Donut assume all donut shops are the same! We’ve got some real standouts here in the Badger State. And as a treat, we’ve mapped out a route that’ll lead to a few of the state’s most popular donut shops. We focused on a small area, keeping the trek short and sweet. Take a look (and let the drooling commence).
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At just over three hours, the Wisconsin Donut Trail can be completed in one day.
Of course, you can always alter the route. To do so, click on the link above (just below the map).
1. Greenbush Bakery (Madison)
Where better to start your donut-inspired road trip than home of the state’s best donuts? Greenbush Bakery took the title of Wisconsin’s top donut shop in 2020; however, locals have known about the delicious donuts, which come in inventive flavors and fillings, since the bakery opened back in 1996. It’s also worth nothing that Greenbush is Madison’s only certified kosher bakery.
2. Paielli's Bakery (Kenosha)
According to Travelocity, it’s Paielli’s Bakery that serves up the most delicious donuts Wisconsin. In addition to typical flavors, like glazed and chocolate-covered, the donut selection includes unique creations, such as the bakery’s claim to fame, the Cyclops, a chocolate frosted donut with a whipped cream-filled hole.
3. Cranky Al’s (Milwaukee)
An eatery that serves donuts AND pizza may sound too good to be true, but it actually exists and it’s Cranky Al’s! Though only half of the fare, the donuts are reason enough to visit. Hand-cut and baked fresh daily, they come in a variety of ways, including raised, filled, cake, gluten-friendly, and vegan-friendly.
4. Honey Dip Donuts (Milwaukee)
Somewhat of a hole-in-the-wall, Honey Dip Donuts may not look like much on the outside, but inside you’ll find a variety of donuts in all your favorite flavors. Craving something more savory than sweet? Try the donut bacon burger. The best part of all is that Honey Dip Donuts is open 24 hours, so you can satisfy your donut craving day or night.
5. Canfora Bakery (Milwaukee)
Please note, Canfora Bakery is now known as Krieg’s Lakeside Bakery.
An Italian bakery may not be the first place that comes to mind when searching for donuts; however, there are exceptions to every rule and in this case, Canfora Bakery is the exception. The tasty donuts are no secret and often sell out. Luckily, there are lots of other donut-like treats, such as bear claws and éclairs, to hold you over. Of course, the Italian cookies are a must-try, too.
6. The Apple Hut (Beloit)
Should you embark on this trek in the fall, you’ll definitely want to include a stop by The Apple Hut, which is open seasonally. An orchard with a gift shop, it’s as charming as it sounds. Among the tasty array of goods that fill the gift shop, you’ll find the "best cider donuts in Wisconsin."
So, did you know about these delicious donut shops? Think you’ll embark on this short and sweet trek? Did we leave off your favorite donut shop? Tell us in the comments section.
This isn’t the only option for a sweet day out. Read about another here.
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