Mmm, donuts. The epitome of fried desserts that somehow become acceptable meals and snacks no matter the time of day. Looking for a quick breakfast to enjoy with a cup of coffee? Have a donut. Need an afternoon pick me up? A donut may help. Trying to decide on a dessert everyone in the family will enjoy? You can't go wrong with a box of assorted donuts.

While the national chain locations have certainly made their presence known in Arizona, it’s the local shops that best show how Arizona enjoys a donut. Here are a handful of places you can find a delicious donut to enjoy any time of day.

1. 19th Donut Hole, Mesa

I’m kind of sad that I grew up in this area and only recently discovered this shop. They are known for their cronuts (croissant donut) but give any of their selection a try, like the cinnamon rolls pictured above.

2. BoSa Donuts, Phoenix-metro area

This locally owned donut chain is perhaps best known for the later hours (most locations are open until 10:00pm but a select few are open 24 hours.) The apple fritters are excellent but give the regular ol’ donuts or even the donut holes a try.

3. Donut Corral, Yuma

You’ll have a hard time choosing just one donut to eat from this shop; they boast a large selection of donuts plus plenty of pastries and breakfast options for those who would rather eat something more savory in the morning.

4. Donut King (or King Donut), Tucson

The neighborhood can look a bit questionable but the trip here for a box of donuts makes the nervousness worth it. Stop here for a donut that is fluffy and easy on the sugar.

5. Le Cave’s Bakery, Tucson

Vegans and gluten sensitive people rejoice! You can find plenty of donut options that satisfy your tastebuds, your tummy (the donuts are large), and your specialized diet needs.

6. Macy’s European Coffee House & Bakery, Flagstaff

It’s hard to find some good donuts that aren’t from a major chain in Flagstaff but this place is a tasty option. You also get the benefit of finding an array of vegetarian desserts here as well.

7. Nami, Phoenix

Sitting right next to Green Vegetarian, Nami goes a step further and provides all vegan desserts and breakfast foods. Don’t forget to give the cactus haboob latte a try!

8. Prescott Donut Factory, Prescott

The one letdown for this donut shop is they aren’t open late enough. Otherwise, you can find some fluffy, delicious donuts and other pastries here.

Where do you like to go for a finger-licking good donut? Share them with your fellow Zonies!