Behavioural expert shares what your favourite doughnut says about your personality

The type of doughnut you prefer can say a great deal about your personality, according to experts. Those who like a glazed doughnut are traditionalist by nature, and prefer staying in over going out. On the other hand, chocolate-lovers are the most sociable, always seeking out happiness and fun activities with others.

Psychologist Jo Hemmings has revealed what your favourite doughnut says about you – with those who prefer a custard-filled treat usually a little reserved or guarded at first, but with one of the kindest hearts of any of the personality types.

And people who want their doughnuts covered in sprinkles are young at heart, and generous with their spirit, time, and money.

The analysis comes as Compare the Market has added new partners to their Meerkat Meals reward, offering savings on different types of food, including doughnuts.

Research by Compare the Market, of 2,000 doughnut eaters, found a classic, jam-filled doughnut was the most popular choice, selected by over half of those polled (51 percent).

This was followed by custard-filled (35 percent), and chocolate (22 percent) – with 29 percent saying a doughnut is their all-time favourite sweet treat.

Jo Hemmings said: “The relationship that we have with food and emotions, while unique to us all and influenced by a number of factors – including personal experience, culture, individual preferences, and social behaviour – can show distinct patterns of personality types.

“When it comes to sweet food, whether we see it as an occasional treat or an everyday must, our personality traits are reflected not just in the taste of the food, but the appearance, the smell, and that first bite, melt-in-the mouth moment.

“Our preferences are also shaped by our childhood experiences, where sweet food was often a treat, or associated with birthday parties and other social events.

“So, those that like the more playful doughnuts, like sprinkles, or a full, non-ring doughnut, are often the most playful of all, even in adulthood.”

People are most likely to buy their doughnuts from supermarkets (68 percent), followed by their local bakery (43 percent).

However, more than a third (36 percent) admit they’re unlikely to try a new or unique flavour, away from ones they already know they like.

Jo Hemmings added: “The more reserved among us tend to stick to the enduringly popular choices of a glazed, jam, or ring doughnut.

“These personality types generally enjoy being organised, and having their work-life balance well under control. They are often the more practical ones, compared to their playful, party-loving friends.

“But all these personalities, with their different and distinctive qualities – from loyalty and patience, to party-loving and open to new experiences – interact well together in a social group, accounting for the popularity of mixed selection boxes of doughnuts, where everyone can have their first choice.”

Julie Daniels, of Compare the Market, said: “It’s fascinating that a doughnut choice can say so much about your personality.

“The variety of doughnut flavours means there will always be one for everyone. A sweet treat can give you a little boost, which can be needed from time to time – and it’s even better when you can get a great deal on it.”