The Sweet Origin Story Behind Dunkin’s Iconic Munchkin Donuts Over 50 Years Ago

Dunkin’s Munchkin Donuts has become a beloved snack worldwide, but its humble beginnings date back to the 1970s in Hartford, Connecticut. What started as a clever way to use leftover dough has evolved into a global phenomenon, with 800 million Munchkins sold annually.

Dunkin's Munchkin Donuts Began as a Clever Way to Use Leftover Dough in the 1970s

Sometimes, the perfect sweet treat for a morning commute is small but packed with flavor. For millions worldwide, Dunkin' Donuts’ Munchkins fit the bill. According to Tasting Table, these bite-sized, spherical donuts have become a beloved staple at the coffee chain, offering the ideal snack. Though they’re widely enjoyed, Munchkins had humble beginnings over 50 years ago.

In the early 1970s, many Dunkin' locations made donuts in-house. When crafting the signature ring-shaped donuts, a small dough ball was left over after punching the hole in the center. At a Dunkin’ store in Hartford, Connecticut, manager Edna Demery began frying these leftover dough balls instead of discarding them. Hungry customers quickly embraced the innovation. Recognizing the potential, the CEO named these small treats “Munchkins,” inspired by the characters from The Wizard of Oz. Over time, the production process evolved, and Dunkin' now uses a specialized cutting machine to mass-produce Munchkins.

From Classic to Limited-Edition Flavors, Dunkin' Sells 800 Million Munchkins Globally Each Year

What started as a clever way to reduce food waste has become a global phenomenon. On September 30, Dunkin' sells around 800 million Munchkins annually. The flavors have expanded over the years, with more than ten varieties available in the United States, from the classic jelly-filled to chocolate cake and old-fashioned.

Limited-edition flavors have also become a part of the Munchkin's appeal. In 2022, Dunkin' introduced its first-ever savory version, inspired by southern cornbread. For Halloween 2024, Dunkin' is taking on McDonald’s with a unique Halloween bucket featuring a purple jack-o-lantern design filled with 50 Munchkins—a festive twist on trick-or-treating.

Internationally, Dunkin' offers exclusive Munchkin varieties that can’t be found in the U.S. One standout is the Choco Butternut, a chocolate cake Munchkin coated with butternut powder, famous in countries like the Philippines and Singapore. No matter where you are, there’s a Munchkin to satisfy every taste. And to think, it all started in a small store in Hartford, Connecticut.