Happy Saturday HC readers! Imbued with ambition, I decided to change things up this week and introduce a novel concept here on Mark It With a “B”. Without further ado, I present the first installment of a series of taste tests that will frequently make their way onto the blog. With that being said, what better way to kick-off a sequence of sweets than with donuts?! Having read rave reviews about Blue-Dot Donuts located in Mid-City, I decided to take matters into my own hands (or rather the hands & mouths of my roommates) to see what all the buzz was about. The adorable shop, painted in its namesake hue, offers a trove of sugary sweets. Immediately upon arrival, my senses were catapulted into overdrive, as the wafting aroma of freshly baked donuts permeated the room, directing my attention towards the glimmering display that lay before my eyes. Boasting 40-50 varieties daily, Blue Dot surely has something to satisfy even the most discerning of tastes. The menu is extensive and basks in donut glory, with flavors like red velvet, dulce de leche, cinnamon sugar cake, and Boston cream pie. According to the amiable staff, Blue Dot’s bestseller and claim to fame is the maple-glazed donut with bacon bits. Reflecting on this now, I regret my decision to be so close-minded, but I honestly did not think a bacon-donning donut would go over well in my house (let alone with my vegetarian self). Consequently, I decided to purchase a dozen donut holes as well as a regular-sized peanut butter and jelly donut. Fortunately, my peer-pressuring tactics proved successful, as my roommates eagerly adopted the position of resident taste testers. After serious nomming and deliberation, a final verdict was reached whereby the apple fritter donut hole was proclaimed the victor. Here’s how the rest of the donut contenders matched up:
2nd Place: Following in a close second was the peanut butter and jelly donut. Reminiscent of everyone’s favorite childhood sandwich, this filled donut had a soft, “pillowy” interior that was nicely complemented by a generous helping of strawberry jam. The peanut butter factor scored major points, adding a sweet, creamy finish (yes, I just went there).
3rd Place: Powdered sugar received positive praise—really, how can you ever go wrong with such a classic? With consistency compared to challah, this sweet nugget of yum scored several satisfied smiles, with not a residual crumb in sight.
The varied assortment, including both traditional and non-traditional flavors, was an overall winner. After having waited so long, I’m thrilled to be able to personally attest to the inherent deliciousness that resides within Blue Dot Donuts. Open 7 days a week, there is literally no excuse for missing out on this dessert diva. On my next visit, I plan on trying the infamous donut ice cream sandwich, featuring a scoop of your choice wedged between a freshly baked donut. If you can possibly think of a more luxurious indulgence, please let me know.
Blue Dot Donuts
4301 Canal Street
New Orleans, LA 70119
http://www.bluedotdonuts.com/