Celebrating National Doughnut Day: A Sweet Legacy of Service

The Salvation Army started National Doughnut Day back in 1938 to honour the brave “Doughnut Lassies” of The Salvation Army. These incredible women made and served fresh doughnuts to soldiers on the front lines during the First World War, offering comfort and a taste of home. 

Today, National Doughnut Day continues to symbolize our commitment to giving hope and support to vulnerable people in 400 communities across Canada. In 2024, over three million visits were made to The Salvation Army in Canada and Bermuda for assistance. 

We invite you to enjoy a sweet treat in honour of the past—and in support of the ongoing work being done in communities across Canada.

Here’s the original recipe used by the “Doughnut Lassies” on the front lines:

Ingredients:

• 5 cups flour
• 2 cups sugar
• 5 teaspoons baking powder
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 2 eggs
• 1 3/4 cups milk
• 1 tub lard (for frying)

Instructions:

1. Combine all dry ingredients in a bowl.
2. Add eggs and milk and mix into a soft dough.
3. Roll out the dough to about 1/4 inch thick and cut into rings.
4. Heat oil in a deep pan and carefully drop in the doughnuts.
5. Fry until golden brown, turning once.
6. Remove and drain on paper towels.
7. Optional: dust with sugar or cinnamon or dip in the icing glaze.

Doughnut Icing Glaze

Ingredients:

• 1 ½ cups icing sugar, sifted
• 2-3 tablespoons milk or water
• 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract

Instructions:

1. Sift the icing sugar to avoid lumps and add to bowl.

2. Add milk/water ½ tablespoon at a time and whisk until a thick icing (about the consistency of honey) forms.

3. Add vanilla extract and any food colouring of choice and mix until well combined.

4. Once the doughnuts have cooled, dip the surface into glaze icing and let set for 5-10 minutes.

Note: If your icing is too thick, add more milk/water. If it becomes too thin, add more icing sugar to thicken it.