Handcraft Doughnuts

When it comes to the ultimate indulgence in the District of Columbia, few things can compete with a truly exceptional, hand-crafted doughnut. For locals seeking a small-batch pastry experience that goes far beyond the average sugary treat, look no further than Handcraft Doughnuts. This artisanal shop, nestled within the vibrant atmosphere of Union Market, has quickly established itself as a must-visit destination for those with a discerning sweet tooth. What makes this establishment stand out in DC's dynamic culinary scene is its unwavering commitment to quality, its distinctive brioche dough base, and its continuously rotating menu of intensely creative and perfectly balanced flavor profiles.

Handcraft Doughnuts is more than just a place to grab a quick pastry; it is the culmination of a dream for a husband and wife team, Kara Terrell and Ike Emejuru, who aspired to create a community space centered around making good memories over fresh, small-batch creations. This commitment to community and quality is evident in every bite. They are celebrated throughout the local area for specializing exclusively in brioche doughnuts, a choice that results in a pastry that is light, airy, and incredibly tender. Their unique brioche is noted by customers for having a perfect texture—a satisfying crunch on the outside that gives way to a soft, chewy interior, which remarkably doesn't feel heavy like many traditional doughnuts. This meticulous process and dedication to an 18-hour preparation for their dough are testaments to the artisanal nature of their product.

The shop proudly identifies as both Black-owned and women-owned, adding an important dimension to DC’s local business landscape. The welcoming and casual atmosphere of the shop, coupled with the personalized service from the owners and staff, makes every visit a pleasant experience, perfect for a quick visit or a moment of solo dining enjoyment. If you're looking for an unforgettable breakfast item or a decadent dessert, Handcraft Doughnuts in the Union Market District offers a truly superior, fresh, and handmade option that continually delights the DC community.

Location and Accessibility: The Hub of Union Market

Handcraft Doughnuts is perfectly situated inside the lively and centrally located Union Market, one of Washington, D.C.'s most dynamic cultural and culinary destinations. The market environment provides an energetic backdrop to enjoy your artisanal treat, allowing you to easily combine your visit with shopping, dining, and soaking up the local flavor of the district.

The exact address is 1309 5th St NE, Washington, DC 20002, USA. This location places the shop in the Near Northeast area, adjacent to the NoMa neighborhood, making it highly accessible for residents across the city.

For those traveling by Metro, the NoMa-Gallaudet U station on the Red Line is the nearest transit hub, offering convenient access to Union Market. The area is also well-served by local bus routes, and for drivers, there are parking options available in the Union Market District. Being inside the market means you can enjoy the casual, high-energy environment while you pick up your order. The shop’s presence in this major food hall makes it an integral part of the local culinary experience, drawing in both dedicated doughnut fans and casual visitors exploring the best of DC food and art.

Services Offered

Handcraft Doughnuts provides several convenient ways for customers to enjoy their freshly made brioche masterpieces. Their service model is built for efficiency and ease, whether you are stopping by for a morning treat or ordering ahead for a special occasion.

• In-store pickup: Customers can easily stop by their stall within Union Market to select their doughnuts and coffee. Due to their small-batch production, it is always a good idea to visit earlier in the day, as they often sell out.
• Takeout: All doughnuts and drinks are readily available for takeout, allowing you to enjoy your purchase while exploring the rest of the market or taking them home to share.
• Delivery: For added convenience, the shop offers delivery options, bringing their unique artisanal treats directly to your home or office in the DC area.
• Catering: For larger orders, Handcraft Doughnuts offers catering. For orders of more than 36 doughnuts, a 72-hour advance notice is requested to ensure the utmost quality and freshness for your event, meeting, or celebration.
• Payment Options: The shop accepts major credit cards and debit cards, ensuring a quick and hassle-free transaction.

Features and Highlights

The defining characteristics of Handcraft Doughnuts are rooted in their commitment to a high-quality, artisanal process and their dedication to supporting local DC commerce. These features make them a standout option in the region's dessert and breakfast categories.

• Handmade Brioche Doughnuts: Specializing in brioche dough, which is renowned for its rich, buttery, and light texture. Their doughnuts are prepared daily in small batches, guaranteeing a product that is consistently fresh, soft, and chewy on the inside with a desirable slight crispness on the exterior.
• Unique and Seasonal Flavor Combinations: The menu rotates frequently to reflect seasonality, featuring creative and sophisticated flavor pairings that are rarely found in other doughnut shops. Examples of past and present unique flavors include Yuzu Ganache, Matcha Fluff with Blackberry Jam, Rosewater Buttercream w/ Crushed Pistachios, Earl Grey, and Basil Blueberry. These artisanal glazes and garnishes are made in-house using fresh, and when possible, locally sourced ingredients.
• Black-Owned and Women-Owned Business: A key pillar of the DC small business community, the shop is proudly operated by the husband and wife team of Kara Terrell and Ike Emejuru, supporting local economic and cultural growth.
• Great Coffee Pairing: Beyond the stellar doughnuts, the shop is noted for its quality coffee offerings, making it an ideal destination for a complete breakfast or afternoon pick-me-up.
• Casual and Welcoming Atmosphere: Located within the casual and vibrant setting of Union Market, the environment is perfect for a relaxed and quick visit, often highlighted by the friendly and personable service from the staff and owners.
• Artisanal Curation: Each doughnut is considered an "artful curation," focusing on a careful balance of flavors and meticulous attention to presentation and detail, setting them apart from mass-produced competitors.

What is Worth Choosing Handcraft Doughnuts?

For District residents who appreciate true craftsmanship in their food, Handcraft Doughnuts offers a compelling choice. This is the place to go when you are searching for an elevated version of a classic treat. The fundamental difference lies in their brioche dough—it is richer, more tender, and less dense than standard yeast-raised dough, which dramatically improves the overall eating experience. The result is a doughnut that tastes incredibly fresh, with a texture that is often described as perfect: "a nice crunch on the outside and soft and chewy inside." Customers who've enjoyed their offerings since their earlier pop-up days consistently praise their quality and unique approach.

The rotating and inventive menu is another major draw. While beloved classics like the Buttermilk Glazed Doughnut and Chocolate Ganache Doughnut are often available, the opportunity to try an exotic flavor like Yuzu Ganache, Rosewater Buttercream, or Blood Orange Curd w/ Meringue turns a simple purchase into a small culinary adventure. This commitment to fresh, seasonal, and unique flavors means there is always something new and exciting to try, ensuring that repeat visits are always rewarding.

Moreover, supporting Handcraft Doughnuts means supporting a local, family-run, Black-owned, and women-owned business that is dedicated to its community. The personalized and sweet interaction with the owners, who are often present and eager to chat about their flavors, enhances the overall experience and reinforces the local, small-batch spirit of the establishment. Whether you are craving a unique dessert, a quality pastry to go with your coffee, or looking to cater an event with treats that will truly impress, Handcraft Doughnuts provides a distinctively delicious and high-quality option right in the heart of DC. Don't miss out on what many consider to be the best brioche doughnuts in the Washington, D.C. area.

Contact Information

For more information, to inquire about catering, or to plan your visit, please use the contact details below.

Address: 1309 5th St NE, Washington, DC 20002, USA (Located inside Union Market)

Phone: (240) 681-9658

Handcraft Doughnuts

1309 5th St NE, Washington, DC 20002, USA