Yes, You Can Absolutely Make Apple Fritters in a Dutch Oven!

No matter the season, our test kitchen experts love to use a Dutch oven. This versatile pot is perfect for every dish, from quick and flavor-packed soup recipes to sweet fried donuts, and these best Dutch oven recipes prove it. We gathered our favorite simmered stews, tender braises and easy sautéed seafood recipes so you can put your Dutch oven to good use.

But first, you may be wondering, what is a Dutch oven used for? Simple Dutch oven recipes, like a one-pot slow-simmered dinner (beef stew, anyone?), as well as baked recipes, like no-knead bread all benefit from this kitchen tool. And curious why they are so great for so many recipes? Dutch ovens are heavy-duty pots made with different types of materials. Our favorites are made with cast-iron, which gets hot quickly and holds heat well for even cooking, from browning and searing to deep-frying and even roasting. Many Dutch ovens on the market are also coated in enamel, which makes the cast-iron vessel more durable and easier to clean.

Looking to buy your first Dutch oven or upgrade this kitchen workhouse? Check out the 9 Best Dutch Ovens, According to Cooking Experts from our Kitchen Appliances and Technologies Lab. Once you've got your pick, you'll never put it away. Feed the crew some epic family dinner ideas, great vegetarian Dutch oven recipes and luxurious apple fritters for dessert. And, with all the pretty buys out there, you'll feel good about taking dinner straight from the stove to the table. Look no further for some great inspiration to use your Dutch oven tonight.