Apple Fritter Waffle Donuts Recipe
Introduction
Apple Fritter Waffle Donuts are a delightful twist on two classic treats, combining the crisp texture of waffles with the sweet, spiced flavor of apple fritters. Topped with a smooth vanilla glaze, these warm, bite-sized treats are perfect for breakfast or a special snack.

Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tablespoon baking powder
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup packed brown sugar
- 1/2 cup whole milk
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup peeled and diced apples (about 1 medium apple)
- 1/2 cup chopped walnuts or pecans (optional)
- Oil for frying
- For the glaze:
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 2 tablespoons milk
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
- Step 1: In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, cinnamon, salt, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until well combined.
- Step 2: In another bowl, mix the milk, melted butter, eggs, and vanilla extract until smooth.
- Step 3: Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and stir until just combined. Gently fold in the diced apples and nuts if using.
- Step 4: Preheat your waffle iron according to the manufacturer’s instructions. Lightly grease it with cooking spray or oil.
- Step 5: Pour enough batter into the waffle iron to cover the surface, close the lid, and cook until golden brown, about 3-5 minutes. Repeat with the remaining batter.
- Step 6: While the waffles are cooking, prepare the glaze by whisking together the powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract in a small bowl until smooth.
- Step 7: Once the waffles are done, remove them from the waffle iron and let them cool slightly. Dip the tops into the glaze and let the excess drip off.
- Step 8: Serve warm and enjoy your delicious apple fritter waffle donuts!
Tips & Variations
- For extra crunch, toast the nuts before adding them to the batter.
- Use tart apples like Granny Smith to balance the sweetness.
- Try adding a pinch of nutmeg or ground cloves for additional warm spice.
- If you prefer, drizzle the glaze instead of dipping to keep the texture crispier.
Storage
Store leftover waffle donuts in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. Reheat them in a toaster or oven to restore crispness before glazing again if desired. Avoid refrigerating as it may make them soggy.
How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I make the batter ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the batter and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours. Give it a gentle stir before using, as the ingredients may settle.
What if I don’t have a waffle iron?
This recipe relies on a waffle iron for the distinctive texture. Without one, you might consider making pancakes or frying the batter for a more traditional apple fritter experience.
PrintApple Fritter Waffle Donuts Recipe
Delight in a playful twist on classic apple fritters with these Apple Fritter Waffle Donuts. Crispy, golden waffles packed with warm cinnamon-spiced apples and a hint of nuts are generously coated with a sweet vanilla glaze, making for a perfect breakfast treat or indulgent snack.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 8–10 waffle donuts 1x
- Category: Breakfast, Snack, Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
Dry Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tablespoon baking powder
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup brown sugar, packed
Wet Ingredients
- 1/2 cup whole milk
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Add-ins
- 1 cup peeled and diced apples (about 1 medium apple)
- 1/2 cup chopped walnuts or pecans (optional)
For Frying and Glaze
- Oil for frying (use for greasing waffle iron or optional for frying, see notes)
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 2 tablespoons milk
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, cinnamon, salt, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until evenly combined to ensure a balanced flavor throughout the batter.
- Prepare Wet Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the milk, melted butter, eggs, and vanilla extract until the mixture is smooth and fully blended to create a creamy base for the batter.
- Combine Batter: Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and stir gently until just combined, being careful not to overmix. Fold in the diced apples and nuts if using, distributing them evenly throughout the batter.
- Preheat and Grease Waffle Iron: Turn on your waffle iron and allow it to reach the manufacturer’s recommended temperature. Lightly grease the surface using cooking spray or oil to prevent sticking.
- Cook Waffles: Pour enough batter to cover the waffle iron surface evenly, then close the lid and cook for 3-5 minutes or until the waffle donuts are golden brown and cooked through. Repeat this process with the remaining batter.
- Prepare Glaze: While the waffles cook, whisk together the powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract in a small bowl until the glaze is smooth and lump-free.
- Glaze and Serve: Remove the waffles from the waffle iron and let them cool slightly. Dip the tops into the prepared glaze, allowing the excess to drip off. Serve the apple fritter waffle donuts warm to enjoy the perfect combination of crispy, soft, and sweet textures.
Notes
- If you don’t have a waffle iron, you can use a skillet or pan to make thick pancakes using the same batter and then cut into circular shapes for a similar effect.
- The nuts are optional but add a great crunch and nutty flavor.
- You can substitute whole milk with any milk alternative like almond or oat milk if preferred.
- The recipe is designed for cooking in a waffle iron and does not require frying despite the mention of oil; use oil only for greasing the waffle iron.
- Letting the batter rest for 5-10 minutes before cooking can help achieve a fluffier texture.
Keywords: apple fritter, waffle donuts, cinnamon apples, breakfast recipe, glazed donuts, easy waffle recipe

