Coffee & Doughnuts

The other day, in true Carrie Bradshaw (foodie) style, I had a thought: I couldn’t help but wonder–why are doughnuts the perfect accompaniment to a cup of coffee? And what makes the perfect doughnut? As I waited for my coffee to percolate, I started pondering the options.

Now, I consider myself a coffee elitist. I am very picky about my coffee (see more on that subject in previous blog) And as far as pairing pastries with my coffee goes, I’m discovering that there’s a sort of doughnut loyalty. Some people swear by Dunkin’ Donuts, others by Krispy Kreme, still others by Publix Bakery.  Buddha Belly Doughnuts, which just opened in Sarasota, is gaining a following as well; their doughnuts are homemade and organic in shape; large but not overwhelming, doughy but not dense.

What it comes down to, I think, is the emotional attachment. Doughnuts are comfort food–something that we rely on to bring us to a place of familiarity.  What’s better than brewing a cup of coffee and then sitting down to breakfast with the newspaper and a fat doughnut, your pet at your feet and your family surrounding you? Not much, especially in these crazy times!

So tell me: What’s your favorite doughnut? Do you have a favorite flavor? And do you agree that doughnuts are a comfort food?

- Judi Gallagher