The history of the donut can be traced back to the 19th century, when Dutch settlers brought a pastry known as “oliebollen” to America. This pastry was similar to a doughnut, but it was more of a cake-like consistency and was typically filled with fruits like apples, raisins or currants. The modern-day doughnut that we know and love was created in the mid-19th century by a woman named Elizabeth Gregory. She made a deep-fried dough with a hole in the center, which was easier to cook and more evenly cooked than the thicker oliebollen. The hole in the center also made the doughnut easier to carry and store.

Donuts quickly became a staple of American culture, especially during World War I when American soldiers were served donuts by volunteers who were known as “donut lassies.” This led to the popularization of the phrase “doughboys,” which referred to American soldiers.

Colorado and Boulder County are known for having outstanding donut shops, and there are a few reasons for this. One reason is the altitude. Because Colorado is at a higher altitude than most other states, the air is drier and therefore doughnuts cook differently. This means that bakers have had to adjust their recipes and techniques to account for the altitude, resulting in a unique and delicious taste.

Another reason for the abundance of excellent donut shops in Colorado is the presence of large numbers of immigrants from Europe, particularly from Germany. German immigrants brought with them their own traditions of baking and pastry-making, including the art of making delicious and unique donuts. These traditions have been passed down through generations and are still being practiced by some of the most popular donut shops in Colorado and Boulder County today.

Additionally, Colorado and Boulder County have a culture that values small, locally-owned businesses. This has created a competitive environment that has encouraged donut shops to innovate and create new and exciting flavors, resulting in a wide variety of options for customers to choose from.

In conclusion, the donut has a rich history that spans several centuries, and Colorado and Boulder County have emerged as a hub of excellent donut shops due to a combination of factors, including the altitude, the influence of European immigrants, and a culture that values small, locally-owned businesses.

Nok’s Donuts in Lafayette, Colorado, is a small, unassuming donut shop that has garnered a huge following for its delicious, made-from-scratch donuts. With a perfect 5-star rating, Nok’s Donuts has become a hidden gem in Boulder County and is widely regarded as the best donut shop in the state. The shop offers a wide variety of flavors and styles, from classic glazed and chocolate to more adventurous options like maple bacon and blueberry lemon. What sets Nok’s Donuts apart is their commitment to using high-quality, locally-sourced ingredients and their dedication to perfecting the art of donut-making. Whether you’re a longtime fan or a first-time visitor, Nok’s Donuts is sure to satisfy your sweet tooth and leave you coming back for more.