Santa Cruz's Best Donuts [Updated 2025]

As I dove into the delicious world of donuts here in Santa Cruz, I couldn’t help but feel like a kid in a candy store—except, you know, with sprinkles and glaze! I’ve scoured the town, visiting 12 top locations, each one brimming with unique flavors and tempting treats. With a passion for pastries and a nose for the freshest bites, I’ve tasted everything from classic glazed to wild, inventive creations.

You can trust my sweet tooth to guide you through the sugary landscape, as I’ve savored every crumb and crafted this guide to save you from endless scrolling and guessing. So, grab your coffee and let’s dive into the donut delights that make Santa Cruz a true paradise for pastry lovers!

The Buttery

Highlights
Delicious catering options
Mocha cupcake perfection
Helpful staff assistance
Perfect for sweet cravings
Great sandwiches available

The Buttery is a delightful little gem that truly delivers when it comes to satisfying sweet cravings. Upon stepping inside, I'm instantly greeted by the warm aroma of freshly baked treats—heaven for any donut enthusiast! Their selection is impressive, but it was their mocha cupcake that caught my attention first, and I must say, it’s donut-like in its decadence.

One of the things I appreciate most about this spot is the helpful staff. They are knowledgeable and genuinely passionate about their offerings, providing great suggestions and catering options perfect for any occasion. The atmosphere is cozy, making it not only a great donut stop but also an excellent spot for a relaxed lunch break, complete with their great sandwiches.

But let’s not forget those donuts! The Buttery creates a variety of flavors that dance on your palate, all while maintaining that classic, fluffy texture that makes every bite a joy. Whether you're in the mood for traditional glazed or something a tad more adventurous, you won’t leave without a smile. So if you're in Santa Cruz and craving the best, make sure The Buttery is on your list. You won't regret it!

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Adorable French Bakery

Highlights
Brand New Bakery
Lots of Selection
Friendly Staff
Great Espresso Drinks
Spacious Footprint

At Adorable French Bakery, I found myself stepping into a delightful realm where parisian charm meets the artisanal spirit of Santa Cruz. This brand new bakery boasts a decadent selection of donuts that left me gleefully perplexed about which one to try first. From the moment I walked in, the friendly staff greeted me with warm smiles that instantly made me feel at home.

I indulged in a maple bacon donut that was a delightful symphony of flavors, perfectly balancing sweet and savory, while its fluffy texture brought sheer joy to each bite. Beyond the donuts, the bakery shines with exceptional espresso drinks that pair wonderfully with their pastries, making it an ideal stop for both coffee aficionados and donut lovers alike.

The spacious layout of Adorable French Bakery invites lingering conversations and relaxing moments, ensuring that your time spent here is as sweet as the treats themselves. If you’re seeking a donut experience that is charming, delicious, and a bit whimsical, make sure to drop by. Trust me, your taste buds will thank you, and you’ll find yourself dreaming about that maple bacon delight long after you’ve left!

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Ferrell's Donut House

Stepping into Ferrell's Donut House is like wandering into a delicious dream! The tempting aroma of freshly baked goods envelops you the moment you enter. I indulged in their signature glazed donut, a perfect harmony of light and fluffy texture with just the right amount of sweetness. The toppings are a playful mix, showcasing creativity without overshadowing the classic flavors. Their friendly staff adds to the welcoming atmosphere, making it hard to resist going back for seconds—or thirds! Overall, Ferrell’s is a must-visit for any donut lover in Santa Cruz. It's a sugary haven that promises sheer joy with every bite! 🍩

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Ferrell's Donuts

Ferrell's Donuts is a sugary paradise nestled in the heart of Santa Cruz. Upon entering, the mouthwatering aroma of freshly baked treats envelops you, instantly elevating your mood. Their signature offering, the maple-bacon bar, is a glorious combination of sweet and savory that makes my taste buds dance with joy. The fluffy texture and perfectly balanced flavors keep me coming back for more. I also highly recommend their classic glazed donuts, which are light, airy, and a delightful indulgence. For a true donut lover, Ferrell's is a must-visit; it’s where sweetness meets nostalgia in every bite!

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Allbright's Donut Shoppe

Step into Allbright's Donut Shoppe, and it feels like a warm hug from your childhood! Their classic glazed donuts are sheer perfection—light, fluffy, and with just the right amount of sweetness. The vibrant variety of flavors, from maple bacon to vanilla cream, make it a challenge to choose just one. Each bite reveals a delightful surprise, prompting joyous gasps. The friendly staff adds to the experience, making you feel right at home. This cozy spot is a must-visit for anyone craving a slice of happiness in donut form! 🎉 Delightful! 🍩

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Original Ferrell's Donuts

At Original Ferrell's Donuts, I was instantly charmed by the nostalgic vibe of this beloved local gem. The moment I stepped inside, the mouthwatering aroma of fresh pastries welcomed me like a warm hug. I opted for the classic glazed donut, which was perfectly fluffy with a sweet, shiny finish that melted in my mouth. The old-fashioned variety boasted a delightful crunch, giving a satisfying contrast to the tender interior. Each bite was a reminder of childhood indulgence! If you’re searching for authentic Santa Cruz delights, Ferrell’s is an absolute must-visit—where every donut feels like a little piece of happiness!

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Dunlap's Donuts

Dunlap's Donuts is a delightful treasure trove for donut lovers! Upon entering, the smell of freshly fried dough envelops you, promising a treat that’s hard to resist. I savored their classic glazed donut: it was light, airy, and perfectly sweet, with a glaze that danced on my taste buds. The creativity shines through with unique flavors like maple bacon and matcha, each bite bursting with joy. The ambiance is cozy, making it an ideal spot to enjoy your treats. If you're in Santa Cruz, don’t miss out on this gem—your taste buds will thank you!

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Melinda's Gluten Free Bakery

At Melinda's Gluten Free Bakery, I was pleasantly surprised to discover a charming selection of gluten-free donuts that elevate the traditional treat to new heights. The vanilla glaze was sheer perfection—soft and slightly chewy, with a decadent sweetness that melts in your mouth. Their chocolate sprinkles added a delightful crunch, while the maple bacon variety was a savory-sweet masterpiece that danced on my taste buds. Each donut is crafted with passion, proving that gluten-free doesn’t mean flavor-free. If you're exploring the Santa Cruz donut scene, this gem is a must-visit for an indulgent, guilt-free treat.

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El Rosal Bakery

Upon stepping into El Rosal Bakery, I was greeted by the intoxicating aroma of freshly baked goods. Their bienvenida pastry was not only tempting but a delightful mix of sweetness and texture. I indulged in their churro donut—a crispy exterior dusted with cinnamon sugar encasing a soft, pillowy interior. Each bite was pure bliss! The ambiance buzzed with friendly energy, making my visit even more enjoyable. While their traditional options are stellar, I found the creative twists here truly stand out. El Rosal is undeniably a gem in Santa Cruz for anyone seeking an unforgettable donut experience!

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DONUT STATION

Stepping into DONUT STATION feels like entering a sweet sanctuary. The aroma of freshly baked donuts envelops you, whetting your appetite for the delicious options that await. I indulged in their signature Glazed Twist, which was light, fluffy, and delightfully sweet, leaving my taste buds dancing with joy. The friendly staff adds to the warm atmosphere, making each visit a treat. The playful sprinkle options and innovative flavors showcase their creativity. If you’re hunting for a mouthwatering donut experience in Santa Cruz, DONUT STATION is a must-visit. Your cravings will surely thank you! 🍩✨

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Pacific Cookie Company

While Pacific Cookie Company is renowned for its delightful cookies, they also serve up a hidden gem in the form of their donut-inspired delights. My taste buds danced with joy as I nibbled on their moist, flavorful creations. The cinnamon sugar donut had the perfect balance of sweetness and spice, while the chocolate-glazed option was decadently rich without being overwhelming. Though primarily a cookie haven, this spot is worth a detour for their unique twist on donuts. If you're nearby, make sure to indulge your sweet tooth at this delightful shop! 🌟

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Companion Bakeshop Westside Santa Cruz

Nestled in the heart of the Westside, Companion Bakeshop is a delightful treasure for donut lovers. The moment I stepped inside, the air was sweetly intoxicating with the scent of fresh pastries. I savored their maple-glazed donut, which was perfectly light and airy, with just the right amount of glaze to make it irresistible. The subtle hints of vanilla and the texture were sublime. Don't skip the seasonal flavors—each bite transports you to a world of indulgence. Whether you're a local or just visiting, this charming spot is a must-try for any donut enthusiast!

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