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The roots of the doughnut can be traced further back than Gregory. Fried dough has deep historical roots, dating back to ancient recipes across various cultures—from Middle Eastern fritters to 14th-century European sweets. These doughy treats evolved through different cultural exchanges, eventually leading to American adaptations that birthed the modern doughnut.

Doughnuts in American Culture

In the early 19th century, doughnuts gained popularity in the United States, especially within communities influenced by Dutch settlers. The term “doughnut” itself finds its origins in English, possibly even derived from the Dutch "oly koeks." By the early 1800s, doughnuts transitioned into a breakfast staple, eventually becoming the delightful dessert Americans cherish today.