When it comes to indulgent desserts, Illinois takes the cake—or in this case, the donut. You're about to discover the home to some of the most creative and drool-worthy treats, including a certain donut ice cream sandwich that's gained legendary status.

The Best Donuts in Every State: Illinois

Canva
Canva
loading...
If you're a person who works hard to follow some nutritional guidelines for better health, we're alike. We're also human and after hard work, comes a little reward. I once read that the most popular reward (aka cheat meat) for vegetarians is bacon. As a type 2 diabetic, a double reward like this immensely popular 'donut ice cream sandwich' is going to require some serious post-reward work to bring my sugars back down… but damn it looks so worth it!
Firecakes Donuts via Facebook
Firecakes Donuts via Facebook
loading...
I-Rock 93.5 logo
Get our free mobile app

Love Food had this to say about the Best Donut in Illinois:

There’s nothing about the phrase ‘donut ice cream sandwich’ that we don’t like. Firecakes, with three Chicago shops and one truck that rocks up at locations around the city, is famous for them. Customers can mix and match donuts and ice cream, with vanilla and hot fudge among the favorite fillings. Incredibly popular, Firecakes is considered a real Chicago must-visit.

Firecakes Donuts via Facebook
Firecakes Donuts via Facebook
loading...

Firecakes Donuts has 3 Chicago area locations (plus a food truck):

  • River North
  • Lincoln Park
  • Oak Park
Firecakes Donuts via Facebook
Firecakes Donuts via Facebook
loading...

Here are three reviews highlighting the appeal of Firecakes Donuts in Chicago:

  1. Roadfood describes Firecakes as a must-visit spot for donut lovers, praising the exceptional quality and variety. Favorites include the maple-glazed pineapple and bacon donut, pistachio old-fashioned, and a specialty gelato ice cream donut sandwich. The review notes that all donuts stand out for their rich flavors and textures, like creamy fillings and buttery cake bases. Firecakes is also noted for its multiple locations, including Oak Park and Lincoln Park.
  2. Wanderlogue emphasizes Firecakes' versatility, offering something for every type of donut enthusiast. From classic glazed to creative seasonal flavors, Firecakes stands out as a local favorite in Chicago’s competitive donut scene. The shop is recommended for its ability to balance style and substance.
  3. Yelp highlights customer favorites like the espresso crème and unique creations such as the bacon and pineapple donut. Customers also appreciate Firecakes’ cozy ambiance and consistently good coffee, making it a go-to destination for indulgent treats.
Firecakes Donuts via Facebook
Firecakes Donuts via Facebook
loading...

These reviews underscore why Firecakes is often celebrated as one of the best donut shops in Illinois. For more details, check out their coverage on Roadfood, Wanderlogue, and Yelp.

If you're ready to be mesmerized by donuts, here is the entire list (a delicious photo gallery) of the best donuts from every state, plus D.C., from lovefood.com.

LOOK: Best scenic drives in Illinois

It's time to hit the road—Stacker compiled a list of the best scenic drives in Illinois using data from Tripadvisor as of March 2024.

Gallery Credit: Stacker