Dona vs. donut vs. rosquilla

In Spanish, the words 'dona', 'donut', and 'rosquilla' all refer to types of doughnuts, but they can have different connotations and uses. Let's explore the differences between them.

Dona

'Dona' is a term commonly used in Latin American countries to refer to a doughnut, typically one that is round with a hole in the center and often glazed or covered with sugar.
Me comí una dona de chocolate con leche.
(I ate a chocolate glazed doughnut.)
Las donas son muy populares en México para el desayuno.
(Doughnuts are very popular for breakfast in Mexico.)

Donut

'Donut' is derived from the English word 'doughnut' and is widely understood in Spanish-speaking countries. It is often used interchangeably with 'dona', but may carry a more commercial or brand-specific connotation, like from stores such as Dunkin' Donuts.
Compré una caja de donuts en la tienda.
(I bought a box of donuts at the store.)
Los donuts de esta panadería son deliciosos.
(The donuts from this bakery are delicious.)

Rosquilla

'Rosquilla' typically refers to a type of doughnut that is more traditional or homemade. They are usually less sweet than modern doughnuts and can sometimes be more dense or crunchy, depending on the recipe.
Mi abuela hace rosquillas caseras todos los domingos.
(My grandmother makes homemade doughnuts every Sunday.)
Las rosquillas españolas tienen un sabor diferente al de las donas comerciales.
(Spanish doughnuts have a different taste compared to commercial doughnuts.)

Summary

To sum up, while 'dona' refers to the typical doughnut known in Latin America often with sweet glazes or toppings, 'donut' is an anglicized term commonly recognized and sometimes linked with brand names. On the other hand, 'rosquilla' represents a more traditional or homemade version of the doughnut with varying textures and sweetness levels.