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The Sweet Evolution of Donuts with Big Mouth Donut Company
By Dave Tabar
Introduction
In the culinary world, few treats evoke as much nostalgia and joy as donuts. Whether glazed, filled, or sprinkled with colorful toppings, these sweet and nostalgic pastries have a unique way of capturing our hearts and taste buds. This blog post explores the fascinating history of donuts and focuses on a gem in Rocky River, Ohio: Big Mouth Donuts, founded by Kelly Brewer. As we dive into the delicious world of doughnuts, we’ll uncover not only their origins, but also how Big Mouth Donuts is redefining what it means to enjoy this beloved treat.
The Origins of Doughnuts
The donut, or "doughnut" as it is sometimes spelled, traces its origins back to Dutch settlers in the 17th century. These settlers brought with them a recipe for "olykoeks," or oily cakes, which were deep-fried pastries that would eventually evolve into the doughnuts we know today.
However, the story of the doughnut is not complete without mentioning the iconic doughnut hole. The invention of the hole is often attributed to Hanson Gregory, a New England ship captain in the 19th century. Legend has it that Gregory, frustrated by the uneven cooking of his fried pastries, used a pepper box to punch out the centers, creating the ring-shaped do nut. This ingenious move allowed for a more uniform cooking process and a delightful texture.
The Rise of Big Mouth Donuts
Fast forward to the 21st century, where doughnuts have transformed into a multi-billion-dollar industry, with artisanal shops in cities throughout the United States. One such shop making waves is Big Mouth Donuts, founded by Kelly Brewer in Rocky River, Ohio. In a recent podcast interview with Mighty Line Minute, Kelly shared his journey and passion for donut-making, a story rooted in nostalgia, family connections, and a commitment to taste and quality.
A Childhood Passion
Kelly Brewer’s love for doughnuts began in childhood, fostered by her parents who took him to local donut shops. "We have a saying here at the donut shop that everybody pokes the glass," he said, recalling those magical moments spent gazing at rows of colorful pastries. This emotional connection is what sets donuts apart from other desserts; they embody a sense of family and childhood memories that few other foods can replicate.
Kelly’s quest for a “real donut” - one made with high-quality, natural ingredients - was ignited by his frustration with the mediocre offerings available in many donut shops. "I would get very frustrated at the fact that everywhere I went to get doughnuts, they just weren't that good," he explained. The mass-produced doughnuts often left him feeling unsatisfied, prompting him to create a product that would truly delight customers.
The Art of Quality Ingredients
At Big Mouth Donuts, the commitment to quality is palpable. Kelly emphasized the importance of using real ingredients: "A donut that is made with eggs, butter, sugar, milk, flour, and yeast." This dedication to quality is evident in every donut that leaves their kitchen.
Kelly and his team work tirelessly to ensure that their doughnuts not only taste great but are also made without preservatives or artificial ingredients. "We like to say our process is kind of unprocessed," he remarked. This philosophy reflects a broader trend in the food industry, where consumers increasingly seek out products made with integrity and transparency.
The Seasonal Allure of Fall Flavors
As the leaves turn and the air gets crisper, October presents an excellent opportunity for donut shops to shine with seasonal flavors. At Big Mouth Donuts, fall is a time to embrace traditional flavors like apple cider and pumpkin. "We obviously do an apple cider donut. We do pumpkin. Pumpkin is everywhere in our shop," Kelly noted.
These flavors not only resonate with customers but also highlight the connection between seasonal ingredients and the joy of baking. The use of locally sourced ingredients is a hallmark of Big Mouth Donuts, ensuring that each donut is not only delicious, but also supports local farmers and businesses.
Meeting Diverse Dietary Needs
In today’s food landscape, accommodating various dietary needs is more crucial than ever. At Big Mouth Donuts, Kelly recognized the demand for gluten-free options, particularly from families with children who have allergies. "We started to play around with a gluten-free donut," he shared. The team was determined to create a gluten-free option that didn’t compromise on taste.
After extensive experimentation, they developed a gluten-free donut that has become incredibly popular, selling well over 100 gluten-free doughnuts daily. "We won't sell it if it doesn't taste good!" Kelly emphasized, illustrating their commitment to quality and customer satisfaction.
Community Engagement and Growth
Big Mouth Donuts isn't just a retail shop; it's an integral part of the Rocky River and Greater Cleveland community. Kelly and his team are actively involved in local events, participating in farmer's markets and catering to weddings and other gatherings. "We love our retail store .. but we really have to make sure that we stay diversified," he said.
Their presence in local grocery stores and coffee shops further extends their reach, allowing more people to enjoy their delicious doughnuts. This diversification strategy reflects a keen understanding of the evolving food market, where adaptability is key to success.
The Donut Experience
What makes Big Mouth Donuts truly special is the experience they offer. From the whimsical atmosphere of the shop to the genuine passion of the staff, customers are treated to more than just a pastry; they receive a memorable experience. Kelly described the joy of watching families come in and seeing children light up at the sight of colorful doughnuts. "If they're four years old, that's the memory they're going to have for the rest of their lives," he remarked.
Customer Favorites
So, what are the top must-try doughnuts at Big Mouth Donuts? According to Kelly, the top contenders include:
These doughnuts exemplify the craftsmanship and dedication that goes into every batch, making them well worth the visit.
The Future of Doughnuts
As we look ahead, what does the future hold for dougnuts? Kelly believes that the trend of elevating ingredients will continue, with innovations like vegan and specialty gluten-free donuts gaining traction. "I think you're gonna see people continue to elevate the ingredients that go into it," he predicted.
For those with a sweet tooth, the possibilities are endless. The combination of creativity and high-quality ingredients means that the humble donut will continue to evolve and capture the imaginations (and appetites) of dessert lovers everywhere.
Conclusion
The story of Big Mouth Donuts is a testament to the power of passion, quality, and community. Kelly Brewer’s commitment to creating exceptional doughnuts has not only redefined what it means to enjoy this beloved treat; Big Mouth Donuts also serves to bring people together, providing shared memories and experiences.
As we savor the American donut tradition and its evolution, let us also celebrate the craftsmanship that goes into making them. Whether you’re indulging in a classic vanilla glaze or exploring a seasonal flavor, the journey of each donut - from its historical roots to the modern artisanal approach - reminds us that sometimes, the simplest pleasures are the most profound pleasures. So next time you find yourself in Rocky River, Ohio, be sure to stop by Big Mouth Donuts and experience the delightful world of artisanal doughnuts for yourself. Your taste buds will thank you, and you will have gained new memories!
References
https://www.bigmouthdonut.com/
https://mightylinetape.com/a/blog/category/mighty-lines-safety-talk-and-toolbox-talk-topics
