What's the story behind Uncle D's Southern Donuts?
Honestly, it just came to me out of the blue. I came back to Charlotte, after graduating from NC A&T, and noticed a large number of specialty bakery shops had opened. I tried them all and thought they were great, but then the thought of offering something different popped into my mind. Although I never had any formal culinary training, I learned how to bake at a young age from my grandmother. Inspired, I decided to put my knowledge to use in pursuit of making the perfect donut. After trying out a few traditional recipes, I asked myself what if I baked the donuts instead of frying them?
What did it feel like to sell the very first donut?
It was a surreal moment after being up all night, preparing for our first event that was being hosted by Davita Galloway. When the first person bought a donut and tried it, I said to myself, Mama, I made it!
How do you come up with recipes and the donut names?
Our donuts are based off of family cake recipes to which I've added a twist. As far as the naming, I always try to give them a Southern, or community, name. I want to reference things in the city because of my love for my hometown. For example, our apple ginger flavor is named the 49er, after the UNCC 49ers.
Largest order of donuts produced?
Our largest order was for Creative Mornings Charlotte. We made over 300 donuts!
What's a day in the life of a donut maker look like?
You get up. Ask God why in the world did I choose donuts! LOL. Shake it off. Preheat the oven. Gather all ingredients. Then realize you're low on inventory for a certain item. Curse yourself for not being more organized. Then wash your hands. Begin prepping donuts. Burn yourself on the oven a few times to make sure you're awake. Lie to yourself and say that you're tasting each donut to ensure quality when you're really just a fatty.
Any other baked goods on the horizon?
Our goal right now is to perfect our donuts before venturing to other items I have in mind. My second favorite love is cheesecake and potato chips. So, BOLO (be on the lookout, for those of you needing an acronym dictionary).
Truth: how do you keep yourself from eating the donuts?!
I don't, LOL. Okay, really I do unless I'm full. I really want to make sure that each batch is perfect before they are sent out, so I sacrifice myself to make sure your orders are perfect.
Knowing our readers want a donut right now, where should we send them?
Instagram DM
Favorite Charlotte hangout spot?
Truth be told, I usually float around the Epicenter and Midwood Plaza. There's so much to do.
Favorite Charlotte restaurant?
I would have to say Rusty's—their South Charlotte Cheesesteak will give you life! Also, Freshwaters restaurant and I gotta go with Cookout and Benni's Pizza!
Favorite place to work on the business?
At my 9-5 and at home. It seems like most of my ideas come to me while at my full-time job.
Favorite Charlotte event?
Speed Street 600 Festival and the CIAA Tournament
Any other Charlotte favorites?
- Bladez Barber Shop with Alski TV keeps me looking sharp!
- Gamestop
- Personal Trainer @dageneral_uno who keeps Aunt Viv looking like a snack.
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