Apple Fritter Waffle Donuts: The Ultimate Dessert Recipe
Crisp and fluffy apple fritter waffle donuts are a delightful treat that combines the best of both worlds: the classic apple fritter and the fun of waffle-making. This Apple Fritter Waffle Donuts: The Ultimate Dessert Recipe is perfect for brunch, dessert, or any festive occasion. These unique donuts are not only easy to make but also offer a warm, comforting flavor that everyone will love.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: Perfect for busy mornings or spontaneous gatherings.
- Versatile Serving Options: Enjoy them warm, at room temperature, or even as a dessert.
- Delicious Flavor Combination: The sweet apples and warm spices create a mouthwatering experience.
- Fun to Make: Using a waffle iron adds an exciting twist to traditional frying methods.
- Customizable Toppings: Choose from nuts, sprinkles, or caramel for endless variations.
Tools and Preparation
To make your apple fritter waffle donuts successfully, having the right tools is essential. With just a few kitchen staples, you can whip up this delicious treat in no time.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Waffle iron
- Mixing bowls
- Whisk
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Wire rack
Importance of Each Tool
- Waffle iron: This is crucial for creating that unique shape and texture of the waffle donuts.
- Mixing bowls: Having separate bowls for wet and dry ingredients helps ensure thorough mixing without overworking the batter.

Ingredients
Crisp and fluffy apple fritter waffle donuts, made in a waffle iron and glazed to perfection! A delicious twist on a classic treat.
For the Waffle Donuts
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 2 teaspoons baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 3/4 cups buttermilk
- 2 large eggs, lightly beaten
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted and cooled
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 medium apples, peeled, cored, and diced (Granny Smith or Honeycrisp work well)
- Vegetable oil, for greasing the waffle iron
For the Glaze
- 2 cups powdered sugar
- 1/4 cup milk(or more, as needed)
- *1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon (optional)
- Chopped nuts (pecans, walnuts)
- Sprinkles
- Caramel sauce
How to Make Apple Fritter Waffle Donuts: The Ultimate Dessert Recipe
Step 1: Combine Dry Ingredients
In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt until well mixed.
Step 2: Combine Wet Ingredients
In another bowl, whisk together the buttermilk, eggs, melted butter, and vanilla extract until combined.
Step 3: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients
Gradually pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients while whisking gently. Mix until just combined; do not overmix—it’s okay if there are some lumps.
Step 4: Fold in Apples
Gently fold in the diced apples using a spatula or wooden spoon until they are evenly distributed throughout the batter.
Step 5: Rest Batter (Optional)
Let the batter rest for about 10-15 minutes. This step helps improve texture but is optional if you’re short on time.
Step 6: Preheat Waffle Iron
Preheat your waffle iron according to the manufacturer’s instructions so it’s ready when you are.
Step 7: Grease Waffle Iron
Lightly grease both sides of your preheated waffle iron with vegetable oil to prevent sticking.
Step 8: Pour Batter
Pour about 1/2 to 3/4 cup of batter onto the hot waffle iron. Adjust based on your specific waffle iron size.
Step 9: Cook Waffles
Close the waffle iron gently and cook for about 3-5 minutes until golden brown.
Step 10: Remove and Cool
Carefully remove the cooked waffles using tongs or a fork. Let them cool slightly on a wire rack.
Step 11: Repeat Cooking Process
Repeat steps 7-10 with any remaining batter until all waffles are cooked.
Step 12: Combine Glaze Ingredients
In a medium bowl, whisk together powdered sugar, milk, vanilla extract, and optional cinnamon until smooth.
Step 13: Adjust Glaze Consistency
Add more milk one tablespoon at a time until reaching your desired glaze thickness.
Step 14: Glaze Waffles
Dip each cooled waffle donut into the glaze so it’s evenly coated on top.
Step 15: Add Toppings (Optional)
Sprinkle with chopped nuts or sprinkles, or drizzle caramel sauce over them if desired.
Step 16: Let Glaze Set
Place glazed waffles back on the wire rack to allow glaze to set slightly before serving.
Step 17: Serve and Enjoy
Serve these delightful apple fritter waffle donuts warm or at room temperature. Enjoy your delicious creation!
How to Serve Apple Fritter Waffle Donuts: The Ultimate Dessert Recipe
Apple fritter waffle donuts are a delightful treat that can be enjoyed in various ways. Here are some creative serving suggestions to enhance your dessert experience.
With Fresh Fruit
- Sliced Strawberries: Fresh strawberries add a juicy sweetness that complements the warm flavors of the waffles.
- Blueberries: Tossing a handful of blueberries on top not only adds color but also a burst of tartness.
Drizzled with Chocolate Sauce
- Rich Chocolate Ganache: A warm chocolate ganache drizzled over the donuts creates an indulgent finish, perfect for chocolate lovers.
- Dark Chocolate Syrup: For a lighter option, dark chocolate syrup offers a sweet yet slightly bitter contrast.
Accompanied by Whipped Cream
- Homemade Whipped Cream: Light and fluffy whipped cream adds a creamy texture that pairs beautifully with the crispy waffles.
- Flavored Whipped Cream: Try adding vanilla or cinnamon to your whipped cream for an extra layer of flavor.
Topped with Nuts
- Chopped Pecans: Toasted pecans provide a crunchy texture and nutty flavor, enhancing the overall taste.
- Walnuts: Chopped walnuts add richness and pair well with the apple flavors in the donuts.
How to Perfect Apple Fritter Waffle Donuts: The Ultimate Dessert Recipe
Creating the perfect apple fritter waffle donuts requires attention to detail. Follow these tips to ensure your dessert turns out delicious every time.
- Use Fresh Apples: Opt for crisp apples like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp for added flavor and texture in your batter.
- Don’t Overmix the Batter: Gently combine wet and dry ingredients to keep your waffles light and fluffy; lumps are okay!
- Preheat Your Waffle Iron Properly: Ensure your waffle iron is fully heated before pouring in the batter for even cooking.
- Adjust Glaze Consistency: Start with less milk when making your glaze; you can always add more until you reach your desired thickness.
- Experiment with Toppings: Personalize your donut by trying different toppings like caramel sauce or flavored sprinkles.
Best Side Dishes for Apple Fritter Waffle Donuts: The Ultimate Dessert Recipe
Pairing side dishes with apple fritter waffle donuts can elevate your meal. Here are some tasty options to consider.
- Fresh Fruit Salad: A mix of seasonal fruits adds brightness and balances the sweetness of the donuts.
- Yogurt Parfait: Layering yogurt with granola and fruit offers a creamy contrast and healthy addition to your dessert.
- Cinnamon Sugar Toast: Lightly toasted bread sprinkled with cinnamon sugar makes for a simple but flavorful companion.
- Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream provides a rich and cool contrast to warm waffles.
- Maple Syrup Dip: Serve a small bowl of maple syrup for dipping, enhancing both taste and fun!
- Hot Cocoa or Coffee: Warm beverages like cocoa or coffee complement the sweetness of the donuts while adding comfort.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Making apple fritter waffle donuts can be fun, but it’s easy to make mistakes. Here are some common pitfalls and how to avoid them.
- Bold Ingredient Measurements: Not measuring ingredients accurately can lead to poor texture. Always use measuring cups and spoons for precision.
- Bold Overmixing the Batter: Overmixing can result in tough donuts. Mix until just combined; a few lumps are fine!
- Bold Ignoring Apple Preparation: Failing to properly prepare apples may lead to uneven distribution. Make sure to peel, core, and dice them evenly for consistent flavor.
- Bold Skipping the Rest Period: Not allowing the batter to rest can affect texture. Let it sit for 10-15 minutes for best results.
- Bold Cooking at Incorrect Temperature: Cooking in a waffle iron that’s not preheated can lead to soggy donuts. Always preheat according to your manufacturer’s instructions.

Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store in an airtight container.
- Keeps well for up to 3 days in the refrigerator.
Freezing Apple Fritter Waffle Donuts: The Ultimate Dessert Recipe
- Place in a freezer-safe bag or container.
- Can be frozen for up to 2 months.
Reheating Apple Fritter Waffle Donuts: The Ultimate Dessert Recipe
- Bold Oven: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake for about 5-7 minutes until warm.
- Bold Microwave: Heat on medium power for about 20-30 seconds, checking frequently.
- Bold Stovetop: Warm in a skillet over low heat, flipping occasionally until heated through.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about making apple fritter waffle donuts.
What makes Apple Fritter Waffle Donuts special?
Apple fritter waffle donuts combine the flavors of classic apple fritters with the crispy texture of waffles, offering a delightful twist on a beloved treat.
Can I use different types of apples?
Yes! While Granny Smith and Honeycrisp are great choices, feel free to experiment with other varieties like Fuji or Gala for unique flavors.
How do I customize my Apple Fritter Waffle Donuts?
You can add spices like ginger or cardamom, incorporate nuts into the batter, or top them with various glazes and sprinkles.
How should I store leftover Apple Fritter Waffle Donuts?
Store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days or freeze them for longer storage.
Final Thoughts
Apple fritter waffle donuts are a delicious, versatile treat perfect for any occasion. Their unique combination of flavors allows for many customization options. Give this recipe a try and enjoy these delightful desserts!
Apple Fritter Waffle Donuts: The Ultimate Dessert Recipe
Indulge in the delightful fusion of flavors with our Apple Fritter Waffle Donuts: The Ultimate Dessert Recipe. These treats combine the warm, comforting taste of classic apple fritters with the crispy texture of waffle donuts, making them a perfect addition to brunch or dessert tables. Bursting with sweet apples and aromatic spices, these easy-to-make donuts are fun to prepare using a waffle iron, adding a unique twist to your dessert repertoire. Whether enjoyed warm or at room temperature, you can customize them with your favorite toppings like nuts, sprinkles, or caramel sauce. Gather your loved ones and make these delectable treats for any festive occasion!
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: Makes approximately 8 donuts 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Waffle
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 2 teaspoons baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 3/4 cups buttermilk
- 2 large eggs
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 medium apples, peeled, cored, and diced
- Vegetable oil, for greasing the waffle iron
- 2 cups powdered sugar
- 1/4 cup milk (or more, as needed)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (for glaze)
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon (optional)
- Chopped nuts (pecans, walnuts)
- Sprinkles
- Caramel sauce
Instructions
- In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt until well mixed.
- In another bowl, whisk together the buttermilk, eggs, melted butter, and vanilla extract until combined.
- Gradually pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients while whisking gently. Mix until just combined; do not overmix—it's okay if there are some lumps.
- Gently fold in the diced apples using a spatula or wooden spoon until they are evenly distributed throughout the batter.
- Let the batter rest for about 10-15 minutes (optional).
- Preheat your waffle iron according to the manufacturer's instructions.
- Lightly grease both sides of your preheated waffle iron with vegetable oil.
- Pour about 1/2 to 3/4 cup of batter onto the hot waffle iron.
- Close the waffle iron gently and cook for about 3-5 minutes until golden brown.
- Carefully remove the cooked waffles and let them cool slightly on a wire rack.
- In a medium bowl, whisk together powdered sugar, milk, vanilla extract, and optional cinnamon until smooth.
- Adjust glaze consistency with more milk if needed.
- Dip each cooled waffle donut into the glaze so it's evenly coated on top.
- Sprinkle with chopped nuts or sprinkles, or drizzle caramel sauce over them if desired.
- Let the glaze set slightly before serving.
- Serve these delightful apple fritter waffle donuts warm or at room temperature.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 donut (70g)
- Calories: 230
- Sugar: 10g
- Sodium: 180mg
- Fat: 8g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 36g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 50mg
