Hey, y’all! What would you do if I told you that there is an excursion, a trail, dedicated to those of us that appreciate, admire, and lust for donuts? Well, buckle up, my friends – and head on up to Ohio to embark on the Butler County Donut Trail!
Embark On The Butler County Donut Trail
About Butler County
Butler County, Ohio is a booming community just north of Cincinnati. Chock-full of art, activities, attractions, and – you guessed it – food, Butler County surpassed all of my expectations upon visiting. Whether you are a family, a solo traveler, a gastronome, or a photographer — there’s something for everyone in the county lines. Take my word for it – it’s my country boy’s honor!
What You Need To Know Before Embarking On The Donut Trail
Before you embark on the Donut Trail, it is important to first grab your passport. The passport can be downloaded online, picked up at the Butler County Visitor’s Bureau, or you can find a copy in any of the donut shops! Finish your passport and get a t-shirt to commemorate the experience. Passports can be turned in at the Visitor’s Bureau or can be mailed in at the following address (there is no shipping charge for the shirt!): Butler County Visitors Bureau: 8756 Union Centre Blvd. West Chester, OH 45069.
Another thing to consider upon planning your route is the fact that these shops are small businesses. Be sure to check their Facebook and/or call them for their shop hours/availability. While some shops stay open until the stated times, it is possible that some will close if they sell out. Keep this in mind, plan accordingly, and start early!
Stan The Donut Man: 7967 Cincinnati-Dayton Rd.,West Chester OH 45069
Stan, Stan, Stan – Stan is the man! At this shop, the Crowe Family has been serving up deliciousness for over 50 years. Known for their cake donuts, be sure to also grab a pineapple fritter!
Martin’s Donuts: 4 W. State St., Trenton, OH 45067
Trust me – the hot pink exterior is 100% an indicator of the experience that you will have at Martin’s. One of the most photogenic buildings on the trail, don’t miss out on snapping a photo outside. Known for classics, the croissant-style donut was one of my favorites of the entire trail. They also do seasonal specialities, such as a banana pudding donut!
Oxford Doughnut Shoppe (optional for the passport): 120 S. Locust St., Oxford, OH 45056
A staple for more than 50 years, Oxford is known for their old-fashioned donuts, which are prepared via kettle frying. Located near Miami University, you won’t want to miss the Red Velvet donut!
The Donut Spot: 5148 Pleasant Ave., Fairfield,OH 45014
Open daily at 3 AM, this is one of the most popular spots on the Butler County Donut Trail. Be sure to try the cheesecake donuts!
Jupiter Coffee and Donuts: 5353 Dixie Hwy., Fairfield, OH 45014
These mouthwatering donuts pair perfectly with their in-house roasted coffees. They are known for their maple donuts (made with real maple syrup from their family farm); I also really enjoyed their pink lemonade donut, which was topped with edible pearls. This is located next to the original Jungle Jim’s – thus, come hungry and ready for adventure!
Mimi’s Donuts and Bakery: 2267 Millville Ave., Hamilton, OH 45013
Mimi’s had the most gorgeous, photogenic donuts of the trail. After 30 years in law enforcement, Mimi knows a thing or two about donuts – and it shows! She was the kindest, most conversational woman – I left wanting her to be my MiMi!
Kelly’s Bakery: 1335 Main St., Hamilton, OH 45013
Another one of my favorite stops on the trail, be sure to try one of the buckeye donuts! This shop is also known for other unique flavors such as fruity pebbles, maple bacon, and s’mores.
Ross Bakery: 1051 Eaton Ave., Hamilton, OH 45013; 4421 Hamilton Cleves Rd. Ste. 4, Hamilton, OH 45013
The only bakery on the trail with two locations, Ross Bakery has been serving delicious, fried donuts for over 30 years. Known for their classic glazed, be sure to grab one – however, don’t shy away from more unique offerings, such as the “Klunker”, a local delight.
Holtman’s Donut Shop: 9558 Civic Centre Blvd., West Chester, OH 45069
Donuts covered in cereal (Lucky Charms, for example), bacon, and marshmallow crème – be sure to pack your camera for the beautiful creations at Holtman’s! Upon walking in the space, you can always watch the process of making/decorating the donuts through their glass windows, which visitors love.
Milton’s Donuts: 3533 Rosevelt Blvd., Middletown, OH 45044
A fan favorite since 1970, prepare yourself for a melt-in-your-mouth classic glazed donut at Milton’s. Or an Oreo donut. You choose. Either way, you’ll be smilin’ from ear to ear.
Central Pastry Shop: 1518 Central Ave., Middletown, OH 45044
Another favorite of mine on the trail, Central Pastry Shop is a full-service bakery. From classic donuts, to fritters, to cookies, to speciality breads, to their famous “uglies”, and the seasonal Paczki — be prepared to fill a box full at this location!