Back in the day, our donut choices weren't nearly as over-the-top as some are today. The main go-to flavors were pretty much just glazed, chocolate, sprinkles, old-fashioned, powered, and maybe throw in a Boston Cream or blueberry.

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Nowadays, donuts have evolved into all kinds of crazy flavors and different styles, like layered donuts, which I just learned was a thing after the announcement of a new Parlor Doughnuts shop opening inside a Rochester brewery soon.

This leads us to LoveFood's recent list of the 29 "most outrageous donut flavors" in the United States, and two popular, well-known Minnesota establishments have each taken a spot on that list.

Where Did Donuts Come From?

Let’s take a moment to appreciate the long, delicious history of the donut. These fried little pockets of joy have been around for centuries, starting in Europe before making their way to America.

Most historians trace donuts back to Dutch settlers in early America. In the 17th century, the Dutch were making “olykoeks” literally translated to “oily cakes,” which were deep-fried dough balls, sometimes filled with nuts or fruit.

The modern ring-shaped version is here thanks to a New England ship captain named Hanson Gregory, who decided his fried dough needed a hole in the middle to cook evenly. Smart guy.

Fast forward to today, and donuts have evolved from simple flavors to the kind of outrageous, next-level creations that Minnesota is apparently pretty good at.

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Insane Minnesota Donut Flavors Among Most Outrageous in the Country

Minnesota might have a reputation for playing it safe with most food, but not this time. Two Minnesota shops are making waves in the world of donuts with two standout creations that have earned national recognition.

The hype behind these two places is real. I personally know two people willing to drive 100 miles just to get their fix (looking at you, wife and daughter).


Ranked 13th Most Outrageous in the Country: School Lunch from Glam Doll Donuts

school lunch donut glam doll
School Lunch Donut / Glam Doll Donuts via Facebook
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Glam Doll Donuts isn’t here to play it safe, and their 'School Lunch' donut proves it. Taking the 13th spot on the list, this soft, pillowy creation is stuffed with peanut butter and jelly and then topped with a layer of crushed potato chips. Sweet, salty, and a little crunchy. It’s basically your childhood lunchbox in donut form.

From what I can tell, the School Lunch donut is available during Glam Dolls' fall flavor releases. They are located at 2605 Nicollet Ave in Minneapolis.


Ranked 9th Most Outrageous in the County: The Gary Cooper at Hi-Lo Diner

Gary Cooper chicken donut Hi-Lo diner
Gary Cooper Donut / Hi-Lo Diner via Facebook
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If you think a donut should just be a breakfast treat, Hi-Lo Diner would like to have a word. Cracking the top ten most outrageous in the country at #9, their 'Gary Cooper' is an all-out feast: a house-made donut piled high with crispy buttermilk fried chicken, maple-bourbon syrup, rich country gravy, and a sprinkle of green onion. It’s sweet, it’s savory, it’s indulgent, and it does not care about your calorie count. You’ve been warned.

This get-in-my-belly beaut is on Hi-Lo Diner's regular menu for $16.50. They are located at 4101 East Lake St. in Minneapolis

You can see the full list of the most outrageous donut flavors in the country here.

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