Imagine fluffy waffles mixed with sweet apples and cinnamon, shaped like donuts! These Apple Fritter Waffle Donuts are a fun twist that’s sure to please everyone.
They’re easy to make and perfect for a cozy breakfast or a sweet treat. I can’t resist adding a drizzle of icing on top—yummy! You’ll love how quick they come together.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Apples: I recommend using Granny Smith or Honeycrisp apples. They add tartness and sweetness, but you can also use any apple you like, such as Fuji or Gala. If you prefer a lighter version, try substituting diced pears instead!
Buttermilk: If you’re out of buttermilk, you can make your own by mixing 1 cup of milk with 1 tablespoon of vinegar or lemon juice. Let it sit for a few minutes before using. Alternatively, plain yogurt or sour cream can work too.
Flour: All-purpose flour is great for this recipe, but whole wheat flour can be a healthier option. For a gluten-free version, use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend.
Glaze: While powdered sugar and milk create a classic glaze, you can skip the glaze if you prefer a less sweet option. Just dust with powdered sugar for a simple finish!
How Can I Get Perfectly Cooked Waffle Donuts?
Getting your waffle donuts to cook just right takes a little attention. Follow these steps for success:
- Preheat your waffle iron thoroughly; a hot iron helps achieve a crisp outside.
- Spoon the batter evenly—aim for about ¾ inch thick. This thickness cooks well and gives you a sturdy donut shape.
- Check doneness by looking for a golden brown exterior. If your waffles seem pale, give them a minute longer.
- After cooking, let them rest on a cooling rack. This keeps them crisp rather than soggy.
Enjoy the satisfying crunch of these waffle donuts with warm apples inside! They’ll be a delightful treat for any time of the day.
Apple Fritter Waffle Donuts
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 medium apples (peeled, cored, and finely chopped)
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 2 large eggs
- 1 cup buttermilk
- 2 tablespoons melted butter
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Cooking spray or melted butter for waffle iron
For the Glaze:
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 2-3 tablespoons milk
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Optional: Maple syrup for drizzling
How Much Time Will You Need?
You’ll need about 10 minutes for preparation and another 15-20 minutes for cooking, depending on your waffle iron. If you include cooling and setting time for the glaze, set aside a total of around 30-40 minutes. Perfect for a brunch or dessert!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Waffle Iron:
Start by preheating your waffle iron according to the manufacturer’s instructions. Make sure to lightly grease it with cooking spray or melted butter to prevent sticking.
2. Mix the Dry Ingredients:
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, baking powder, baking soda, ground cinnamon, ground nutmeg, and salt. This way, all the dry ingredients will be evenly distributed.
3. Combine the Wet Ingredients:
In a separate bowl, beat the eggs. Then add the buttermilk, melted butter, and vanilla extract. Whisk until well blended.
4. Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures:
Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients. Gently mix until just combined, taking care not to overmix. Finally, fold in the finely chopped apples for that delicious fruit flavor!
5. Cook the Waffle Donuts:
Spoon a ladleful of batter onto the preheated waffle iron, spreading it to about ¾ inch thickness. Close the lid and cook for about 3-5 minutes, or until the waffles are golden brown and crisp. Be sure to check that they aren’t floppy; they should have a nice structure!
6. Cool and Shape:
Carefully remove the waffle donuts from the iron and let them cool slightly on a wire rack. If your waffle iron is designed for donuts, you can enjoy a perfect ring shape!
7. Make the Glaze:
In a small bowl, whisk together the powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract until smooth. Adjust the thickness of the glaze by adding more milk or sugar as needed.
8. Drizzle the Glaze:
While the waffle donuts are still warm, drizzle the glaze generously over the top. For extra sweetness, consider drizzling with maple syrup as well!
9. Serve and Enjoy:
These Apple Fritter Waffle Donuts are best served warm. Share them with family and friends, or savor them all by yourself—a delightful treat that’s sure to bring joy!
Enjoy the delightful flavors and textures of these waffle donuts, bringing the best of fritters and donuts together! Perfect for breakfast, brunch, or any time you crave something sweet and special.
Can I Use Different Types of Apples?
Absolutely! While Granny Smith and Honeycrisp are great options for their tartness and sweetness, you can use any apple you like. Fuji and Gala also work well and offer a different flavor profile. Feel free to experiment!
Can I Make This Recipe Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can prepare the batter ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. Just give it a gentle stir before cooking, as it may thicken slightly. However, it’s best to cook the waffles fresh for optimal texture and flavor.
How Should I Store Leftover Waffle Donuts?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, pop them in the toaster or microwave for a few seconds, ensuring they stay crispy. You can also reheat them in an oven preheated to 350°F (175°C) for about 5-10 minutes.
Can I Freeze These Waffle Donuts?
Yes, they freeze well! Allow the waffle donuts to cool completely, then place them in a single layer on a baking sheet to freeze. Once frozen, transfer them to a zip-top freezer bag for up to 2 months. Reheat in the toaster or oven directly from the freezer for a quick snack!
