If you’ve been searching for a fresh twist on a classic morning treat, the Apple Fritter Waffle Donuts Recipe is about to become your new favorite indulgence. Imagine the crispy, golden texture of waffle-baked donuts infused with warm cinnamon-spiced apples and finished with a sweet vanilla glaze. This recipe brings together the best of apple fritters and waffle donuts into one wonderfully easy and delicious creation that’s perfect for breakfast, brunch, or anytime you need a comforting bite. Trust me, once you try this Apple Fritter Waffle Donuts Recipe, your kitchen will smell like fall, no matter the season!
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this Apple Fritter Waffle Donuts Recipe lies in its simplicity and how each humble ingredient plays a role in developing incredible flavor and texture. From the fluffy all-purpose flour to the juicy diced apples, every component is essential for creating those soft, tender donuts with bursts of delightful apple.
- 1 cup all-purpose flour: Provides the perfect structure and fluffiness to your donut batter.
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar: Adds just enough sweetness to balance the tartness of the apples.
- 1 tablespoon baking powder: Helps the donuts rise to soft, airy perfection.
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon: Infuses a warm, cozy spice that pairs beautifully with apple.
- 1/4 teaspoon salt: Enhances all the other flavors in the batter.
- 1/2 cup milk (or milk alternative): Moistens the batter for tender results.
- 1/2 cup peeled, diced apples: The star ingredient that adds sweetness and juiciness.
- 1 large egg: Binds everything together and enriches the batter.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Brings out the depth of flavor in both the batter and glaze.
- For the glaze: 1 cup powdered sugar, 2-3 tablespoons milk, and 1/2 teaspoon pure vanilla extract—all combine to make a smooth, sweet coating that complements the donut’s apple-spiced goodness.
How to Make Apple Fritter Waffle Donuts Recipe
Step 1: Preheat Your Waffle Maker
Begin by heating your waffle maker according to its instructions to ensure it’s perfectly hot when you start cooking the batter. If your waffle iron isn’t non-stick, lightly spraying it with cooking spray will prevent your precious donuts from sticking and tearing apart.
Step 2: Prepare the Donut Batter
In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, cinnamon, and salt until evenly combined. In a separate bowl, mix the milk, egg, and vanilla extract until smooth. Pour the wet ingredients into the dry and gently fold everything together until just mixed. Remember, a few lumps are fine—the key is not to overwork your batter for tender donuts.
Step 3: Fold in the Apples
Carefully fold the diced apples into the batter. This step is where your Apple Fritter Waffle Donuts Recipe really starts to shine, as those juicy bites of apple create that iconic fruity texture and freshness inside each donut.
Step 4: Cook the Donuts
Pour a scoop of batter into your preheated waffle maker, enough to cover the designated cooking area without overflowing. Close the lid and cook for 4 to 5 minutes until the waffles turn golden brown and look irresistibly crispy. Once cooked, transfer them to a wire rack to cool slightly.
Step 5: Prepare the Glaze
While the donuts cool, whisk together powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla in a small bowl until smooth and pourable. Adjust the glaze by adding milk for a lighter drizzle or powdered sugar to thicken it to your liking—a perfect finishing touch for your Apple Fritter Waffle Donuts Recipe.
Step 6: Glaze the Waffle Donuts
Dip the tops of the slightly cooled donuts into the glaze or drizzle it over them with a spoon. Allow a few minutes for the glaze to set, creating a sweet, shiny coating that invites you in for a bite.
Step 7: Serve and Enjoy!
Your warm, cinnamon-speckled Apple Fritter Waffle Donuts are ready to delight! Pair them with your favorite coffee or tea, and watch as everyone’s eyes light up with every delicious bite—this recipe truly brings the magic of apple fritters into an easy waffle donut form.
How to Serve Apple Fritter Waffle Donuts Recipe
Garnishes
Add a sprinkle of powdered sugar or a pinch of cinnamon on top for an extra touch of charm and aroma. Fresh apple slices or a few chopped nuts can also add a nice crunch and a colorful, inviting presentation to your Apple Fritter Waffle Donuts Recipe.
Side Dishes
Pair these donuts with classic breakfast sides like crispy bacon, scrambled eggs, or a simple yogurt parfait for a well-rounded morning feast. The sweet and spiced apple flavor makes these waffles work beautifully alongside savory dishes too.
Creative Ways to Present
Try stacking your waffle donuts with layers of cream cheese frosting or serve them as mini cake donuts topped with caramel sauce. You could even turn them into a decadent dessert by adding a scoop of vanilla ice cream and warm apple compote. The Apple Fritter Waffle Donuts Recipe is so versatile, your imagination is the only limit.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftover Apple Fritter Waffle Donuts in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. This helps maintain their soft texture and keeps the glaze from becoming sticky or melting away.
Freezing
These donuts freeze beautifully! Place cooled donuts in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until firm, then transfer to a resealable freezer bag. Freeze for up to one month for easy treats anytime you crave a little apple-spiced sweetness.
Reheating
Reheat frozen or leftover Apple Fritter Waffle Donuts in a toaster oven or air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for 3-5 minutes to bring back their crispy edges and soft interior. Avoid microwaving, which can make the glaze melt and texture soggy.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of apple for this recipe?
Absolutely! Tart apples like Granny Smith work great for a tangier bite, while sweeter varieties like Fuji or Honeycrisp add natural sweetness. Just choose firm apples that hold their shape well when cooked.
Is it possible to make these gluten-free?
Yes, you can substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free baking blend. Just be sure the blend contains xanthan gum or another binder to keep the donuts tender and prevent crumbling.
Can I skip the glaze?
Of course! The glaze adds sweetness and a nice finish, but these waffle donuts are delicious on their own, especially while warm. You could also dust them with cinnamon sugar if you prefer.
What if I don’t have a waffle maker shaped like donuts?
No worries! Any waffle maker will do—you’ll just get a slightly different shape. For a more traditional donut shape, you can use mini donut pans instead and bake the batter in the oven.
How do I prevent the batter from sticking to the waffle maker?
Make sure your waffle maker is well preheated and lightly coated with cooking spray or a little melted butter. This simple step ensures your Apple Fritter Waffle Donuts come out cleanly every time.
Final Thoughts
I can’t recommend this Apple Fritter Waffle Donuts Recipe enough if you love cozy, comforting flavors with a bit of fun. It’s straightforward, delightfully tasty, and a great way to bring some apple cinnamon joy into your kitchen. So go ahead, gather your ingredients, and treat yourself and your loved ones to a batch of these yummy waffle donuts—you won’t regret it!
Print
Apple Fritter Waffle Donuts Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 4-5 minutes per batch
- Total Time: 20-30 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 6-8 waffle donuts depending on size
- Category: Breakfast, Dessert, Snack
- Method: Air Frying
- Cuisine: American
Description
Learn how to make delicious Apple Fritter Waffle Donuts with a crispy exterior and tender, apple-studded interior. These easy-to-make treats are cooked in a waffle maker and topped with a sweet vanilla glaze, perfect for breakfast or dessert.
Ingredients
For the Donut Batter:
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup milk (or a milk alternative)
- 1/2 cup apples, peeled and diced (approximately 1–2 apples depending on size)
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
For the Glaze:
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 2–3 tablespoons milk
- 1/2 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
Instructions
- Preheat Your Waffle Maker: Start by preheating your waffle maker according to the manufacturer’s instructions. If you don’t have a non-stick waffle maker, lightly spray it with cooking spray to prevent sticking.
- Prepare the Donut Batter: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, granulated sugar, baking powder, ground cinnamon, and salt until evenly mixed. In a separate bowl, whisk the milk, egg, and vanilla extract. Pour the wet ingredients into the dry and gently stir until just combined, leaving some small lumps.
- Fold in the Apples: Gently fold the peeled and diced apples into the batter to evenly distribute the fruit and flavors without overmixing.
- Cook the Donuts: Pour enough batter to cover the waffle maker’s surface, close the lid, and cook for 4-5 minutes until golden brown and cooked through. Remove carefully and let cool slightly on a wire rack.
- Prepare the Glaze: Whisk together powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract in a small bowl until smooth. Adjust the consistency by adding more milk to thin or more powdered sugar to thicken for a pourable glaze.
- Glaze the Waffle Donuts: Once the waffle donuts are slightly cooled, either dip the tops into the glaze or drizzle the glaze over them with a spoon. Let the glaze set for a few minutes before serving.
- Serve and Enjoy: Serve the Apple Fritter Waffle Donuts warm with coffee or tea for a delightful treat that combines crispy waffle texture with soft apples and sweet glaze.
Notes
- Use fresh apples with a sweet-tart flavor like Fuji or Honeycrisp for best taste.
- Do not overmix the batter to keep the donuts tender and fluffy.
- Adjust cooking time slightly depending on your waffle maker model and thickness preference.
- The glaze consistency can be customized to your liking by adding more milk or powdered sugar.
- Store any leftovers in an airtight container and reheat gently before serving.
