The Fascinating History of Donuts

Donuts, or 'doughnuts' as originally spelled, can trace their origins back to Dutch settlers in early 19th century America, who brought over their recipe for 'oily cakes.'

The credit for inventing the ring-shaped donut goes to American Hanson Gregory. He claimed to have created the iconic hole design in 1847 while on a lime-trading ship at just 16 years old.

Gregory's hole invention solved a problem: the center of thicker donuts often remained uncooked. By punching a hole, he ensured even cooking and created the distinctive donut shape we know today.

Donuts surged in popularity during World War I when women volunteers, known as 'Doughnut Dollies,' made and served donuts to American soldiers to boost morale.

The donut industry was revolutionized in the 1920s by Adolph Levitt’s invention of the donut machine, which automated the process and made mass production possible.

Donuts have even been to space. Astronauts aboard Apollo 13 were treated to vacuum-packed donuts, showcasing the pastry’s cultural significance even beyond Earth.

National Donut Day, celebrated on the first Friday of June, was established by the Salvation Army in 1938 to honor those who served donuts to soldiers during World War I.