The Absolute Best Donuts in Columbus [Updated 2025]

From the moment I stepped into the first donut shop, the warm, sugary scent wrapped around me like a cozy blanket, instantly sparking joy. There’s something magical about biting into a freshly glazed donut — the way it melts in your mouth, the perfect balance of sweetness and fluffiness. After indulging at 12 top spots in Columbus, each with its own unique twist on this beloved treat, I can confidently say that this city is a hidden gem for donut lovers.

As someone who has tasted everything from classic glazed to adventurous flavors like maple bacon and lavender-infused delights, I’ve developed a keen palate for what makes a donut truly special. With a mix of local favorites and quirky newcomers, there’s a sweet story behind each bite that I can’t wait to share with you!

Cherbourg Bakery

Highlights
Freshly baked daily
Best gluten-free offerings
Friendly and welcoming staff
Relaxed, inviting atmosphere
Reasonable prices

As a devoted donut enthusiast, my recent visit to Cherbourg Bakery was a delightful adventure that left me with a big smile and a sweeter palate. Upon entering, I was embraced by a relaxed, inviting atmosphere that felt like a warm hug. The friendly staff greeted me with genuine enthusiasm, making the experience even more enjoyable.

Cherbourg’s freshly baked donuts, crafted daily, are a glimmering beacon for those on the lookout for something special. As someone who appreciates the nuances of flavor and texture, I was particularly impressed by their array of gluten-free options. Each donut was a testament to the qualities they strive for; beautifully glazed and decadently topped, they reminded me that indulgence does not have to skew towards the conventional.

But it wasn’t just the deliciousness that stood out—it was the reasonable prices. Cherbourg Bakery manages to balance quality and affordability with grace, ensuring that every donut lover can indulge without breaking the bank. In Columbus, if you seek remarkable donuts that cater to varied dietary needs, I wholeheartedly recommend Cherbourg Bakery—a true gem in the heart of the city!

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Destination Donuts

Highlights
Best donuts in Columbus
Great vegan options
Awesome variety and taste
Highly recommended for kids
First-time visitors impressed

Destination Donuts: A Sweet Adventure in Columbus

As I stepped into Destination Donuts, I was immediately greeted by the comforting aroma of freshly baked treats—an inviting signal that I was in for a delightful experience. This spot is notorious for offering some of the best donuts in Columbus, and trust me, they live up to the hype!

The variety is simply jaw-dropping. From classic glazed to innovative flavors like Maple Bacon and Lavender Vanilla, there is something for everyone. I was particularly thrilled to discover their vegan options—a sweet surprise for those who seek plant-based indulgences without sacrificing flavor.

The moment I sank my teeth into the fluffy texture of their signature donut, I knew I had struck gold. The balance of sweetness and rich flavors is nothing short of extraordinary. What’s more? This charming donut shop is a hit with kids, making it a perfect family outing.

If you're exploring Columbus and on the hunt for heavenly donuts, make sure to take a detour to Destination Donuts. It might just change your perspective on what's possible in the world of donut-making! 🍩✨

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Fully Gluten Free bakehouse & market

Highlights
Consistently delicious gluten-free
Incredible fresh-made treats
Variety of gluten-free options
Friendly and helpful staff
Unique Girl Scout cookie duplicates

Nestled in the heart of Columbus is the delightful Fully Gluten Free bakehouse & market, a haven for gluten-free donut enthusiasts. As someone who approaches donuts with both enthusiasm and a discerning palate, I was thrilled to explore their offerings.

From the moment I stepped inside, the air was filled with the sweet aroma of freshly baked goods, and I couldn’t wait to dive in! I was particularly impressed with the variety they had on display. Each donut is a testament to their commitment to using gluten-free ingredients without sacrificing flavor.

I must say, the Girl Scout cookie duplicates they offer are nothing short of magical. The thin mint-infused donut was a standout, offering a satisfying crunch while delivering that familiar minty goodness I love. The friendly staff was eager to share recommendations, making my visit feel like more of a reunion with old friends than a simple bakery stop.

In a city where gluten-free options can sometimes feel limited, Fully Gluten Free bakehouse & market is a wonderful gem, proving that you don’t have to compromise on taste. With their consistently delicious creations, they have earned a top spot in my heart (and my stomach) for the best donuts in Columbus!

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Buckeye Donuts

Stepping into Buckeye Donuts feels like entering a sugary wonderland! Their classic glazed donut is a must-try—fluffy, sweet, and perfectly tender, it melts in your mouth with every bite. The chocolate peanut butter filled version brought a delightful twist that had me grinning ear to ear. Plus, don’t forget about the cozy ambiance and friendly staff who serve these heavenly delights with a smile. If you’re in search of the ultimate treat in Columbus, Buckeye Donuts fits the bill. This spot proves to be a true gem for every donut lover on the hunt for scrumptious satisfaction!

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Donna's Delicious Dozen (Gahanna/New Albany)

Diving into Donna's Delicious Dozen was like stepping into a sugary wonderland! Their glazed yeast donut is a must-try—perfectly fluffy with a shine that beckons you like a siren's call. The maple bacon bar strikes the right balance of sweet and savory, a true culinary delight! Each bite transports you to donut paradise, where creativity meets comfort. The charming atmosphere and friendly staff only add to the experience. If you're on a quest for the best donuts in Columbus, make sure to stop by Donna's—your taste buds will thank you! 🍩✨

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Amy's Donuts

Stepping into Amy's Donuts feels like entering a sugary wonderland! The vibrant colors and delightful aroma immediately whisk you away to donut paradise. I sampled their signature Maple Bacon Bar, which perfectly balanced sweet and savory flavors. Each bite was a delicious explosion of goodness! I also couldn't pass up the S'mores Donut, topped with fluffy marshmallow and chocolate drizzle—pure decadence! The staff was friendly, adding to the warm atmosphere. If you're in Columbus and craving a treat that’s both fun and flavorful, Amy's is a must-visit. Don’t forget to bring your sweet tooth! 🍩✨

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Happy Little Treats

Stepping into Happy Little Treats is like entering a whimsical donut wonderland! Their artisan donuts are not just visually stunning; they taste like a sweet hug for your taste buds. I indulged in the Lemon Lavender, which was refreshingly zesty, and the Classic Maple Bacon, a perfect blend of sweet and savory that left me craving more. The staff exudes warmth, adding to the overall charm. With a rotating selection of unique flavors, it's hard to choose a favorite. For anyone on a donut quest in Columbus, this cozy spot is an absolute must-try! 🍩✨

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Resch's Bakery

At Resch's Bakery, each donut is a delightful masterpiece. I indulged in the famous Bavarian cream-filled, and let me tell you—it was a heavenly bite! The soft, pillowy exterior cradled a generously rich filling that danced on my taste buds. Their classic glazed donut also deserves a shout-out, perfectly airy with just the right amount of sweetness. The cozy atmosphere and friendly staff make it a wonderful spot for pastry lovers. If you're on the hunt for exceptional donuts, look no further than Resch's; they truly elevate this beloved confection to an art form! 🍩✨

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Auddino's Italian Bakery

Nestled in the heart of Columbus, Auddino's Italian Bakery delights with their unique twist on classic donuts. I savored their cannoli donut, a glorious union of creamy ricotta and luscious glaze that made my taste buds dance. The texture was perfection—soft yet slightly crisp on the outside. Each bite revealed hints of lemon zest, elevating the ordinary into the extraordinary. The charming atmosphere and friendly staff only added to the experience. If you’re seeking a delightful treat that marries Italian tradition with donut joy, Auddino's is a must-visit for any donut enthusiast in the city!

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Sofi's Mini Donuts LLC

Sofi's Mini Donuts LLC is a delightful gem tucked away in Columbus, offering a delightful array of mini donuts that are both irresistible and irreplaceable. Each bite-sized treat bursts with flavor, showcasing unique toppings like crispy bacon paired with maple glaze and decadent chocolate drizzles that make every donut an adventure. The atmosphere is warm and inviting, with staff that greet you like old friends. My personal favorite was the seasonal pumpkin spice, perfectly spiced and oh-so-fluffy! If you’re in search of small delights that pack a big punch, make Sofi's your next stop for a sweet indulgence!

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Rose Dough Donuts

At Rose Dough Donuts, each bite is pure joy! Their maple bacon bar is a symphony of sweet and savory, perfectly executed with crispy bacon bits resting on a fluffy base. I also indulged in the lavender vanilla glaze, which offered a delightful floral note that elevated my taste buds. The ambiance is equally charming, with a cozy vibe that makes you want to linger and savor each creation. Whether you're a traditionalist or an adventurous foodie, this spot has something for everyone. Rose Dough Donuts truly deserves a place among the best in Columbus! 🍩✨

TOUS les JOURS

Walking into TOUS les JOURS is like stepping into a pastry paradise! Their chocolate-glazed donuts are decadently soft, boasting a rich chocolate coating that’s simply divine. The vanilla cream-filled option is a delightful surprise with its fluffy filling, perfectly balanced sweetness. I also savored the green tea donut, an intriguing twist that adds an earthy note to the mix. The ambiance is inviting, making it a wonderful spot to savor these treats with a cup of coffee. If you’re hunting for unique flavors and quality, TOUS les JOURS is an absolute gem in the Columbus donut scene!