Take The Tennessee Donut Trail For A Delightfully Delicious Day Trip
By Meghan Kraft|Published March 04, 2021
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Meghan Kraft
Author
Meghan Kraft loves to travel the world, but she makes her home right here in Nashville, Tennessee. She holds a degree in English, and has worked in the digital marketing realm with companies such as Apartments.com, USA Today and HarperCollins Publishing.
Donuts in the morning, is there anything better? There’s something about a dreamy sphere of sugar that really starts the day off right, and Tennessee has its own donut trail that will lead you to the best in the Volunteer State. Follow our state donut trail for a delicious trip from east to west, or make your way from one to the next as you find yourself across Tennessee. Did your favorite donut shop make the list? Do you have a recommendation of your own? Let us know in the comments below!
Here you can see a broad overview of our donut trek through Tennessee. We've kept it mainly on the east and middle sections of the state, mainly for time's sake. Looks like a Memphis trip is in order next time!
The Donut Friar is located in what is probably the neatest building on our list, located in the famed Village Shops in Gatlinburg, Tennessee. The dreamy pastries have been named the best donuts in Tennessee by Southern Living and The bakery remains the second-oldest continuously run eatery in Sevier County. If you're looking for indulgent treats with a bit of history to them, you won't want to miss the cake donuts and French crullers from the Donut Friar.
Status Dough has multiple locations in both Knoxville and Nashville, and the artisanal doughnuts and coffee are truly remarkable. Here, high-quality donuts are of the highest importance, and these delectable treats are made fresh every day. Order a buttermilk old-fashioned from the doughnut menu or something from the full espresso bar. There's a little something for everyone! Hours vary, so make sure you keep an eye out before you visit.
East Park Donuts may be small, but it is mighty! This East Nashville donut shop serves both cake and brioche donuts with a little emphasis on dessert whimsy. With ingredients sourced from local suppliers, you can be sure your breakfast will be fresh, and locals rave about the holiday specials and fun new flavors introduced throughout the year.
Ellie's Old Fashioned Doughnuts set up shop every weekend at the Franklin Farmers' Market, so you have to plan a little bit ahead to try one of these indulgent treats. The smell of sugar wafts through the market, and we have a feeling you won't be able to resist a donut or two. High-quality ingredients and kind service add the cherry on top, and we have a feeling you'll be back.
Five Daughters Bakery made a name for itself in Nashville for its 100-layer donut. Now with multiple locations in the greater Nashville area, it's not hard to find a favorite treat! All donuts are made from scratch, with locally sourced and organic ingredients. Make sure you keep an eye out for seasonal favorites and vegan flavors. We're a fan of the Cinnamon Crispy Crunch, but you can't go wrong with the classic chocolate. Yum!
Julie Darling Doughnuts is a Chattanooga institution that's known for its holiday treats and creative donut decorations. Both locally owned and operated, you can pair your favorite donut with a locally roasted coffee for a perfect breakfast indulgence. Creative donuts aren't the only sweets on-site, though. Make sure to order some ice cream if it's hot out!
Will you be taking this indulgent donut trip yourself? Sure, it’s a bit long to do in a single day, but hopefully, you’ve taken notes and found a few spots you want to check out the next time you’re in the area. Of course, if you’re looking for a truly unforgettable day, this donut trek is well worth your time. Happy sugar snacking!
