Soft, sweet dough filled with rich custard or fluffy cream: the cream-filled donut is a bakery favorite. National Cream-Filled Donut Day, on September 14, celebrates these treats, from the chocolate-topped Boston cream to Italian bomboloni, German Berliners and Polish pączki. Bite into one, and you'll understand why so many people love them.
History of National Cream-Filled Donut Day
Fried dough treats exist in many cultures. Dutch settlers brought 'olykoeks', or oily cakes, to New Amsterdam (now New York) in the 1600s. In 1847, according to legend, ship captain Hanson Gregory claimed to have invented the donut hole to help the dough cook evenly.
Filled donuts have European roots. German Berliners and Polish pączki are filled with jam or custard, and Italian bomboloni are filled with cream. Immigrants brought these traditions to America.
The Boston cream donut was inspired by Boston cream pie, created at the Parker House Hotel in Boston in the 1850s. In 2003, Massachusetts named the Boston cream pie its official state dessert, and the Boston cream donut became a favorite at bakeries across the country. During World War I, Salvation Army volunteers called 'Donut Lassies' served donuts to soldiers in France, helping make donuts an American favorite. Who created National Cream-Filled Donut Day is not documented.
Why National Cream-Filled Donut Day Matters
Donuts are a treat that brings people together, from office mornings to family weekends.
Filled donuts reflect the traditions of immigrant bakers who shaped American bakeries.
Supporting local bakeries also helps small businesses, many of which are family-owned and have been making donuts for generations.
Donut shops also play a special role in many communities. Early-morning bakeries serve workers, students and families, and some independent shops have been run by the same families for decades. Many towns have a beloved local donut spot that becomes a gathering place, especially on weekend mornings.
How to Celebrate National Cream-Filled Donut Day
- Visit a bakery: buy a cream-filled donut.
- Try a global version: taste bomboloni, Berliners or pączki.
- Make donuts at home: fry or bake donuts and pipe in filling.
- Host a donut tasting: compare cream, custard and jelly fillings.
- Bring donuts to work: share a box with coworkers.
Celebrating at Work, School and Home
At work, a box of assorted filled donuts makes any morning meeting better; include a few gluten-free or vegan options. In classrooms, students can learn about the Donut Lassies and World War I, compare filled pastries from different countries, or explore how yeast makes dough rise. At home, families can make simple filled donuts using biscuit dough, a piping bag and pudding, with adults handling frying. Rolling warm donuts in sugar is a fun job for kids.
Fun Facts About National Cream-Filled Donut Day
- Dutch settlers brought olykoeks to America.
- Boston cream pie was created at the Parker House Hotel in the 1850s.
- Salvation Army 'Donut Lassies' served donuts in WWI.
National Cream-Filled Donut Day FAQs
When is National Cream-Filled Donut Day?
National Cream-Filled Donut Day is September 14.
What is a Boston cream donut?
A donut filled with custard and topped with chocolate glaze.
What are bomboloni?
Italian cream-filled donuts.
Who were the Donut Lassies?
Salvation Army volunteers who served donuts to soldiers in WWI.