The Donut Shoppe is an icon in Jacksonville having been a staple in the community since 1962. The no-frills doughnut shop is known for its cake doughnut, which are usually fruit flavored like pink strawberry and blueberry. The other item not to miss here is the “uglies,” also known as apple fritters, that look more like little pull-apart bread that has been dunked in a sweet glaze. These uglies are best eaten while they are hot, so patrons need a bit of luck to time a visit just right for when the uglies are being replenished in the display case. 

Each morning Sweet Theory makes yeast doughnuts that are hand-cut and fried to a perfect golden color. What makes this shop standout is that everything is made without eggs, dairy, or peanuts, so it can accommodate just about any food sensitivity. Flavors rotate daily with highlights like salted caramel, blueberry maple, and earl grey lavender — but be warned, on weekends doughnuts sell out quickly, so be sure to get to the shop as early as possible for the best selection. 

Located in the heart of San Marco is Good Dough, a doughnut shop specializes in raised brioche doughnut with a plethora of toppings. Don’t let the cutesy names fool you though, these seasonal doughnut are the real deal. Pick from flavors like the basil lemonade doughnut that’s sweet and herbaceous, or the fan-favorite Molly Ringwald, which is a raised doughnut with a bright pink raspberry glaze and rainbow sprinkles.

With four locations around Jacksonville there’s likely a Mini Bar within driving distance to most people. The adorable doughnut shops are known for making doughnut as they are ordered, so they always come out hot and fresh. Fans of Girl Scout cookies will want to try the doughnut version of the popular Samoa cookie, which is a vanilla doughnut base with a sweet chocolate glaze, toasty coconut, and a rich salted caramel drizzle. For a slice of childhood nostalgia, the cosmic brownie doughnut tastes just like the lunchbox treat you remember. 

One of the most popular places for doughnuts in the Orange Park area is Daily Donuts. The small family business is known for its range of classic doughnuts like pink frosted with sprinkles or Bavarian cream. More gourmet flavors are also available, and the bacon maple is not to be missed since it’s the perfect mix of sweet frosting and crispy salty bacon. What makes this place a true stand-out is the friendly service and the employees that remember their patrons time after time.