8 Knoxville Donut Shops Worth the Sugar Rush

Knoxville has become a haven for donut lovers, with shops popping up all over town offering everything from classic glazed rings to wild flavor combinations you never knew you needed. Whether you’re craving a warm, made-to-order treat or a quick grab-and-go breakfast, there’s a spot in this city that’ll satisfy your sweet tooth.

From old-school favorites to trendy hotspots with Instagram-worthy creations, the donut scene here has something for everyone. Get ready to explore the best places in Knoxville where a sugar rush is not just expected—it’s guaranteed.

1. The Ultimate Doughnut Shop

Sometimes the best things in life are the simplest, and that’s exactly what you’ll find at this beloved neighborhood bakery. No fancy frills, no complicated menus—just honest, delicious donuts that taste like Saturday morning should.

Locals have been coming here for years because the donuts are consistently good and always fresh. You’ll find all the classics: glazed, chocolate-iced, jelly-filled, and cake donuts that crumble perfectly with each bite.

The staff is friendly and quick, so even when there’s a line, you won’t be waiting long.

2. Duck Donuts

Ever wished you could design your own donut from scratch? At Duck Donuts, that dream becomes a delicious reality. You pick your coating, your topping, and your drizzle, then watch as they make it fresh right in front of you.

The customization options are almost overwhelming in the best way possible. Want maple icing with bacon and a chocolate drizzle? Go for it. Prefer something simpler like cinnamon sugar? That works too.

Yes, you might wait a few extra minutes compared to grabbing a pre-made donut, but that first bite of a warm, personalized creation makes every second worthwhile.

3. Parlor Doughnuts

Picture a croissant and a donut having a baby, and you’ve got the signature style at Parlor Doughnuts. These aren’t your average ring-shaped treats—they’re layered, flaky, and ridiculously indulgent. The texture alone sets them apart, with buttery layers that pull apart like a pastry but taste like your favorite donut.

Flavor creativity is where this shop truly shines. From Browned Butter and Sea Salt to Raspberry Beret, each option feels like a mini adventure for your taste buds. They rotate seasonal flavors too, so there’s always a reason to come back and try something new.

Prices are higher than traditional donut shops, but you’re paying for craftsmanship and ingredients that elevate the entire experience beyond basic breakfast fare.

4. Status Dough Donuts & Coffee

Located in West Knox, this spot has mastered the art of pairing quality coffee with next-level donuts. The gourmet approach here means you’ll find flavors and combinations that go way beyond basic glazed. Think maple bourbon, cookies and cream, or fruity cereal-topped creations that somehow work perfectly together.

The coffee program deserves just as much attention as the donuts. Whether you need a strong espresso to start your day or a sweet latte to complement your treat, the baristas know their stuff. The convenient location makes it a popular stop for West Knoxville residents heading to work or running weekend errands.

It’s become a true neighborhood gathering spot where great donuts and solid coffee create the perfect morning ritual you’ll want to repeat again and again.

5. The Sugar Queen Doughnutry

Tucked away and easy to miss if you’re not looking, The Sugar Queen Doughnutry is a hidden gem that locals guard like a secret. The shop is small, the setup is simple, and the focus is entirely on making really good, old-fashioned donuts the way your grandma might remember them.

The selection sticks to the classics, but each one is executed beautifully. The cake donuts are dense and satisfying, the glazed ones have just the right amount of sweetness, and the filled donuts are generously stuffed. Everything tastes homemade because it is, and you can tell the difference with every bite.

6. Beaver’s Dough-Joe

When you need both caffeine and sugar to jumpstart your morning, Beaver’s Dough-Joe understands the assignment perfectly. This coffee-and-donut combo shop keeps things straightforward: good coffee, fresh donuts, and fast service so you can get on with your day.

The donut selection covers all the essentials without overwhelming you with too many choices. You’ll find your favorites—glazed, chocolate, sprinkles, and a few specialty options that change based on what’s fresh.

The coffee is consistently good, which matters more than people realize when you’re stopping somewhere every morning.

7. The Donut Palace

Some donut shops try to reinvent the wheel, but The Donut Palace knows that sometimes the wheel doesn’t need reinventing. This dependable spot has been serving classic donuts to Knoxville residents who just want a solid, satisfying treat without any fuss. The glazed donuts are shiny and sweet, the filled options are packed with cream or jelly, and everything is priced fairly.

The takeout setup makes it super convenient for grabbing breakfast on the go. You can pop in, pick up a dozen for the office, and be back in your car in minutes. The selection is broad enough to please everyone but not so overwhelming that you spend forever deciding.

What makes The Donut Palace special isn’t anything flashy—it’s the consistency and reliability. You know what you’re getting every time you walk through that door, and in a world where restaurants change constantly, that kind of dependability feels refreshing.

8. Disco Chicken & Donuts

Why choose between sweet and savory when you can have both? Disco Chicken & Donuts brings the famous chicken-and-donuts combo to Knoxville with a fun, funky attitude that makes every visit feel like a mini celebration. The combination might sound weird if you’ve never tried it, but trust the process—the salty, crispy chicken paired with sweet, fluffy donuts creates a flavor explosion that somehow just works.

The donuts here are delicious on their own, but they really shine when you’re alternating bites with perfectly fried chicken. The menu offers different ways to enjoy the combo, whether you want them separate or stacked together.

This isn’t your typical breakfast stop—it’s more of an experience. Perfect for brunch with friends or when you’re feeling adventurous and want to try something different.