Apple Fritter Waffle Donuts

A Perfectly Sweet Start to Your Day or Dessert Table

Craving something sweet, cozy, and utterly satisfying? This Apple Fritter Waffle Donuts recipe brings together the warm spices of fall, the nostalgic flavor of apple fritters, and the crisp charm of waffles in one creative treat. Whether you serve them for breakfast, brunch, or dessert, these glazed waffle donuts are sure to impress family and friends.

Let’s dive into this quick and delightful recipe that’s ready in under 30 minutes and bursting with cinnamon-apple goodness!

Get Ready to Cook: Let’s Make Something Delicious Together!

Ready to create a comforting treat your loved ones will ask for again and again? Follow this easy recipe for homemade Apple Fritter Waffle Donuts. Don’t forget to save or print it—you’ll definitely want to make it again soon.

Tools, Servings, and Prep Time

Tools Needed:

  • Waffle iron
  • Mixing bowls (1 medium, 1 small)
  • Whisk or fork
  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • Spatula
  • Wire rack

Serves: 6 waffle donuts
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes

This recipe is perfect for a small family brunch, a fun weekend breakfast, or a simple homemade dessert.

Ingredients

For the Waffle Donuts:

  • 1 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1/4 cup granulated sugar
  • 1 teaspoon baking powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 1/3 cup milk
  • 1 egg
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1 tablespoon melted butter
  • 1 large apple, peeled and finely chopped
  • Oil spray (for waffle iron)

For the Glaze:

  • 1 cup powdered sugar
  • 2 tablespoons milk
  • 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare

Start by preheating your waffle iron. This ensures the batter begins to cook as soon as it touches the surface, creating those golden-brown ridges and crispy edges. Lightly spray the waffle iron with oil to prevent sticking and make clean-up easier.

Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients

In a medium mixing bowl, combine your all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, baking powder, cinnamon, and salt. Whisk everything together until it’s well blended. This mix is the base of your waffle donut batter and adds that signature cinnamon warmth.

Step 3: Combine the Wet Ingredients

In a separate bowl, beat the egg until slightly frothy. Then add the milk, melted butter, and vanilla extract. Stir until smooth. These ingredients give your waffle donuts moisture, richness, and depth of flavor.

Step 4: Mix the Batter

Now, slowly pour the wet ingredients into the bowl with the dry ingredients. Gently mix with a spatula or spoon just until everything is combined. Be careful not to overmix—this can lead to dense donuts. The batter should be slightly thick but pourable.

Step 5: Fold in the Apples

Peel and finely chop a large apple. A tart apple like Granny Smith works great for contrast, but any apple you love will do. Fold the apple pieces into the batter evenly, ensuring each bite is packed with sweet fruitiness.

Step 6: Cook the Waffle Donuts

Scoop about 1/3 cup of batter into each mold of your waffle iron. Gently spread the batter out to fill the space, then close the lid. Cook for 3–5 minutes, or until the waffle donuts are golden brown and slightly crisp. Carefully remove them and place them on a wire rack to cool slightly.

Step 7: Prepare the Glaze

While your waffle donuts are cooling, whisk together powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract in a small bowl until smooth. This glaze adds a delicious finishing touch that takes the flavor over the top.

Step 8: Glaze the Waffle Donuts

Once the waffle donuts are warm (not hot), dip them into the glaze or drizzle it over the top. Let the glaze set for a few minutes before serving. The contrast between the warm donut and the sweet glaze is absolutely irresistible.

Recommendations for Recipe Success

  • Use fresh apples. They give the best texture and flavor. Avoid canned or overly soft apples.
  • Don’t overmix the batter. Mix until ingredients are just combined to keep the donuts light and fluffy.
  • Preheat your waffle iron fully. This ensures even cooking and a crisp outside.
  • Let the glaze set. If you’re planning to stack or transport these donuts, let the glaze firm up for 10–15 minutes.
  • Customize it! Add a pinch of nutmeg or cloves to the batter for extra spice, or stir chopped walnuts into the mix for crunch.

Serving and Storage Tips

Serving Suggestions:

  • Serve warm for the best taste and texture.
  • Pair with a cup of coffee, tea, or cold milk.
  • For dessert, add a scoop of vanilla ice cream on top.

Storage Instructions:

  • Room Temperature: Store leftover waffle donuts in an airtight container for up to 2 days.
  • Refrigerator: Keep for up to 4 days in a sealed container.
  • Freezer: Freeze unglazed donuts for up to 2 months. Reheat in a toaster oven, then glaze fresh.

To reheat, pop them in the toaster or oven at 350°F for 5–6 minutes until warmed through.

FAQ: Apple Fritter Waffle Donuts

1. Can I make this recipe without a waffle iron?

While a waffle iron gives these donuts their signature texture, you could try cooking the batter in a donut pan or muffin tin at 350°F for about 15 minutes. The texture will be slightly different but still delicious.

2. What kind of apples should I use?

Granny Smith apples are great for their tartness and firm texture, but Honeycrisp, Fuji, or Gala also work well if you prefer a sweeter flavor.

3. Can I double the recipe for a larger group?

Absolutely! Just double all the ingredients and cook in batches. Be sure to stir the batter occasionally so the apples stay evenly distributed.

4. Is there a way to make these donuts healthier?

Yes! You can substitute half of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour, use a sugar substitute, or swap out the butter for unsweetened applesauce or coconut oil.

5. Can I make the batter ahead of time?

It’s best to make the batter fresh, but you can prep the dry and wet ingredients separately and combine them right before cooking for convenience.

Conclusion: Sweet, Simple, and Sure to Impress

Apple Fritter Waffle Donuts are a fun and easy way to bring homemade comfort food to your table—fast. With just a few pantry staples, a fresh apple, and a waffle iron, you can whip up a treat that tastes like a trip to your favorite bakery.

These waffle donuts strike the perfect balance between crispy, soft, fruity, and sweet. They’re great for breakfast, dessert, or just because you’re in the mood for something special. Whether you’re cooking for yourself or sharing with loved ones, this recipe is a guaranteed hit.

So why wait? Fire up your waffle iron and treat yourself to the comforting, cinnamon-kissed flavor of Apple Fritter Waffle Donuts today!

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