Apple Cider Donut Waffles

Name: Apple Cider Donut Waffles: A Delicious Fall Treat!
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 25 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 cups all-purpose flour; 1 cup apple cider; 1/2 cup granulated sugar; 1/4 cup brown sugar; 1 tablespoon baking powder; 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon; 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 2 large eggs; 1/4 cup melted butter; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Posted on September 28, 2025

Breakfast

Introduction to Apple Cider Donut Waffles

As the leaves turn and the air gets crisp, there’s nothing quite like the warm embrace of fall flavors. That’s where my Apple Cider Donut Waffles come in! These delightful waffles are a cozy twist on the classic apple cider donut, perfect for busy mornings or lazy weekends. Imagine serving these golden beauties to your family, their faces lighting up with joy. Whether you’re rushing to work or enjoying a leisurely brunch, this recipe is a quick solution that brings the essence of autumn right to your table. Trust me, your loved ones will thank you!

Why You’ll Love This Apple Cider Donut Waffles

These Apple Cider Donut Waffles are not just delicious; they’re incredibly easy to whip up! In just 25 minutes, you can have a warm, comforting breakfast that tastes like a fall festival. The combination of sweet apple cider and warm spices creates a flavor explosion that will make your taste buds dance. Plus, they’re perfect for busy mornings or special occasions, making them a versatile addition to your breakfast repertoire!

Ingredients for Apple Cider Donut Waffles

Gathering the right ingredients is the first step to creating these delightful Apple Cider Donut Waffles. Here’s what you’ll need:

All-purpose flour: The base of your waffles, providing structure and a fluffy texture.
Apple cider: This is the star ingredient, infusing your waffles with that sweet, tangy flavor of fall.
Granulated sugar: Adds sweetness to balance the spices and enhances the overall flavor.
Brown sugar: Brings a rich, caramel-like depth that complements the apple cider beautifully.
Baking powder: The leavening agent that helps your waffles rise and become light and airy.
Ground cinnamon: A warm spice that evokes cozy autumn vibes and pairs perfectly with apples.
Ground nutmeg: Adds a hint of warmth and complexity, enhancing the fall flavor profile.
Salt: Just a pinch to balance the sweetness and enhance all the flavors.
Large eggs: They bind the ingredients together and add richness to the batter.
Melted butter: For a rich, buttery flavor and to keep the waffles moist.
Vanilla extract: A splash of vanilla adds a lovely aroma and depth to the flavor.

For an extra twist, consider adding chopped apples or walnuts to the batter for added texture and flavor. If you’re looking for a lighter option, you can substitute some of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour.

All ingredient measurements are available at the bottom of the article for easy printing!

How to Make Apple Cider Donut Waffles

Now that you have your ingredients ready, let’s dive into the fun part—making these scrumptious Apple Cider Donut Waffles! Follow these simple steps, and you’ll have a delightful breakfast in no time.

Step 1: Prepare the Dry Ingredients

Start by grabbing a large bowl. In it, whisk together the all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, brown sugar, baking powder, ground cinnamon, ground nutmeg, and salt. This step is crucial as it ensures that all the dry ingredients are evenly distributed. The aroma of the spices will already start to fill your kitchen, making it feel like fall!

Step 2: Mix the Wet Ingredients

In another bowl, combine the apple cider, large eggs, melted butter, and vanilla extract. Whisk them together until they’re well blended. The apple cider is what gives these waffles their signature flavor, so don’t skimp on this step! You want a smooth mixture that’s ready to bring your dry ingredients to life.

Step 3: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients

Now, it’s time to bring the two mixtures together. Pour the wet ingredients into the bowl with the dry ingredients. Gently mix them until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; a few lumps are perfectly fine! This will keep your waffles light and fluffy, just like a good donut should be.

Step 4: Preheat the Waffle Iron

While you’re mixing, preheat your waffle iron according to the manufacturer’s instructions. Lightly grease it with cooking spray to prevent sticking. This little tip will ensure your waffles come out golden brown and intact. Trust me, there’s nothing worse than a waffle that falls apart!

Step 5: Cook the Waffles

Once your waffle iron is hot and ready, pour the batter into it. Use a ladle or measuring cup for even portions. Close the lid and cook according to your waffle iron’s instructions, usually about 5-7 minutes. Keep an eye on them; you want that perfect golden color that says, “I’m ready to be devoured!”

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy

When your waffles are done, carefully remove them from the iron. Serve them warm, dusted with powdered sugar or drizzled with maple syrup. You can even add a dollop of whipped cream or a sprinkle of chopped apples for an extra touch. Enjoy every bite of this fall-inspired treat!

Tips for Success

Make sure your waffle iron is fully preheated for even cooking.
Don’t overmix the batter; a few lumps are okay for fluffy waffles.
For extra flavor, try adding a pinch of ginger or allspice to the dry ingredients.
Keep cooked waffles warm in a low oven while you finish the batch.
Experiment with toppings like caramel sauce or chopped pecans for a twist!

Equipment Needed

Waffle Iron: Essential for cooking your waffles. A non-stick model works best.
Mixing Bowls: Use two bowls—one for dry ingredients and one for wet.
Whisk: Perfect for blending ingredients smoothly.
Ladle or Measuring Cup: For pouring batter evenly into the waffle iron.

Variations

Gluten-Free: Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend for a delicious gluten-free option.
Vegan: Replace eggs with flax eggs and use plant-based butter and non-dairy milk instead of apple cider.
Spiced Up: Add a pinch of ground ginger or cloves for an extra kick of flavor.
Fruit-Infused: Mix in chopped apples or pears for added texture and a burst of freshness.
Nutty Delight: Incorporate chopped walnuts or pecans into the batter for a crunchy twist.

Serving Suggestions

Pair your Apple Cider Donut Waffles with crispy bacon or sausage for a savory contrast.
Serve alongside fresh fruit like sliced apples or berries for a refreshing touch.
Complement with a warm cup of spiced apple cider or coffee.
For a festive presentation, stack waffles and drizzle with maple syrup.

FAQs about Apple Cider Donut Waffles

Can I make Apple Cider Donut Waffles ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the batter the night before and store it in the fridge. Just give it a good stir before using. Alternatively, cook the waffles and freeze them. They reheat beautifully in a toaster!

What can I use instead of apple cider?

If you don’t have apple cider on hand, you can substitute it with apple juice. While it won’t have the same depth of flavor, it will still give you a delicious result!

How do I store leftover waffles?

Store any leftover Apple Cider Donut Waffles in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. You can also freeze them for longer storage. Just pop them in the toaster when you’re ready to enjoy!

Can I add other spices to the batter?

<pDefinitely! Feel free to experiment with spices like ground ginger or cloves. They can add a delightful twist to your Apple Cider Donut Waffles!

Are these waffles suitable for a gluten-free diet?

<pYes! You can easily make these waffles gluten-free by using a gluten-free flour blend. Just make sure to check the other ingredients for gluten content as well.

Final Thoughts

Making Apple Cider Donut Waffles is more than just cooking; it’s about creating memories. The aroma of warm spices fills your kitchen, wrapping you in a cozy embrace. Each bite transports you to a crisp autumn day, where laughter and love are shared over breakfast. Whether you’re serving them to your family or enjoying them solo, these waffles bring a touch of joy to any morning. So, gather your ingredients, embrace the season, and let these delightful waffles become a cherished part of your fall traditions. Trust me, they’ll leave you craving more!