Why Donuts Are Considered Breakfast Food In The US

Coffee and bread: a love story

The essence of donuts as a breakfast staple is closely linked to their pairing with coffee, the beloved caffeinated drink that many people around the world enjoy in the morning. Yet, donuts aren't the only baked goods that complement coffee. In France, for instance, coffee—whether it's espresso or a creamy noisette—is frequently enjoyed with a croissant (which, contrary to popular belief, was not introduced to France by Marie Antoinette) or a pain au chocolat. In Mexico, conchas, sweet bread shaped like sea shells, are a favored breakfast item often accompanied by coffee. Clearly, sweet treats and coffee create a delightful combination, and it's easy to understand why.

Donuts (along with other pastries) provide a wonderful contrast to the bitter and acidic notes of coffee. Their sugar and fat content balance these flavors beautifully. Additionally, the texture of donuts, whether cake-like or yeast-based, absorbs coffee well, making them ideal for dipping. Beyond their flavor profile, donuts serve as an excellent accompaniment to your morning coffee. Since coffee can be tough on the stomach, having a donut or pastry can help mitigate any potential discomfort from drinking coffee on an empty stomach.

Quick energy in the morning

There may be another factor contributing to the popularity of donuts (and the classic coffee-donut duo) as a breakfast option: energy. The mix of caffeine and carbohydrates from coffee and donuts delivers a quick boost that helps wake diners up in the morning. The sugar and bread in donuts are packed with simple carbs, which provide rapid energy. Caffeine also offers a swift energy lift, making it easier for fans of this pairing to feel alert in the morning.

However, the energy from this combination is fleeting and can lead to fatigue after a few hours. This contrasts with more satisfying and sustainably energizing options like protein-rich eggs or fiber-rich oatmeal, which are less likely to trigger an insulin spike. So, if your goal is to stay awake and focused throughout the day, you might want to think twice about that donut breakfast.

That said, this doesn’t mean you should completely steer clear of donuts. They are a breakfast staple, and there’s something undeniably enjoyable about savoring a morning cup of coffee alongside a freshly made glazed donut. After all, life is about appreciating the little pleasures. There’s no need to criticize such a delightful treat, regardless of when you choose to enjoy it.