Description

These Apple Fritter Waffle Donuts are a delightful fusion of two beloved treats, combining the crisp, golden texture of waffles with the sweet, spiced bite of classic apple fritters. Made with tart Granny Smith apples, warm cinnamon and nutmeg, and topped with a smooth vanilla glaze, these donuts offer a unique, irresistible snack or breakfast option that’s perfect for fall or anytime you crave a comforting sweet indulgence.

Ingredients

Scale

Dry Ingredients

2 cups all-purpose flour
2 teaspoons baking powder
½ teaspoon baking soda
½ teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
¼ teaspoon nutmeg

Wet Ingredients

2 large eggs
⅓ cup granulated sugar
¼ cup light brown sugar, packed
¾ cup buttermilk (or milk + 1 tbsp vinegar)
¼ cup unsalted butter, melted
2 teaspoons vanilla extract

Fruit and Nuts

1½ cups peeled, diced tart apple (such as Granny Smith)
Optional: ¼ cup chopped pecans or walnuts

Glaze

1 cup powdered sugar
2–3 tablespoons milk
½ teaspoon vanilla extract

For Serving

Extra powdered sugar for dusting

Instructions

Prepare the Apples: Peel, core, and dice the tart apples into small chunks. Set them aside to incorporate into the batter later.
Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, ground cinnamon, and nutmeg until evenly combined.
Combine Wet Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the eggs, granulated sugar, light brown sugar, buttermilk, melted unsalted butter, and vanilla extract until the mixture is smooth and uniform.
Combine Wet and Dry: Pour the wet mixture into the bowl with the dry ingredients. Gently stir just until everything is combined; avoid overmixing to keep the batter light.
Add Apples and Nuts: Fold the diced apples and chopped nuts (if using) into the batter evenly.
Preheat Waffle Iron: Heat your waffle iron according to manufacturer instructions. Lightly grease it with nonstick spray or butter to prevent sticking.
Cook Waffle Donuts: Spoon about ¼ cup of batter onto the preheated waffle iron for each donut. Close the lid and cook until the waffle donuts are golden brown and crisp, approximately 3 to 5 minutes depending on your waffle iron.
Cool: Carefully transfer the cooked waffle donuts to a wire rack to cool slightly while you prepare the glaze.
Make the Glaze: In a small bowl, whisk powdered sugar, milk (starting with 2 tablespoons and adding more if needed for consistency), and vanilla extract until the glaze is smooth and pourable.
Glaze and Dust: Drizzle the glaze over the warm waffle donuts, then dust with extra powdered sugar for an added touch of sweetness and presentation.
Serve: Best enjoyed warm or at room temperature. Serve immediately for the best texture and flavor experience.

Notes

Use tart apples like Granny Smith for the best balance of sweetness and tang.
For a dairy-free option, substitute buttermilk with almond milk plus vinegar and use dairy-free butter.
Adjust glaze consistency by adding more powdered sugar to thicken or more milk to thin as needed.
Optionally toast nuts before adding for enhanced flavor.
Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days, or refrigerate for up to 4 days; reheat gently to restore crispness.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Category: Breakfast, Snack, Dessert
Method: Waffle Iron Cooking
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 waffle donut
Calories: 220
Sugar: 14g
Sodium: 180mg
Fat: 9g
Saturated Fat: 5g
Unsaturated Fat: 3g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 29g
Fiber: 2g
Protein: 4g
Cholesterol: 55mg

Keywords: apple fritter waffles, waffle donuts, apple breakfast treats, cinnamon apple donuts, spiced waffle donuts, fall recipes, quick breakfast ideas