The Heavenly Donut Company proves that passion, community spirit, and seriously delicious donuts can transform novice entrepreneurs into local legends. 🍩
Kimberly and Brock Beiersdoerfer had zero experience making donuts when they opened their Birmingham shop on January 23, 2013—but they had something even more powerful: a genuine desire to serve their community and incredible determination.
How Heavenly Donut Won Alabama’s Heart
Their rags-to-riches donut story began with seeking mentorship from local business leader Dave Upton Sr. of Vestavia, who guided them toward Memphis legend Don DeWeese of Gibson’s Donuts.
DeWeese didn’t just share advice—he personally trained Brock in his Memphis kitchen and even sent a 20-year donut veteran to Birmingham to train the new Heavenly staff.
This hands-on mentorship approach created something magical: authentic, handcrafted donuts that locals couldn’t find anywhere else.
The shop quickly gained momentum by focusing on genuine customer service and community connection rather than flashy marketing.
Their “old-fashioned, we really care about you” approach resonated deeply with Birmingham residents who craved authentic experiences.
Within months, regulars were visiting daily for their donut fix, creating the kind of loyal customer base that most businesses dream about.
National recognition soon followed when Zagat named their peach fritter the best donut representing Alabama in February 2014.
Food Network’s Alton Brown declared their donuts among his favorites in the country, while Travel Magazine ranked Heavenly as the #8 donut shop nationwide in 2021.
The Beiersdoerfers expanded smartly, adding a 24-hour drive-thru and donut food truck to meet growing demand while maintaining their commitment to handcrafted quality.
Their success stems from understanding that people don’t just buy donuts—they buy comfort, celebration, and community connection. 💝
Food Highlights
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Regular Glazed Donut: Their signature light and fresh glazed donut that serves as the foundation for their reputation
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Maple Bacon Premium Donut: A perfect blend of sweet maple glaze and crispy bacon pieces that customers describe as “delicious” and worth the premium price
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Peach Fritter: Zagat’s pick for best donut representing Alabama—huge, crispy outside, soft inside with juicy peaches and cinnamon notes
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Nutella Donut: Available Fridays only, this Food Network-recognized treat features rich Nutella spread that keeps customers coming back weekly
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Saturday Beignets: Fresh New Orleans-style beignets served only on Saturdays from 7:00 AM to noon—a little taste of Louisiana in Birmingham
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Apple Fritter: Customers rave about these “huge” and “amazing” fritters that deliver perfect apple and cinnamon flavors
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Atmosphere
The shop maintains a welcoming, community-focused vibe with clean interiors, comfortable seating areas, and outdoor tables for those who prefer fresh air with their treats. 🌤️
The 24-hour drive-thru creates an almost magical late-night experience where customers can satisfy donut cravings at any hour.
Staff members are consistently praised for their friendly, caring service that makes every visit feel personal rather than transactional.
The atmosphere reflects the owners’ genuine desire to create a “big community place where people would hang out, love, and enjoy” rather than just another donut shop.
Bottom Line
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Nationally recognized quality with endorsements from Food Network’s Alton Brown and Zagat reviews
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24-hour drive-thru convenience ensures fresh donuts whenever cravings strike
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Authentic handcrafted approach using techniques learned from Memphis donut legends
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Genuine community connection with owners who truly care about their customers
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Unique seasonal specialties like Saturday-only beignets and rotating donut-of-the-day flavors
Address: 4911 Cahaba River Rd Suite 105, Birmingham, AL 35243
đź“ž (205) 536-7200
🕔 Tue-Fri 6AM–9PM, Sat 7AM–9PM, Sun 7AM–2PM (Drive-thru: Tue 4AM–Sun 2PM, closed Mon)