The modern donut originated from the Dutch olykoeken, or "oily cakes", that were brought to New Amsterdam (now Manhattan) by Dutch immigrants in the 1700s. The iconic hole in the center was added by Captain Hanson Gregory in the 1850s. 

Ingredients

Donuts are made from flour, milk, sugar, eggs, and sometimes yeast, spices, and dried fruits. 

Shape

Donuts are usually round, but jelly donuts are typically round without a hole. 

Flavors

Donuts can be filled with jelly, cream, or custard, and topped with powdered sugar, chocolate sauce, or maple syrup. 

Nutrition

Donuts are high in sugar, refined carbs, and fat, and are not considered a good source of healthy nutrients. However, if made with enriched flour, they do provide small amounts of folic acid, thiamine, and iron. 

Popularity

Americans consume over 10 billion donuts every year. Brands like Dunkin' Donuts and Krispy Kreme have made donuts a cultural phenomenon and a quintessential American dessert