Caramel Apple Fritter Donut Holes

Caramel apple fritter donut holes instantly take me back to a fall festival I stumbled upon while traveling through a small mountain town. There was a little stand tucked between hay bales and pumpkins selling nothing but warm, sugar-coated donut holes, each one oozing with a touch of apple and topped with a drizzle of caramel. I was hooked after the first bite, and I knew I had to recreate them once I got back home.

Since then, I’ve made these caramel apple fritter donut holes for so many occasions and they never last long. The cinnamon-sugar crust, the soft apple-studded center, and the rich caramel finish make them irresistible. Whether it’s a weekend treat or a cozy dessert for a gathering, these little bites are pure comfort and joy.

Ingredients

Here’s what I use for this recipe. You can always make substitutions if you prefer!

• All-purpose flour – Forms the base of the donut hole batter and provides structure.
• Baking powder – Helps the donut holes puff up and become fluffy.
• Sugar – Adds sweetness and helps with the caramelization.
• Eggs – Bind everything together and give the batter richness.
• Milk – Adds moisture and keeps the dough tender.
• Butter – Makes the donut holes soft and flavorful.
• Apples – Chopped finely for a sweet and tart bite inside each donut.
• Cinnamon – Brings warmth and complements the apples perfectly.
• Vanilla extract – Adds a delicious depth of flavor to the batter.
• Oil – Used for frying to get a golden crispy outside.
• Caramel sauce – Drizzled on top for a rich, sweet finish.

Tools You’ll Need

• Mixing bowls – For combining your wet and dry ingredients separately.
• Whisk – Helps mix the batter smoothly and evenly.
• Measuring cups and spoons – Ensures accuracy in the recipe.
• Knife and cutting board – For chopping the apples finely.
• Deep fryer or heavy-bottomed pot – Needed to fry the donut holes evenly.
• Slotted spoon – Makes removing the donut holes from the oil safe and easy.
• Paper towels – Helps absorb any excess oil after frying.
• Cooling rack – Prevents sogginess by allowing air to circulate around the donut holes.
• Small saucepan – Perfect for gently warming the caramel sauce.

Instructions

Step 1:

I start by heating the oil in a deep pot to 350°F. While that’s coming up to temperature, I mix the dry ingredients flour, sugar, baking powder, and cinnamon in a large bowl.

Step 2:

In another bowl, I whisk together the eggs, milk, melted butter, and vanilla extract until everything is smooth.

Step 3:

Next, I fold the wet ingredients into the dry mixture and stir just until combined. Then I gently fold in the finely chopped apples.

Step 4:

Once the oil is hot, I use a small scoop to carefully drop dollops of batter into the oil. I fry them in batches, about 2–3 minutes per side, until golden brown and cooked through.

Step 5:

I remove the donut holes with a slotted spoon and place them on a paper towel-lined tray to drain. After a minute, I roll them in cinnamon sugar while they’re still warm so it sticks well.

Step 6:

I warm up the caramel sauce in a small saucepan or microwave, then drizzle it generously over the donut holes just before serving.

Tips

I like to use tart apples like Granny Smith because they hold their shape and balance out the sweetness.

Don’t overcrowd the pot when frying too many at once will lower the oil temperature and lead to greasy donut holes.

If you don’t want to fry, you can bake them in a mini muffin tin at 350°F for about 12–15 minutes.

For extra flavor, I sometimes add a pinch of nutmeg or clove to the batter.

Ways to Serve

Serve them warm on a platter with extra caramel on the side for dipping.

Pair them with a mug of hot apple cider or cinnamon-spiced coffee.

Add a scoop of vanilla ice cream on the side for a cozy fall dessert.

They make a great addition to a brunch table or fall party spread.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make caramel apple fritter donut holes ahead of time?

Yes, you can make them a day ahead. Just reheat them in the oven and drizzle with fresh caramel before serving.

Can I use canned apple pie filling instead of fresh apples?

You can, but make sure to chop it finely and reduce the added sugar to avoid overly sweet results.

How do I store leftover caramel apple fritter donut holes?

Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days or in the fridge for 4 days. Reheat slightly before serving.

Can I freeze these donut holes?

Yes! Freeze them after frying and skip the caramel. Reheat in the oven and drizzle with caramel just before serving.

See You in the Kitchen

I hope you give these caramel apple fritter donut holes a try! They’re one of my favorite sweet treats to make when the weather turns cool and the leaves start falling. I’d love to hear how yours turn out or what twist you put on them.

Happy Cooking!

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