Donuts

Discover the Best Donut Deals in the UK: A Savvy Shopper’s Guide to Glazed, Filled, and Gourmet Treats

Why donuts still steal the show

Donuts are one of those simple pleasures that make a morning better, a meeting more tolerable, and a party instantly more fun. Whether you prefer a pillowy yeast donut with a shiny glaze or a dense cake donut dusted with cinnamon sugar, there’s something comforting about that first bite. But beyond taste, donuts are also incredibly adaptable: they come in single-serve, shareable dozen boxes, and party platters, making them perfect for everything from a quick coffee break to a big celebration.

Popular types of donuts to watch for

Not all donuts are created equal. If you’re hunting deals, it helps to know the styles and why their prices vary. Here are the main categories you’ll encounter in bakery aisles and online listings.

Glazed ring donuts

Classic glazed ring donuts are the poster child of donut-dom. Light, airy, and glossy with sugar glaze, these usually weigh about 2 to 3 oz each and are often sold in packs or by the dozen. They’re often among the most budget-friendly options at supermarkets and high-street bakeries.

Filled donuts (jam, custard, cream)

Filled donuts deliver a burst of flavor in every bite. These typically carry a slightly higher price because of the filling and sometimes extra finishing, like powdered sugar or icing. Expect flavors like jam, custard, and chocolate cream, and keep an eye out for seasonal fillings like apple or pumpkin during fall.

Cake donuts

Cake donuts are denser and have a crumb closer to a muffin or pound cake. They can be glazed, dusted, or iced, and weigh in around 3 to 4 oz. They’re hearty, hold up well for travel, and are common in multipack offerings from retailers.

Specialty and gourmet donuts

Think artisan toppings, creative glazes, and protein-rich or vegan bases. These premium donuts can be priced higher, reflecting special ingredients, hand-crafted techniques, or unique combos—maple bacon, salted caramel, or bespoke fillings, for instance. They’re the ones to splurge on when you want to impress.

Mini and bite-sized donuts

Mini donuts are perfect for parties or tasting flights. Sold in larger quantities, they’re often parceled into 12, 24, or more and can represent excellent value per ounce when bought as bulk party packs.

Where to find the best donut deals in the UK

Deals appear everywhere: supermarkets, bakery chains, local artisan shops, and comparison platforms that track discounts and price lists. Supermarkets often rotate donut promotions weekly, while bakeries may discount day-old stock near closing time. Comparison websites make it easier to scan current offers across brands and stores without visiting each site individually.

Supermarket specials

Major supermarkets frequently run multi-buy deals—think buy one get one half-price or two packs for a set price. These promotions are great if you want reliable, consistent quality without the premium. Look for private-label packs from retailers like Tesco, Sainsbury’s, or Morrisons for budget-friendly options.

High-street chains and branded shops

Brands such as Krispy Kreme and others often have limited-time offers, loyalty discounts, or bundle deals with coffee. If you enjoy a glazed original or a signature filled donut, keep an eye out for store-specific promotions that include a free beverage or a reduced price for a dozen.

How to compare donut prices like a pro

Price comparison is more than seeing the sticker. To find true value, compare by price per donut or price per ounce. If one pack costs £4 for four donuts and another costs £6 for a dozen minis, calculate the unit cost and weight to figure out the better deal. Don’t forget to factor in freshness and convenience—sometimes paying a bit more for a fresher product is worth it.

Calculate unit price

Divide the total price by the number of donuts to get a per-donut price. If you know the weight in ounces, divide price by total ounces for a per-ounce comparison. This helps when packs vary in size or when one offering is heavier due to richer fillings.

Watch for hidden extras

Promotions might include add-ons like dipping sauces or beverage combos. Those can add perceived value even if the per-donut price is slightly higher. Also watch shelf-life: a cheaper pack that expires sooner might not be the best value unless you plan to eat or freeze it right away.

Top donut brands and products to consider

When hunting deals, recognizing trusted brands and product lines helps narrow choices. Some brands excel at consistency and value, while artisan shops focus on novelty and high-quality ingredients. Here are types and examples to look for.

Classic chains and high street names

Well-known chains are reliable for familiar flavors: original glazed, chocolate sprinkle, and filled favorites. These chains often offer loyalty programs and app-based coupons, which can make premium donuts more affordable over time.

Supermarket bakery lines

Store bakeries and own-brand lines often carry everyday favorites at affordable prices. You’ll find everything from glazed rings to jam-filled cake donuts in resealable packs that make them easy to share or store for a couple of days.

Artisan and independent bakers

Artisan bakers bring creativity to the table: seasonal fruit fillings, unusual toppings, and high-quality chocolate or pastry cream. If you’re after something memorable—say, a pistachio and rose water donut—this is where you’ll find it, though you may pay a premium.

Dietary options: vegan, gluten-free, and healthier takes

Donuts aren’t limited to the classic dairy-and-wheat template. As demand grows, more bakeries and brands offer vegan donuts (dairy-free and egg-free) and gluten-free versions. These might be slightly pricier due to ingredient substitutions, but they open the donut world to more people.

Vegan donuts

Vegan donuts use plant-based fats and non-dairy milk, and they can be just as light and indulgent as traditional ones. Look for flavors like chocolate, cinnamon sugar, and fruit glazes. Some brands also create vegan filled donuts that rival their dairy counterparts.

Gluten-free options

Gluten-free donuts often use alternative flours and can be dense or crumbly depending on the recipe. If you have celiac disease or gluten sensitivity, check for clear labeling and cross-contamination policies, especially with in-store bakeries.

Storing and reheating donuts for best results

Donuts are best eaten fresh, but with the right storage and reheating, you can extend freshness and recapture that just-baked texture. Here are some simple tips that work at home.

Short-term storage

Keep donuts at room temperature in an airtight container for up to 24 hours if they’re glazed or filled. For cake donuts, this can stretch to 48 hours. Avoid direct sunlight and damp areas that will make the glaze tacky.

Freezing for longer life

If you need to store donuts longer, freeze them individually wrapped in cling film, then place them in a sealed freezer bag. They’ll keep for about 1 month. When ready to eat, thaw at room temperature for 30 to 60 minutes, then warm gently.

Reheating tips

To revive a freezer-thawed or slightly stale donut, heat in a preheated oven at 300°F for about 5 minutes or microwave for 8 to 12 seconds. The oven method helps restore crispness; the microwave will soften quickly but can make the donut a touch chewy if overdone.

Pairings and serving ideas

Donuts pair beautifully with beverages and make an instant centerpiece for gatherings. Coffee is the obvious match, but there are many other pairings that elevate the experience.

Coffee and tea pairings

For a balanced bite and sip, pair glazed or chocolate donuts with a medium roast coffee. Strong espresso or dark roast cuts through rich fillings like custard or chocolate. Lighter teas—like Earl Grey or a floral green—work well with fruit-filled or citrus-glazed donuts.

Brunch and party pairings

Mix donuts with savory finger foods for a balanced brunch spread. Donut walls, tiers of mini donuts, or donut boxes make excellent self-serve stations at parties. Consider offering dipping sauces—vanilla glaze, salted caramel, or raspberry coulis—to add an interactive twist.

Hosting tips: presentation, quantities, and party packs

Planning how many donuts you need and how to present them can turn a simple treat into an event highlight. Here’s how to choose quantities and present donuts for gatherings.

Estimating quantities

For a casual meet-up, plan on one to two donuts per person. For dessert after a meal, estimate about half a donut to one donut per person if you’re offering multiple dessert options. Party packs and dozen boxes make it easy to scale—buying two to three dozen is often enough for a medium-size gathering.

Presentation ideas

Use tiered stands, donut walls, or rustic boards to showcase variety. Label flavors so guests know what’s inside filled donuts, and group similar flavors together for visual appeal. For take-home options, prepare small boxes with two to three donuts each for guests to carry away.

Seasonal trends and limited editions to watch

Seasonal menus and limited edition flavors drive interest and can create great opportunities for value if retailers bundle them into promotions. Think pumpkin spice in fall, peppermint or gingerbread in winter, and fruit-forward glazes in summer. Limited editions can become collector’s items—at least until they sell out—and sometimes shops will offer pre-order discounts.

Final thoughts on getting the most from donut offers

Donut shopping is part science, part art. You’ll get the best value by comparing unit prices, watching for bundle promotions, checking freshness, and aligning purchases with events so you don’t waste treats. Embrace variety: mix supermarket staples with a few artisan splurges to keep things exciting without breaking the bank. And don’t underestimate the joy a simple glazed donut can deliver—sometimes the cheapest option is also the most satisfying.

Whether you’re stocking up for an office meeting, planning a birthday spread, or just treating yourself, knowing how to spot deals, compare price-per-donut, and store treats properly will help you enjoy more of what you love for less. Happy donut hunting!