If you have a soft spot for warm, cozy breakfasts that feel like a hug in food form, this Apple Fritter Waffle Donuts recipe is about to become your new favorite indulgence. These delightful treats combine the comforting flavors of classic apple fritters with the unique, crispy texture of waffle donuts, creating a fun and unexpected twist you’ll want to make again and again. Each bite bursts with tender apples, gentle spices, and a sweet glaze that makes mornings oh-so-special. Trust me, once you try Apple Fritter Waffle Donuts, your breakfast game will never be the same.

Apple Fritter Waffle Donuts Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering these ingredients is a breeze, and each one plays a vital role in crafting the perfect balance of flavor, texture, and aroma. From the warm spices that elevate the apples to the richness of melted butter, every component works together to bring this recipe to life.

2 cups all-purpose flour: The base for a tender yet sturdy waffle donut structure.
2 teaspoons baking powder: Helps your waffle donuts rise beautifully and become delightfully fluffy.
½ teaspoon baking soda: Adds extra lift and helps with browning for a perfect golden finish.
½ teaspoon salt: Balances sweetness and enhances all the flavors.
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon: Brings that signature warm spice reminiscent of apple fritters.
¼ teaspoon nutmeg: Adds a subtle depth of spice that pairs perfectly with cinnamon.
2 large eggs: Provide structure and richness to the batter.
⅓ cup granulated sugar: Sweetens the batter just right without overpowering.
¼ cup light brown sugar, packed: Adds a touch of molasses flavor and moisture.
¾ cup buttermilk: Keeps the batter moist and tender with a slight tang (milk + vinegar works in a pinch!)
¼ cup unsalted butter, melted: Brings lusciousness and helps with browning.
2 teaspoons vanilla extract: Lifts all the flavors with its sweet, aromatic charm.
1½ cups peeled, diced tart apple (like Granny Smith): The star ingredient for that fresh, fruity bite in every donut.
Optional ¼ cup chopped pecans or walnuts: For a satisfying crunch and nutty flavor enhancement.
1 cup powdered sugar: The base of our delicious glaze.
2–3 tablespoons milk: Adjusts glaze consistency for perfect drizzling.
½ teaspoon vanilla extract: Adds sweetness and warmth to the glaze.
Extra powdered sugar for dusting: A finishing touch that makes these waffles irresistible.

How to Make Apple Fritter Waffle Donuts

Step 1: Prepare the apples

Start by peeling, coring, and dicing your apples into small, bite-sized chunks. Using tart apples like Granny Smith will give your waffle donuts a bright, tangy contrast that perfectly complements the sweet glaze. Set these aside for now while you mix the batter.

Step 2: Mix the dry ingredients

In a large bowl, whisk together all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg. This combination of dry ingredients gives your waffle donuts that flavorful, spiced base and ensures a tender crumb. Mixing these dry components first helps the spices and leaveners distribute evenly.

Step 3: Whisk the wet ingredients

In another bowl, vigorously whisk together eggs, granulated sugar, brown sugar, buttermilk, melted butter, and vanilla extract until the mixture is smooth and homogenous. This step ensures your wet ingredients are well-incorporated and ready to transform the dry ingredients into a luscious batter.

Step 4: Combine wet and dry mixtures

Pour the wet mixture into the dry ingredients and gently fold together until just combined. It’s important not to overmix here to keep your waffle donuts light and fluffy. You’ll want to see some small lumps—that’s perfectly okay.

Step 5: Add apples and nuts

Fold in those diced apples and, if you’re using them, the chopped nuts. These add incredible texture and bursts of flavor that make every bite exciting. The apples introduce that signature apple fritter touch, while nuts add a delightful crunch.

Step 6: Preheat and prepare the waffle iron

Heat your waffle iron and lightly grease it with nonstick spray or a little butter. This step is essential for ensuring your waffle donuts don’t stick and come out golden brown with a slight crisp on the outside while remaining soft and tender inside.

Step 7: Cook the waffle donuts

For each waffle donut, spoon about ¼ cup of batter onto the heated waffle iron and close the lid. Let them cook for 3 to 5 minutes, or until they are beautifully golden and crisp on the outside. The time might vary depending on your waffle iron, so keep an eye on them the first round.

Step 8: Cool and prepare the glaze

Once cooked, transfer your waffle donuts to a wire rack to cool slightly. Meanwhile, whisk together powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract until smooth and creamy. This glaze is what really makes these treats taste like classic apple fritters in waffle form.

Step 9: Glaze and dust

Drizzle your glaze generously over the warm waffle donuts and finish with a light dusting of extra powdered sugar. This adds a lovely sweetness and a beautiful, inviting appearance that makes these Apple Fritter Waffle Donuts impossible to resist.

Step 10: Serve and enjoy

Serve your freshly glazed waffle donuts warm or at room temperature for maximum flavor and enjoyment. Each bite combines the nostalgia of apple fritters with the fun texture of waffles, creating a breakfast experience that’s both comforting and exciting.

How to Serve Apple Fritter Waffle Donuts

Garnishes

Add a little extra flair by topping your Apple Fritter Waffle Donuts with a sprinkle of chopped nuts, a cinnamon sprinkle, or a fresh apple slice on the side. These simple garnishes elevate the presentation and complement the flavors beautifully.

Side Dishes

Pair your waffle donuts with a dollop of whipped cream, a scoop of vanilla ice cream for dessert vibes, or a lively fruit compote to brighten the plate. For a savory contrast, crispy breakfast bacon or sausage links can also be fantastic companions.

Creative Ways to Present

Try stacking a few Apple Fritter Waffle Donuts with layers of cream cheese frosting or cinnamon butter between them for a decadent breakfast cake twist. Alternatively, serve them on a wooden board with a side of warm apple cider for an autumn-inspired spread that guests will rave about.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you have leftover Apple Fritter Waffle Donuts (though that might be tough), store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. Keeping them sealed well helps maintain their softness while preventing them from drying out.

Freezing

To enjoy these treats later, let the waffle donuts cool completely, then wrap each one tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag. They freeze wonderfully for up to three months, making them a ready-made breakfast to enjoy on busy mornings.

Reheating

When you’re ready to indulge again, reheat your frozen or refrigerated Apple Fritter Waffle Donuts in a toaster oven or oven at 350°F for about 5–7 minutes until warmed through and crispy on the outside. This method revives their freshly made texture better than a microwave.

FAQs

Can I use different types of apples in Apple Fritter Waffle Donuts?

Absolutely! While tart apples like Granny Smith give a nice balance of sweetness and tang, you can use sweeter or softer apple varieties depending on your preference. Just make sure to dice them small to cook evenly.

Do I need a special waffle iron for making these waffle donuts?

Not necessarily, but a waffle iron with a shape that creates donut holes, or circular indentations, helps achieve that donut look. If you only have a standard waffle iron, you can still make them; they’ll just look more like mini waffles with apple fritter flavors.

Can I make the batter ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the batter the night before and keep it covered in the fridge. Just give it a gentle stir before cooking. Keep in mind that the apples may release some juice, which adds moisture but can slightly change the batter texture.

Are the Apple Fritter Waffle Donuts gluten-free?

The traditional recipe uses all-purpose flour, so it is not gluten-free. However, you can experiment with gluten-free flour blends designed for baking that substitute cup for cup.

What’s the best way to get a crispy exterior on the waffle donuts?

Cooking them until they are golden brown and crisp on the outside is key, so don’t rush the cooking time. Also, reheating them in an oven or toaster oven (rather than microwaving) helps maintain that crispness if you’re enjoying leftovers.

Final Thoughts

There is something so charming about Apple Fritter Waffle Donuts that makes every bite feel like a special occasion. Whether you make them for a lazy weekend breakfast or an impressive brunch treat, they bring warmth, sweetness, and a touch of nostalgia to the table. I can’t wait for you to try this recipe and discover just how delicious waffles and apple fritters are when they join forces. Happy cooking and even happier eating!

Apple Fritter Waffle Donuts Recipe

★★★★★

5.1 from 17 reviews

Author: Marina
Total Time: 35 minutes
Yield: 8–10 waffle donuts 1x
Diet: Vegetarian

Print Recipe

Description

Delicious apple fritter waffle donuts combine the crisp texture of a golden waffle with the sweet, spiced flavors of traditional apple fritters. Made with tart apples, warm cinnamon, and a light glaze, these treats are perfect for breakfast or dessert.

Instructions

Prepare Apples: Peel, core, and dice the apples into small chunks. Set aside to use in the batter.
Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, ground cinnamon, and nutmeg until evenly combined.
Mix Wet Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk eggs, granulated sugar, light brown sugar, buttermilk, melted unsalted butter, and vanilla extract until the mixture is smooth and homogeneous.
Combine Batter: Pour the wet mixture into the dry ingredients and gently stir until just combined, being careful not to overmix to keep waffles light and fluffy.
Add Apples and Nuts: Fold in the diced apples and optional chopped pecans or walnuts, distributing them evenly throughout the batter.
Preheat Waffle Iron: Preheat your waffle iron and lightly grease it with nonstick spray or butter to prevent sticking.
Cook Waffle Donuts: Spoon about ¼ cup of batter onto the waffle iron for each donut. Close the lid and cook for approximately 3 to 5 minutes until the donuts are golden brown and crisp on the outside.
Cool: Carefully transfer the cooked waffle donuts to a wire rack to cool slightly while you prepare the glaze.
Make the Glaze: In a small bowl, whisk together powdered sugar, 2 to 3 tablespoons of milk (adjust for desired consistency), and vanilla extract until smooth and creamy.
Glaze and Dust: Drizzle the glaze over the slightly cooled waffle donuts and dust with extra powdered sugar for a beautiful finishing touch.
Serve: Serve the apple fritter waffle donuts warm or at room temperature for the best flavor and texture.

Notes

Use tart apples like Granny Smith for a balanced sweet-tart flavor that complements the spices.
Buttermilk adds moisture and a slight tang; if unavailable, milk mixed with 1 tablespoon vinegar works well as a substitute.
Adding nuts like pecans or walnuts adds extra crunch but can be omitted for nut-free versions.
For vegan adaptation, use plant-based milk, egg replacer, and vegan butter, but texture may vary.
Make sure your waffle iron is well-greased to prevent sticking and to get crisp edges.
Adjust milk in the glaze to your preferred drizzle consistency.
Store leftovers in an airtight container and reheat in a toaster or oven for best results.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Category: Breakfast, Dessert, Snack
Method: Waffle Iron Cooking
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 waffle donut
Calories: 220
Sugar: 14g
Sodium: 160mg
Fat: 8g
Saturated Fat: 4.5g
Unsaturated Fat: 3g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 32g
Fiber: 2g
Protein: 4g
Cholesterol: 50mg

Keywords: apple fritter, waffle donuts, breakfast recipe, apple waffle, cinnamon dessert, glazed donuts, easy breakfast treats