If there is one thing that State College is not lacking, it’s doughnut shops.
Saying goodbye to your local Dunkin’ Donuts, Krispy Kreme or Wawa before departing to Happy Valley is nothing short of heartbreaking — that is, until you realize the multitude of doughnut shops that await you on every corner.
Each of these local guilty pleasures differ in very unique ways, whether it be size, quantity or fillings. Ever have a doughnut covered in fruity pebbles? Or a doughnut that’s edible … for your dog? How about a scoop of ice cream in between two doughnuts?
State College is second to none when it comes to a top-notch gourmet doughnut experience, and VALLEY is here to dish on the ins and outs of these local treats.
Peace, Love and Little Donuts
Photo by Dana Weltman
Located in an alley on Calder Way, this new doughnut shop is booming with business. Not only are these palm-sized doughnuts delicious, but they’re nothing short of adorable. Made fresh every single day in the store, these mini treats are actually decorated by hand in front of each customer, which helps explain where the “love” in the name came from. In fact, Peace, Love and Little Donuts places first in the Centre Daily Times doughnut taste test with an 8.8 out of 10 rating. This store is also notorious for it’s willingness to participate in philanthropy and fundraising events, which makes this guilty pleasure not quite as guilty.
Happy Buns
Posted by @myhappybuns on Instagram
Every college student has been put in a predicament when choosing which dessert they should give in to. With this brand new shop hitting the streets of East College, you now never have to sacrifice and choose between a doughnut or ice cream. Arriving shortly after the 2018 THON weekend, Happy Buns became the first shop to combine ice cream and donuts into one delectable dessert. Although the concept of a doughnut, a scoop of ice cream, a topping, and another doughnut sounds overwhelming, students have been raving over this recent craze. When it comes to price, taste and presentation, this shop passes VALLEY’s test with flying (and tasty) colors.
Duck Donuts
Posted by @duckdonuts on Instagram
This chain doughnut shop is a crowd pleaser for those ranging far and wide. With over 30 locations on the East Coast and two on the West Coast, Duck Donuts holds a high standard of presentation and deliciousness. Located on South Fraser Street, this tucked-away treasure is rated 4.9 stars out of 5 on Facebook, with nothing but praise and satisfaction from State College customers. From your classic cinnamon sugar doughnut to a doughnut seared in maple and bacon, this store has a wide array of choices for all doughnut lovers, both savory and sweet.
Which downtown doughnut shop do you love? Tweet us @VALLEYmag!
