You’ll find them at festivals, such as Fort Kent International Muskie Derby, Washburn August Festival, Island Falls Summerfest, or at Sunday breakfasts where someone always claims theirs is the best (and you politely agree after your third helping). 778 of you helped us settle the score to find the absolute Best of Aroostook.  

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With 92 votes, the award of “Best Molasses Donut” goes to…

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Sadie’s Bakery in Houlton, Maine, is a cherished local institution renowned for its molasses donuts. Established in 1948 by Sadie Hand, the bakery has maintained its original donut recipe, becoming a staple in the community. The bakery offers a rotating selection of donut flavors throughout the week, with molasses donuts featured on Wednesdays. Given their popularity, it’s advisable to arrive early to ensure you don’t miss out on these decadent treats.

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2025 Winners

First) Sadie’s Bakery

They disappear fast, so come early, grab a few, and see why locals call them the best molasses donuts in New England.

Houlton, Maine │ Directions or learn more

Second) Lil J’s Kitchen

Their molasses donuts are inspired by Christy Plourde's original recipe, who ran the renowned Plourde's Donuts in Fort Kent for over 50 years. Lil J's Kitchen continues the family tradition of crafting delicious, nostalgic treats.

Mapleton, Maine │ Directions or learn more  

Third) Ruska Coffee Co

Whether you’re grabbing one to go or savoring it slow, you’ll be hooked on Ruska’s donuts from the first bite.

Caribou, Maine │ Directions or learn more  

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2025 Honorable Mentions

Listed in order of popularity among voters

• Rosie’s The County Bakery in Mars Hill, Maine

• The Brookside Inn in Smyrna, Maine

• Hub Coffee in Presque Isle, Maine

• Governors in Presque Isle, Maine

“Best Molasses Donut” is just one of nine categories awarded by Aroostook County Tourism, click here to see the full results of the 2025 Best of Aroostook Awards.
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Aroostook County Tourism (ACT) is the Destination Marketing Organization of Maine's Aroostook County. ACT is compromised of a 12 member volunteer board who work to promote all of The County and invite visitors to find their own Aroostook adventure through marketing. "Best of Aroostook'" is a fun way to highlight Aroostook County and no prizes are given. Method: winners are announced for the top three organizations per category and the other organizations in that category are recognized as honorable mentions. As is tradition, the honor system guides the rules for voting as "Aroostook's Best" is meant to be a fun way to recognize the gems in the Crown of Maine - vote and act respectfully. Votes were accepted between January 1, 2025 and March 24, 2025, lists published in April of 2025.

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