Since it’s National Donut Day, let’s learn a bit about the circular sugary treat that has become so near and dear to the hearts of Americans everywhere.
1. The origin of Homer Simpson’s donut obsession
Matt Groening, creator of The Simpsons, named the principal character Homer after his dad. Groening once said that “the only other thing the two had in common was their uncontrollable love of donuts.”
2. Americans eat a lot of donuts!
Americans consume a very large quantity of donuts—there are over 10 billion made in the U.S. every year. That’s A “HOLE” LOT of goodness.
3. Donuts have a Dutch origin.
One of the ways that the donut was brought to the US started back in the 19th century, when the Dutch began making what is known as olykoeks, or oily cakes.
4. National Donut Day started for a good cause.
The holiday was officially established in 1938, and was intended to honor the Salvation Army workers who helped deliver donuts to soldiers during WWI.
5. How many donuts fit in a box?
The largest box of donuts ever produced was a Krispy Kreme box filled with 2,700 Krispy Kreme donuts that weighed 135 kg (297 lb 10 oz). It was created by the Kuwai Food Co. Americana in Kuwai City in May 2009.
6. Oh, Canada.
Canada has more donut shops than any other country per capita.
7. We wish to welcome you to Munchkin Land.
Donut holes were originally called “Munchkins” by Dunkin’ Donuts, named after the characters from The Wizard of Oz. The company started making the tiny treat for kids because they thought that adults would rather go for the full donut.
8. We’re all NUTS for donuts!
The reason that the word “nut” is in the name “donut” is because the pastry resembled the appearance of a walnut–this was before the donut had a hole.
9. Is the donut calling the kettle black?
Dunkin’ Donuts was originally called Open Kettle. The name changed in 1950.
10. Why do donuts have holes?
Around the time of its newfound popularity, cooks discovered that the pastry cooked more evenly when a hole was poked in the middle.
There you have it, folks. Go out and grab yourself a free donut or a box of a baker’s dozen from your favorite donut shop today!