The doughnut is such a popular and delicious treat that its shape and name are recognized all over the world. Most scholars agree that doughnuts were brought to America by Dutch immigrants. __1__ One of these was a special deep-fried cake called “oily cake,” which was an early version of the doughnut, but without the hole. There are a number of theories for why doughnuts have holes in the middle.
Most of the theories seem to have some connection with a sailor called Hanson Gregory. It is said that Gregory’s mom made him a delicious variety of these fried cakes with nuts in the dough. This might also be how it got its name. “Dough with nuts” may have been changed into doughnuts. __2__ According to one theory, he put the hole in the doughnut to save on ingredients. Another theory suggests that Gregory cut the hole out of the dough himself so that he could skewer doughnuts on a spoke while keeping both hands on the wheel in a storm. __3__ Bagels were often stored on wooden rods to make them more visible to customers.
Concerning the origin of the name doughnut, some people propose that these fried cakes were once made into the shape of knots not circles. So “dough knot” may have eventually6 become “doughnut.”
It seems there are as many theories about its shape and name as there are varieties of flavors and toppings. __4__ Therefore, many people enjoy them as a quick breakfast. We might be doubtful of their origin, but there are no doubts about their deliciousness!
(A) Although they are mostly considered desserts, they are quite filling.
(B) However, it was Gregory who had more to do with the hole in the middle.
(C) After settling in Manhattan, they began making traditional Dutch foods to remind themselves of their home country.
(D) Still another theory that doesn’t include Gregory implies that the doughnut makers in New York copied the shape of bagels, as this made them easier to display.
