I Drove Through Small-Town Alabama To Try 12 Donut Shops (And Found 6 That Were Absolutely Worth It)

I spent a weekend cruising through Alabama’s backroads with one simple mission: find the best donuts the small towns had to offer. No fancy shops, just old-school counters, coffee that never seems to run out, and trays piled high before sunrise.

Some places were just okay, but a handful really stood out, the kind where the donuts are still warm when you grab them.

I talked to locals, swapped stories, and probably ate more sugar than I should admit. By the end of the trip, I had six spots that proved Alabama knows how to do breakfast right.

1. The Donut King (Eufaula)

Walking into this shop feels like stepping back in time. The smell of fresh dough fills the air before you even open the door. Their glazed donuts are light and airy, with just the right amount of sweetness.

I tried their chocolate iced donut, and it tasted like something your grandmother would make on a Sunday morning. The chocolate wasn’t too thick or sugary. It melted perfectly on my tongue.

This place earned its spot on my list without question. Every bite reminded me why simple, well-made donuts never go out of style.

2. Monita’s Bakery (Gardendale)

Gardendale isn’t far from Birmingham, but this bakery has its own small-town charm. The donuts here are solid, with a good variety to choose from. Their cake donuts have a nice dense texture that holds up well with coffee.

The staff was friendly and quick, even during the morning rush. I picked up a cinnamon twist and a blueberry cake donut. Both were fresh and tasty, though nothing blew me away.

It’s a dependable spot if you’re in the area and need a morning treat.

3. Variety Bake Shop (Scottsboro)

Scottsboro sits near the Tennessee border, and this bakery has been around for years. Their donuts are consistent, which is something you appreciate when you’re traveling. The yeast donuts are fluffy, and the fillings are generous.

I grabbed a Boston cream and a plain glazed. The cream filling was smooth, though the chocolate topping could have been richer. Still, it hit the spot after a long drive.

Plenty of locals were stopping in, which is always a good sign for any bakery.

4. Wake & Shake Donut Shop (Wedowee)

Wedowee is tiny, but this donut shop is a hidden treasure. The donuts here are made fresh every morning, and you can tell. Their apple fritters are massive, packed with real apple chunks and cinnamon.

I ordered a maple bar, and it was one of the best I’ve had anywhere. The icing was creamy and not overly sweet. The dough underneath was soft and just a little chewy.

This shop deserves more attention. If you’re anywhere near Wedowee, make the detour.

5. Daylight Donuts (Hartselle)

Hartselle is a quiet town, and this Daylight Donuts location fits right in. The donuts are what you’d expect from a chain, but they’re made fresh and taste good. Their glazed twists are popular, and I can see why.

I tried a jelly-filled donut and a chocolate old-fashioned. Both were decent, though the jelly could have been a bit more flavorful. The old-fashioned had a nice crunch on the outside.

It’s a reliable choice if you need something quick and satisfying.

6. Trojan Donuts (Troy)

Troy is a college town, so this shop stays busy. The donuts are fresh and affordable, which makes sense for a place serving students. Their selection is good, with plenty of fun toppings and flavors.

I picked up a strawberry iced donut and a plain cake donut. The strawberry icing was bright and sweet, maybe a little too sweet for my taste. The cake donut was simple and well-made.

If you’re in Troy, it’s a nice spot to grab breakfast before exploring campus.

7. Nicky’s Fresh Donuts (Springville)

Springville surprised me. This little shop makes some of the freshest donuts I’ve ever tasted. You can watch them fry the donuts right in front of you, which adds to the experience.

Their cinnamon sugar donuts are incredible. They’re warm, crispy on the outside, and soft on the inside. I also tried their cream-filled long john, and the custard was homemade and rich.

I ended up buying a dozen to share with friends. Everyone agreed these donuts were something special.

8. Lickin Good Donuts (Robertsdale)

Robertsdale is close to the Gulf Coast, and this shop is a convenient stop if you’re heading to the beach. The donuts are solid, with a good range of flavors. Their glazed donuts are light and not too greasy.

I tried a coconut-covered donut and a chocolate glazed. The coconut was fresh and added a nice texture. The chocolate was smooth but not particularly memorable.

It’s a good place to fuel up before a day by the water.

9. Downtown Donuts (Enterprise)

Enterprise is known for its peanut monument, but this donut shop deserves recognition too. The donuts here are made with care, and you can taste the difference. Their buttermilk bars are some of the best I’ve had.

I also tried a raspberry-filled donut, and the filling was tart and balanced perfectly with the sweet dough. The glaze on top added just enough extra sweetness without overdoing it.

This shop is a must-visit if you’re passing through town. The quality here is top-notch.

10. The Duchess Bakery (Cullman)

Cullman has a strong German heritage, and this bakery reflects that tradition. The donuts here are made with European techniques, and it shows. Their yeast donuts are incredibly light and airy.

I ordered a custard-filled donut and a plain sugar donut. The custard was silky and not too sweet. The sugar donut was simple but perfect, with a delicate crumb that melted in my mouth.

This bakery is worth the trip to Cullman. The craftsmanship here is something you don’t find everywhere.

11. Cothran’s Bakery (Gadsden)

Gadsden is an old industrial town, and this bakery has been serving the community for decades. The donuts are classic and reliable. Their glazed donuts are always fresh, and the glaze has a nice shine to it.

I tried a lemon-filled donut and a chocolate cake donut. The lemon filling was tangy and refreshing. The chocolate cake donut was moist and had a good cocoa flavor.

It’s a solid bakery with a loyal following for good reason.

12. Loyless Donuts, Circle West (Dothan)

Dothan is one of the bigger towns I visited, and this donut shop lives up to its reputation. The donuts here are consistently excellent. Their glazed donuts are perfectly fried, with a light crisp exterior and a soft, pillowy inside.

I tried their chocolate covered cream-filled donut, and it was heavenly. The cream was rich and smooth, and the chocolate coating was thick and satisfying.

This shop is a favorite for a reason. If you only stop at one place in Dothan, make it this one.