Discover the best doughnuts that San Diego has to offer with some spots open 24 hours a day to help cure those middle-of-the-night cravings

Doughnuts score a hole in one like no other comfort food. They’re both a sweet way to start the day, but are also a tantalizing treat anytime. We’ve found the best doughnuts in San Diego, where you can go sink your teeth into a sugar rush of fried dough topped with everything from classic glaze to maple bacon. We even found gluten-free and vegan doughnuts to enjoy. Read on for the goods so you never have to ask “Where’s the best doughnut shop near me?”

The Best Doughnuts in San Diego (In No Particular Order)

1. Nomad Donuts

This North Park shop serves delicious donuts based on the tastes of the world right in the heart of the neighborhood. From Lemon Poppy Seed w/ Caramel Glaze and Agave Baklava to Mango Tajin Chamoy and Pomegranate with Meyer Lemon drizzle, these flavors are adventurous and exotic. Never fear for your pickier donut eater, you’ll still be able to find goodies like an old-fashioned vanilla bean, maple or chocolate glazed donut. A wide array of vegan-friendly donuts in adventurous flavors are also available.

Good to Know: Get into Nomad early to be sure you snag your favorite flavor. There is a limited run on each donut so keep in mind that popular flavors run out by mid-morning on the weekends!

3102 University Ave.
San Diego
Online: nomaddonuts.com

2. Donut Bar

This is not your typical donut shop. Donut Bar is famous for their artisan donuts with a menu that changes daily. Popular flavors include blueberry poppa tart, maple bourbon and red velvet just to name a few.

Good to Know: If you’re determined to get a donut, be sure to arrive early. Donut Bar closes once the donuts are gone, which tends to happen around 4 hours after opening. Their donuts are a little pricier than your average donut shop, but we think you’ll love what you get.

631 B St.
San Diego
Online: donutbarsd.com

3. Devil’s Dozen

These gourmet doughnuts are from the guys behind Kettner Exchange, so expect to get a great donut that’s high on the foodie factor. They also serve gluten-free donuts on Sat. & Sun. and their flavor selection changes weekly.

Good to Know: These gourmet doughnuts have a gourmet price tag attached so it can be a little pricier than your average donut but never fear, it will be worth every penny!

2001 Kettner Blvd.
San Diego
Online: devils-dozen.com

4. VG Donut & Bakery

This spot has been family-owned and operated since 1969 and they offer all the traditional donuts—from sprinkle-topped cake donuts to maple bars—and many others in between. VG Donut and Bakery also offers pastries and bread and they make killer special occasion cakes.

Good to Know:VG bakes their donuts twice daily, once at 4 a.m. and then again at 4 p.m. So if you miss the morning rush, stop by in the late afternoon to satisfy your donut cravings.

106 Aberdeen Dr.
Cardiff by the Sea, CA
Online: vgbakery.com

5. Sidecar Doughnuts & Coffee

Featuring daily flavors like celebration cake and maple bacon alongside seasonal flavors like Meyer lemon and cinnamon rolls, everyone finds a donut they favor here. Donuts are made fresh from scratch with yummy touches like infused glazes, hand crushed compotes, flavored custards and cream fillings.

Good to Know: If you feel like a more savory donut, opt for the basil eggs Benedict. It’s a perfectly poached egg and hollandaise sauce inside a donut. Served at breakfast time.

Del Mar Highlands Town Center
3435 Del Mar Highlands Rd.
San Diego
Online: sidecardoughnuts.com

6. Donutopolis

Bye bye birthday cake, hello donut cake! Donutpolis gives donut lovers the ultimate gift with their three-tiered donut cake for special occasions. Additionally, they always have an array of fluffy, moist, donuts topped with creamy assortments of frosting flavors and delicious toppers including sprinkles, marshmallows, Fruit Loops and more.

12624 Poway Rd. #14
Poway, CA
Online: donutopolispoway.com

7. Barrio Donas

In their own words, “Barrio Donas represents the multilayered cultural experience that comes with living in San Diego while emphasizing the radiant beauty of Mexican-American culture—in the form of a donut.” Here you’ll find bold, decadent donuts like dulce del leche with coconut and a mazapan donut—and even vegan donuts in classic flavors including Chocolate Glaze, Original Glaze, Cinnamon Sugar, & Strawberry Sprinkles.

4714 Clairemont Mesa Blvd.
San Diego
Online: barriodonas.com

8. The Goods Doughnuts

You’ll find creative and delectable donuts at The Goods in Carlsbad. From flavors like chocolate ganache, apple fritter and Nutella, everyone is happy with their choices. Even more, they serve gluten-free donuts and vegan donuts.

Good to Know: The Goods opens at 7 a.m. (Tues.-Sun.) until the donuts are sold out. Arrive early to snag your fave!

2965 State St.
Carlsbad, CA
Online: thegoodsdoughnuts.com

9. Donut Star

Donut Star is a donut shop you can count on to have fresh, delicious donuts at any time of day. While Donut Star tends to sell more traditional donuts, they do have a few unique favorites, such as the chocolate-glazed red velvet and cream-filled buttermilk. Other reasons we love Donut Star: it’s open 24 hours and they accept credit cards.

Good to Know: If you’re not in the mood for donuts, Donut Star also has breakfast sandwiches and shaved ice—an especially popular treat on warm San Diego days.

601 W Washington St.
San Diego
Online: yelp.com/biz/donut-star-san-diego

10. Donut Panic

At Donut Panic you’ll find delicious vegan donut options alongside their traditional donut selections. Flavor offerings rotate daily but on a typical day you’ll get to dig in to maple ‘bacon,’ The Homer, Thai tea and Earl Grey. Don’t miss their vegan, vanilla or chocolate coconut cake donuts!

6171 Mission Gorge Rd. #113
San Diego
Online: facebook.com/donutpanicsd

11. Peterson’s Donut Corner

The taste is unbelievable and their donuts have crispiness that you don’t find elsewhere. Their classic donut is the glazed maple bar (which is huge) and the bear claws and apple fritters have also become crowd favorites. And the best part? Peterson’s Donut Corner is open 24 hours for late night cravings.

Good to Know: Peterson’s does not accept credit cards. So, make sure you have cash in your wallet!

903 S. Escondido Blvd.
Escondido, CA
Online: petersonsdonutcorner.com

Stuffed or simple, here are the best doughnuts in LA worth your time, money and their caloric intake

No matter how you spell it (donut or doughnut?) LA is a doughnut town thanks to glaze-blazers like Ted Ngoy aka: The Donut King who helped proliferate doughnut shops across SoCal. And in true LA-style, the following doughnut shops have put their own twist on the not-just-for-breakfast treat. Here’s our list for the best doughnuts in Los Angeles that are worth making an extra special trip to another part of town—traffic (and calories) be damned.

The Best Doughnuts in LA (in No Particular Order)

1. Sidecar Doughnuts & Coffee

Consistently recognized as having the best doughnuts in LA, Sidecar has a cult-like following thanks to their creative, small batch flavors that showcases seasonal ingredients. Their Maple Bacon is probably their most well-known but we think the Saigon Cinnamon Crumb and the Dulce de Leche Churro is the cat’s meow. PS: Have you checked out their Culver City location yet?

Good to Know: The Malasada is a stuffed doughnut fill with a custom flavor, rolled in cardamom sugar and is only available on Mon. so plan your trip accordingly.

Various Locations
Online: sidecardoughnuts.com

RELATED: 30 Fun Things to Do with Kids in Santa Monica

2. Fantastic Donuts & Croissants

The only reason to even hesitate ever taking a bite of these delightful doughnuts is that they are just so ridiculously adorable—doughnuts decorated to look like things that aren’t doughnuts get us every time. While they are known for their rotund pigs and cows, they’ve pulled together “sushi” boxes, “Among Us” characters, a box of “fruit” and more. For a specialty box, email your order at least 24-48 hours in advance.

1101 S Vermont Ave.
Koreatown
Online: fantasticdonutla.wix.com

3. Colorado Donuts

Sesame Street fans will go ga-ga for the awesome specialty donuts decorated to look like Elmo and Cookie Monster. Cute and cuddly is not the only form Colorado’s Donuts come in though. They also offer creative concoctions that seem like they came straight from a five-year old’s mind, like cronuts crammed with Oreos and Reese’s Peanut Butter Cups, because why choose one flavor when you can have both?

Pro Tip: Don’t miss the breakfast cereal-topped donuts, like Fruity Pebbles or their special drops (check their Instagram) for specialities like the Birthday Cookie Surprise doughnut.

1578 W Colorado Blvd.
Eagle Rock
Online: instagram.com/coloradodonuts

4. Blue Star

This Portland transplant is now a best-in-LA doughnut staple. These artisanal, crafted doughnuts are simple compared to the dessert explosions of their competitors but that’s what makes them so appealing for young palates. Brioche-style, they are light as air so you won’t be left with that rock-in-the-pit-of-your-belly feeling after eating them.

Our favorites include: Sugar and Spice, Chocolate Buttermilk, Lemon Poppyseed and of course, Chocolate Almond Ganache (pictured).

Various Locations
Online: bluestardonuts.com

5. B Sweet Dessert Bar

Think you can’t improve on the doughnut? What about stuffing one with delicious ice cream? Donut ice cream sandwiches are the sweet bomb and B Sweet Dessert Bar is one of the originators of this tasty trend. The Hot Pressed Halo, as it’s called, features ice cream of your choice, heat-sealed inside of a glazed doughnut. We petty convinced the ‘B’ in B Sweet stands for Brilliant.

Various Locations
Online: mybsweet.com

6. Donut Friend

While their customizable doughnuts are still on pause due to COVID, you can still choose a buffet-worth of doughnuts from their signature compilations, like Strawberrylab and Angry Samoa. Head over to York Park playground after so you can burn off all of that sugar-laden energy or if you’re around ROW DTLA on a Sun., swing by SmorgasburgLA for a visit with your best Donut Friend.

Good to Know: Not only are all of their doughnuts vegan, you can order a giant doughnut that is 7-8″ in diameter.

Various Locations
Online: donutfriend.com

7. Bob’s Coffee & Doughnuts

Located in The Original Farmer’s Market, these made-fresh daily doughnuts have legions of fans willing to line and wait (yep, they’re that good!). Nothing beats the classic glazed but the Maple Bacon Bar gets two thumbs up as well. Kids will love the dinosaur and Hello Kitty shapes.

Good to Know: It’s cash only.

6333 W. 3rd St.
Los Angeles
Online: bobsdonutsla.com

8. Birdies LA

Their signature doughnut flavors include Horchata Twist with Dulce de Leche, Candied Bacon Maple and Cinnamon Toast Crunch, but they also rotate and feature all kinds of specialty glazes and toppings to wow your donut connoisseurs. YUM. Oh, and did we mention they also serve fried chicken?

Various Locations
Online: birdiesla.com

9. Blinkie’s Donut Emporium

Blinkie’s has been a Woodland Hills doughnut staple (and Kardashian go-to) for good reason. Though they offer a wide variety of doughnut flavors the simple, glazed black and whites are hands-down the best. Despite being large in size and taste, these babies are light as air.

4884 Topanga Canyon Blvd.
Woodland Hills
Online: blinkiesdonuts.com

10. RING Baked Tofu Donuts

These GMO and gluten-free doughnuts are baked (not fried) and may not look as razzle-dazzle as some of the others on our list, but their simple, cake-like flavor won our kid tester’s shinning approval. They offer straight-forward flavors, like double chocolate, banana bread and red velvet.

‪6800 Owensmouth Ave.
Woodland Hills
Online: ringdonuts.com

11. Randy’s Donuts

Despite all the new pop-ups, LA is still filled with dozens of old-school doughnut shops that are well-worth a visit, and the most iconic by far is Randy’s. A glimpse of the giant doughnut sitting on top of the roof alone will excite your pint-sized doughnut lovers. If you hit the original location, there’s no real space to hang out here, so grab a dozen of the classics and head over to the grassy knoll near LAX to watch airplanes land. Best morning ever.

Various Locations
Online: randysdonuts.com

12. Voodoo Doughnut

The first LA location of this time-honored Portland doughnut tradition is a must-stop when you’re headed to the Universal CityWalk. The first thing your doughnut-loving tots are sure to notice is the bright pink color everywhere. That, and the gigantic voodoo doughnut that greets you out front. The only thing more exciting is the doughnut case inside. With flavors like Grape Ape, Mango Tango, the Voodoo Bubble, Bacon Maple Bar, The Homer, Triple Chocolate and Butterfinger, you will definitely fulfill everyone’s sugar fix.

100 Universal City Plaza
Universal City
Online: voodoodoughnut.com

From freshly fried doughnuts to doughnuts with creative topping combinations, these are the 5 best doughnut shops in DC

When it comes to doughnuts, there is no doubt that the best ones are made with fresh ingredients with just the right amount of sweetness. Add to that, the perfect doughnut should have an airy, light texture and a goldenbrown exterior, with a slightly crisp outer layer and a pillowysoft interior. So where can you find the best doughnut in the DC area? Look no further than our handy list—whether you want a chocolate glazed, jelly-filled, or one of the other 20 (at least!) varieties of donuts, these are by far the best doughnuts in DC that you and the kids will love (and revisit) week after week.

1. Astro Doughnuts & Fried Chicken

If youre looking for the best doughnuts in the Washington, D.C. area, youll definitely want to check out Astro Doughnuts & Fried Chicken. This trendy shop serves up delicious, madetoorder doughnuts that are sure to satisfy both your sweet tooth and your desire for something unique. While the menu features classic doughnut flavors like glazed, jellyfilled, and powdered sugar, take a adventurous chance on their creative specialty flavors such as Maple Bacon, Apple Fritter, and Toasted Coconut. Looking for something a bit more savory? Astro Doughnuts also serves a variety of fried chicken sandwiches and tenders.  

1308 G Street NW
Washington, DC
Online: astrodoughnuts.com

2. District Doughnut and Coffee

If you’ve lived in DC more than a hot minute, you’re probably already familiar with District Doughnut and Coffee. But they’re still worth a mention for rotating their flavors seasonally. Check out the winter menu featuring such tasty treats as Gingerbread Cookie and Hot Cocoa doughnuts. And if you, or one of your littles, often feel like you’re missing out on the doughnut deliciousness because you can’t have gluten, they even have Gluten-free Fridays where they offer a different flavor donut in its gluten-free form

749 8th St SE
Washington, DC
Online: districtdoughnut.com

3. B Doughnuts

B Doughnuts has a cult-like following and for good reason: their Hawaiian-style Portuguese doughnuts, called malasadas, are out of this world delicious! Their doughnuts are more savory, such as the Ube-filled (purple yam) or the everything bagel doughnut, making this the perfect shop for those who like their sweet treats a little less sweet. In fact, they even state right on their website that they are “doughnuts for those who don’t really like doughnuts” and say that they may not taste or feel like most donuts. But don’t worry if you only like sweet treats—they still have plenty of the dessert-like flavors too, with a whole collection of more traditionally glazed donuts along with kid-favorite, Cinnamon Toast Crunch, s’mores and Fruity Pebbles-flavored doughnut.

6700 Crain Hwy., Suite 102
La Plata, MD
Online: bdoughnut.com

4. Sugar Shack Donuts & Coffee

Sugar Shack Donuts and Coffee is a popular donut shop and coffee house (family, vegan, carnivore and gluten free friendly) based in Virginia. Their specialty doughnuts are made from scratch every day, and they offer a variety of flavors and toppings so each doughnut is as unique as the person ordering it. Keep an eye out for fan-favorite seasonal and holiday specialities.

1001 N Lombardy St.
Richmond, VA
Online: eatsugarshack.com

5. Sugar Mamas Donut Bites Food Truck

Sugar Mamas Donut Bites Food Truck serves up freshly made, smallbatch doughnuts with a variety of tasty toppings. The truck can be found at local events and festivals—follow them on Twitter or Facebook to track the truck— but can typically be found on the weekends in Vienna, Falls Church, Dale City & Westover. The menu consists of traditional favorites such as cinnamon sugar, chocolate glazed, and powdered sugar, as well as creative concoctions like donut ice cream sandwiches, donut sundaes, and more. Customers can also customize their donuts with a range of toppings, from fresh berries and nuts to chocolate chips and marshmallows. All of the donuts are made with the highest quality ingredients, and the truck is operated with a commitment to sustainability.

Online: mamasdonutbites.com

 

Recipe: Bacon & Cheese Dip

Hosting a get-together calls for creating a well-balanced table spread that’ll keep your guests’ hunger at bay. Between appetizers, show-stopping main dishes and desserts, you won’t want to skip over the adored dips.

With Smithfield®’s Bacon & Cheese Dip, give your friends and family an experience that’ll change the game. The tangy cream cheese, sour cream and cheddar cheese are beautifully blended with green onions and garlic then topped with smoky, crumbled bacon. Talk about mouthwatering.

Check out the recipe from Smithfield® below to get started on your next go-to lunch or dinner.

Total Time Skill Level Servings
20 mins Beginner 4

Ingredients

Smithfield Hometown Original Bacon Slices, cooked and crumbled 4 piece(s)
Cream cheese, room temperature 8 ounce(s)
Sour cream 1/2 cup
Cheddar cheese, Shredded 1/4 cup(s)
Green onions, finely chopped 2 Tbsp.(s)
Garlic, minced 1 Tsp.
Biscuit chips, pretzels and celery To dip

Instructions

  1. In a small bowl, beat the cream cheese and sour cream until smooth. Stir in cheddar cheese, onions, and garlic.
  2. Place the bowl in the microwave, and cook for 2 minutes. Remove, and stir well. Return to the microwave, and cook an additional 2 to 4 minutes more.
  3. Top with crumbled Smithfield Hometown Original Bacon.
  4. Serve warm with biscuit chips, pretzels, or celery.

Tips to Stretch Your Dollar

Smithfield’s bacon slices are the perfect addition to any weekly meal, no matter the time of day. Add this smoky topping to salads, baked potatoes and cheddar muffins for an extra boost of flavor and texture.

In need of more inspiration for your next family meal? Smithfield Foods’ large portfolio of products, including Smithfield® Bacon, Nathan’s Famous® Beef Franks and Eckrich® Smoked Sausage, can meet your household’s needs for breakfast, lunch, dinner and even snack time. 

Sorry, kiddos, this special pie is for moms and dads only. With an impressive combination of flavors that are delicately sweet, buttery and salty, this tasty Bourbon bacon pecan pie is sure to wow your dinner guests—and your tastebuds.

Check out the recipe from Smithfield® below to get started.

Total Time Skill Level Servings
42 mins Beginner 8

 

Ingredients

Smithfield Premium Maple Thick Cut Bacon 1/3 cup
Light Brown Sugar 2 Tbsp.
Single layer pie crust 1
Unsalted butter, melted 4 Tbsp.
Whole eggs 3
Dark brown sugar 1 cup
Light corn syrup 3/4 cup
Bourbon 2 Tbsp.
Whole pecan halves 3 cups
Whipped cream as desired

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 375 degrees
  2. Whisk together the butter, eggs, brown sugar, corn syrup and bourbon.
  3. Chop two cups of the pecans.
  4. With a fork, prick the crust in several places.
  5. Place the chopped pecans in the pie shell and lightly press so that they don’t float up too much after adding the batter.
  6. Cover the chopped pecans with the batter, then arrange the remaining whole pecan halves in concentric circles around the pie, working from the outer edge toward the middle.
  7. Bake the pie for about 40 minutes, or until the filling is just set but still slightly jiggly in the center.
  8. If the pecans or crust are starting to get too brown before the pie is done, cover loosely with foil.
  9. Remove the pie from the oven, sprinkle the candied bacon on top and allow to cool completely at room temperature.
  10. Serve when cooled, top with whipped cream if desired

Tips to Stretch Your Dollar

If you have any leftover bacon, be sure to store it in a container for breakfast the next day! Whether you add the bacon to an omelet or serve the simple-yet-classic bacon and eggs, your kids are sure to love the rich flavor of Smithfield’s maple bacon.

In need of more inspiration for your next family meal? Smithfield Foods’ large portfolio of products, including Smithfield® Bacon, Nathan’s Famous® Beef Franks and Eckrich® Smoked Sausage, can meet your household’s needs for breakfast, lunch, dinner and even snack time. 

WildLanterns at Woodland Park Zoo is always worth the trip. Make your plans to see this whimsical winter light display now

Winter nights are settling in and that can only mean one thing—light displays are popping up all over Seattle. We know families are excited that Woodland Park Zoo’s WildLanterns will be returning for its 2022 season. We’re excited too. This year’s larger-than-life display will feature new lanterns, plus some that you’ll recognize from year’s past. But one thing is guaranteed—it will knock your kiddo’s socks off.

Get a sneak peek of Tinybeans’ writer, Kathryn Mueller’s experience at WildLanterns at Woodland Park Zoo. Then read on to find out more and make your family’s plans.

WildLanterns—What to Expect This Year

Everyone new favorite light experience—WildLanterns—is returning to Woodland Park Zoo for the 2022 season. If you made the trek last year or the year before (or both!) and loved it, put a return visit on your calendar because you'll see new lanterns alongside your favorite from past years when you visit. Families will be welcomed through four themed zones where they'll encounter lighted animals and plants lining the zoo’s walking paths, at kiddo eye height and towering overhead.

Along the way you'll encounter All About Bugs, where you'll feel smaller than ever among gorgeous and oversized dragonflies, bunnies, and plants before making your way through the glowing Garden Delights. Up next are the big animals. You'll find these fascinating creatures as you take a Walk Among African Animals or go on an Asian Safari. It's where you'll find wow-worthy animals like tigers and orangutans, plus coo-worthy red pandas (a favorite with kids these days). Make Oceania Animal Odyssey your final lantern destination. It's full of Southern Hemisphere faves like cuddly koalas, kangaroos, and colorful parrots.

We suggest families plan about 90 minutes to walk the whole loop with your little adventurers.

Related: Watts Up: Seattle's Best Holiday Light Displays

kids run toward a lighted tree at WildLanterns seattle at woodland park zoo
Kathryn Mueller

Sensory-friendly Experiences at WildLanterns

This year WildLanterns has added three sensory friendly evenings in an effort to make WildLanterns more accessible. Low-sensory experiences, activities, and other resources help to make everyone who heads to the display feel comfortable. On these nights, Zoomazium will transform into Zoomazium NightLights where families can find low lighting, soft nature sounds playing, and sensory toys, like a giant Light Bright, set out to use.

Plan to attend one of these special evenings on November 16, December 13, or January 12. 

Related: 12 Places Where Kids of All Abilities Can Play

Kathryn Mueller

Wild Programs & Experiences

During your visit, make sure to stop by the carousel for an always-fun spin. Riding the carousel at night is a whole new experience as far as your Littles are concerned. Plus, like past years, there will be interactive zones providing delight to lantern enthusiasts of all ages. Head to the middle of the zoo to find these features that are just as engaging as they mechanical lanterns that captivate everyone's attention as you make your way around the zoo.

kids pose in front of a giant insect at Wildanterns seattle at woodland park zoo
Kathryn Mueller

What to Bring

Plan your WildLanterns visit like you do other zoo trips and you’ll have everything you need to keep your wee ones happy. The zoo’s wide paths were made for strollers, so be sure to have yours on hand for just-walkers or sleepy toddlers who need a rest. Outside, rain or shine, is the name of this game, so dress for the weather, with plenty of layers (hats and gloves), rain gear and snuggly stroller blankets to keep kids warm and dry. Don’t forget to throw your trusty umbrella into the mix too. Snacks are allowed and face masks are a must. Last but not least, make sure you’ve got room on your phone for all the cute pics.

Kathryn Mueller

Where to eat

If all this lantern gazing has your crew’s tummies rumbling, families can find plenty of food options at the zoo. 1889 Pizza and the Wild Cup will be open and a couple of pop-up kiosks will have food items for sale too. Plus, like other zoo events, families are welcome to bring their own food and drink to enjoy on-site. 

Good to Know:
1. Timed tickets are required for the event, and they sell out fast, so grab yours while you still can!

2. If early works best for your kids, you’re in luck. Even if you get the earliest ticket time spot, it’s dark enough to enjoy this experience. Plus, by the time you head out, the lanterns will be at their magical best, and you’ll still have the kids home by bedtime. 

3. Families will be welcomed at the West Entrance only, where the experience begins.

Dates: Nov. 11, 2022-Jan. 1, 2023; closed Mondays (except for Dec.19 & 26) and Nov. 25, Dec. 24 & 25
Hours: 4-9 p.m. (last entry at 8:30 p.m.)

Woodland Park Zoo
5500 Phinney Ave. N.
Seattle
Event details

Don’t let the heat get you all hot and bothered—scoop up some of the original Mother’s Little Helper and chill out, instead. From classic favorites at ice cream institutions to modern takes on the sweet stuff, Atlanta’s dripping with options. You’ll especially love the spot that has two kid favorites: trains and ice cream. 

Butter & Cream
All ice cream at this Decatur institution is hand-made right there in the store, with flavors ranging from classic to exotic—honey lavender fig and dark chocolate malbec, for starters—you might never leave. Check out their seasonally rotating menu for the most “now” flavors.

The Cherry On Top: Take your ice cream and stroll to the nearby Little Shop of Stories—they have story times on Tuesday, Thursday, and Sunday!

416 Church St.

661 Auburn Ave. Suite 130
Online: butterandcream.com

Cathy’s

You’ll find gourmet ice cream sandwiches at this treasure, where you begin by choosing your cookies (there are seven types to choose among), your ice cream (16 flavors that range from standard to exotic), and a topping which your sandwich is rolled in. While it’s not cheap—a cookie sandwich will run you a solid $10—each custom concoction is deliciously indulgent.

The Cherry On Top: Want to try making a gourmet ice cream sandwich at home? Cathy’s sells cookie kits with cookie dough ready to go and ice cream by the pint.

855 Peachtree Street
Online: cathyscle.com

 

Sub-Zero Nitrogen Ice Cream
This flash-frozen ice cream is created using liquid nitrogen. And the founders take the idea of science in the kitchen seriously—they even offer classroom demos and have a song about the Periodic Table on their homepage. Whatever the science behind this ice cream, it’s good.

The Cherry On Top: The downtown location is a perfect place to stop after a morning at the Children’s Museum or an afternoon at Centennial Olympic fountains.

250 Park Ave. W NW
Centennial Park District

11720 Medlock Bridge Rd.
Duluth
Online: subzeroicecream.com

Paolo’s Gelato
From the kid-level glass case displaying fluffy mountains of the good stuff to the wafer cookie on top of every scoop, this Va-Hi sweet shop will delight kids and adults alike. If you’re a stickler for the trifecta (chocolate, vanilla, and strawberry), you might be disappointed because the flavors change and trend towards Nutella, zabaione, rose, and amaretto. Don’t forget your cash as this joint doesn’t take cards.

The Cherry On Top: It’s a wafer cookie, not a cherry. But it’s yummy.

1025 Virginia Ave. NE
Online: paolosgelato.com

Queen of Cream
This homemade ice cream window in Inman Park starts its batches with local grass-fed dairy and makes small batches in-house using fresh and local ingredients. So pick up your scoop at the ice cream window located on Bernina.

The Cherry on Top: Vegan flavors, including Mango Coconut, hold their own on the menu.

337 Elizabeth St NE
Atlanta
Online: queenofcream.com

Jake’s Ice Cream
Jake’s Ice Cream can be found in many locations around town, but get it at the Irwin Street Market for the traditional ice cream parlor effect. Ice cream coolers straddle an old-fashioned ice cream bar with red vinyl stools and glistening countertops. For the wobblers out there, there are also family-style kitchen tables in a lounge adjacent to the ice cream counter. Jake’s impressive list of creative (and offbeat) flavors satisfies every craving in your crowd. They’re also opening a new location in East Point this summer, so keep an eye out.

The Cherry On Top: The ISM houses breakfast, brunch, lunch, and dessert vendors all under one roof, so hit this spot if you can’t bring yourself to make dinner… or lunch… or brunch… one day. It’s right off the Beltline and a worthy destination. Keep in mind that they’re only open on Sat. & Sun. from 2-5 p.m., so plan your day around it.

660 Irwin St.
Online: jakesicecream.com

Jeni’s Splendid Ice Creams
Think of this sweet spot as education for tiny tounges. Nestled in the hip Haute spot of the Westside Provisions District, this ice cream counter serves up samples of fanciful flavors like Wildberry Lavender, Goat Cheese & Red Cherries, and Riesling Poached Pear Sorbet.

The Cherry On Top: A waffle wedge comes complimentary with each scoop. Don’t forget to load up on pints to take home to bribe the babes later.

1198 Howell Mill Rd.

77 West Paces Ferry Rd., Suite 35B
Online: jenis.com

Frosty Caboose
Trains and treats? Yes, please. This sweet shop is a converted train caboose with a walk-up window serving Greenwood’s ice cream—Atlanta’s answer to Mayfield’s on a smaller scale and with wilder flavors. With a private and plentiful parking lot between the caboose and the actual train track (another plus for your little train aficionados), you can enjoy your ice cream tailgate-style or stroll the streets of downtown Chamblee as you eat.

The Cherry On Top: Can’t get enough of Greenwood Ice Cream? Check out their manufacturing location not far from The Frosty Caboose. You can score an ice cream cake from one of the coolers up front if you’re lucky!

5435 Peachtree Rd.
Online: frostycaboose.com

Morelli’s
This is ice cream the way it’s supposed to be. Morelli’s churns up traditional flavors (salted caramel will make you moan) and more creative combinations (think strawberry balsamic, maple bacon, or coconut jalapeño). But no matter your kids’ tastes, the creamy, smooth, rich quality of Morelli’s will have them begging for more.

The Cherry On Top: The Moreland Avenue store is a perfect stop after a day at the zoo.

749 Moreland Ave. SE,

4515 Chamblee Dunwoody Rd.
Online: morellisicecream.com

Kilwin’s
Okay, Kilwin’s is a chain, but there is only one in Georgia (in Atlantic Station), and you should go. The smell of chocolate greets guests at the door, and kids will marvel at the toys, candy cases, and decorations as they make their way back towards the ice cream. Very few things can distract a child from an ice cream cone, but the candy maker molding bite-sized chocolates at the front of the store might do it.

The Cherry On Top: They make their waffle cones in-house. Yum.

1380 Atlantic Dr. Suite 14160

251 Market St.
Alpharetta
Online: kilwins.com

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The air fryer is our new favorite appliance to play with, making everything from chicken wings to Brussels sprouts. But it’s not just for savory dishes—say hello to air fryer donuts! We’ve rounded up 10 awesome donut recipes made for the air fryer, from the quick and easy canned biscuit variety to more involved raised donuts. Scroll down to see them all.

Air Fryer Cronuts

Fork to Spoon

With a texture somewhere between a croissant and a donut, this recipe from Fork to Spoon is bound to be an instant favorite. Thanks to the lightning-fast cook time, they may even be quicker than running to the donut shop, too. Click here to get the recipe.

Maple Bacon Donuts

Peanut Butter & Fitness

Maple bacon is one of our go-to donut orders—you can’t beat that salty/sweet combination! Now you can whip up a batch at home in the air fryer, thanks to Peanut Butter & Fitness. To get the recipe, click here.

Toasted Coconut Lime Donuts

EmilyFabulous

Pretend you’re on an island vacation with these tasty coconut lime donuts from EmilyFabulous. They’re made with canned biscuits and a quick glaze, making them the perfect simple and sweet treat. Click here to get the recipe.

Vegan Boston Cream Donuts

cherrylet via flickr

If you’d like to take on a weekend cooking project, this masterpiece by Mary’s Test Kitchen is just the ticket. It’s a labor of love with vegan pastry cream, yeasted dough and a simple chocolate glaze. Click here to get all the details on how it’s done.

Pumpkin Spice Donuts

Bottom Left of the Mitten

Try out this fun fall-inspired take on donuts from Bottom Left of the Mitten. The donuts are coated in a delicious mixture of cinnamon, sugar and pumpkin spice. To grab the recipe, click here.

Peanut Butter and Jelly Donuts

Hungry Couple

Your kiddo’s favorite sandwich, now in donut form! This recipe from Hungry Couple is sure to be a hit, with plenty of jelly filling and a drool-worthy peanut butter glaze. Click here to get the recipe.

Air Fryer Donuts from Scratch

Plated Cravings

These donuts from Plated Cravings are just as good as the real thing, with a soft and fluffy interior. They take a little bit of patience since they’re made with yeast, but they’ll be well worth the time. Get the recipe by clicking here.

Apple Fritters with Apple Cider Glaze

Rachel Cooks

If you’re an apple fritter fan, you’ve got to make this amazing version from Rachel Cooks. They’re filled with apple chunks and cider, and an apple cider glaze gives it an extra touch of fall flavor. To get the recipe, click here.

Air Fryer Donut

Unconformed Kitchen

Don’t want a whole baker’s dozen? This recipe from Unconformed Kitchen makes just a single donut (but of course, you can double, triple or quadruple it as needed). Click here to get the recipe.

Jelly Donuts

Everyday Family Cooking

You can’t go wrong with a classic jelly donut! This recipe from Everyday Family Cooking is super easy to pull off with a cake piping tip and your favorite raspberry jelly. To get all the details, click here.

—Susie Foresman

 

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13 Simple No-Bake Desserts When It’s Too Hot for the Oven

There’s nothing wrong with a cupcake piled high with frosting. Nothing. At. All. But the newest bakeries in the DMV are taking a slightly different—and welcomed—approach to dessert. Move over buttercream, these sweet spots hawk everything from cookies to cake pops, that are just right (and mess free) for your little foodie.

Photo: Baked by Yael via Facebook

Baked by Yael
The scoop: Lawyer turned baker Yael Krigman has been whipping up custom cake pops and delivering them across the DMV since 2011. Now, she has the honor of owning D.C.’s first ever cakepoppery, across the street from the National Zoo (sounds like the perfect day out…hint-hint). While cakepops are the focus, save some room for Yael’s bagels, raspberry bars, rugelach, and black and white cookies.
What to try: There are five flavors of cakepops (chocolate, birthday cake, red velvet, cookies n’ cream, and lemon) for $2.95 each. Pick up one (or two) of each.

3000 Connecticut Ave., NW (Woodley Park)
202-480-9235
Online: bakedbyyael.com

Photo: MelLid G. via Yelp

Captain Cookie
The scoop: This brand new cookie shop started out as a bakery on wheels. Owner Kirk Francis operates two cookie-mobiles that still ride around the D.C. metro area hawking irresistible baked goods to office parks and birthday parties. The brick and mortar caters specifically to the Foggy Bottom community, which just so happens to be filled with GW University students…who love cookies. But if it’s not your nabe, don’t let that deter you from popping by for a visit. If you’re within a few blocks-radius, the smell alone will draw you and the kids in.
What to try: Any of the cookies—chocolate chip, Nutella, peanut butter, snickerdoodle, ginger molasses, oatmeal raisin—with a side of Trickling Springs Creamery milk.

2000 Pennsylvania Ave., NW.
202-556-3396
Online: www.captaincookiedc.com.

Photo: Ayren Jackson-Cannady

Sugar Shack
The scoop: The North Old Town section of Alexandria just got a huge sugar rush in the form of an artisan donut shop. Based in Richmond, Sugar Shack is quickly becoming the donut place du-jour. We aren’t surprised—with handcrafted flavors like maple bacon, strawberry cheesecake (made with fresh strawberries, snatch!), and Samoa, what’s not to love. Bonus: The small shop is covered in chalk paint, so kids can draw a work of art on the walls while noshing on their donut.
What to try: For Junior, chocolate or vanilla sprinkles will rate high. For grown-ups, grab a chocolate porter donut and a cup of coffee (brought in from local-fave Zeke’s).

804 N. Henry St. (Alexandria)
571-406-4734
Online: sugarshackdonuts.com

What is your favorite spot to stop for dessert? Let us know in the Comments!

—Ayren Jackson-Cannady