The doughnut is a truly global treat, and almost every culture has its own version of fried or baked dough that’s sweet, comforting, and celebratory. From the chewy texture of Japanese mochi donuts to the syrup-soaked twists of South African koeksisters, each variation reflects local ingredients, traditions, and tastes.
Doughnuts around the globe
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Japan – mochi donut: Made with glutinous rice flour, these doughnuts are chewy, slightly elastic, and often decorated with vibrant glazes.
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South Africa – koeksisters: Plaited strips of dough fried until crisp, then soaked in a thick sugar syrup for a sweet, sticky finish.
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Spain & Latin America – churros: Long ridged pastries dusted with sugar, sometimes filled with dulce de leche or served alongside thick hot chocolate.
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Poland – pączki: Rich, yeasted doughnuts filled with jam or custard, traditionally eaten before Lent on “Fat Thursday”.
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Middle East – zalabia: Bite-sized dough fritters, fried and coated in honey or syrup, often spiced with cardamom or cinnamon.
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Italy – bomboloni: Soft, filled doughnuts dusted with sugar, commonly filled with custard, cream, or chocolate.
These diverse interpretations show that while the basic concept of fried dough is simple, the execution can be as unique as the place it comes from.
Holiday donut and seasonal traditions
Doughnuts also play a role in many seasonal and religious celebrations:
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Hanukkah – sufganiyot: In Jewish tradition, these jam-filled doughnuts are fried in oil to commemorate the miracle of the oil in the Hanukkah story.
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Christmas – festive flavours: Around the holidays, bakeries worldwide offer doughnuts flavoured with peppermint, eggnog, cinnamon spice, or mulled wine glaze.
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Lunar New Year – sweet rice doughnuts: In parts of China and Vietnam, fried dough balls made from glutinous rice flour symbolise prosperity and togetherness.
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Carnival – faworki and beignets: In the lead-up to Lent, many cultures indulge in rich fried pastries as part of their pre-fast festivities.
These seasonal doughnuts often go beyond taste, carrying symbolic meanings tied to abundance, celebration, and remembrance.
Doughnuts in pop culture
From American cop dramas to Instagram food trends, doughnuts have long held a place in popular culture. The image of a police officer with a coffee and donut became a television cliché in the mid-20th century, while animated characters like Homer Simpson turned the pink-frosted ring into a pop icon.
In the age of social media, doughnuts have become photogenic stars — stacked in wedding displays, topped with edible flowers, or made into outrageous “food mashups” like the cronut. Brand collaborations, such as limited-edition flavours tied to films or sporting events, further cement their cultural influence.
A shared love for a global treat
Whether as a traditional holiday indulgence, a daily snack, or a pop culture symbol, the doughnut’s appeal transcends borders. Each country, and often each season, adds its own flair — proving that there’s no single “right” way to enjoy this beloved pastry.
If you’re in Montréal, you might already have your favourite local doughnut spot for seasonal specials. But if your travels take you west, don’t miss the chance to try the best doughnuts in Vancouver — where global inspiration meets exceptional local craft.