Without a doubt donuts are the new cupcakes. It seems like every part of Miami-Dade has its own claim to fame in donut-land. The latest entry is Honeybee Doughnuts,  in Pinecrest, the creation of Karen Muirhead who used to be in the corporate world and then pursued her passion, baking. Though open just a short time, the word has gotten out and the most popular varieties like maple bacon (sold on Wednesday and Saturday), chocolate salted pretzel and apple pie sell out in no time.

If you like yeasty, chewy donuts with frosting that tastes homemade this is the place. They’re not like some varieties that seem to evaporate in one mouthful. Besides the contemporary classics like powdered sugar,  strawberry with white chocolate,  cinnamon sugar and buttermilk glazed, there are the fanciful varieties that are much in vogue these days. Think fruity pebbles with colored rice krispies, dulce de leche with toasted almond, and  raspberry coulis with fresh fruit. There are also seasonal choices like an upcoming passion fruit donut.

Those desiring gluten free are not left behind. They have “beehive” mini donuts such as double chocolate.

Donuts are $2.75 each or $3.00 for gluten free. A half dozen is  $15.00 ; a dozen is $27.00 , both plus tax. They also sell Panther coffee and an assortment of cold drinks.

Honeybee is named for the owner who bears the nickname of the shop or, to her friends, is HB. It’s an honest shop, producing quality donuts. Check them out when you’re in the neighborhood.

And speaking of donuts, two more donut shops are on the horizon — Federal Donuts and the return of Velvet Creme. Stay tuned.