Most Je Ne Sais Quoi
Crisp on the outside and pillowy on the inside, La Quinta Baking Company’s New Orleans–style beignets satisfy with fresh strawberries and a powered-sugar dusting. laquintabaking.com
Best Budget Bite
Ask for the raised crumb at Teddy’s Donuts in Bermuda Dunes for a fluffy, not-too-sweet treat that’ll only set you back a buck. 760-345-8879
Coolest Clique
Served warm, the oversized doughnut holes from Norma’s at Parker Palm Springs are delectable alone, but their tablemates — fresh lemon custard and blueberry preserves — take them to the next level. parkerpalmsprings.com
The Tried and True
It’s hard to beat the original glazed from Krispy Kreme. Die-hards used to have to drive more than an hour to the nearest location in Menifee, but a long-anticipated outpost opened in April in Rancho Mirage. krispykreme.com
READ NEXT: Hungry? Check out the desert’s foodie scene to find your next meal.