The world of donuts is vast and varied, with each type offering its own unique history and flavor profile. Among these, the “Long John” stands out for its distinct bar shape and delightful fillings. This article explores why these particular donuts are called Long Johns, delving into various theories, regional differences, and their popular variations and fillings.
Why Are Donuts Called Long Johns?
The term “Long John” refers to a specific type of donut characterized by its elongated, bar-like shape. This distinctive shape, coupled with the donut’s rich toppings and fillings, has led to various theories about the origin of the name.
1. Boxer Theory
One widely accepted theory suggests that Long Johns are named after John L. Sullivan, a legendary heavyweight bare-knuckle boxer from the late 19th century. Known for his towering height and exceptionally long legs, Sullivan was often nicknamed “Long John.” The elongated shape of these donuts, which resembles the length of Sullivan’s legs, may have humorously reminded people of the famous boxer, leading to the adoption of the name “Long John” for this type of pastry.
2. Clothing Connection
Another plausible theory connects the name to long underwear, commonly referred to as “Long Johns.” In the 19th century, John Smedley’s Lea Mills, a renowned British clothing manufacturer, introduced a type of long underwear that quickly became popular. These undergarments were named “Long Johns” after John Smedley himself. The similarity in shape between the elongated donut and the long underwear might have inspired the naming of the pastry, drawing a whimsical parallel between the two.
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3. Regional Variations
The term “Long John” is primarily used in the Midwestern United States and Canada. However, in other regions, this type of donut goes by different names, such as “éclair” or “bar doughnut.” The regional variation in naming adds an interesting layer to the story, reflecting how cultural and geographic differences influence the names and perceptions of these delicious treats.
Variations and Fillings of Long Johns
Long Johns are not only unique in shape but also offer a variety of coatings and fillings, making them a versatile and beloved choice among donut enthusiasts.
1. Shape and Texture
Long Johns are typically yeast-risen doughnuts, which gives them a light and airy texture. The elongated shape distinguishes them from traditional round donuts, providing a larger surface area for coatings and fillings.
2. Coatings and Toppings
The outer layer of a Long John can vary, offering different textures and flavors:
Glazed Long Johns: These are entirely coated with a smooth, sweet glaze that adds a sugary crunch to each bite. The glaze gives the donut a shiny appearance and a slightly crisp texture.
Iced Long Johns: Some Long Johns are top-coated with rich cake icing, which can be flavored with chocolate, vanilla, or other varieties. The icing adds a creamy, smooth layer that complements the donut’s light and fluffy interior.
3. Fillings
One of the defining features of Long Johns is their ability to be filled with various creamy delights:
Custard-Filled Long Johns: Custard-filled Long Johns are filled with a rich, creamy custard that adds a smooth, luscious texture. The custard’s mild sweetness perfectly balances the donut’s sugary coating, making each bite a delightful experience.
Cream-Filled Long Johns: These donuts are filled with whipped cream or buttercream, offering a lighter and often less sweet alternative to custard-filled varieties. The cream filling adds a fluffy, airy texture that enhances the donut’s overall lightness.
Enjoying Long Johns
Whether you prefer the simplicity of a glazed Long John or the indulgence of a custard-filled one, these donuts are a beloved choice for breakfast or a sweet treat any time of day. Their unique shape, coupled with various fillings and toppings, ensures there’s a Long John to satisfy every palate.
Conclusion
The name “Long John” for these elongated donuts remains a topic of curiosity and debate among donut enthusiasts. Whether inspired by a famous boxer’s stature, the shape of long underwear, or regional naming conventions, one thing is certain: Long Johns are a delightful treat enjoyed across different cultures and regions. Their versatility in shape, texture, fillings, and toppings makes them a favorite among donut lovers everywhere. Next time you bite into a Long John, remember the rich history behind its name and savor the delicious experience it offers.