Kurtis Washington, owner of BAD Bakers, pulls a tray of warm donuts out from inside the case to share a closer view.

CITRUS HEIGHTS, CA (MPG) – BAD never tasted so good.

BAD Bakers, situated between Starbucks and Gateway Nails and Spa in the Copperwood Shopping Plaza on 7056 Sunrise Blvd., Suite B in Citrus Heights celebrated a “soft opening” to first-time customers last Saturday just before an official grand opening takes place Saturday, May 9 at noon.

“We’re dialing everything in – recipes, speed and flow – so expect a few bumps while we get it right,” said its owner, Kurtis Washington. He pulled a tray of warm donuts out from inside the case to share a closer view.

“BAD” is an acronym for "Bread and Doughnuts, " and its themed doughnuts feature an eclectic assortment of toppings, ranging from popcorn to potato chips. The names are certain to pique your curiosity and your taste buds.

Washington welcomed Saturday morning customers who were eager to try some of the tantalizing temptations in the glass display cases before them.

Kronuts include fun choices such as “S’morgasboard,” “Guava Goddess,” “Bananarama” and “Couch Potato.” Raised donut varieties include “shorty cake,” “Cookie Craving,” “Ube Brulee” and “Pebblypoo.”

“We’ll be taking time once we open to determine which varieties are most in customer demand and then adjusting inventory as necessary,” Washington said.

And it’s a delicate balance between the demand for traditional donut varieties which are readily available, and those who may want Froot Loops as their preferred topping of choice.

Traditional rich chocolate topped, and sweet glazed varieties were neatly arranged in rows vying for attention against flashier chocolate drizzled and marshmallow topped tray mates.

An overhead menu describes an assortment of BAD bundles, bread, donuts and special treats.

Mochi, raised, cake, kronut, “Plain Jane," Bitso, and both gluten and vegan friendly donut varieties are available to choose from, made fresh daily, priced individually, or as a half or full dozen.

A dozen assorted donuts will cost your tastebuds $38, and the cost of a half-dozen, if you’re sweet tooth is bit more disciplined, unlike mine, is just $19.

Cake and raised donuts go for $35 a dozen and a dozen “Plain Jane” style donuts is $23.

A special “Treats” menu offered by BAD Bakeries at its Citrus Heights store will include an assortment of kolache, a sweet, round pastry with a yeast dough which includes a variety of different fillings.

 A kolach (or kolache) is a sweet, round pastry with a yeast dough, traditionally filled with fruit or cheese, originating from Central Europe and brought to Texas by Czech immigrants, where it has since evolved to include savory fillings. Fillings include hot dog, ham and cheese, jalapeno and cheese, and pepperoni and cheese.

Empanadas, lumpia and fritters are also included on the “Treats” menu.

“We’re now hiring friendly customer service personnel and for our baking staff,” Washington said.

Both bakers and donut toppers are needed to add each of the many different toppings to each fresh batch as they emerge from the oven. Training is provided. Resumes can be sent to: [email protected], he said.

BAD Bakers has also recently opened locations in Natomas, Roseville and Sacramento near Cal Expo.

“My broker at CRC, Capital Rivers Commercial, strongly recommended Citrus Heights. My goal was to establish my first shop in a neighborhood where the community can enjoy a local fresh bakery. The location couldn’t have been more perfect,” he said. “The energy and excitement from everyone thus far confirms our hope,” he said.

Hours of operation are Monday through Saturday from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. and Sunday from 8 a.m. to 7 p.m. View a sample menu at www.badbakers.com/menus.