The best donuts are often the ones that require setting an alarm.
Across Delaware, early risers can find small donut shops where fresh dough hits the fryer before much of the day has begun. In beach towns and busy main streets alike, the cases fill with glazed classics, cinnamon-coated rings, filled pastries, and playful creations that can disappear quickly.
The appeal is not just the sugar rush, but the ritual of walking in while the coffee is hot and choosing something that still feels fresh from the kitchen…