We tried the Voodoo Doll Doughnut at Voodoo Doughnut in Universal CityWalk Orlando. It presented a fresh pretzel, raspberry jelly, and an average shell. Here is what to know.

The Voodoo Doll Doughnut is one of the most famous creations at Voodoo Doughnut, and it is the only one that arrives already stabbed. We tried it at Universal CityWalk Orlando to see if the legend holds up.

At this point, the Voodoo Doughnut team at Universal CityWalk Orlando should probably ask for our mailing address. We have visited so often in recent weeks that we have a favorite spot in line, a working relationship with the pink boxes, and a mild fear of what our dentist will say. The evidence is in our reviews of the Portland Cream Doughnut and the Butterfinger Doughnut, and there are more Voodoo Doughnut reviews coming in the weeks ahead. Consider that either a warning or a promise, depending on how you feel about doughnuts.

For this review, though, we are skipping the side characters and going straight to the main event: one of the signature doughnuts at Voodoo Doughnut. Of everything behind the glass, this is the one most likely to end up in your cousin’s Instagram story.

What Is the Voodoo Doll Doughnut at Voodoo Doughnut Orlando?

In the Specialties section of the menu on Universal Orlando’s Voodoo Doughnut page, guests will find the iconic Voodoo Doll Doughnut. It is a raised yeast doughnut filled with raspberry jelly and topped with chocolate frosting and a pretzel stake. It costs $5.25 and comes in at 640 calories, so think of it as a small dessert with a very dramatic dress code.

Each Voodoo Doll Doughnut gets slightly different decor depending on the time of year. Our most recent one came in October, so ours wore orange decorative icing, the doughnut equivalent of a Halloween costume. No two dolls are exactly alike, which feels appropriate for a voodoo doll.

Voodoo Doll Doughnut Taste Test

The first thing we noticed when ordering the Voodoo Doll Doughnut this time was the pretzel stake, the doughnut’s signature method of torture. Sure, we have seen it before and eaten it before, but this time it looked different.

The pretzel at Voodoo Doughnut has a reputation for tasting stale and dried out, as if it’s been sitting in the display case since the place opened. Not this time. Except for the very small section that was inside the yeast doughnut, the pretzel tasted fresh. That small section did not get the memo, but we will allow it.

The raspberry jelly also tasted fresh, and it does the job of playing the “blood” in this creepy little voodoo doll. That is the whole idea, since the founders have described the jelly as oozing out like blood when you bite in. The chocolate frosting worked well too, adding the richness that keeps the doughnut from being all jelly and no personality.

Here is where the story gets a little less spooky. During this visit, the yeast shell itself was just average. It was the supporting actor in a cast of strong performances, and nobody is writing a Netflix series about it. We would not call that a dealbreaker, but we would like this review to serve as a warning.

Overall, we enjoyed this doughnut. We think most guests who want a more upscale doughnut with a creepy theme will love it.

What to Know Before Visiting

A few basics, so you can walk in like a regular (like us, apparently):

• Where it is: Universal CityWalk Orlando, tucked next to NBC Sports Grill and Brew. Look for the loud pink branding. You will not miss it
• Hours: Open daily from 8 a.m. to midnight, which means doughnuts are legally available for breakfast, dessert, and questionable decisions.
  Reservations: None. Just get in line and stare at the case like it owes you money.
  Mobile ordering: Select items are available through the Universal Orlando app, though availability varies by item.
  Menu size: More than 50 doughnut varieties, so the Voodoo Doll has plenty of loud neighbors.
  Price and discounts: The Voodoo Doll is $5.25, and Annual Pass discounts do apply.
  Packaging: Doughnuts can be bought individually, by the dozen, or in the signature wooden coffin box. Yes, a coffin. For doughnuts. It is extremely on brand.
  Seasonal look: The decor changes with the time of year, so your doll may not match our orange one. Treat it like a surprise party where the guest of honor is jelly.
  Parking: The Universal CityWalk Orlando parking garage is nearby. There is a fee for parking, but most days parking is free after 6:00 p.m.

Should You Order the Voodoo Doll Doughnut?

Yes, especially if it is your first visit. The Voodoo Doll is the doughnut that made Voodoo Doughnut famous, it photographs well, and on our visit the pretzel and raspberry jelly were fresher than its reputation suggests. The yeast shell was average, so this is not a perfect doughnut, but it is a fun one with real flavor. If you want a more upscale doughnut with a creepy theme, this is your pick.

For more theme park dining reviews, visit MSM News every weekday at noon Eastern Time. We sometimes post bonus theme park dining reviews too. As always, eat like you mean it!

Expertise. Ease. Value.

Ready for your bucket list trip? Our trusted partner, MEI-Travel, will handle the planning so you can focus on the memories. They offer free vacation planning services and have nearly 20 years of experience creating memorable vacations. 

Contact for a fee-free, no-obligation quote today.