Jam donuts are the quintessential afternoon treat, often paired with a cup of tea. But finding the perfect balance of quality and price can be a challenge. In a recent taste test, one supermarket jam donut stood out—and it costs just 27p.
The History of the Jam Donut
Though the jam donut feels distinctly British, its origins trace back to 17th-century New York, then known as New Amsterdam. Dutch settlers created sweetened, deep-fried dough balls filled with fruits or nuts, coining the term 'doughnut.'
The Taste Test
I visited Asda, Sainsbury's, Waitrose, and the Co-op, evaluating each donut on dough quality, jam quantity, size, and overall value for money. The winner was a pleasant surprise.
Sainsbury's – £1.30 (26p each)
These donuts featured a satisfyingly chewy bread-like dough with a generous sugar coating. The jam was clear and sweet, though I prefer a hint of seeds or real fruit. At 26p each, they offered good value in a five-pack.
Co-op – £1.15 (28p each)
The Co-op's offering was the priciest per donut and came in a four-pack, making it less family-friendly. While the jam was fruity and not overly sweet, the filling quantity was disappointing. The dough had good flavour, but overall, it didn't justify the cost.
Asda – £1.27 (25p each)
Asda's donuts had a strong deep-fried taste, reminiscent of fairground treats, but the jam resembled melted sweets rather than real fruit. They were smaller than competitors, making them better suited for children. The powdered sugar coating melted quickly after purchase.
Waitrose – £1.35 (27p each)
Waitrose delivered the best donut by far. The classic granulated sugar coating was crunchy and plentiful—exactly as it should be. The jam was rich, red, and tasted of real fruit, complete with seeds. The dough was pillowy and fluffy, not overly sweet. These were also the largest donuts, comparable to individually bought ones, and came in a five-pack at just 27p each—cheaper than the Co-op's per-donut price.
The Verdict
For quality, size, and value, Waitrose's jam donuts are the clear winner. At 27p each, they prove that you don't need to spend a lot for a superior treat.
