Best Doughnuts in Indianapolis: Our Expert Picks

There is a specific hour on the east side when the fryer oil at Long’s Bakery starts talking, and the glazed doughnuts come out with a crackle you can hear from the sidewalk. Indianapolis runs on a dozen different doughnut faiths, from the pillowy yeast classics at Jack’s to the chewy, rotating mochi flavors at Mochi Joy that change faster than Indiana weather.

We ate our way through all of them, plus the layered croissant-doughnut hybrids and a bacon-topped bar or two. Do not skip the coconut cream at Parlor.

The list below is your map.

Parlor Doughnuts

Highlights
Layered doughnuts are best
Exceptional vegan options
Coconut cream filled favorite
Gluten-free and delicious
Perfect for breakfast or brunch

Parlor Doughnuts in Indianapolis has crafted an experience that goes beyond mere confections—it's a celebration of flavor! As I stepped inside, I was immediately taken by the inviting atmosphere and the heavenly scent of freshly baked dough. Here, layered doughnuts reign supreme, and I couldn't resist trying the coconut cream-filled delight that has earned rave reviews. Each bite was a revelation, with a delicate interplay of textures and tastes that left me craving more.

What really won me over were the exceptional vegan options that ensure everyone can indulge without compromise. As someone who appreciates inclusive treats, I delighted in their gluten-free offerings, proving that being mindful of dietary needs doesn't mean sacrificing flavor. This is a place where doughnut dreams come true!

Whether you're looking for a sweet complement to your morning coffee or a delightful dessert to share during brunch, Parlor Doughnuts truly delivers. It's the kind of place where every visit feels like a festive occasion, inviting you to slow down and savor each moment—and every doughnut. If you're in the mood for a treat that’s both creative and comforting, Parlor Doughnuts is the spot to satisfy your cravings!

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Pana Donuts

Highlights
Best tasting donuts on Southside
Soft and airy donut texture
Polite and friendly staff
Convenient drive-through
Popular Kronut and chocolate bar

Pana Donuts is an absolute gem tucked away on the Southside of Indianapolis, truly a must-visit for any doughnut aficionado. As soon as I walked in, the aroma of freshly fried dough enveloped me like a warm hug, instantly igniting my excitement. The friendly staff welcomed me with genuine smiles, making my visit even more enjoyable.

What caught my attention was their famous Kronut, a delightful fusion of croissant and doughnut that practically melts in your mouth. Each bite reveals layers of flaky goodness, accompanied by a subtle sweetness that doesn’t overwhelm the palate. I also could not resist trying their rich chocolate bar, which combines a soft, airy texture with a velvety chocolate glaze that had me swooning.

The doughnuts at Pana are not only delicious but also beautifully presented, making it impossible to resist snapping a few photos before indulging. With the convenience of a drive-through, I can easily swing by for a pick-me-up anytime. Overall, Pana Donuts offers an experience that is both playful and sophisticated, making it a standout in the doughnut scene of Indianapolis. If you haven’t tried them yet, make it a priority—your taste buds will thank you!

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PANA Donuts & Boba Tea

Highlights
Good Boba Options
Taro Blended Drink Amazing
Cleanliness Concerns
Friendly Staff

PANA Donuts & Boba Tea Review

When I stepped into PANA Donuts & Boba Tea, I was greeted by the sweet aroma of freshly baked goods and the cheerful chatter of patrons enjoying their treats. The doughnuts here are a delightful fusion of classic flavors and innovative twists. Honestly, it’s the perfect spot for anyone with a sweet tooth!

I couldn’t resist trying their signature taro blended drink—a creamy concoction that was nothing short of amazing. The unique flavor complemented the delightful range of doughnuts. Speaking of which, the selection was impressive, with options that ranged from traditional glazed to exotic flavors that spark curiosity.

While the cleanliness of the establishment could use a bit more attention, the friendly staff certainly made up for it. They were eager to help, sharing recommendations and ensuring I had a memorable experience. If you’re looking for a fun outing, PANA is a great choice. You can indulge in delicious doughnuts while sipping on a refreshing boba tea.

Overall, my visit was enjoyable, and I can confidently say that PANA Donuts & Boba Tea deserves a place in any aspiring doughnut connoisseur’s itinerary!

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Mochi Joy Donuts & Coffee

Highlights
Welcoming friendly environment
Light and airy mochi donuts
Delightfully chewy texture
Flavor variety changes weekly
Refreshing passion fruit lemonade

Stepping into Mochi Joy Donuts & Coffee is like entering a playful pastry paradise. The air is filled with the comforting aroma of freshly baked goods, and the welcoming staff greets you with bright smiles that instantly lift your spirits.

Now, let’s talk donuts! The star of the show here is undoubtedly their light and airy mochi donuts. These delightful treats boast a chewy texture that dances on your tongue, setting them apart from the traditional fried varieties. Each donut is a burst of flavor that keeps you coming back for more. What's particularly exciting is that the flavor variety changes weekly—I was lucky enough to try the matcha and sweet potato flavors during my visit, both of which were utterly sublime!

To wash down this indulgence, I couldn’t resist their refreshing passion fruit lemonade. It’s the perfect companion to the donuts, offering a zesty contrast that elevates the whole experience.

If you’re looking for a unique twist on the classic donut, Mochi Joy is an absolute must-visit in Indianapolis! Treat yourself; you won’t regret it! 🍩✨

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Leviathan Bakehouse

Highlights
Always busy, popular pastries
Incredible biscuits and gravy
Best Pain Au Chocolat ever
Flaky, rich chocolate layers
Great indoor and outdoor seating

Leviathan Bakehouse is an absolute treasure tucked away in the heart of Indianapolis. The moment I stepped inside, I was greeted by the delightful aroma of freshly baked goods, making it hard to resist the temptation to indulge. This bakery is always bustling with eager patrons, and it’s easy to see why: their pastries are nothing short of spectacular!

While their doughnuts are deserving of high praise, I found myself utterly enchanted by their Pain Au Chocolat. It boasted the flakiest, richest chocolate layers I’ve ever tasted—truly an experience that transcends the ordinary. I also couldn’t help but try their biscuits and gravy, which were an indulgent treat that complemented my doughnut experience perfectly.

As I savored every bite in the charming cafe, with inviting indoor and outdoor seating, I found myself plotting my next visit before I had even left. If you’re in the mood for delightful pastries and wonderfully crafted doughnuts, Leviathan Bakehouse is a must-visit destination that offers a unique take on the traditional confectionery experience. Don’t miss it!

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Long's Bakery

Nestled in the bustling heart of Indianapolis, Long's Bakery offers a delightful array of doughnuts that are nothing short of heavenly. As I stepped inside, the sweet aroma enveloped me like a warm hug. Their signature glazed doughnut is a must-try—crispy on the outside and decadently soft on the inside; it practically melts in your mouth! I also indulged in their chocolate cream-filled treat, which boasted a rich, velvety filling that left me wanting more. With friendly staff and a charming atmosphere, Long's Bakery is a sugary oasis that every doughnut lover must experience. Don’t miss out!

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Boyden's Southside Bakery

From the moment I stepped into Boyden's Southside Bakery, the warm, sugary aroma enveloped me like a cozy blanket. Their doughnuts are simply divine! I indulged in a classic glazed doughnut that was fluffy, with the perfect hint of sweetness that danced on my palate. The standout, however, was the maple bacon bar; the salty crunch of bacon beautifully balanced the rich maple glaze, creating a symphony of flavors. The friendly staff made my visit even sweeter, like a cherry on top! If you're on the hunt for doughnut perfection, I highly recommend this delightful gem in Indianapolis.

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Rise'n Roll Bakery

Rise'n Roll Bakery is a delightful treasure nestled in Indianapolis, and stepping inside feels like entering a doughnut lover's paradise! I savored the Caramel Crunch, which boasts a rich, buttery glaze complemented by a satisfying crunch. The Cinnamon Roll was a hug in pastry form, soft and warmly spiced, leaving me yearning for more. Their doughnuts are not just food; they’re a celebration of flavor and craftsmanship. The friendly staff added to the inviting atmosphere, making every visit memorable. For anyone seeking a delicious indulgence, Rise'n Roll is an absolute must-try! Treat yourself—you won’t regret it!

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Jack's Donuts

Stepping into Jack's Donuts is like wandering into a sugary wonderland! Their signature maple bacon bar is a delightful contrast of crispy and sweet that practically dances on your taste buds. The glazed yeast donut is pillowy perfection, while the chocolate cream-filled option is a rich indulgence that leaves you wanting more. Plus, the friendly staff adds to the welcoming atmosphere, making each visit feel special. If you’re in Indy, Jack’s is a must-visit—it’s a delightful ode to doughnut lovers everywhere! Treat yourself to a little sweetness the Jack’s way! 🍩

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Rise 'n Roll Bakery - Greenwood

Stepping into Rise 'n Roll Bakery - Greenwood was like entering a doughnut paradise! Their signature cinnamon caramel doughnut was an explosion of flavor—soft, sweet, and rich with that irresistible cinnamon swirl. The yeast-based creations rose to fluffy perfection, while the crème-filled sweets offered a delightful surprise with every bite. Don’t get me started on their coffee pairing; it was the icing on the cake—well, doughnut! If you find yourself in Indianapolis, this spot is an absolute must-visit for any doughnut lover. Trust me, your taste buds will thank you! 🍩✨

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Rise'n Roll Bakery — Indianapolis

At Rise'n Roll Bakery — Nora, every bite feels like a warm hug! The locally crafted doughnuts are beautifully light, with flavors that dance on your palate. The standout, a luscious cinnamon roll doughnut, is drizzled with a rich glaze that could make any morning brighter. The scrumptious peanut butter chocolate cake doughnut was a perfect balance of indulgence and nostalgia. The inviting atmosphere and friendly staff add to the charm, making it more than just a stop for a treat. For doughnut lovers, this spot is a must-visit in Indianapolis—where flavors come to life, and joy is just a bite away!

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Mochi Munchi

At Mochi Munchi, I discovered a delightful twist on traditional treats. Their mochi doughnuts are a vibrant fusion of chewy and airy textures, boasting flavors like matcha and black sesame that dance on your palate. Each bite offers a playful burst of sweetness, beautifully complemented by seasonal toppings. The chic, minimalist decor invites you to savor every moment while indulging in these unique delights. If you’re ready to elevate your doughnut game, Mochi Munchi is a must-visit destination in Indianapolis, where ordinary cravings transform into extraordinary experiences!

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Mochinut

Stepping into Mochinut was like entering a whimsical world where doughnuts and mochi unite in a delightful embrace. Their mochi doughnuts are soft, chewy, and unlike anything I’ve ever tasted. I indulged in the matcha glazed creation, which was perfectly sweetened, and the vibrant flavor was a delightful burst of green magic. The unique textures left me craving more! The playful atmosphere and friendly staff only added to this charming spot’s allure. If you're in search of a sweet adventure, don’t miss out on the glorious Mochinut experience—where every bite is a joyous celebration of innovation! 🍩✨

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Artisan Bakery and Pastries

Artisan Bakery and Pastries is a delightful treasure tucked away in the heart of Indianapolis. The moment I stepped inside, the warm aroma of freshly baked goods enveloped me, promising a treat. Their signature Maple Bacon Bar is a symphony of sweet and savory that danced on my palate. The doughnut's texture was impeccably fluffy, paired with a crispy bacon topping that added the perfect bite. Each visit feels like a whimsical adventure, where every pastry tells a story of craftsmanship and care. If you're craving a doughnut experience that's truly unique, Artisan is a must-try!

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PANA Donuts

I came to Pana Donuts on a Tuesday morning, when the light through the drive-through window was still thin. The Kronut sat in the case like a small, patient promise. I took one and a chocolate bar, then sat in the parking lot with the engine off. The first bite of the Kronut was quiet. The layers gave way without resistance, soft and airy, the kind of texture that asks you to slow down. The chocolate bar followed, a gentle sweetness that did not shout. The staff had been polite at the window, which matters more than I like to admit. There is nothing flashy here. Just good doughnuts, made properly, and a line that moves. I left with a box for later.

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