There is something about a small-town doughnut shop that a chain can never quite copy. In Alabama, plenty of these bakeries have been mixing dough before sunrise for years, and regulars know exactly when the fresh batches come out.
Some of these spots have been part of their towns for decades, while others are newer favorites that quickly earned a morning following. If you like your doughnuts warm, your coffee simple, and your surroundings friendly, this list is worth saving.
Here are eight Alabama bakeries where locals happily wait in line for a fresh dozen.
1. Hero Doughnuts, Homewood, Alabama
Brioche is the secret weapon here. Hero Doughnuts built its reputation on light, yeast-raised brioche doughnuts that feel a little different from the classic glazed ring most Southerners grew up with…