Donut Friar Reviews: Sweet Treats In The Smokies

The sweet aroma of freshly baked donuts wafts through the air, tantalizing the taste buds of visitors and locals alike in the Smoky Mountains. For those seeking a sweet treat to start their day or satisfy their afternoon cravings, Donut Friar is a must-visit destination. Located in the heart of Gatlinburg, Tennessee, this beloved bakery has been a staple in the community for over 50 years, serving up a variety of delicious donuts that are sure to please even the most discerning palates.

With its quaint, rustic charm and inviting atmosphere, Donut Friar is the perfect spot to indulge in a sweet treat while taking in the breathtaking scenery of the Smoky Mountains. Whether you're a fan of classic glazed donuts or more adventurous flavors like maple bacon or strawberry cake, the bakery's extensive menu is sure to have something for everyone.

The History of Donut Friar

Donut Friar has been a Gatlinburg institution since 1962, when it was founded by a group of local entrepreneurs who sought to bring a taste of traditional donut-making to the Smoky Mountains. Over the years, the bakery has remained committed to using only the freshest ingredients and traditional baking methods to craft its signature donuts. Today, Donut Friar is still family-owned and operated, with a team of skilled bakers who work tirelessly to ensure that every donut that leaves the bakery meets the highest standards of quality and taste.

What Makes Donut Friar's Donuts So Special?

So, what sets Donut Friar's donuts apart from the rest? For starters, the bakery uses a special recipe that involves a 24-hour proofing process, which allows the dough to rise slowly and naturally, resulting in a lighter, airier texture that is simply irresistible. Additionally, Donut Friar's bakers use only the finest ingredients, including real butter, pure cane sugar, and farm-fresh eggs, to craft their donuts.

But what really puts Donut Friar's donuts over the top is the bakery's commitment to creativity and innovation. From classic glazed and chocolate frosted to more adventurous flavors like lemon poppyseed and raspberry jelly, the bakery's menu is constantly evolving to reflect the latest trends and tastes in donut-making. And with new flavors and specials added regularly, there's always something new to try at Donut Friar.

Donut Friar's Menu

So, what can you expect to find on the menu at Donut Friar? Here are just a few of the bakery's most popular items:

• Glazed Donuts: Donut Friar's signature glazed donuts are a must-try for anyone visiting the bakery. Made with a special recipe that involves a 24-hour proofing process, these donuts are light, airy, and utterly irresistible.
• Chocolate Frosted Donuts: For chocolate lovers, Donut Friar's chocolate frosted donuts are a dream come true. Made with rich, velvety chocolate and topped with a sprinkle of sea salt, these donuts are the perfect treat to satisfy your sweet tooth.
• Strawberry Cake Donuts: These sweet and indulgent donuts are made with fresh strawberries and topped with a crumbly cake topping. They're the perfect treat to enjoy on a warm summer day.
• Maple Bacon Donuts: For a more savory treat, try Donut Friar's maple bacon donuts. Made with crispy bacon and a drizzle of pure maple syrup, these donuts are a surprisingly delicious twist on the classic donut.

Specials and Seasonal Flavors

In addition to its regular menu, Donut Friar also offers a variety of specials and seasonal flavors throughout the year. From pumpkin spice donuts in the fall to strawberry shortcake donuts in the spring, there's always something new and exciting to try at the bakery.

• Pumpkin Spice Donuts: Made with real pumpkin puree and a blend of warm spices, these donuts are the perfect treat to enjoy on a crisp autumn day.
• Strawberry Shortcake Donuts: These sweet and indulgent donuts are made with fresh strawberries and topped with a crumbly cake topping. They're the perfect treat to enjoy on a warm summer day.
• Peppermint Mocha Donuts: For a festive holiday treat, try Donut Friar's peppermint mocha donuts. Made with real peppermint extract and topped with a sprinkle of crushed candy canes, these donuts are a delicious twist on the classic donut.

Visiting Donut Friar

Whether you're a local or just visiting the Smoky Mountains, Donut Friar is a must-visit destination for anyone with a sweet tooth. Here are a few tips to keep in mind when planning your visit:

• Hours of Operation: Donut Friar is open daily from 5am to 10pm, making it the perfect spot to grab a donut on the go or meet with friends for a sweet treat.
• Location: The bakery is located in the heart of Gatlinburg, Tennessee, making it easy to find and accessible by car or on foot.
• Parking: Donut Friar offers limited parking in front of the bakery, but there are also several parking lots and garages nearby for those who need more space.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Donut Friar is a must-visit destination for anyone with a sweet tooth. With its extensive menu, creative flavors, and commitment to quality and tradition, this beloved bakery is sure to satisfy even the most discerning palates. Whether you're a local or just visiting the Smoky Mountains, be sure to stop by Donut Friar and indulge in a sweet treat that you'll never forget.

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