The aroma of freshly baked cinnamon and apples wafting through the house is enough to make anyone’s heart skip a beat. When the weekend rolls around and I’m searching for the perfect treat to elevate brunch, my go-to has become these delightful Apple Fritter Waffle Donuts. Not only are they incredibly quick to whip up, taking just 25 minutes from start to finish, but they also combine the best of both worlds—crispy waffle texture and sweet donut indulgence. With the warm spices and juicy apple pieces, every bite feels like a cozy hug, making them a wonderful option for both family and friends. Trust me, once you try drizzling the sweet glaze over these golden beauties, you’ll be welcoming everyone into your kitchen to share your newfound gem. Ready to dive into this scrumptious adventure and impress your loved ones? Let’s get cooking!
Why Are These Waffle Donuts a Must-Try?
Irresistible flavor: The combination of warm spices like cinnamon and nutmeg mixed with juicy apples creates a flavor explosion.
Quick and Easy: With just 25 minutes from prep to plate, these delicious treats fit perfectly into your busy mornings.
Versatile Delight: Serve them for brunch, dessert, or even as a special treat with your morning coffee.
Crowd-Pleasing: Friends and family will rave about these unique Apple Fritter Waffle Donuts, making you the kitchen superstar!
Glaze Perfection: Drizzling a sweet milk and vanilla glaze adds the perfect finishing touch, taking these waffles to the next level.
Want more apple goodness? Check out my Air Fryer Apple Crisp or try making some delightful Baked Apple Chips!
Apple Fritter Waffle Donuts Ingredients
Get ready to treat yourself with these irresistible Apple Fritter Waffle Donuts!
For the Batter
- All-purpose flour – essential for the perfect waffle texture.
- Granulated sugar – adds just the right amount of sweetness.
- Baking powder – gives those waffles a wonderful lift.
- Cinnamon – infuses warm, cozy flavors into the batter.
- Nutmeg – a pinch brings an extra layer of warmth and spice.
- Salt – balances the sweetness for a well-rounded taste.
- Milk – helps create a smooth and pourable batter.
- Large egg – binds ingredients together while providing richness.
- Melted butter – adds a luscious flavor and keeps the waffles moist.
- Vanilla extract – enhances the overall sweet aroma.
- Diced peeled apples – I recommend Granny Smith or Honeycrisp for the best flavor and texture!
For the Glaze
- Powdered sugar – the star ingredient for that sweet, luscious finishing touch.
- Milk – used to thin the glaze to your desired consistency.
- Vanilla extract – adds an extra layer of sweetness to the glaze.
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Apple Fritter Waffle Donuts
Step 1: Prepare the Dry Ingredients
In a mixing bowl, whisk together 1 cup of all-purpose flour, ¼ cup of granulated sugar, 1 teaspoon of baking powder, ½ teaspoon of cinnamon, ½ teaspoon of nutmeg, and ½ teaspoon of salt. Make sure to combine these ingredients well, as they form the base of your delightful Apple Fritter Waffle Donuts. Look for a uniform mixture, free from lumps, before moving on.
Step 2: Combine the Wet Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together 1 large egg, ½ cup of milk, 2 tablespoons of melted butter, and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract. Mix until completely combined, ensuring a smooth consistency. This mixture adds moisture and flavor, binding together with your dry ingredients to create a delicious batter for the apple fritter waffle donuts.
Step 3: Mix the Batter
Gently pour the wet mixture into the dry ingredients and stir until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can make your waffle donuts tough and chewy. You want to maintain a slightly lumpy batter for that perfect light texture. Once mixed, set it aside to let the flavors meld while you prepare the apples.
Step 4: Fold in the Apples
Take 1 cup of diced peeled apples, preferably Granny Smith or Honeycrisp, and fold them gently into your batter using a spatula. Ensure the apple pieces are evenly distributed without breaking them down too much. These apples will add delicious sweetness and texture to your Apple Fritter Waffle Donuts.
Step 5: Preheat the Waffle Iron
Preheat your waffle iron according to the manufacturer's instructions, ensuring it’s hot and ready to go. Before cooking, thoroughly grease the surfaces with oil or non-stick spray to prevent your waffles from sticking. A well-prepped waffle iron is crucial for getting that crispy exterior on your Apple Fritter Waffle Donuts.
Step 6: Cook the Waffle Donuts
Carefully spoon the batter into the preheated waffle iron, filling it to your desired level. Cook for about 3–4 minutes, or until the donuts are golden brown and crisp on the outside. Keep an eye on the indicators of doneness, as waffle irons can vary in heat, ensuring a delightful crunch that’s hard to resist!
Step 7: Prepare the Glaze
While the donuts are cooking, whisk together 1 cup of powdered sugar, enough milk to achieve a thick but pourable consistency, and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract in a separate bowl. Mix until smooth and completely combined for a luscious glaze that will drape beautifully over your warm waffle donuts.
Step 8: Glaze the Waffle Donuts
Once the Apple Fritter Waffle Donuts are cooked and still warm, drizzle the prepared glaze generously over the top. Allow the glaze to set for a couple of minutes—it will develop a lovely sheen that enhances the appearance and sweetness of your delicious treat.
Step 9: Serve and Enjoy
Carefully remove the glazed Apple Fritter Waffle Donuts from the waffle iron, place them on a serving platter, and enjoy them warm. Serve these delightful treats fresh out of the iron, and savor the comforting aroma and sweet flavors that fill your kitchen, inviting everyone to gather around!
Make Ahead Options
These Apple Fritter Waffle Donuts are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can mix the dry ingredients (1 cup all-purpose flour, ¼ cup granulated sugar, 1 teaspoon baking powder, ½ teaspoon cinnamon, ½ teaspoon nutmeg, and ½ teaspoon salt) and store them in an airtight container up to 3 days before baking. Additionally, you can dice and refrigerate the apples up to 24 hours in advance to prevent browning; just toss them with a splash of lemon juice. When you're ready to whip up these treats, simply combine the prepared dry ingredients with the wet components and proceed to cook. These simple steps save you time and keep the Apple Fritter Waffle Donuts just as delicious!
Storage Tips for Apple Fritter Waffle Donuts
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Room Temperature: Enjoy these delightful Apple Fritter Waffle Donuts fresh! If you have leftovers, they can be kept at room temperature in an airtight container for up to 2 days.
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Fridge: Store any uneaten waffle donuts in the fridge for up to 3 days. Make sure they’re in an airtight container to prevent them from drying out.
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Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the waffle donuts individually in plastic wrap, then place in a freezer bag. They can be frozen for up to 2 months.
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Reheating: To enjoy them warm, reheat frozen or refrigerated waffle donuts in a toaster or oven until heated through. This helps revive their crispy texture!
What to Serve with Apple Fritter Waffle Donuts
There’s no better way to elevate breakfast or brunch than with the sweet, cinnamon-filled aroma of these delightful treats.
- Fresh Fruit Salad: Bright, juicy fruits like berries and melons offer a refreshing contrast to the warm, crispy waffle donuts.
- Bacon-Wrapped Asparagus: The crispy, salty bacon adds a delightful crunch that balances the sweetness of the donuts perfectly.
- Whipped Cream: A dollop of sweetened whipped cream on top takes your Apple Fritter Waffle Donuts to dessert-level indulgence.
- Cinnamon Sugar Toast: This warm, caramelized treat echoes the flavors of the donuts, creating a cohesive brunch experience.
- Maple Syrup: Drizzling some pure maple syrup over the donuts enhances their sweetness while adding depth with its rich flavor.
- Chai Latte: The spices in a chai latte harmonize beautifully with the Apple Fritter Waffle Donuts, creating a comforting, aromatic pairing.
- Caramel Sauce: A rich drizzle of homemade or store-bought caramel sauce adds indulgence and enhances the apple flavors within the donuts.
- Almond Milk Shake: A creamy almond milkshake complements the donuts' sweetness, providing a cool and satisfying contrast.
- Coffee or Tea: A warm cup of coffee or spiced tea rounds out your meal, offering a cozy drink that pairs perfectly with the sweet treats.
Expert Tips for Apple Fritter Waffle Donuts
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Choose the Right Apples: Granny Smith and Honeycrisp are perfect for this recipe, as they hold their shape and offer a delightful tartness.
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Don’t Overmix: When combining wet and dry ingredients, stir just until incorporated. Overmixing can lead to tough waffle donuts instead of tender ones.
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Preheat Properly: Make sure your waffle iron is fully preheated before adding the batter. This ensures even cooking and a crispy exterior for your Apple Fritter Waffle Donuts.
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Adjust Glaze Thickness: If the glaze is too thick, add more milk gradually. Conversely, if it’s too thin, incorporate more powdered sugar until you reach your desired consistency.
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Serve Warm: These waffle donuts are best enjoyed fresh and warm right out of the waffle iron. Their crispy texture and sweet glaze make them irresistible!
Apple Fritter Waffle Donuts Variations
Feel free to put your own spin on these Apple Fritter Waffle Donuts and make them your own culinary creation!
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Dairy-Free: Substitute milk with almond or oat milk, and replace butter with coconut oil for a deliciously creamy alternative.
Use non-dairy products in the glaze as well for a fully dairy-free treat! -
Gluten-Free: Swap all-purpose flour for a gluten-free blend to make these waffle donuts suitable for everyone.
This is a fantastic option that still delivers wonderful texture and taste! -
Spiced Up: Add ¼ teaspoon of cayenne powder or more cinnamon for an extra kick of flavor.
This twist will create a delightful warm sensation that keeps you wanting more! -
Nutty Addition: Fold in ½ cup of chopped nuts, like pecans or walnuts, for a delightful crunch.
The added texture brings an enjoyable twist to each bite! -
Apple Pie Flavor: Incorporate ½ teaspoon of apple pie spice into your batter for a nostalgic flavor burst.
This sweet addition intensifies the cozy, comforting feel of classic apple desserts! -
Fruit Variety: Use diced pears or peaches in place of apples for a delightful seasonal twist.
Experimenting with different fruits opens up a whole new world of flavors! -
Caramel Drizzle: Instead of glaze, melt some caramel sauce to drizzle over your waffle donuts for a decadent finish.
The rich, buttery goodness takes these treats to new heights of indulgence!
Want to keep enjoying apples? Try my Air Fryer Apple Crisp for another cozy treat!
Apple Fritter Waffle Donuts Recipe FAQs
What type of apples are best for this recipe?
Absolutely! For the best results, I recommend using Granny Smith or Honeycrisp apples. Granny Smith apples offer a nice tartness that balances the sweetness, while Honeycrisp adds a delightful crunch. Both hold their shape well when baked, enhancing the texture of your Apple Fritter Waffle Donuts.
How should I store leftover waffle donuts?
I often keep leftover Apple Fritter Waffle Donuts at room temperature in an airtight container for up to 2 days. If you want them to last a bit longer, you can store them in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just be sure the container is sealed tightly to keep them fresh and moist!
Can I freeze these waffle donuts?
Absolutely! To freeze, first wrap each Apple Fritter Waffle Donut individually in plastic wrap, then place them into a freezer-safe bag. They can be frozen for up to 2 months. When you're ready to enjoy them, simply reheat them in the toaster or oven until they're warm and crispy again.
What should I do if the batter is too thick?
If your batter for the Apple Fritter Waffle Donuts is too thick, don’t worry! Just add an extra splash of milk, a tablespoon at a time, until you reach your desired consistency. The batter should be smooth and pourable but not too runny. Remember, the goal is to have a batter that spreads easily in the waffle iron while still holding its shape.
Can I make these donuts gluten-free?
Very! You can substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend. Just ensure it contains xanthan gum, which helps provide structure and texture. Follow the same measurements as the recipe for a gluten-free version of your Apple Fritter Waffle Donuts, and you’ll have everyone enjoying these delightful treats!
Are these donuts safe for pets?
It's best to keep these Apple Fritter Waffle Donuts away from pets. Ingredients like sugar and cinnamon aren't great for them, and baked goods can upset their stomachs. Stick to pet-safe treats to keep your furry friends happy and healthy!
Irresistible Apple Fritter Waffle Donuts to Sweeten Your Day
Equipment
- Waffle iron
Ingredients
For the Batter
- 1 cup all-purpose flour essential for the perfect waffle texture.
- ¼ cup granulated sugar adds just the right amount of sweetness.
- 1 teaspoon baking powder gives those waffles a wonderful lift.
- ½ teaspoon cinnamon infuses warm, cozy flavors into the batter.
- ½ teaspoon nutmeg a pinch brings an extra layer of warmth and spice.
- ½ teaspoon salt balances the sweetness for a well-rounded taste.
- ½ cup milk helps create a smooth and pourable batter.
- 1 large egg binds ingredients together while providing richness.
- 2 tablespoons melted butter adds a luscious flavor and keeps the waffles moist.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract enhances the overall sweet aroma.
- 1 cup diced peeled apples Granny Smith or Honeycrisp recommended for best flavor.
For the Glaze
- 1 cup powdered sugar the star ingredient for that sweet, luscious finishing touch.
- milk used to thin the glaze to your desired consistency.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract adds an extra layer of sweetness to the glaze.
Instructions
Step-by-Step Instructions
- In a mixing bowl, whisk together all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, baking powder, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together large egg, milk, melted butter, and vanilla extract.
- Gently pour the wet mixture into the dry ingredients and stir until just combined.
- Fold in diced peeled apples into your batter.
- Preheat your waffle iron according to the manufacturer's instructions and grease it.
- Carefully spoon the batter into the preheated waffle iron and cook for about 3–4 minutes.
- While the donuts are cooking, whisk together powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract for the glaze.
- Once the Apple Fritter Waffle Donuts are cooked, drizzle the prepared glaze generously over the top.
- Remove the glazed Apple Fritter Waffle Donuts from the waffle iron, place on a serving platter, and enjoy warm.
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