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Whether you’re grabbing a treat after school, surprising the kids on a Saturday morning, or just need something sweet with your coffee, Milwaukee has some incredible donut spots worth visiting. These local favorites each bring something special — from classic crullers to warm mini-donuts made right in front of you.
After your donut run, check out our full guide to Kid-Friendly Restaurants in Milwaukee for more delicious family spots.
1. Cranky Al’s
6901 W North Ave, Wauwatosa, WI 53213
You can’t talk about Milwaukee donuts without Cranky Al’s. This Wauwatosa institution is loved for its fresh, handmade donuts — especially the classic cake donuts, long johns, and sprinkles that kids go straight for. It’s busy on weekends (a good sign!), but the line moves quickly and the staff is endlessly friendly.
They also serve breakfast pizza, making it a fun spot for a not-so-ordinary family dinner.
2. Donut Monster
5169 N Elkhart Ave, Whitefish Bay, WI 53217
Donut Monster started by supplying dozens to Milwaukee cafés and quickly became so beloved that they opened a brick-and-mortar shop in Whitefish Bay. Their donuts are creative, flavorful, and absolutely huge — think unique glazes, fun fillings, and seasonal specials that sell out fast.
Kids love them. Parents love them. Everyone wins.
3. Happy Dough Lucky
2229 S Kinnickinnic Ave, Milwaukee, WI 53207
Once a mobile mini-donut bar, Happy Dough Lucky now has a permanent home in Bay View – and it’s adorable. They still make their signature mini donuts fresh and hot to order, with toppings like cinnamon sugar, powdered sugar, lemon glaze, and rotating specials.
This spot is especially great for kids because there are vintage arcade games, pinball, and quirky bright decor.
4. Grebe’s Bakery
5132 W Lincoln Ave, Milwaukee, WI 53219
Open since 1937, Grebe’s is a Milwaukee classic. If you love traditional donuts — crullers, long johns, jelly-filled, chocolate cake — this is your spot. Their apple fritters are huge and beloved, and their donuts are carried at many grocery stores across the area.
It’s a great one to introduce kids to the “old-fashioned bakery” experience.
5. The Drive-Thru (Mini Donuts to Go!)
1801 E North Ave, Milwaukee, WI 53202
thedrive-thru.com
If you’re craving something warm and nostalgic, The Drive-Thru makes mini-donuts fresh to order. You can choose powdered sugar, cinnamon sugar, or a mix of both. They’re quick, simple, and perfect for sharing in the car after school.
Want More Family-Friendly Treats?
👉 Explore our full guide to Kid-Friendly Restaurants in Milwaukee
Calie Herbst, Editor-in-Chief of Milwaukee With Kids, has spent over a decade combining her experiences as a parent of three to create a hub for Milwaukee’s family adventures.
Her decade-long teaching career in Milwaukee Public Schools and academic background, including a Master’s in Teaching from Marquette University and dual B.A.s in Sociology and Spanish from the University of Wisconsin – Madison, fuel her passion for inclusive and engaging family content.
Calie is also a recognized voice in local media, contributing to WISN Channel 12 News, WTMJ Wisconsin Morning News, Fox 6’s Real Milwaukee, and B93.3.
Discover more about Calie’s journey and editorial approach on her About Page and Editorial Policy Page.
