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Crispy, fluffy, and sweet with apple-cinnamon flavor — this mashup of classic fritters and waffle donuts is your next breakfast obsession!
Are you craving something indulgent, warm, and full of cozy fall flavor — but with a twist? Then say hello to Apple Fritter Waffle Donuts! This hybrid recipe takes the classic apple fritter you know and love, fuses it with the texture of waffles, and finishes with the donut-style glaze that dreams are made of.
In this post, I’ll walk you through how to make them step-by-step, share some helpful tips to nail the recipe, and explain why this creation is perfect for your next brunch, dessert table, or weekend breakfast.
Let’s get into the deliciousness!
Why You’ll Love These Apple Fritter Waffle Donuts
There’s just something magical about warm apples, cinnamon, and sugar. But when you transform that into a waffle-donut fusion? Pure breakfast bliss.
Here’s why you’ll be obsessed:
• Crispy on the outside, soft and fluffy inside
• Loaded with tender spiced apples in every bite
• Topped with a sweet donut glaze that melts into all the waffle ridges
• Quick and easy to make with pantry staples
• Perfect for cozy mornings, fall brunches, or weekend treats
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Ingredients You’ll Need
Most of the ingredients for this recipe are already in your pantry. That’s part of the magic! Here’s what you’ll need:
For the Waffle Donut Batter:
• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 tbsp baking powder
• 1/2 tsp baking soda
• 1/4 tsp salt
• 1 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
• 1/4 tsp nutmeg (optional)
• 2 large eggs
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar
• 1/4 cup brown sugar
• 1 cup buttermilk (or substitute with milk + 1 tbsp vinegar)
• 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
For the Apple Filling:
• 2 medium apples, peeled and diced
• 1 tbsp butter
• 2 tbsp brown sugar
• 1/2 tsp cinnamon
• Splash of lemon juice
For the Glaze:
• 1 cup powdered sugar
• 2 tbsp milk
• 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
How to Make Apple Fritter Waffle Donuts – Step-by-Step
Step 1: Cook the Apple Filling
In a small skillet over medium heat, melt the butter. Add diced apples, brown sugar, cinnamon, and a splash of lemon juice. Cook until apples are tender and caramelized, about 5–7 minutes. Set aside to cool slightly.
Step 2: Make the Waffle Batter
In a large bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg. In another bowl, whisk eggs, sugars, buttermilk, melted butter, and vanilla. Combine the wet and dry ingredients until just mixed.
Step 3: Add Apples to the Batter
Gently fold the cooked apple mixture into the batter. Don’t overmix — lumps are okay!
Step 4: Cook in the Waffle Maker
Preheat your waffle iron and spray it lightly with oil. Scoop in about 1/3 cup of batter and cook until golden brown and crisp (usually 3–5 minutes, depending on your waffle iron). Let them cool slightly on a wire rack.
Step 5: Dip and Glaze
While your waffle donuts are still warm, dip them into the glaze or drizzle it over the top. Let the glaze set for a few minutes… if you can wait that long!
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Tips for the Best Waffle Donuts
• Use firm apples like Honeycrisp or Granny Smith for the perfect sweet-tart balance.
• Let the waffles cool slightly before glazing to avoid the glaze melting off completely.
• Don’t overcrowd your waffle iron. Smaller batches = crispier edges!
• Double the glaze if you’re a sweet tooth — no judgment here.
Make It Your Own!
Want to make it even more decadent? Try these ideas:
• Add chopped pecans or walnuts to the batter for extra crunch.
• Top with caramel sauce instead of glaze.
• Swap apples for pears or even bananas for a fun twist.
• Add a scoop of vanilla ice cream for the ultimate dessert version.
Perfect for Every Occasion
Whether you’re hosting brunch, craving something sweet, or need a creative fall breakfast idea, these Apple Fritter Waffle Donuts will never disappoint.
They’re:
• Fun to make with kids
• Beautiful enough for a Pinterest-worthy brunch
• Cozy and comforting on chilly mornings
• Great for fall parties, Thanksgiving, or weekend treats
Storing and Reheating
If you somehow have leftovers (unlikely, but hey), here’s how to store them:
• Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days or in the fridge for up to 4 days.
• Reheat in a toaster oven or air fryer for 2–3 minutes to bring back the crispness.
Final Thoughts
Apple Fritter Waffle Donuts are everything you didn’t know you needed — warm, spiced apples in a crispy, glazed waffle-donut mashup. Whether you’re serving them for breakfast, dessert, or a mid-day snack, they’re sure to become a repeat request in your home.
So what are you waiting for? Get that waffle maker out and treat yourself. You deserve it.