Definition & Meaning of "long john"

What is "long john"?

A long john is a type of pastry that is similar to a donut, but is shaped like a rectangle or an elongated oval. The pastry is made from a sweet, yeast dough that is rolled out and cut into the desired shape before being fried until it is golden brown and crispy on the outside and soft and fluffy on the inside. Long johns are often filled with a sweet filling, such as cream or custard, and are topped with a glaze or frosting. They are a popular pastry in many countries around the world and are often enjoyed as a sweet treat for breakfast or as a snack throughout the day.