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Oh, hello there, fellow food lover! If you’ve ever found yourself scrolling endlessly, just like I used to, wondering “What will I cook?”, then you are in for a delightful treat today. I am absolutely bubbling with excitement to share a recipe that combines two of my all-time favorite things: the comforting flavors of apple fritters and the pure joy of a homemade waffle.

I am talking about my incredible Apple Fritter Waffle Donuts! These beauties deliver all the warmth, spice, and tender apple goodness of classic apple fritters, but without any of the deep-frying fuss. We’ll be using a waffle iron to create these wonderful treats, making them so much easier and quicker to prepare. You’ll be enjoying these fun, delicious Apple Fritter Waffle Donuts in about 25-30 minutes of active time, perfect for any occasion.

Table of Contents

Why You’ll Love These Apple Fritter Waffle Donuts (A Maya-Approved Mashup!)

I truly believe cooking should be enjoyable, not a chore, and these Apple Fritter Waffle Donuts embody that philosophy perfectly. The best part? No deep-frying! I know the thought of hot oil can be daunting for some, but with this recipe, you get all the flavor without the mess or extra equipment. It’s a win-win in my kitchen!

Here’s why I know you’ll fall head over heels for this recipe:

Effortlessly Delicious: These waffle donuts capture that perfect balance of sweet, spiced, and apple-rich flavor with minimal fuss. I love how simple the batter comes together.
No Deep-Frying Required: Forget the splattering oil and extra cleanup. Your trusty waffle iron does all the work, giving you perfectly cooked Apple Fritter Waffle Donuts every time.
Versatile Treat: They are fantastic for breakfast, a lovely addition to brunch, or a delightful dessert. I often make a batch for a special weekend morning.
Joyful Homemade Goodness: There’s something so satisfying about making a warm, comforting treat from scratch. I promise these will bring a smile to your face.

The Secret to Perfect Apple Fritter Waffle Donuts: Key Ingredients

Creating these delicious Apple Fritter Waffle Donuts starts with fresh, simple ingredients. I always find that using good quality items makes all the difference in the final taste. Here’s what you’ll need to gather for your kitchen adventure.

For the main batter, I use all-purpose flour as my base, which gives a nice structure. Cinnamon and nutmeg are essential for that classic apple fritter warmth, so don’t skimp on those lovely spices! Granulated sugar provides just the right amount of sweetness, while baking powder helps our waffle donuts rise beautifully. A touch of table salt balances the flavors, and cornstarch helps ensure a wonderfully tender crumb.

For moisture and binding, I incorporate a large egg, milk, and a little oil. And of course, the star of the show: shredded apples! For the sweet and shiny glaze, I use powdered sugar for its fine texture, a few tablespoons of milk to achieve the perfect consistency, and vanilla extract for an aromatic finish. Finally, a sprinkle of cinnamon sugar is my favorite optional touch for extra flavor and sparkle.

Best Apple Varieties for Fritter Waffles

Choosing the right apple makes a big difference in your Apple Fritter Waffle Donuts. I usually reach for varieties that hold their shape well during cooking and offer a good balance of sweetness and tartness. Granny Smith apples are fantastic for a bit of tangy brightness, which beautifully cuts through the sweetness of the fritter. Honeycrisp or Fuji are also excellent choices because they maintain a lovely crisp texture and have a wonderful natural sweetness that complements the spices so well.

Crafting Your Apple Fritter Waffle Donuts: Step-by-Step Instructions

Making these Apple Fritter Waffle Donuts is such a joyful process, and I’m here to guide you through each step. I’ve broken it down to be as straightforward as possible, so you can enjoy the experience of creating these treats from scratch. Just follow along, and we’ll have deliciousness ready in no time!

For the Waffle Donuts:

I always start by getting my waffle iron ready, as preheating is key for even cooking.

Preheat your waffle iron.
Stir together the dry ingredients. Whisk in the egg, milk, and oil. Make sure to mix until just combined; overmixing can make your waffle donuts tough.
Gently stir in the shredded apples. I find that a light hand here prevents the apples from breaking down too much.
Spray the waffle iron with nonstick spray. Drop the batter by Tablespoon onto the waffle iron. Cook 3-5 minutes, depending on the temperature of your iron. (I used a small Dash waffle iron and cooked each one for 5 minutes.) You’ll know they’re ready when they’re golden brown and the steam subsides.
Place the waffle donuts on a wire rack to cool. This helps prevent them from getting soggy on the bottom.

For the Glaze:

This glaze is the perfect sweet finish for your Apple Fritter Waffle Donuts!

Whisk together the glaze ingredients. I like to start with 3 tablespoons of milk and add more drop by drop if I need a thinner consistency.
Dip each waffle donut in the glaze. I use a fork to carefully submerge them.
Flip it around and let the excess drip off. Sprinkle with cinnamon sugar, if desired. Let set. The glaze will harden slightly as it cools, making them easy to handle.

Maya Anderson

Amazing Apple Fritter Waffle Donuts (No Fry!)

These incredible Apple Fritter Waffle Donuts combine the comforting flavors of classic apple fritters with the joy of homemade waffles, all without the deep-frying fuss. Using a waffle iron, they are quicker and easier to prepare, delivering warmth, spice, and tender apple goodness perfect for any occasion.

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Prep Time 10

Cook Time 5

Total Time 15

Servings: 24 donuts

Course: Breakfast

Cuisine: American

Calories: 91

Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients

For the Waffle Donuts

1/2 cup all-purpose flour
1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
2 tablespoons granulated sugar
1 teaspoon baking powder
1/4 teaspoon table salt
1 tablespoon cornstarch
1 large egg
1/3 cup milk
1/2 tablespoon oil
1 1/2 cups shredded apples Granny Smith, Honeycrisp, or Fuji recommended; peeled and cored

For the Glaze

2 cups powdered sugar
3-4 tablespoons milk adjust for desired consistency
1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
cinnamon sugar for sprinkling, if desired

Equipment

waffle iron
Mixing bowls
Whisk
nonstick cooking spray
Wire rack
fork
box grater
food processor (optional)

Method

Preheat your waffle iron.
Stir together the dry ingredients (flour, cinnamon, nutmeg, granulated sugar, baking powder, salt, cornstarch). Whisk in the egg, milk, and oil until just combined; avoid overmixing.
Gently stir in the shredded apples. A light hand prevents them from breaking down too much.
Spray the waffle iron with nonstick spray. Drop the batter by Tablespoon onto the waffle iron. Cook for 3-5 minutes, depending on the temperature of your iron. (For a small Dash waffle iron, cook each one for 5 minutes.) They are ready when golden brown and the steam subsides.
Place the waffle donuts on a wire rack to cool to prevent them from getting soggy.
For the glaze, whisk together powdered sugar, milk (start with 3 tablespoons and add more drop by drop for thinner consistency), and vanilla extract.
Dip each cooled waffle donut in the glaze, using a fork to submerge. Flip it around and let the excess drip off. Sprinkle with cinnamon sugar, if desired. Let set, as the glaze will harden slightly as it cools.

Notes

Ensure your waffle iron is fully preheated for a crisp exterior and easy release; don’t be shy with non-stick spray. Avoid overfilling the waffle iron to prevent messy overflow and uneven cooking; start with a tablespoon of batter and adjust. Waffle donuts are perfectly cooked when golden brown and the steam largely subsides. You can make the batter the night before and store it in the fridge; stir before cooking. If waffles are sticking, add more non-stick spray and ensure the iron is hot. If the texture isn’t right, adjust cooking time. For apples to cook through, shred them finely. If glaze is too thick, add milk; if too thin, add more powdered sugar.

Store completely cooled, glazed waffle donuts in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2-3 days. For longer storage, freeze them in a single layer on a baking sheet until solid (1-2 hours), then transfer to a freezer-safe bag for up to 1 month. Reheat in a toaster or oven at 300°F (150°C) for a few minutes until warmed through.

Making Your Apple Fritter Waffle Donuts Truly Your Own: Customization & Variations

While I adore my classic Apple Fritter Waffle Donuts, I always encourage you to get creative in the kitchen! It’s so much fun to personalize a recipe and make it truly your own. Don’t be afraid to experiment with different glazes or add-ins to suit your taste.

Here are a few ideas to get you started on customizing your Apple Fritter Waffle Donuts:

Component	Variation Idea	Notes
Glaze	Cream Cheese Glaze	Mix softened cream cheese, powdered sugar, milk, vanilla.
Glaze	Caramel Drizzle	Store-bought or homemade caramel sauce.
Spices	Apple Pie Spice	Substitute for cinnamon/nutmeg for a different flavor profile.
Add-ins	Chopped Pecans/Walnuts	Fold into the batter for added crunch and nutty flavor.
Add-ins	Raisins/Dried Cranberries	For extra chewiness and sweetness within your Apple Fritter Waffle Donuts.

Storing and Freezing Your Delicious Apple Fritter Waffle Donuts

I always make a big batch of these Apple Fritter Waffle Donuts because they disappear so quickly! If you find yourself with a few leftovers, I want to make sure you know how to keep them fresh.

To store them, once they’re completely cool and the glaze has set, I place them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2-3 days. If you want to keep them longer, they freeze beautifully! Lay the cooled and glazed Apple Fritter Waffle Donuts in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid, about 1-2 hours. Then, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container. They’ll keep well for up to 1 month. To reheat, you can pop them in a toaster or oven at 300°F (150°C) for a few minutes until warmed through, and they’ll taste almost as good as fresh!

Serving Suggestions & Perfect Pairings

These Apple Fritter Waffle Donuts are truly delightful on their own, but I love elevating the experience with a few special touches! They make an absolutely incredible breakfast, served simply with a hot cup of coffee or tea.

For a more decadent brunch, I often pair them with a dollop of whipped cream and a sprinkle of extra cinnamon. They also transform into a fantastic dessert when served warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream, or even a drizzle of caramel sauce. Imagine them as part of a holiday spread; they’d be a unique and memorable addition! I find their spiced apple flavor pairs wonderfully with a side of crispy bacon or a fresh fruit salad, creating a balanced and satisfying meal.

Frequently Asked Questions About Apple Fritter Waffle Donuts

I often get questions about my recipes, and I love helping you feel confident in the kitchen! Here are some common queries I hear about my Apple Fritter Waffle Donuts.

Can I use apple pie filling? I recommend using fresh shredded apples for the best texture and flavor in these Apple Fritter Waffle Donuts. Apple pie filling can make the batter too wet and might not give you the same tender result.

What if I don’t have a mini waffle iron? No problem at all! You can absolutely use a standard-sized waffle iron. Just adjust the amount of batter you use per waffle to fill the grids, and you might get fewer, larger waffle fritters. The cooking time might also vary slightly.

Can these be made gluten-free? While I haven’t personally tested a gluten-free version, I believe you could achieve similar results by substituting the all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free baking flour blend that contains xanthan gum.

What’s the best way to shred apples? I find the easiest way is to use the coarse side of a box grater. You can also use a food processor with a shredding attachment for a quicker job. Just remember to peel and core your apples first!

Are these healthy? These Apple Fritter Waffle Donuts are a delicious homemade treat, perfect for an indulgence! While they contain fresh apples, they are still a dessert or breakfast pastry and should be enjoyed in moderation as part of a balanced diet.

Conclusion

I truly hope you feel inspired and excited to try making these Apple Fritter Waffle Donuts. They’re such a delightful way to enjoy all the wonderful flavors of a classic apple fritter, but with the ease and fun of a waffle iron. I promise you, the aroma filling your kitchen alone is worth it!

So, go ahead, grab your apples and your waffle iron, and let’s get cooking! I would absolutely love to hear from you. Please leave a comment below if you have any questions, share your results, or tag me on social media with #WhatWillCook so I can see your beautiful creations! Happy waffling, my friends!