Austin, Texas, is known for its vibrant food scene, and the donut landscape is no exception. From classic glazed to inventive gourmet creations, Austin boasts a diverse range of donut shops catering to every sweet tooth. This guide explores 14 of the best donut shops in Austin, highlighting their specialties and what makes them unique. Finding the perfect donut in Austin just got easier!
Classic & Creative: A Doughnut Lover's Paradise
Austin's donut scene is a delightful blend of traditional favorites and exciting, innovative flavors. Whether you crave a simple glazed donut or a complex, artisan creation, you'll find it here. This list includes something for every taste and preference.
1. Gourdough's Public House: Where Donuts Meet Gourmet
Gourdough's is a Austin institution, famous for its gourmet donuts. They're not your average donut shop; think creative combinations like the "Fruity Pebbles" donut or the "Midnight Blackout" (a chocolate-glazed donut with peanut butter and pretzels!). Their unique and inventive menu keeps customers coming back for more.
What makes them unique: Their adventurous flavor combinations and generous portion sizes are legendary among Austinites.
2. Shipley Do-Nuts: A Texas Tradition
Shipley Do-Nuts is a Texas institution, offering a comforting taste of home with its classic glazed, chocolate, and other traditional styles. They are known for their consistent quality and affordability. Shipley’s is a great option for a quick, satisfying, and budget-friendly donut fix.
What makes them unique: Their classic, no-frills approach and consistently delicious donuts make them a beloved local favorite.
3. Circle B Donuts: Family Favorite
Circle B Donuts is known for its family-friendly atmosphere and classic donuts. This is a great option for a casual visit with kids or for a simple, delicious breakfast treat. They offer a selection of both classic and more creative flavors at very reasonable prices.
What makes them unique: Their focus on a welcoming, family atmosphere and high-quality ingredients at competitive prices.
4. Amy's Ice Creams: Donuts and Ice Cream Together
While primarily known for their ice cream, Amy's Ice Creams also offers a selection of delicious donuts. The combination of ice cream and donuts is undeniably satisfying! The perfect way to combine two treats into one unforgettable experience.
What makes them unique: The convenience and unique flavor pairing of ice cream and donuts.
5. Voodoo Doughnut (various locations): The Experience
Voodoo Doughnut is not just a donut shop; it's an experience. Known for its quirky, over-the-top creations and late-night hours, Voodoo Doughnut is a must-visit for those seeking a unique and memorable Austin donut adventure.
What makes them unique: The unique and playful atmosphere and their outlandish donut creations.
6. Glazed The Doughnut Cafe: A Sweet Escape
Glazed The Doughnut Cafe offers a variety of unique and creative donut flavors. Their commitment to quality ingredients and inventive flavor profiles makes them a standout in Austin's donut scene.
What makes them unique: The creative approach to donut flavors and their commitment to quality ingredients.
7. Tiny Boxwoods Coffee: Coffee and Donuts
Tiny Boxwoods Coffee serves a variety of artisanal donuts, often featuring seasonal flavors and ingredients. This is the perfect place to pair your morning coffee with a sweet treat.
What makes them unique: The blend of high-quality coffee and artisan donuts in a charming atmosphere.
Beyond the Glazed: Exploring Austin's Unique Donut Options
The following donut shops offer more specialized or unique experiences. If you're looking for something beyond the usual glazed donut, consider these options.
8. Confituras: Artisan Pastries (including donuts)
Confituras is a bakery specializing in artisan pastries, including unique donut variations. Expect innovative flavor combinations and beautifully crafted pastries. Their focus on quality and attention to detail makes them a fantastic choice for the discerning donut lover.
What makes them unique: High-quality ingredients, refined techniques and artistic presentation.
9. Hey Cupcake!: Cupcakes and Donuts
While primarily a cupcake shop, Hey Cupcake! also offers a small selection of donuts. This is an excellent choice if you're looking for a variety of sweet treats in one place.
What makes them unique: The combination of cupcakes and donuts in one location for a varied sweet experience.
10. Blue Dahlia Bakery: French-inspired pastries
Blue Dahlia Bakery provides a more sophisticated approach with their French-inspired pastries, including donuts. Their use of high-quality butter and refined baking techniques produces a delightful and elegant treat.
What makes them unique: The French-inspired baking style and the use of high-quality ingredients.
Finding Your Perfect Donut: A Quick Comparison
| Donut Shop | Style | Unique Feature | Price Range |
|---|---|---|---|
| Gourdough's | Gourmet | Adventurous Flavor Combinations | $$ |
| Shipley Do-Nuts | Classic | Texas Tradition | $ |
| Circle B Donuts | Classic & Creative | Family-Friendly Atmosphere | $ |
| Amy's Ice Creams | Classic | Ice Cream Pairing | $ |
| Voodoo Doughnut | Quirky & Over-the-Top | Unique Atmosphere | $$ |
| Glazed The Doughnut Cafe | Unique & Creative | Creative Flavors | $ |
| Tiny Boxwoods Coffee | Artisan | Coffee Pairing | $$ |
| Confituras | Artisan | High-Quality Ingredients | $$ |
| Hey Cupcake! | Cupcakes & Donuts | Variety of Sweet Treats | $ |
| Blue Dahlia Bakery | French-Inspired | Elegant Pastries | $$ |
Note: Price ranges are approximate and may vary. $ = Inexpensive, $ = Moderate, $$ = Expensive
Beyond the Top 10: More Donut Delights
This list only scratches the surface! Several other donut shops in Austin deserve recognition, offering unique flavors and experiences. Consider exploring these options for further exploration:
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Doughlicious Donuts: Known for their creative and seasonal flavors.
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Snooze, an A.M. Eatery: Offers mini-donuts as a side option with their breakfast entrees.
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La Madeleine French Bakery & Cafe: Offers classic French pastries including donuts.
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Rise Biscuits & Donuts: A chain offering a selection of both biscuits and donuts.
Conclusion: Your Austin Donut Adventure Awaits!
Austin's vibrant donut scene has something for every palate. From classic glazed to gourmet creations, this guide provides a comprehensive overview of the best donut shops in the city. So grab a coffee, select your favorite, and embark on a delicious Austin donut adventure! Remember to check individual shop hours and locations before your visit. Happy donut hunting!
