Food Profile

Serving up sweets

The signs flying in the wind grab the attention of drivers — “donuts.” Since opening The Donut Den last summer, owners Tiffany and Keith Gipson have been busy making hundreds of donuts a day to satisfy the early-morning cravings of locals and visitors. Located in Monarch Plaza off of Hwy. 54, the Den has everyday favorites including chocolate long johns, glazed, maple bars, and a variety of cake donuts but has a unique selection of speciality items too. A chocolate long john with snickers on top; a yeast donut with vanilla icing, Fruity Pebbles and marshmallows; a bacon maple bar; cookies and creme (vanilla iced donut covered with Oreos), and more. The chocolate with sprinkles and glazed are the best sellers. Kids love the Fruity Pebbles donut. “The donuts that we offer are constantly evolving,” Keith said. “We are listening to our customers as they ask for different types. Just recently we added an apple fritter, a Bavarian creme to fill long johns, and a raspberry jelly filled donut. A veteran-owned company, Tiffany and Keith moved to the Lake area from San Diego. Keith’s Army contract was up in 2012 and he became a student using his GI bill to pursue a degree in history. Tiffany worked in retail management with Gap, Inc. They moved to the Lake in November 2014. “Starting a business of our own has been an ongoing conversation,” Tiffany said. “We knew the Lake area was missing one, and after weighing the pros and cons, we decided to go for it. “ The store is located at 2454 Bagnell Dam Blvd., Suite 211. Open Tuesday-Sunday 6 a.m.-12 p.m. or until sold out. Hours may change during the winter. Find them on Facebook @TheDonutDen. 573-552-8041