There is nothing quite like biting into warm, crispy, and tender Apple Fritter Waffle Donuts, a delightful twist that combines the fluffy charm of waffles with the sweet, spiced goodness of traditional apple fritters. These treats are packed with juicy diced tart apples and infused with aromatic cinnamon and nutmeg, all drizzled with a luscious vanilla glaze. Whether you’re craving a cozy breakfast or a whimsical dessert, Apple Fritter Waffle Donuts bring joy and comfort in every bite, making them a must-try for anyone who loves a sweet, nostalgic treat with a fun new shape.

Apple Fritter Waffle Donuts Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

The magic of Apple Fritter Waffle Donuts lies in a handful of simple, familiar ingredients that each play their part in creating the perfect blend of flavor, texture, and appearance. From hearty flour that builds structure to the warm spices that spark cozy memories, each item is essential.

2 cups all-purpose flour: Provides the perfect base for a tender, yet sturdy donut waffle.
2 teaspoons baking powder: Helps the donuts rise and become light and fluffy.
½ teaspoon baking soda: Works with buttermilk to ensure a delicate crumb.
½ teaspoon salt: Balances sweetness and brings out flavors.
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon: Adds warm, aromatic spice that’s classic in apple desserts.
¼ teaspoon nutmeg: A subtle hint of cozy warmth to complement cinnamon.
2 large eggs: Bind ingredients and contribute to the rich texture.
⅓ cup granulated sugar: Sweetens the batter just right.
¼ cup light brown sugar, packed: Adds depth and a touch of molasses flavor.
¾ cup buttermilk (or milk + 1 tbsp vinegar): Brings moisture and a gentle tang that brightens flavors.
¼ cup unsalted butter, melted: Adds richness and helps crisp the edges.
2 teaspoons vanilla extract: Brings the batter’s flavors together beautifully.
1½ cups peeled, diced tart apple (such as Granny Smith): The star ingredient—tartness and texture in every bite.
Optional: ¼ cup chopped pecans or walnuts: For an extra nutty crunch if you like.
1 cup powdered sugar: For the sweet, glossy glaze.
2–3 tablespoons milk: Adjusts glaze consistency perfectly.
½ teaspoon vanilla extract: Enhances the glaze with a subtle, sweet aroma.
Extra powdered sugar for dusting: Adds a snowy, elegant finish.

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 varieties like Granny Smith adds a fresh, slightly tangy contrast that cuts through the sweetness of the batter beautifully.

Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients

Whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg in a large bowl. This perfectly blended spice mix lays the groundwork for that familiar apple fritter warmth you’re craving.

Step 3: Combine the Wet Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk the eggs with granulated sugar, brown sugar, buttermilk, melted butter, and vanilla extract until the mixture is smooth and invitingly fragrant. This combination brings both richness and moisture to your doughnut waffle batter.

Step 4: Bring Wet and Dry Together

Pour the wet ingredients into the dry, then stir gently and just enough to combine. Overmixing can toughen the batter, so patience here ensures your Apple Fritter Waffle Donuts come out soft and tender.

Step 5: Fold in Apples and Nuts

Gently fold the diced apples and optional nuts into the batter, distributing these pockets of flavor evenly throughout. These bursts of fruit and crunch define the character of your Apple Fritter Waffle Donuts.

Step 6: Preheat and Grease Your Waffle Iron

Heat your waffle iron and lightly grease it with nonstick spray or butter. A well-greased surface prevents sticking and helps develop golden, crisp edges.

Step 7: Cook the Donut Waffles

Spoon about ¼ cup of batter onto the iron per donut, then close the lid and cook for 3 to 5 minutes until each donut is golden, crisp, and cooked through. The aroma filling your kitchen at this stage will be irresistible.

Step 8: Prepare the Glaze

While your waffle donuts cool slightly on a wire rack, whisk powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract until smooth and pourable. This luscious glaze perfectly balances the lightly spiced donuts and adds just the right amount of sweet shine.

Step 9: Glaze and Finish

Drizzle the glaze generously over the warm Apple Fritter Waffle Donuts, then dust with extra powdered sugar for a final snowy touch that evokes old-fashioned apple fritters with a modern twist.

How to Serve Apple Fritter Waffle Donuts

Garnishes

Add a sprinkle of cinnamon or crushed nuts on top of the glaze for extra texture and flavor, or a few fresh apple slices or mint leaves on the side to brighten the presentation. These simple touches elevate the humble waffle donut to a show-stopping plate.

Side Dishes

Pair Apple Fritter Waffle Donuts with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for dessert indulgence. For breakfast, serve alongside crispy bacon or a fresh fruit salad to balance sweet and savory.

Creative Ways to Present

Try stacking three or four Apple Fritter Waffle Donuts with layers of cream cheese frosting or homemade apple butter in between for a donut waffle cake. You can also use the donuts as a base for a breakfast sandwich with cream cheese and smoked salmon for a surprising but delicious twist.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Keep leftover Apple Fritter Waffle Donuts in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. This helps maintain their crispy exterior while allowing the interior to stay soft and flavorful.

Freezing

You can freeze the donuts by placing them on a tray to freeze individually first, then transferring to a freezer-safe bag or container. They’ll keep well for up to one month and make for a quick, sweet treat whenever you want.

Reheating

To bring back that fresh-cooked magic, reheat leftovers in a toaster oven or regular oven at 350°F for about 5–7 minutes. This crisps the exterior again and warms the apples inside without drying them out.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of apple?

Absolutely! While tart apples like Granny Smith are ideal for balance, sweeter apples like Fuji or Honeycrisp can be used if you prefer a naturally sweeter donut.

Do I need a special waffle iron for these donuts?

Yes, to get the donut shape you’ll want a waffle iron designed specifically for donuts. However, you can make the same batter in a regular waffle iron for delicious apple fritter waffles without the donut hole.

Can I make this recipe dairy-free?

Yes. Substitute buttermilk with almond milk plus vinegar for acidity, and use a dairy-free butter alternative. The texture and flavor will still be fantastic.

How do I avoid the donuts sticking to the waffle iron?

Make sure your iron is preheated and well-greased with nonstick spray or melted butter before cooking each batch to prevent sticking and to get a nicely browned crust.

Is it possible to make these donuts vegan?

With some substitutions like flax or chia eggs, plant-based milk, and vegan butter, you can certainly enjoy a vegan version, though the texture might be slightly different but still delicious.

Final Thoughts

There is something truly special about Apple Fritter Waffle Donuts that makes them a perfect treat to share with family and friends. Their cozy spices, tender apples, and crisp-on-the-outside texture deliver comfort and delight in every bite. If you’re looking to add a new favorite to your repertoire, these donuts are guaranteed to win hearts and bring smiles, so don’t wait to try making Apple Fritter Waffle Donuts your next homemade indulgence!

Apple Fritter Waffle Donuts Recipe

★★★★★

4.9 from 22 reviews

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

Print Recipe

Description

Delight in these Apple Fritter Waffle Donuts, a perfect fusion of classic apple fritters and soft waffle donuts. Featuring tender chunks of tart apples, warm spices, and a sweet vanilla glaze, these treats are crisp on the outside yet soft and flavorful inside—ideal for breakfast or a cozy snack.

Instructions

Prepare Apples: Peel, core, and dice the apples into small chunks. Set aside.
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.
Combine Wet Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk the eggs, granulated sugar, light brown sugar, buttermilk, melted unsalted butter, and vanilla extract until the mixture is smooth and homogenous.
Combine Wet and Dry: Pour the wet mixture into the bowl of dry ingredients. Gently stir until just combined, being careful not to overmix to keep the batter light.
Fold in Apples and Nuts: Carefully fold in the diced apples and, if using, the chopped pecans or walnuts to distribute 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 approximately ¼ cup of batter onto the waffle iron for each donut shape. Close the lid and cook until the waffle donuts are golden brown and crisp, about 3 to 5 minutes depending on your waffle iron.
Cool Waffle Donuts: Transfer the cooked waffle donuts to a wire rack to cool slightly, allowing air to circulate and maintain crispness.
Make Glaze: In a small bowl, whisk together the powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract until the glaze is smooth and pourable. Adjust the milk quantity to your preferred glaze consistency.
Glaze the Donuts: Drizzle the glaze over the slightly cooled waffle donuts and dust with extra powdered sugar for a finishing touch.
Serve: Serve the apple fritter waffle donuts warm or at room temperature for best flavor and texture.

Notes

Using tart apples like Granny Smith balances sweetness and adds a slight tang.
Nuts such as pecans or walnuts add crunch but are optional.
If you don’t have buttermilk, substitute with milk plus 1 tablespoon of vinegar or lemon juice, let sit 5 minutes before using.
Cook time may vary depending on waffle iron model; watch for golden color and crispness.
For a dairy-free version, substitute butter with coconut oil and use a non-dairy milk alternative for buttermilk.
Donuts are best enjoyed fresh but can be stored in an airtight container for 1-2 days.
Reheat gently in a toaster oven or microwave before serving.

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

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 waffle donut (approx. 70g)
Calories: 210 kcal
Sugar: 12g
Sodium: 180mg
Fat: 7g
Saturated Fat: 3g
Unsaturated Fat: 3.5g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 32g
Fiber: 2g
Protein: 3g
Cholesterol: 45mg

Keywords: apple fritter, waffle donuts, breakfast donuts, apple cinnamon waffles, glazed waffle donuts, homemade donuts, fall recipes