Easy Caramel Apple Fritter Donut Holes

Caramel apple fritter donut holes take me back to a chilly fall morning when I hosted a brunch for friends and wanted something sweet that felt homemade and warm. I had apples in the fridge and a sudden craving for the comforting flavor of fairground fritters. I chopped the apples, spiced up the batter, and dropped little spoonfuls into hot oil the kitchen smelled amazing, and by the time I drizzled them with caramel, everyone was asking for the recipe.

They’ve since become one of my favorite treats to make for cozy gatherings or dessert platters. These bite-sized donut holes are soft inside, crisp outside, and bursting with spiced apple flavor. And the caramel drizzle? It’s the perfect finish for this irresistible sweet.

Ingredients

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

• All-purpose flour – Creates the structure for the donut batter and holds everything together.
• Baking powder – Helps the donut holes rise and become airy and fluffy.
• Sugar – Adds sweetness to the batter and enhances the caramel flavor.
• Eggs – Bind the ingredients and provide richness.
• Milk – Adds moisture and helps the batter come together smoothly.
• Butter – Brings richness and softness to the final texture.
• Apples – I use finely diced tart apples like Granny Smith for the perfect sweet-tangy bite.
• Cinnamon – Adds a warm spice note that complements the apples beautifully.
• Vanilla extract – Enhances the sweetness and overall flavor.
• Oil – Used for frying the donut holes until golden brown and crispy.
• Caramel sauce – Drizzled on top for that gooey, sweet finish.

Tools You’ll Need

• Mixing bowls – To combine dry and wet ingredients separately.
• Whisk – Helps make a smooth, lump-free batter.
• Measuring cups and spoons – For accurate ingredient amounts.
• Knife and cutting board – For finely dicing the apples.
• Heavy-bottomed pot or deep fryer – For even and safe frying.
• Slotted spoon – Makes lifting out the donut holes easy without excess oil.
• Paper towels – For draining the fritters right after frying.
• Small saucepan or microwave-safe bowl – To warm the caramel sauce.

Instructions

Step 1:

I start by heating the oil in a heavy-bottomed pot to 350°F while I prepare the batter.

Step 2:

In a large mixing bowl, I whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, cinnamon, and a pinch of salt.

Step 3:

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

Step 4:

I fold the wet ingredients into the dry just until combined, then gently stir in the finely diced apples.

Step 5:

Using a small scoop or spoon, I carefully drop the batter into the hot oil and fry in batches. Each donut hole takes about 2–3 minutes per side to become golden and cooked through.

Step 6:

I remove the donut holes with a slotted spoon and place them on a paper towel-lined tray to cool slightly.

Step 7:

While still slightly warm, I drizzle them generously with warmed caramel sauce or dip the tops for a thicker coating.

Tips

Don’t overcrowd the oil too many donut holes at once can lower the temperature and make them greasy.

I recommend tart apples like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp because they hold up well when fried.

You can roll the donut holes in cinnamon sugar before adding the caramel for extra texture.

If the caramel thickens too much, I add a splash of cream and gently reheat it.

Ways to Serve

Serve warm with extra caramel sauce on the side for dipping.

Pair with a mug of apple cider or cinnamon-spiced tea for a cozy dessert moment.

Add them to a brunch platter alongside fresh fruit and other pastries.

Make a dessert board with whipped cream or ice cream for dipping.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make caramel apple fritter donut holes in advance?

Yes! You can fry them ahead of time and reheat in the oven. Add the caramel right before serving for best texture.

What kind of apples are best for caramel apple fritter donut holes?

I recommend Granny Smith or Honeycrisp for their balance of tart and sweet.

Can I bake instead of fry these donut holes?

You can bake them in a mini muffin pan at 350°F for about 12–15 minutes, but the texture will be more like cake than a traditional fritter.

How do I store leftovers?

Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. Reheat gently and drizzle with fresh caramel before serving.

See You in the Kitchen

I hope you give these caramel apple fritter donut holes a try! They’re everything I love in a fall treat warm, crispy, sweet, and full of apple-cinnamon flavor. Let me know how yours turn out or share your favorite twist.

Happy Cooking!

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