Donut Shops in Tennessee That Will Make Your Day Sweeter

Craving something sweet? The best donut shops in Tennessee are serving up everything from classic glazed to wildly creative treats.

So, from Memphis to the Smokies, let us introduce you to local favorites across the state—each one ready to make your day a little sweeter.

A Quick Bite of Donut History

Ever wonder where donuts came from? They started as fried dough balls—called olykoeks—brought over by Dutch settlers in the 19th century.

Then in 1847, sailor Hanson Gregory changed the game by punching a hole in the center so they’d cook evenly.

Since then, donuts have evolved into the sweet treats we all love—whether powdered, glazed, or topped with bacon.

Today, that delicious tradition lives on at donut shops in Tennessee, one bite at a time.

Let’s Hit the Road: Donut Shops in Tennessee

So, let’s get started—grab a cup of coffee, a few napkins, and your sweet tooth, because donut shops in Tennessee are ready to impress.

Gibson’s Donuts: A Memphis Must for Donut Shops in Tennessee

Let’s kick things off in Memphis— in West Tennessee—at a spot that’s been serving up sweet smiles for over 50 years.

Gibson’s Donuts is a family-owned Tennessee donut shop with made-to-order donuts that come in a wide variety, including rotating seasonal specials.

• 🍩 Famous for maple bacon, red velvet, and warm hospitality
• 📍 760 Mount Moriah Rd, Memphis, TN
• ⏰ Open daily: 5 AM – 12 AM

So, swing by and grab a donut (or a dozen) at this must-visit Tennessee donut spot in Memphis! Planning to stay a night or two? You can find a great place to stay in Memphis HERE.

Donut Distillery: Mini Donuts and Delicious Drink Flights in Nashville

Next stop: East Nashville! Donut Distillery is serving up trays of fresh, gourmet mini donuts—and since they’re bite-sized, you can try a bunch without the guilt.

One of the most unique donut shops in Tennessee, they serve bold flavors like Whiskey Glaze—and how about a mimosa flight to pair with your donuts?

• 📍 311 Gallatin Ave, Nashville, TN
• ⏰ Open daily—check hours online for the latest
• 🍩 Known for mini donuts, drink flights, and fun specialty flavors

So go ahead, swing by and try a few—you’ll leave this Tennessee donut shop with a smile and maybe a dozen minis!

Five Daughters Bakery: Home of the 100 Layer Donut in Franklin

Have you heard of the famous 100 Layer Donut? You’ll find this flaky, crème-filled masterpiece at Five Daughters Bakery—a standout among donut shops in Tennessee.

It’s part croissant, part donut, and totally worth the hype.

They offer yeast-raised and allergy-friendly donuts, plus seasonal flavors that change monthly. They now have several locations in the Nashville area.

• 📍 230 Franklin Rd, Franklin, TN
• ⏰ Open daily – check online for current hours
• 🍩 Home of the 100 Layer Donut, plus allergy-friendly options and seasonal flavors

Sweet, stylish, and full of flavor—this Tennessee donut shop is a donut lover’s dream.

Ralph’s Donut Shop: A Sweet Taste of History in Cookeville, TN

Serving up homemade donuts since 1962, Ralph’s Donut Shop is a Cookeville tradition. With classic flavors and that small-town charm, it’s easy to see why locals (and Tennessee Tech students) keep coming back.

My husband—an alum—still swears they’re the best around!

• 📍 59 S Cedar Ave, Cookeville, TN
• ⏰ Tuesday–Saturday: 5 AM – 11:30 PM
• ❌ Closed Sunday & Monday

Planning a visit? Don’t miss this sweet stop.

Richy Kreme Donuts: The Best Around in Maryville

For over 70 years, Richy Kreme Donuts has been filling the air with the sweet smell of fresh donuts—and yes, it’s a local favorite.

They serve over 15 yeast donut varieties (hello, strawberry-filled!) along with made-from-scratch cake donuts that keep folks coming back.

With shops in both Maryville and Knoxville, it’s a must-visit when you’re in East Tennessee.

• 📍 2601 E. Broadway Ave., Maryville, TN
• ⏰ Tuesday–Sunday: 6 AM – 5 PM

The Donut Friar in Gatlinburg: 55 Years of Sweet Success

Tucked inside The Village in Gatlinburg, The Donut Friar has been delighting visitors since 1968—and just celebrated 55 sweet years in June 2024.

Family-owned from the start, they make fresh donuts daily with a variety that guarantees everyone finds a favorite. It’s a must-visit for anyone exploring the Smoky Mountains.

• 📍 634 Parkway, Shop 15, Gatlinburg, TN
• 🏞️ Located in The Village
• ⏰ Open daily: 5 AM – 9 PM

Loved by locals and tourists alike, The Donut Friar isn’t just a donut shop—it’s a Smokies treat!

Still Craving More? Sweet Stops to Try Across Tennessee

So, we’ve already shared some of our favorite donut shops in Tennessee—but let’s be honest, there’s always room for more.

Whether you’re road-tripping across the state or just exploring a new town, you’re sure to stumble upon a donut worth writing home about.

These local favorites are organized by region to make your next sugar stop easy to find!

🍩 More Donut Shops in East Tennessee

Planning a trip to the Smokies or cruising through East Tennessee? These sweet spots are perfect for your mountain adventures.

• Status Dough – Knoxville
• Masters Donuts – Clinton
• Mad Dog’s Creamery – Gatlinburg & Pigeon Forge
• The Donut Theory – Knoxville

🍩 More Donut Shops in Middle Tennessee

From Music City to small-town gems, Middle Tennessee has no shortage of delicious donut stops.

• East Park Donuts & Coffee – Nashville
• Fox’s Donut Den – Nashville
• The Heavenly Donut Co. – Brentwood
• Big O Donuts – Murfreesboro
• Donut Country – Murfreesboro
• Tiny Little Donuts – Franklin

🍩 More Donut Shops in West Tennessee

West Tennessee keeps things classic and flavorful—definitely worth a detour.

• Julie Darling Donuts – Chattanooga
• Tastee King – Chattanooga

🍩 More Donut Shops in Upper East Tennessee

Tucked into the rolling hills and small towns, these stops bring a cozy hometown feel to every bite.

• Parlor Donuts – Johnson City
• Aunt Ruth’s Donuts & Pretzels – Johnson City
• Peggy Ann Bakery – Greeneville

🍩 More Donut Shops in the Cumberland Region

On your way through Cookeville or Dayton? These donut shops are totally worth the pit stop.

• The Donut Shop – Dayton
• The Donut Café – Crossville
• Emily Donuts – Crossville

Got your donut trail mapped out? Now let’s find you a place to crash—check out hotel options across Tennessee below.

One Last Bite Before You Go…

We’ve wrapped up the sweetest list around—our favorite donut shops in Tennessee! From Memphis to Johnson City, these spots are serving up big flavor and warm Southern charm.

So next time you’re in Tennessee, grab a donut and make it a delicious stop. Until then, keep life sweet—and as always, Happy Trekkn!

Also, don’t forget to share your sweet Tennessee adventures in the comments below—we’d love to hear all about your favorite spot and your go-to donut.

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