Name: Apple Fritter Waffle Donuts
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 8 servings
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 large apples, peeled, cored, and diced; 2 cups all-purpose flour; ⅓ cup granulated sugar; 2 teaspoon baking powder; 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon; ½ teaspoon salt; 2 large eggs; 1 cup whole milk; ¼ cup unsalted butter, melted; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1 cup powdered sugar (for glaze); 2 tablespoon milk (for glaze); ½ teaspoon vanilla extract (for glaze)

Hey y'all! If you're searching for a swoon-worthy breakfast, snack, or brunch treat, these Apple Fritter Waffle Donuts check every box. Imagine sweet, caramelized apples tucked in a fluffy, cinnamon-spiced waffle, finished like a donut with a lusciously sticky glaze—it's a mashup dream come true! Apple Fritter Waffle Donuts are perfect for holiday mornings, weekend brunches, or whenever you crave a treat with cozy, homemade flair. Let's get cooking!

Why You'll Love This Apple Fritter Waffle Donuts Recipe

A delectable blend of donut, waffle, and classic apple fritter flavors in every bite.
Ready in just 35 minutes with minimal fuss and basic ingredients.
No deep-frying needed—your waffle maker does all the work!
Perfect for breakfast, brunch, or an indulgent snack with your favorite coffee.
Easy to customize and kid-approved!

Apple Fritter Waffle Donuts Ingredients

2 medium apples (Granny Smith or Honeycrisp), peeled, cored & diced small
2 tablespoon unsalted butter
3 tablespoon brown sugar
1 teaspoon cinnamon
1 cup all-purpose flour
½ cup granulated sugar
1 teaspoon baking powder
¼ teaspoon baking soda
¼ teaspoon salt
⅔ cup whole milk
1 large egg
2 tablespoon melted butter (plus more for greasing waffle iron)
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Glaze: 1 cup powdered sugar, 1–2 tablespoon milk, ½ teaspoon vanilla extract

How to Make Apple Fritter Waffle Donuts

Step 1: Prepare the Caramelized Apples

In a nonstick skillet over medium heat, melt 2 tablespoon butter. Add diced apples, brown sugar, and cinnamon.
Stir and cook for 5–7 minutes, until apples are golden and slightly softened. Remove from heat; cool for 5 minutes.

Step 2: Make the Waffle Donut Batter

In a mixing bowl, whisk together flour, granulated sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
In another bowl, combine milk, egg, melted butter, and vanilla extract.
Pour wet ingredients into the dry and stir until just combined. Gently fold in the cooled caramelized apples.

Step 3: Cook the Apple Fritter Waffle Donuts

Preheat your waffle maker according to manufacturer instructions. Lightly grease with butter.
Scoop about ⅓ cup batter into each well (for donut-style, use a mini waffle maker or shape batter into small rounds if desired).
Cook for 4–5 minutes, or until golden, crisp outside and fluffy inside. Repeat with remaining batter.

Step 4: Glaze the Waffle Donuts

Whisk together powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract until smooth and drizzly. Dip or drizzle glaze over warm apple fritter waffle donuts.
Let set for about 5 minutes. Serve warm and enjoy!

Notes & Tips for Apple Fritter Waffle Donuts

Use apples that hold shape when cooked—see this guide to baking apples.
Don't overmix the batter so you get light, fluffy texture inside each donut.
To save time, caramelize apples ahead or use a store-bought cinnamon apple topping (see options here).

Apple Fritter Waffle Donuts Variations

Cinnamon Sugar: Skip the glaze and toss hot waffle donuts in a mix of cinnamon and sugar.
Maple Glaze: Swap vanilla in the glaze with 1 teaspoon maple syrup for extra warmth.
Gluten-Free: Use a 1-to-1 gluten-free all-purpose flour blend.

Required Equipment for Apple Fritter Waffle Donuts

Nonstick skillet
Mixing bowls (2)
Whisk & spatula
Measuring cups & spoons
Waffle maker (regular or mini)

Apple Fritter Waffle Donuts Storage Instructions

Store any leftover Apple Fritter Waffle Donuts in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days, or refrigerate for up to 4 days. To reheat, warm in a 300°F (150°C) oven for 5–7 minutes or toast briefly in a toaster. Freezing is not recommended due to texture changes.

Serving & Pairing Suggestions for Apple Fritter Waffle Donuts

Serve warm, dusted with extra cinnamon, with a cup of strong coffee or hot apple cider.
Pair with vanilla Greek yogurt or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for dessert vibes.
Try alongside scrambled eggs and crispy bacon for a sweet-and-savory brunch spread!

Pro Tips for Success with Apple Fritter Waffle Donuts

Let the caramelized apples cool so they don't cook the batter prematurely when folded in.
Spray or grease your waffle iron well to avoid sticking for picture-perfect donuts.
For extra decadence, drizzle with warm caramel sauce—find easy caramel tricks here.

Apple Fritter Waffle Donuts FAQs

Can I make the batter ahead of time?

It’s best to cook the batter right after mixing, but you can prep the apples a day ahead to save time.

What apples are best for this recipe?

Firm-tart apples like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp hold their shape and deliver the classic fritter flavor.

Can I make these without a waffle maker?

For best results, use a waffle maker—however, you can cook scoops of batter in a greased skillet like drop pancakes for similar results!

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes
Yield: 6–8 apple fritter waffle donuts

Apple Fritter Waffle Donuts