The top 5 donut chains, according to cops
It’s National Donut Day! What better way to celebrate than to count down the top 5 donut chains according to cops? After all, cops and donuts go together like peas and carrots. The legend says their love affair began in the 1950s when donut shops were the only places open during late night shifts.
Even today, donut shops hold a special place for cops – they’re fast, easy to eat on patrol, and most importantly, delicious. We went straight to the source and asked police officers themselves which donut shops reign supreme. Although stereotypical, many cops confessed behind closed doors their appreciation for a good donut.
Without further ado, here are the top 5 donut chains according to the boys in blue:
5. Winchell’s Donuts
Background
Founded in 1948 in Temple City, California, Winchell’s has expanded into many western states over the years. To celebrate their 50th anniversary in 1998, the Winchell’s Donut House in Pasadena made the world’s biggest donut, weighing 5,000 pounds and measuring 95 feet wide!
Best Donut – Buttermilk Bar
Although it doesn’t look like a classic donut, the buttermilk bar’s flavor is unreal – crispy exterior with a soft, cloud-like interior. It’s sure to cure any cop’s sugar craving.
4. Shipley Do-Nuts
Background
Originating from Houston in 1936, Shipley Do-Nuts started as a wholesaler, selling donuts for just 5 cents per dozen. Their donuts grew so popular that by the mid-1940s, they entered the retail space. Still today, each Shipley donut is hand cut and served warm. Along with donuts, they are also loved for their kolaches.
Best Donut – Shipley Classic Glazed
It may not be the most innovative flavor, but Shipley’s classic glazed is their most popular for good reason – it’s light, fluffy, and served hot.
3. Tim Hortons
Background
For Canadian cops, Tim Hortons grabs bronze. Founded in 1964 in Hamilton, Ontario by a former hockey player named Tim Horton himself, Tim Hortons has won over Canadians’ hearts and stomachs. It overtook McDonald’s as Canada’s largest fast food chain – we can see why! Hockey, coffee and donuts? Sounds like a slice of Canadian heaven.
Best Donut – Timbits
The Tim Hortons equivalent of Dunkin’ Munchkins, these bite-sized Timbits pack a flavor punch in sour cream glazed, honey dip, apple fritter and more.
2. Dunkin’ Donuts
Background
With over 11,000 locations in 33 countries, Dunkin’ is the world’s largest donut chain. First named “Kettle Donuts” in 1948, it was rebranded to Dunkin’ Donuts by 1950 as the owners began franchising. During the Boston marathon bomber manhunt, Dunkin’ stayed open to fuel officers during their search.
Best Donut – Oreo Cheesecake Square
This new square donut is topped with Oreo crumbs and filled with sweet cheesecake filling. Delicious!
1. Krispy Kreme
Background
Cops agree – when it comes to taste, Krispy Kreme takes the trophy. Founded in 1937 by a chef who bought a secret yeast-raised donut recipe in New Orleans, Krispy Kreme is most famous for its melt-in-your-mouth glazed donuts. In 1992, they introduced the legendary Hot Light that indicates when a fresh batch is ready.
Best Donut – Chocolate Iced with Kreme Filling
Beyond the iconic glazed, this chocolate iced, kreme filled donut is a longtime fan favorite.
Conclusion
While America may run on Dunkin’ according to their slogan, cops respectfully disagree. Instead, the boys in blue would say America gets fueled by Krispy Kreme. Regardless of the top choice, donut shops hold an enduring place in the hearts and patrol routes of police officers across North America. So officers, be sure to grab your free donut today in honor of National Donut Day!
FAQs
Q: Which donut shop did cops historically frequent during late night shifts?
A: Cops historically went to donut shops like Dunkin’ Donuts and Krispy Kreme during late shifts because they were the only establishments open 24 hours.
Q: About how big was the donut made by Winchell’s Donut House for their 50th anniversary?
A: Winchell’s made a gigantic donut weighing 5,000 pounds and measuring 95 feet wide for their 1998 50th anniversary celebration.
Q: Why has Tim Hortons become so popular across Canada?
A: Tim Hortons quickly won over Canadians’ loyalty because it was founded by a hockey icon, seamlessly integrating into Canadian culture around hockey.
Q: During which crisis did Dunkin’ Donuts stay open to serve police officers?
A: Dunkin’ Donuts kept locations near Boston open to serve police officers hunting for the Boston Marathon bombing suspects in 2013.
Q: What makes Krispy Kreme’s classic glazed donuts so iconic and delicious?
A: Krispy Kreme’s secret yeast-raised glazed donut recipe creates an iconic melt-in-your-mouth soft and sweet glazed donut that even cops can’t resist.
