a taste of home.

14. Earl Grey Donut

For the sophisticated palate, the Earl Grey Donut offers a refined twist on traditional dessert. Infused with the subtle flavors of bergamot and tea, this donut is a perfect companion to an afternoon coffee or tea. The light glaze captures the essence of Earl Grey, balanced by a hint of citrus that brightens each bite. It’s a delicate dance of flavors, inviting peaceful moments of reflection and enjoyment. Perfect for those who appreciate the finer things, this donut is both elegant and approachable, bringing a touch of class to the donut world.

15. Black Sesame Donut

For those who enjoy nutty, toasty flavors, the Black Sesame Donut is an intriguing choice. The rich, dark glaze is made from black sesame seeds, offering a robust and earthy flavor that captivates the senses. Each bite reveals a hint of sweetness, balanced perfectly by the nutty depth of the sesame. This donut is a celebration of bold flavors and contrasts, perfect for those who crave something beyond the ordinary. Whether enjoyed as a snack or a special treat, the Black Sesame Donut invites exploration and delight in every bite.

16. Coconut Cream Donut

The Coconut Cream Donut transports you to a tropical paradise with its creamy filling and toasted coconut topping. Each bite is a smooth, luxurious experience, as the rich coconut custard envelops your taste buds. The toasted flakes add a delightful crunch, evoking images of sunny beaches and swaying palm trees. This donut is a celebration of tropical flavors, offering a sweet escape from the everyday. Perfect for coconut lovers and those seeking a taste of the tropics, it’s a decadent treat that promises satisfaction with every bite.

17. Chocolate Chili Donut

For those who crave an adventurous twist, the Chocolate Chili Donut offers a delightful surprise. The rich, dark chocolate glaze is accented with a sprinkle of red chili flakes, adding a warm, spicy kick to each bite. It’s a daring combination that tantalizes the senses, blending the comforting richness of chocolate with a playful hint of heat. This donut is perfect for those who enjoy exploring bold and unexpected flavors. A treat that excites and satisfies, it promises a unique experience that leaves a lasting impression.

18. Baklava Donut

Bringing the essence of traditional Mediterranean pastry to the donut scene, the Baklava Donut is a culinary masterpiece. Each bite is a delightful mix of flaky, nutty, and sweet, with a honey glaze that captures the heart of classic baklava. Topped with crushed pistachios and phyllo crumbles, it offers a delightful contrast of textures and flavors. This donut is a tribute to the rich culinary traditions of the Mediterranean, offering a taste of history and culture in every bite. Perfect for those who appreciate authenticity and innovation in equal measure.

19. Lychee Glazed Donut

Floral and fruity, the Lychee Glazed Donut offers a refreshing change of pace with its light, delicate flavor. The glossy pink glaze captures the essence of lychee, providing a subtle sweetness that’s both exotic and inviting. Each bite is a gentle reminder of tropical gardens, with a hint of floral undertone that intrigues the palate. This donut is a breath of fresh air, perfect for those who enjoy exploring new and different flavors. Whether as a sweet treat or a special indulgence, the Lychee Glazed Donut promises a refreshing experience.

20. Blueberry Basil Donut

In the Blueberry Basil Donut, sweetness meets earthiness in a delightful culinary harmony. The vibrant blueberry glaze offers a burst of fruity freshness, complemented by the herbaceous notes of fresh basil. It’s a combination that surprises and delights, blending familiar and unexpected flavors in perfect balance. Each bite is a refreshing exploration, reminiscent of summer gardens and sun-kissed afternoons. This donut is perfect for those who appreciate creativity and boldness in their culinary adventures, inviting you to savor a unique and unforgettable experience.