It is hard to find someone who doesn’t love a good donut, which sort of explains the many fancy and creative donut shops that have popped up all over Southern California over the last few years. Donuts bring up childhood memories – poring over the donut case, trying to figure out which of the sugary, sprinkled, glaze-covered goodies to choose. Since then, I have learned that not all donuts are created equal. I have also learned that I live dangerously close to a donut shop in Oxnard, CA, that gets it right.
The very epitome of a hole-in-the-wall, Oxnard Donuts is a simple neighborhood shop in an unassuming strip mall and it is home to my absolute favorite donuts.
If you get here first thing in the morning, you will find yourself staring down a very full case of fresh, sugary, carb-filled delights. You can tell which are the most popular donuts because they are stacked up extra high.
Oxnard Donuts has it all - something swoon-worthy for literally everyone, from the donut purist looking for perfectly raised and glazed to the super sweet tooth in the mood for something extra special… and everything in between.
I can tell you from experience, the apple fritters are spectacular - crispy on the outside, delicate on the inside - and the giant chocolate-filled bars will crush any sweet attack.
If you ask me, this maple-covered stunner is the star of the show. Sure, it looks like any other *old fashioned* buttermilk donut, but that is where the similarity stops. Every donut shop makes these, but I have found that not everyone does it right and they are often a bit hard or dry. But here, they are dense, moist, melt-in-your-mouth deliciousness.
Natasha Kayes/OnlyInYourState
If maple is not your thing, this same recipe comes plain, glazed, or chocolate-covered, and in bar form if you want something a little more substantial!
If you want just a little taste, you could go with a donut hole or two - they are perfectly lovely - but I recommend the mini jelly-filled. They are sweet, fluffy, moist, and glazed with just a spoon full of sweet berry jelly - and just about three bites.
Natasha Kayes/OnlyInYourState
If you prefer something a little less sweet, try a freshly-baked croissant, danish, or breakfast sandwich.
This good old-fashioned donut shop has been a local staple for over 30 years. Like many shops, they have expanded their offerings to include a variety of hot and cold drinks including boba, smoothies, and more.
This little donut shop in Oxnard is a true hidden gem. Have you enjoyed any of the baked goods from Oxnard Donuts? If not, the next time you are passing through the area, keep in mind that these donuts would be a great addition to your stash of road trip snacks and goodies! Check out Oxnard Donuts on Facebook.
