As the holiday season closes in, many of us find our sweet tooth kicking into overdrive. With so many options, it’s always comforting to fall back on a great American staple, the donut. Simple in its conception, the challenge lies in its execution. However, when done right, this simple fried treat just hits the spot. Whether you prefer cake or yeast style, you’ll leave satisfied. Here are six hot spots where you can get your fix.
1. Duck Donuts
Established in the town of Duck, NC, the Knoxville location opened in 2017. Offering a wide range of toppings, the shop prides itself on making each donut to order to ensure the freshest product possible. For those who like to pair their sweets with a touch of savory, the Maple Bacon donut is not to be missed.
6104 Kingston Pike, Knoxville 37919
(865) 236-1393 | duckdonuts.com
2. Pop’s Donuts
As you approach Pop’s slick, modern storefront, bursts of color dot the inside of the large glass cases. Inside is a large selection of offerings that have garnered quite the loyal fan base. Nestled in Rocky Hill, the shop is always experimenting with new flavor combinations to keep their guests guessing what will come next.
7699 S. Northshore Drive, Knoxville 37919
(865) 770-4710 | popsdonuts.com
3. Krispy Kreme
There’s a reason that Krispy Kreme has stood the test of time. With humble beginnings in Winston-Salem, NC, these iconic donuts are now available all over the world. For the full experience, grab an Original Glazed while the red “Hot and Ready” sign is flashing.
6201 Kingston Pike, 1710 Cumberland Avenue,
4842 N. Broadway | krispykreme.com
4. Status Dough
Since opening the doors to their flagship location in spring of 2017, the folks at Status Dough have been incredibly busy… and ambitious. With a focus on using only the best ingredients, customers have taken notice. This year, owners Jimmy and Karen Wooten, along with partner Joe Seiber, have opened not one, but two new locations with their newest branch appearing in Nashville.
6535 Kingston Pike | 418 Gay Street
(865) 999-0988 | (865) 888-0997
statusdoughnuts.com
5. Richy Kreme Donuts
A Blount County treasure, Richy Kreme was founded in 1948 by Marion Richardson. Although Richardson has since passed, locals Bobby and Gena Davis purchased the building and business in 2017 to carry on his legacy. Following an expansion, the shop now boasts a dining area and coffee from Maryville’s Vienna Coffee.
2601 E. Broadway Avenue. Maryville
(865) 983-2580 | richykreme.com
6. Beaver’s Dough-Joe
Yet another new donut shop on the scene, Beaver’s Dough-Joe brings their beloved treats to Karns. After honing his skills in his home state of Ohio, Ryan Wells returned to Tennessee to open Beaver’s with wife Melissa. Beyond donuts, be sure to try the apple fritter, a customer favorite.
7650 Oak Ridge Highway, 37931
(865) 253-7443 | beavers-dough-joe.business.site