The origins of the doughnut are unclear. Some say the doughnut was introduced by Dutch settlers in the 19th century. An American named Hansen Gregory claimed to have invented it in 1847 on a lime trading ship when he was 16 years old. Regardless of the origin, one thing is very clear: Doughnuts are delicious. If I could only eat one thing for the rest of my life doughnuts would definitely be on the short list. My stand by favorite is a hot glazed Krispy Kreme pulled right off the conveyor belt. Regardless of how may times I frequent the fine establishment on Ponce de Leon Ave I’m overcome with a child-like excitement. I must wear a paper hat, stand in front of the glass and watch the doughnuts being made, and then consume as many as I can as fast as possible until I’m sticky and nauseous.
It’s not just the Krispy Kreme ones that I like. I grew up on Dunkin Donuts. They were always a Saturday morning garage sale staple. Once or twice a year I would look forward to getting up early with my mom and brother to drive around and put signs up knowing that I would be rewarded with a box of doughnuts. We would get an assorted mix and then cut them up in quarters so we all could get a taste of each flavor.
When I travel I love finding local doughnut places. You’ve got the obvious ones like Café Du Monde in New Orleans, but if you happen to be in Iceland be sure to stop by Bernhoftbakari and try the Berlinarbolla (it’s the round one that’s covered in powdered sugar). If you live up North you’re probably familiar with Tim Hortons. Canadians love their doughnuts and eat the most per capita of any nation. Right now my favorite is Bob’s Doughnuts on Polk Street in San Francisco. Go at 5am and watch them make the doughnuts and eat a hot apple fritter.
I’m not sure what it is about doughnuts I like best. They are very delicious but it’s more than that. I love the colors and the fillings, the icings and the sprinkles but most of all I like the smiles on peoples faces. A doughnut is a joyous food. It makes me happy just thinking about them.
-Lindsay
I have been in Iceland two weeks ago and i tried the berlinarbolla in a bakery in Reykjavik. It was delicious! I am looking for its recipe but it is a little bit hard to find. Too bad I didnt look for its recipe when in Iceland. If you have any clue it would be welcomed!!