The hole truth: Murfreesboro's best donut shops

Murfreesboro, Tennessee is the home of Middle Tennessee State University, the World’s Largest Cedar Bucket, the geographic center of the state, and some of the best donuts in the country.

A well-rounded treat

Donuts are full of mysteries. Is it breakfast? Is it dessert? Is it best dunked in milk, or accompanied by coffee? Which is superior -- a yeast donut, or a cake donut? Should it be spelled donut, or doughnut?  

Does any of this matter? Not when you’re eating a delicious ring of fried dough. 

The history of donuts is also contentious. A Mental Floss article mentions possible Dutch, German, and English origins. Hanson Gregory, an American sailor, also claimed the donut as his own creation.  

(Donut) shop talk

The popularity of donut chains in North America is regionally skewed. In the south we are beckoned by the “Hot Doughnuts Now” sign to our beloved Krispy Kreme. (Yes, that’s how Krispy Kreme spells it, but can you trust a company called “Krispy Kreme” on matters of spelling?) Dunkin’, previously known as Dunkin’ Donuts, dominates the northeast. Winchell’s Donuts is smaller, but popular in California and other western states. And Tim Horton’s has made Canada a top donut consumer. 

Murfreesboro's favorites

But enough about the big guys – you’re going to find the most innovative flavors, the friendliest workers, and most importantly the tastiest bites at indie donut shops. Here are a few of Murfreesboro’s best: 

Donut Country: 

Donut Country makes some of the best donuts in Murfreesboro and quite possibly the universe. Their cake donuts are great, but their yeast donuts are superlative. In addition to year-round favorites (like the filled donuts with powdered sugar on the outside and chocolate cream within) and red velvet cake donuts, there are special limited time flavors every month and every season. It’s a good reason to stop by for a dozen at least a dozen times a year. They also sell fabulous fritters and cinnamon rolls the size of my head, if that’s your thing. 

Donut Palace: 

The great Murfreesboro donut debate usually comes down to Donut Country or Donut Palace. Fans of the palace cite super fresh flavors and anachronistically low prices as reasons to love this establishment. If you love the old school donut shop vibe, Donut Palace might be for you. 

TJ’s Donut Factory: 

Don’t let TJ’s Donut Factory’s location (tucked into a gas station next to a laundromat, if you’re curious) fool you. Customers swear by their sweet flavors, including fruity options like blueberry, strawberry, and cranberry orange. Quantities can be limited, so show up in the morning if you want to guaranted availability. Bonus: maybe you can wash your comforter while you’re there. 

Brunch and Brew: 

Brunch and Brew (formerly known as Joe and Dough) is another spot with a full diner menu. They also serve locally-roasted coffee. But the star of the show is Brunch and Brew’s cronuts – sweet like a donut and flaky like a croissant! Oh, and if you’re looking for vegan and gluten-free options, this is the place. 

Love 4 Boba: 

Okay, I’m cheating a little here. Love 4 Boba is just west of the Murfreesboro / Smyrna city line. But I can’t leave out this bubble tea spot (connected to a bait shop. Yes, a bait shop.) Their mochi donuts can’t be missed. They have a puffy texture, slight sweetness, and a subtle chewiness that will leave you wanting more. Don’t miss the ube donut – that's the purple one. And if you’re a boba lover they happen to have the best bubble tea around. 

If you want to try one or all of these Murfreesboro donut shops, check out the map above and find a delicious favorite.