7 Things You Probably Didn't Know About Donuts

April 28, 2025

What if your morning coffee companion or favorite treat had even more history, science, and global influence than you'd imagined?

Donuts are more than a sugary indulgence; they’re cultural icons, culinary wonders, and yes—even science experiments in disguise.

At Ada Donuts, we’re more than just your local donut shop in Ada, Oklahoma. We’re all about celebrating this simple yet delightful treat.

Today, we’re sharing seven surprising things you might not know about donuts, from their origins to how we innovate here at our shop.

By the end of this post, you’ll never look at a donut the same way again.

1. The Origin of the Donut Hole

Ever wonder why donuts have a hole in the middle? It turns out, the famous donut hole wasn’t just for aesthetics.

The design came out of practicality, ensuring the dough cooked evenly throughout. Without the hole, the center of the donut would remain undercooked while the outside browned to perfection.

This innovation is often credited to Captain Hanson Gregory, a 19th-century sea captain who wanted his fried treats cooked better while aboard his ship.

To this day, the hole remains iconic, with donut holes now being a sweet treat of their own (and yes, we have them at Ada Donuts).

2. Donuts Around the World

Donuts aren’t just an American obsession. Different cultures have their own versions of this beloved treat, and their unique takes are just as delicious.

France: Beignets – soft, pillowy fried dough sprinkled with powdered sugar.
India: Balushahi – a dense and syrupy cousin to our classic donut.
South Africa: Koeksisters – donut dough braided and soaked in sticky syrup.
Japan: Mochi donuts – chewy rings made from glutinous rice flour.

Inspired by these global creations, Ada Donuts offers seasonal flavors influenced by international recipes.

From matcha frosting to cinnamon sugar reminiscent of churros, every bite is a mini passport to flavor.

3. The Sweet Science of Baking

Why are donuts so hard to resist? The answer lies in chemistry. When you fry donuts, sugars caramelize, creating that golden-brown crust.

Meanwhile, yeast works its magic to create the dough’s light, airy texture.

At Ada Donuts, we take this science seriously by using only the freshest, natural ingredients. This ensures each donut comes out perfectly soft, flavorful, and just sweet enough. It’s no wonder every bite feels like perfection.

Fun fact? Our kitchen smells like heaven every morning as we prepare donuts fresh daily. You deserve to experience the magic yourself!

4. Donuts in Pop Culture

From Homer Simpson clutching his pink-frosted donut to real-life donut-eating competitions, donuts have cemented themselves in pop culture.

They’ve been featured in TV shows, movies, books, and even video games, symbolizing everything from indulgence to community.

Here at Ada Donuts, we like to think of our shop as a cultural hub in Ada, OK, where donut lovers come together. Who knows? Maybe your next visit will inspire a perfectly Instagram-worthy moment!

5. The Perfect Pairing: Donuts and Coffee

Why are donuts and coffee such an iconic duo? It’s more than just tradition. The slight bitterness of coffee balances the sweetness of donuts, creating harmony with every sip and bite.

At Ada Donuts, we’ve perfected the pairing. Our shop is as much about the coffee as it is about the donuts.

Whether you’re grabbing a quick latte on the go or enjoying an espresso while catching up with friends, you’ll find that every donut fits right into your coffee moment.

Next time you’re near our Ada, OK, coffee shop, stop in and experience this timeless combo!

6. Donut Innovations at Ada Donuts

We love tradition, but we also love pushing the boundaries of flavor. At Ada Donuts, we’re constantly experimenting with new ideas. Some of our fan-favorite creations include:

Maple Bacon Bliss: Sweet meets savory with crispy bacon and maple glaze.
Matcha Cream Delight: A nod to Japanese flavors, with earthy green tea and delicate sweetness.
Lemon Sunshine Twist: A bright, zesty donut dusted with powdered sugar.

Exciting news? We now offer home delivery and catering! Whether you need donuts for your next family gathering or just want a quiet treat at home, Ada Donuts has you covered.

7. Donuts for Every Occasion

Think donuts are just for breakfast? Think again!

Donuts are increasingly popular for events, from birthday parties to weddings. With endless flavor options and customizable decorations, they can match any theme or celebration.

Ada Donuts proudly offers catering services for local events. Whether it’s a corporate meeting, school function, or bridal shower, our donuts will ensure your guests leave with sweet memories.

Stop by Ada Donuts for Sweet Surprises

We hope this post gave you a fresh perspective on donuts and the joy they bring.

From the history of the donut hole to Ada Donuts’ international flavors and innovations, there’s so much to love about these iconic treats.

We invite you to come and experience the magic at Ada Donuts, your local donut shop in Ada, Oklahoma. Treat yourself to something fresh, flavorful, and unforgettable.