Through platforms such as TikTok and Instagram, new and trendy desserts are on the rise. While innovative recipes continue to push the boundaries of the culinary world, there is nothing that can make freshly baked doughnuts go out of style. Vancouver is no stranger to this frosted and fried treat, and The VanCougar has set out to uncover three great doughnut shops near campus.
As their slogan famously states, “good things come in pink boxes.” Despite many Vancouver and Portland residents feeling like Voodoo Doughnut is an overhyped tourist trap, Voodoo ranks first on our list. This local staple offers a number of quirky treats, ranging from its classic “Voodoo Doll” to the “Maple Blazer Blunt,” that are sure to put a smile on any visitor’s face. If you are looking to try a unique Voodoo creation, we recommend trying “The Homer” inspired by none other than the hit TV show “The Simpsons.” Executed with the perfect ratio of melted strawberry frosting, soft, warm dough and rainbow sprinkles, this charming, yet simplistic doughnut is guaranteed to become a household favorite.
Voodoo Doughnut has placed a higher-end price on its treats, which range from $1 to $4.50 per doughnut. Having its grand opening in November, VooDoo Doughnut is located 13 minutes from campus at 8203 NE Vancouver Mall Dr. The shop is open every day from 6 a.m. to 11 p.m.
Feelings of nostalgia will certainly strike customers as they walk into a white plastered building with fluorescent lights and a biker-inspired logo etched on the front door. Despite the name, Angel’s serves more than just doughnuts and ice cream, offering burgers, milkshakes and breakfast sandwiches. While it may not have the unique selection of doughnuts that Voodoo does, the menu contains some classics such as apple fritters, buttermilk old-fashioned doughnuts
and french crullers. The VanCougar suggests tasting Angel’s maple bacon bar covered in exactly what you would expect – sweet maple frosting with crispy bacon. However, as tasty as this selection may be, Angel’s ranks second to Voodoo. Despite its dough being a perfect combination of stiff and soft, its frosting was a bit too firm for our liking.
Nevertheless, Angel’s does come with a decent price, ranging from $1.70 to $2.45 per doughnut. The shop is also located 13 minutes from campus and right across from Voodoo at 8115 NE Vancouver Mall Dr. Additionally, Angel’s is open Monday through Thursday, and Saturday from 6 a.m. to 11 p.m., Friday from 6 a.m. to 6 p.m. and Sunday from 6 a.m. to 10 p.m.
Mr. Maple is average compared to the other shops and is placed last on our list. The shop is a regular storefront with three glass cases of doughnuts, but no place for seating, unlike the other two locations. Mr. Maple’s has all the classics, such as powdered sugar and lemon or jelly-filled rings. Additionally, despite its lack of individuality, it also offers specialty items such as its “Caramel Latte” or “Cheesecake” frosted doughnuts. As for one specific recommendation, Mr. Maple’s “S’mores” doughnut is great for getting in the mood for summer. While the flavor combination of maple frosting and chocolate is great, the resulting doughnut was a stale pastry with hard frosting, leaving an after-taste that was subpar at best.
With all this being said, Mr. Maple Donuts still satisfies the sweet tooth, and its prices are generally cheap, pricing at $2 to $3 per doughnut. The shop is located 17 minutes from campus and is open every day from 5 to 9 p.m.
Doughnuts have remained timeless amid the constant evolution of desserts. Consisting of ingredients like sugars, glaze and endless toppings, it is no secret as to why these pastries are one of America’s most irresistible sweets.
Emily is a senior studying integrated strategic communication at WSU Vancouver.