apple cider doughnut waffles Recipe

If you’ve ever dreamed of capturing all the cozy, cinnamon-kissed flavor of a fresh apple cider doughnut in waffle form, you’re in for something magical. These apple cider doughnut waffles take the warm spice and deep apple notes you adore and transform them into breakfast perfection—with crisp edges, tender middles, and a rustic aroma that’ll make everyone race to the kitchen. It’s a fun twist on two beloved classics, perfect for a lazy weekend, festive brunch, or those mornings when you crave something just a little bit special.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This recipe comes together with a handful of humble ingredients, each playing a starring role in creating the unmistakable taste of apple cider doughnut waffles. No extras—just pure flavor and a deliciously fluffy texture you won’t forget.

• Apple cider: Reducing it pumps up the apple flavor and adds that signature cider sweetness to every bite.
• White whole wheat flour: Adds a lovely nutty background and hearty texture (all-purpose works beautifully too if that’s what you have on hand).
• Sugar: Just enough to sweeten everything and caramelize those waffle edges.
• Baking powder: The secret to those cloud-like pockets and a lofty rise.
• Salt: A little pinch sharpens the flavors and balances the sweetness.
• Ground cinnamon: Essential for that true fall-spice aroma and classic doughnut vibe.
• Apple pie spice: This brings even more warmth and complexity—think nutmeg, allspice, cloves.
• Egg: Binds the batter and contributes to a rich, tender crumb.
• Canola oil: Keeps the waffles golden, crisp, and deliciously moist on the inside.

How to Make apple cider doughnut waffles

Step 1: Reduce the Apple Cider

Start by pouring the apple cider into a small saucepan. Let it gently simmer over low heat, stirring every so often, until it reduces from 1 1/2 cups down to 1 cup. This intensifies the apple flavor, making your apple cider doughnut waffles taste like autumn in every bite. Expect 15 to 20 minutes on the stove, but trust me—this step is so worth it.

Step 2: Preheat Your Waffle Iron

Turn on your waffle iron so it’s hot and ready when your batter is. A properly heated iron means crispy outsides, tender insides, and that irresistible golden finish every waffle fan dreams of.

Step 3: Mix the Dry Ingredients

In a medium mixing bowl, combine the white whole wheat flour, sugar, baking powder, salt, cinnamon, and apple pie spice. Use a whisk to blend them evenly—this way, you’ll get those lovely spices in every bite without clumps.

Step 4: Whisk the Wet Ingredients

In a separate bowl, break in the egg, pour in the canola oil, and add the cider you reduced earlier. Whisk it all together until thoroughly mixed. The aromas already hint at how good these waffles will be!

Step 5: Combine the Batter

Slowly pour the wet mixture into the dry ingredients. Use a spatula to gently fold the batter, stopping as soon as you see the flour disappear. A few lumps are totally fine—overmixing is the enemy of fluffy waffles, especially with the heartiness from the whole wheat flour.

Step 6: Cook the Waffles

Scoop about a third of the batter into each section of your waffle iron, spreading if needed. Close and let them cook according to your machine’s directions (usually 3–5 minutes), until they’re puffed and deep golden brown. The scent of apple and spice wafting through your kitchen? Pure heaven.

Step 7: Cool for Maximum Crispness

Transfer each waffle to a wire rack for 5 minutes after cooking. This step lets extra steam escape, so your apple cider doughnut waffles stay wonderfully crisp outside with a soft, cake-like center—just like the best doughnuts.

How to Serve apple cider doughnut waffles

Garnishes

The finishing touches can take your apple cider doughnut waffles from delicious to downright crave-worthy. Try dusting them with cinnamon-sugar, drizzling with a simple glaze, or adding a dollop of whipped cream. Even a sprinkle of chopped pecans or a tumble of fresh apple slices looks and tastes fantastic here.

Side Dishes

Pair your waffles with thick-cut bacon, breakfast sausage, or a bowl of Greek yogurt with honey. For something lighter, a fruit salad (especially with pears, apples, and berries) compliments the spiced warmth of the dish and makes the whole meal feel balanced.

Creative Ways to Present

Stack your apple cider doughnut waffles high and drizzle with real maple syrup, or sandwich them with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a dessert twist. For brunch gatherings, try cutting them into sticks for dunking or use mini waffle makers for bite-sized treats that everyone can nibble on with their coffee or cider.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you have leftover waffles (lucky you!), let them cool completely. Pop them in an airtight container or zip-top bag and store in the refrigerator for up to three days. A quick toast or reheat will bring them right back to life.

Freezing

Yes, these apple cider doughnut waffles freeze beautifully! Lay them in a single layer on a baking sheet to freeze for an hour, then transfer them to freezer bags. This way, they won’t stick together, and you can pull out just what you need for a quick breakfast or snack—up to three months later.

Reheating

For best results, reheat the waffles in a toaster or oven at 350°F until hot and crisp. The microwave works in a pinch (30–45 seconds), though they may lose a bit of that signature crispness that makes them so irresistible.

FAQs

Can I make apple cider doughnut waffles gluten-free?

Absolutely! Simply substitute your favorite gluten-free all-purpose flour blend. The flavor remains fantastic, though the texture might be a little lighter or denser depending on the blend you use. Just don’t skip the apple cider reduction—that’s where the magic happens.

What if I don’t have apple pie spice?

No problem! You can use extra ground cinnamon, or mix your own blend using nutmeg, allspice, and a pinch of cloves or ginger. The key is warming, comforting spices, so play with what you have on hand.

Can I prepare the batter in advance?

Batter is best made fresh, but you can mix the dry ingredients the night before and keep the wet ones in the fridge (don’t combine them until ready to cook). This way you’ll have fresh, fluffy apple cider doughnut waffles in minutes—even on busy mornings.

Do I have to use canola oil?

Not at all! Any neutral oil works—sunflower, light olive oil, or even melted coconut oil (for a slightly tropical twist). Avoid using butter in the batter, as it can solidify and make the waffles less tender when cooled.

What’s the best way to keep waffles warm if making a big batch?

Place cooked waffles on a wire rack set over a baking sheet and keep them in a low oven (around 200°F). This keeps them hot and crisp while you finish the rest—and means everyone gets a fresh-from-the-iron experience, every time.

Final Thoughts

If you’re looking to light up your kitchen with the flavors of fall and a little extra happiness, these apple cider doughnut waffles are just the ticket. Gather your ingredients, invite someone you love to the breakfast table, and enjoy every sweet, spiced bite—you’ll see why this recipe is such a favorite in my home.

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