The day of the donut is back! National Donut Day is always the first Friday in June. In 2024 it’s this Friday, June 7th, and there are a few places to get a free or cheap donut!
The History of Donuts
Once upon a time, in a world where breakfast pastries reigned supreme, a humble treat rose to the top: the donut. The story of this delicious treat begins way back in the deep fryer of history.
Ancient Origins: The origins of donuts can be traced back to ancient times, where various cultures enjoyed fried dough. The ancient Greeks and Romans had a similar treat called “scriblita” and “globi,” which were basically dough fried in oil. (Yummy!)
Dutch Delights: Fast forward to the 17th century, and we find the Dutch settlers of New Amsterdam (now New York City) making a pastry called “olykoek” (which literally means “oil cake”). These early donuts were balls of dough fried in pork fat, often with apples, prunes, or raisins in the center.
The Holey Grail: Enter Hanson Gregory, an American ship captain, who in 1847 claimed to have invented the modern donut hole. Frustrated with the doughy center of traditional donuts, he punched a hole in the middle with a tin pepper box, ensuring his donuts cooked evenly. There you have it – the iconic ring shape was born!
World War I Boost: Donuts became even more popular during World War I when the Salvation Army Lassies served them to American soldiers in France. These “doughboys” returned home with a taste for the sweet, fried treat, cementing donuts’ place in American culture.
Rise of the Donut Chains: In the 20th century, donuts hit the big time with the rise of donut chains. In 1937, Krispy Kreme started serving their now-famous glazed donuts in North Carolina. Dunkin’ Donuts followed in 1950 in Massachusetts, becoming a staple for coffee and donut lovers everywhere.
Modern Innovations: Today, donuts are more popular than ever, with gourmet shops and innovative flavors popping up worldwide. From bacon-topped maple bars to matcha-glazed rings, the donut has evolved into a canvas for culinary creativity. Let’s continue making history with not only yummy donuts, but FREE ones!
Here’s a roundup of some freebies and deals around the Twin Cities!
Note: These deals can change at any time. Also, be careful not to expect freebies and deals at every donut shop out there. Please check before you go!
Bittner’s Bakery (Shakopee). Bittner’s Bakery, Shakopee. Celebrate National Donut Day at Bittner’s Bakery! Enjoy $1 off a dozen donuts and raised sugar donuts for $1.25. Donut day only and while supplies last.
Duck Donuts (Woodbury) – On Friday, June 7th, all guests who visit Duck Donuts in-store can enjoy a FREE cinnamon sugar donut! No purchase necessary. There is one location in Minnesota – in Woodbury.
Dunkin’ – On Friday, June 7th, get a free donut with any beverage purchase while supplies last.
Elephant Joe’s (Watertown). 6:30am – 12:00pm. Join us in celebrating National Donut Day at our Watertown location! Get a free donut with a purchase of a drink. While supplies last.
Froth & Cork (Hastings) – $2 Hanisch Bakery donuts – while supplies last! They open at 7:00am. Plus they have a new coffee flight!
Mackenthun’s (Minnetrista). 4751 Kings Point Road, Minnetrista, MN. On June 7th at 8AM – While Supplies Last Mackenthun’s Minnetrista will be giving away our First 200 Donuts for Free! (Limited ONE donut per person) Stop by The Bakery to pick up your FREE Donut!
FREEBIES at Other Places
Free Sweet Treat! 8:30am – 12:30pm. Go Health Chiropractic, Robbinsdale.
Lindstrom Bakery (event hosted by real estate agent). 10:00am – 2:00pm. Stop by in for a free doughnut and learn about the current real estate market!
Other Possibilities
Last year, Kwik Trip and Holiday Gas Stations had donut day deals but haven’t announced them yet. I’ll be adding more as I hear of them!
Make your own!
To make your own homemade, healthful donut, try this recipe for “Skinny Sweet Potato Donut Bites” from Sneaky Blends by Missy Chase Lapine! We made this recipe and loved it! (Read my full cookbook review here.)
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