Apple Fritter Waffle Donuts – A Crispy, Glazed Mashup of Waffles, Donuts, and Spiced Apple Fritters
Introduction
These Apple Fritter Waffle Donuts are the ultimate autumn mashup—warm cinnamon-spiced apples folded into fluffy waffle batter, cooked to golden perfection in a waffle iron, then glazed like a classic donut. No deep fryer needed, no yeast required—just cozy flavors, crisp edges, and a sweet vanilla glaze that drips down the sides like a dream.
Whether you serve them for breakfast, brunch, or dessert, they’re guaranteed to impress. And the best part? They come together in under 30 minutes with pantry staples and fresh apples.
Ingredients
For the Waffle Donuts
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- 1 tsp baking powder
- ½ tsp baking soda
- ½ tsp ground cinnamon
- ¼ tsp ground nutmeg (optional)
- ¼ tsp salt
- ½ cup buttermilk
- 1 large egg
- 2 tbsp melted butter
- 1 cup peeled and diced apples (Granny Smith or Honeycrisp work great)
For the Vanilla Glaze
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 2–3 tbsp milk
- ½ tsp vanilla extract
Instructions
Step 1: Preheat Waffle Iron
Preheat your waffle iron according to the manufacturer’s instructions. Lightly grease with cooking spray or brush with oil.
Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients
In a large bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt.
Step 3: Mix Wet Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together buttermilk, egg, and melted butter until smooth.
Step 4: Combine and Fold
Pour wet ingredients into dry and stir until just combined. Gently fold in diced apples. The batter will be thick and chunky—perfect for waffle donuts.
Step 5: Cook the Waffle Donuts
Spoon batter into the waffle iron, filling each mold about ¾ full. Close the lid and cook for 3–5 minutes, or until golden brown and crisp. Transfer to a wire rack to cool slightly.
Step 6: Make the Glaze
In a small bowl, whisk together powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla until smooth. Adjust consistency with more milk or sugar as needed.
Step 7: Glaze and Serve
Dip the tops of the waffle donuts into the glaze or drizzle generously. Let set for a few minutes before serving.
Tips for Success
- Use firm apples like Granny Smith for texture and tartness.
- Don’t overmix the batter—just stir until combined for a tender crumb.
- Let donuts cool slightly before glazing to prevent the glaze from melting off.
- Grease the waffle iron between batches to prevent sticking.
- Make ahead: Freeze unglazed donuts and reheat in the toaster before glazing.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve warm with coffee, chai, or apple cider.
- Add a scoop of vanilla ice cream for dessert.
- Sprinkle with chopped pecans or walnuts for crunch.
- Pair with scrambled eggs and bacon for a sweet-savory brunch.
Variations to Try
- Caramel Apple Waffle Donuts: Drizzle with caramel sauce instead of glaze.
- Maple Glaze: Swap vanilla for maple extract in the glaze.
- Nutty Crunch: Fold in chopped pecans or walnuts with the apples.
- Mini Version: Use a mini waffle iron for bite-sized treats.
- Gluten-Free: Use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend.
Storage & Reheating
- Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days.
- Refrigerate for up to 5 days.
- Reheat in a toaster or oven at 350°F for 5–7 minutes.
- Freeze unglazed donuts for up to 2 months—toast and glaze before serving.
Behind the Recipe
This recipe was inspired by the cozy flavors of apple fritters and the convenience of waffles. By skipping the deep fryer and using a waffle iron, you get all the crispy edges and tender centers without the mess. The glaze adds that donut-shop finish, making these waffle donuts a fun and festive treat for any season.
Conclusion
These Apple Fritter Waffle Donuts are warm, spiced, and glazed to perfection. Whether you serve them for breakfast, dessert, or a cozy weekend brunch, they’re sure to become a seasonal favorite. Easy to make, fun to eat, and packed with fall flavor.