Amazing Doughnut Recipes Everyone Needs To Try

I'm sure you already have it marked on your calendar, but in case you do not... Nov. 5 is National Doughnut Day, aka an excuse to eat everything powdered, frosted, and jelly-filled, and call it breakfast guilt-free. While there are dozens of different ways to celebrate, the best way to spend the gloriously sweet day is to get yourself one (or all) of these 12 doughnuts that everyone needs to try once in their life.

A former employee of one of America's largest donut chain, I know a thing or two about the sweet breakfast confection. I know all of the varieties they come in, from the classic glazed to the seasonal pumpkin spice, and the shapes they're made into, from bear claws to doughnut holes. But, most of all, I know how utterly addicting they can be. They call to me at breakfast time, invite me to take a sweet bite after lunch, and even make an appearance in my late-night cravings. Some people prefer the salty flavor of caramels, others crave the creamy sweetness of chocolate, but hard-core confectionery lovers know the best treats are donuts. On Saturday, we have a chance to celebrate them.

Are you ready to celebrate National Doughnut Day? Do it in style with these 12 doughnuts everyone needs to try before they die.

1. Basic Glazed Doughnuts

An absolute staple, you can't call yourself a true doughnut lover unless you've tried plenty of glazed ones. Trust me, the sticky fingers are worth it.

2. Maple Bacon Doughnut

Made out of everything a proper breakfast doughnut should be — maple, pastry, and bacon — Baked by Rachel's delicious concoction is exactly the kind of treat you deserve on National Doughnut Day.

3. Apple Cider Doughnuts

The perfect fall treat, apple cider doughnuts are best served warm and by the dozen. This version from My Baking Addiction is the right blend of sweet and spice.

4. Funfetti Doughnuts

Sprinkle donuts are a classic, but you deserve more. Cookies and Cups has what you need with these mouthwatering funfetti doughnuts, complete with frosting and glaze.

5. Cookies and Cream Doughnut

Whether it's in ice cream or in a pastry, cookies and creme is a flavor that works with everything, including A Beautiful Mess's doughnut version. Pair them with a glass of milk, and you've got yourself the perfect snack.

6. Doughnut S'mores

An over the top dessert for true sweets lovers, The Kitchn's s'mores are just the right amount of gluttony for a day devoted to doughnuts.

7. Cronut

What breakfast pastry is better than a doughnut? A croissant, of course — but what is even better than that? The oft raved about cronut, and A Beautiful Mess can show you how to make your own.

8. Old-Fashioned Doughnut

All the information you need about these classics are in the name. They're an old fashion version of how the donut was made to be: cakey, fried, and finger-licking good. Learn how to make your own from The Messy Baker.

9. Double Chocolate Doughnut

We've all had a plain old chocolate doughnut, but have you ever delighted in a double chocolate version? A Cozy Kitchen has the perfect recipe for you to try this holiday.

10. Rainbow Doughnut

Some things are just too pretty to eat — these rainbow doughnuts might be one of them. Beautiful as they are delicious, these doughnuts will bring color and sweetness to your holiday.

11. Pretzel Doughnut

In my experience, pretzels can be combined with just about anything and still manage to be delicious. A Cozy Kitchen applied my theory to doughnuts, and have created a doughnut so good, you must try it before you die.

12. Galaxy Doughnut

While you may not be able to find them at your local doughnut shop, these beautiful breakfast treats are so beautiful they're out of this world.

Images: The Kitchn; My Baking Addiction; Baked by Rachel; A Beautiful Mess (2); A Cozy Kitchen (2)