I Drove Through Small-Town Ohio To Try 8 Local Donut Shops (And Found 2 Worth Every Mile)
Small-town Ohio holds some serious donut magic, and I’ve spent countless Saturday mornings tracking down the best spots across the Buckeye State.
Most local bakeries serve decent rings of fried dough, but only a select few create those perfect moments where you bite into something truly special.
After sampling glazed goods from Zanesville to Oxford, I can confidently say that while all eight shops on this list deserve your attention, two stand out as absolute must-visit destinations that justify any road trip.
1. Donald’s Donuts – Zanesville
Walking into Donald’s feels like stepping back into 1975, complete with a vintage counter that’s seen thousands of morning regulars. The maple sticks here are legendary among locals, and for good reason.
I discovered this place during a random weekend drive and ended up returning three times that month. Their peanut-butter-iced Buckeye donuts capture Ohio pride in pastry form, while the apple fritters are massive enough to share.
Located at 2622 Maple Ave, this spot opens early and sells out fast, so don’t sleep in if you want the good stuff.
2. Amish Country Donuts & Cafe – Sugarcreek
Sourdough donuts sound weird until you taste these massive, pillowy rings that redefine what fried dough can be. The tangy sourdough base creates complexity that regular yeast donuts simply can’t match.
Beyond donuts, this cafe serves hearty breakfast plates that fuel Amish country adventures. Their seasonal specials rotate based on local ingredients and traditional recipes passed down through generations.
Find them at 522 Dover Rd NE, typically open 7 a.m. to 2 p.m. (check current day-by-day hours before you go).
3. Michael’s Bakery – Orrville
This neighborhood staple has perfected the art of consistency, turning out reliable glazed rings and cream sticks that never disappoint. Michael’s doesn’t chase trends or gimmicks, just solid fundamentals executed perfectly.
Their seasonal cake donuts reflect whatever’s happening outside, from pumpkin spice in fall to fresh berry glazes in summer. The display case always looks inviting, even during slower weekday afternoons.
Visit at 145 W Market St during their Tuesday through Friday 6 a.m. to noon window, or catch Saturday hours from 7 a.m. to 1 p.m.
4. Troyer’s Home Pantry – Apple Creek & Wooster
Two locations mean double the chances to grab Troyer’s classic Amish-style pastries, including donuts that pair perfectly with their famous fry pies. Both shops maintain the same high standards and traditional recipes.
The cream sticks here deserve special mention, filled generously and dusted with just enough powdered sugar. Fresh bread aromas fill both locations, creating an atmosphere that makes choosing difficult.
Apple Creek sits at 668 W Main St, while Wooster occupies 319 E North St. Both typically open between 6-7 a.m. and close Sundays and Mondays.
5. Miller’s Bakery – near Millersburg
Since 1967, Miller’s has been Holmes County’s donut destination, proving that simple recipes and consistent execution never go out of style. Their from-scratch approach shows in every bite.
During my first visit, I watched bakers hand-cutting dough through the kitchen window, a process that’s become increasingly rare. The fry pies here compete seriously with the donuts for attention, both made with obvious care.
Located at 4280 Township Hwy 356, they’re typically open Monday through Saturday from 7 a.m. to 4 p.m., staying closed on Sundays for family time.
6. The Donut Shop & Bakery on the Lake – Russells Point
Lakeside donut shops hit differently, especially when locals unanimously point you toward their Buckeye and maple-iced specialties. The location at Indian Lake adds vacation vibes to your morning pastry run.
This true mom-and-pop operation opens early to catch fishing crowds and weekend lake visitors. Their consistent quality has built a following that spans generations of Indian Lake families.
Find them at 104 Main St, usually opening between 5:30 and 6 a.m. Weekend rushes can cause earlier sellouts, so plan accordingly if you’re visiting during busy lake season.
7. Glazed Over – Upper Sandusky
Hand-cutting donuts at 5 a.m. takes serious dedication, and Glazed Over’s morning crowd proves that effort pays off. This small shop has built a steady following through reliable quality and early hours.
The name says everything about their specialty, though they offer plenty of variety beyond glazed rings. Their consistent morning rush suggests they’ve figured out the perfect balance of flavor and texture.
Located at 119 W Johnson St, they maintain Tuesday through Sunday hours from 5 a.m. to noon, taking Mondays off to recharge for another week of early rising.
8. Oxford Doughnut Shoppe – Oxford
Butler County Donut Trail recognition speaks volumes, and Oxford Doughnut Shoppe’s kettle-fried cake donuts justify that reputation completely. Their red velvet cake donut has achieved local legend status among college students and longtime residents.
New ownership in 2025 brings fresh energy while maintaining beloved recipes. The kettle-frying process creates a distinctive texture that sets these donuts apart from typical cake varieties.
Visit at 120 S Locust St during their Wednesday through Sunday schedule, typically running from 5:30 a.m. until noon, with Monday and Tuesday closures for preparation.