2026 Doughnut Consumer Survey Results: Doughnut Insights & Trends

Donuts continue to be an anytime favourite across Canada blending together comfort, creativity, and broad consumer appeal. In 2026, evolving flavours, formats, and daypart flexibility are keeping donuts relevant and exciting for every generation.

Explore the key donut trends shaping Canadian menus and how operators can turn fresh ideas into everyday wins.

ANY TIME IS DONUT TIME.

From classic favourites to on‑trend varieties.

Explore Rich’s donut portfolio featuring a range of flavours, formats, and fresh solutions built to perform in today’s bakery. Find inspiration to delight customers and grow your fresh offering.

84%

of consumers love or like it

Datassential 2026

7.9%

PREDICTED 4-YEAR CANADA GROWTH FOR DONUTS

Datassential 2026

A GENERATIONAL PHENOMENON.

Donuts are a timeless treat–and an indulgent favourite loved by all ages! While donut affinity spans every demographic, donuts are especially popular among younger generations, families with kids and self-identifying foodies.

A versatile delight that lends itself to both nostalgia and culinary creativity, donuts continue to adapt and reinvent themselves to maintain its beloved, timeless allure for every generation.

DONUT BELONG EVERYWHERE.

Canadians buy donuts weekly, making them part of everyday ritual

Donuts remain one of Canadas most accessible indulgences across income levels

AN ALL-DAY DELIGHT.

A sweet start to the day, an afternoon pick-me-up, a celebratory dessert or a late-night snack, donuts are not confined to a daypart. Although breakfast is still the most likely daypart consumers want donuts, 68% of consumers cite snacking as a top occasion for donut eating. Many consider donuts a great on-the-go treat that can be enjoyed anytime, anywhere. Rich’s recent Donut Consumer Survey dives into the top occasions for consuming donuts.

Donut Stats

FUN WITH FORMATS & FLAVOURS.

While consumers still love the classic donut flavours and formats that have delighted tastebuds for generations, new and exciting donut trends are making waves with adventurous eaters and donut enthusiasts alike! From seasonal sensations, like springtime strawberry lemonade and apple cider for fall, and popular food flavours, including birthday cake and PB&J, to global flavourites and savory takes, to donut sandwiches and more–donuts offer infinite possibilities for innovation.

Sweet news alert:

donuts are in the top 10 favourite desserts!

Across all age groups, donuts are now in consumers’ top 10 preferred desserts! Be ready to deliver on customer cravings with our donut doughs, fully finished options and ready-to-finish options.

+45.2%
Donut Holes have grown over the last 4 years
Datassential Canada 2026
+200%
Fritters have grown over the last 4 years
Datassential Canada 2026
+175%
Beignets have grown over the last 4 years
Datassential Canada 2026

EXPLORE OUR DONUT SOLUTIONS.


From fully finished donuts to jaw-dropping flavour combos, to doughs that transform into the donuts of your dreams, Rich’s Donut Portfolio does it all.

 

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