Apple Fritter Waffle Donuts Recipe
If you are looking to indulge in something that perfectly balances the comforting taste of apple fritters with the fun and fluffiness of waffles, then these Apple Fritter Waffle Donuts are about to become your new obsession. Imagine tender chunks of caramelized apples wrapped inside a soft, cinnamon-spiced waffle, coated with a sweet vanilla glaze that will have you savoring every bite. They bring the classic bakery feel right to your kitchen, making any morning or brunch feel extra special and deliciously memorable.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Getting the ingredients ready for these Apple Fritter Waffle Donuts is simple but essential—the magic is truly in the mix and the fresh apples that bring that quintessential warm sweetness. Each ingredient works harmoniously, lending the perfect texture, flavor, and color that make these donuts unforgettable.
- All-purpose flour: The base for a tender, fluffy donut texture that’s just right for waffles.
- Granulated sugar: Adds balanced sweetness without overpowering the other flavors.
- Baking powder: Helps your donuts rise nice and light.
- Baking soda: Works with the acidity of buttermilk to give an extra fluffy lift.
- Ground cinnamon: Brings warmth and pairs perfectly with apples in every bite.
- Pinch of salt: Enhances all the flavors and balances the sweetness.
- Buttermilk: Adds moisture and tangy depth for a rich, tender crumb.
- Large egg: Binds ingredients and adds structure.
- Melted butter: Provides buttery richness and keeps the texture soft.
- Vanilla extract: Adds a lovely aromatic sweetness that complements the apple mixture.
- Medium apple (Granny Smith or Honeycrisp): Peeled and diced to give a fresh, fruity burst in every donut.
- Butter (for apple skillet): Used to caramelize apples, intensifying their flavor.
- Brown sugar: Melts into the apples creating a sweet, caramel-like coating.
- Powdered sugar: For whipping up a smooth, sweet glaze that finishes the donuts perfectly.
- Milk: Adjusts the glaze consistency to just the right thickness for dipping or drizzling.
How to Make Apple Fritter Waffle Donuts
Step 1: Caramelize the Apples
Start by warming a small skillet over medium heat and melting a tablespoon of butter. Toss in your diced apples along with brown sugar and cinnamon. This simple step transforms the apples into a tender, caramelized filling bursting with flavor. Cook them for about 5 to 7 minutes until they’re soft and golden, then let them cool slightly to preserve their texture when mixing into the batter.
Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients
Next, whisk together the all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, baking powder, baking soda, ground cinnamon, and a pinch of salt in a large bowl. This combination is what creates the perfect spicy-sweet foundation for your batter, ensuring every bite is balanced and deliciously tender.
Step 3: Combine the Wet Ingredients
In a separate bowl, blend the buttermilk, egg, melted butter, and vanilla extract until smooth. Pour this mixture into the dry ingredients and stir until just combined. Be gentle here—overmixing can make your donuts tough. Then, carefully fold in the caramelized apple mixture, distributing those sweet pockets of apple evenly throughout your batter.
Step 4: Cook the Waffle Donuts
Now it’s time to bring your Apple Fritter Waffle Donuts to life! Preheat your waffle iron and lightly grease it to prevent sticking. Spoon the batter into each mold, close the iron, and cook for 3 to 4 minutes or until the waffles turn golden and a toothpick inserted comes out clean. Transfer them to a wire rack to cool slightly—the smell alone is enough to make your kitchen feel like a bakery.
Step 5: Prepare the Vanilla Glaze
While your donuts cool, whisk together powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract until smooth. Adjust the consistency by adding more milk to thin or more powdered sugar to thicken, depending on your preference. The glaze adds a shiny, sweet finish that perfectly balances the warm spices and bright apples.
Step 6: Glaze the Donuts
Once the waffle donuts are warm but not hot, dip the tops into the glaze or use a spoon to drizzle the icing delicately over them. Allow the glaze to set for a few minutes before serving, so it forms a beautiful, slightly crisp shell that melts in your mouth.
How to Serve Apple Fritter Waffle Donuts
Garnishes
If you want to add an extra touch, sprinkle a little cinnamon sugar on top of your glazed Apple Fritter Waffle Donuts or toss on some finely chopped nuts like pecans for a delightful crunch. Fresh apple slices or a dusting of powdered sugar can also add charm and make your presentation really pop.
Side Dishes
These donuts shine on their own, but serving them alongside a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream elevates the experience. A cup of freshly brewed coffee or hot apple cider pairs beautifully, making it a divine brunch treat or afternoon pick-me-up.
Creative Ways to Present
Thinking outside the box? Stack your Apple Fritter Waffle Donuts for a picturesque tower, inserting a few bursts of whipped cream or cinnamon-spiced apple compote in between. You can even sandwich them with cream cheese frosting for a decadent twist. Whether served on a rustic wooden board or a colorful plate, these donuts are sure to wow anyone lucky enough to take a bite.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
You can keep your Apple Fritter Waffle Donuts fresh by storing them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. They stay soft and flavorful, but they are really best enjoyed fresh to preserve that perfect chewy and tender texture with the glaze still slightly crisp.
Freezing
Want to save some for later? Wrap the waffle donuts individually in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. They freeze beautifully for up to one month, allowing you to enjoy a quick, homemade breakfast treat anytime you like without losing any of the delight.
Reheating
To bring your frozen Apple Fritter Waffle Donuts back to life, simply thaw at room temperature and then reheat in a toaster oven or conventional oven at 350°F for about 5 to 7 minutes. This warms them through while keeping the outside crisp and the apple centers tender. Avoid microwaving if possible, as it can make them rubbery or soggy.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of apple for this recipe?
Absolutely! While Granny Smith and Honeycrisp apples are recommended for their balance of tartness and sweetness, varieties like Fuji or Gala work well too. Each will lend a slightly different flavor profile, but the Apple Fritter Waffle Donuts will still be delicious.
Do I need a special waffle iron to make these donuts?
You don’t need a separate donut iron; a regular waffle iron with deep molds works perfectly to give that classic waffle texture combined with the shape of a donut. Just be sure to grease it lightly and watch the cooking time to avoid over- or undercooking.
Can I make these Apple Fritter Waffle Donuts vegan?
With some adjustments, yes! Substitute the buttermilk with a plant-based milk mixed with a splash of lemon juice, replace the egg with a flaxseed or chia egg, and use vegan butter. The texture might differ slightly but they’ll still capture that delicious apple cinnamon essence.
Is it possible to bake instead of waffle-cook these?
You can bake the batter in a donut pan at 350°F for about 12 to 15 minutes. The texture will be closer to a baked donut rather than waffle-style, but it’s a good alternative if you don’t have a waffle iron.
What’s the best way to keep the glaze from becoming too runny?
Start by adding milk a little at a time until you reach a thick yet pourable consistency. If it becomes too runny, whisk in more powdered sugar to thicken it back up. The glaze should coat the back of a spoon without dripping too quickly for best results.
Final Thoughts
If you’re ready to enjoy a freshly baked delight that combines the joy of warm apples, cinnamon spice, and golden waffles all in a playful donut form, then you absolutely must try making these Apple Fritter Waffle Donuts. Perfect for breakfast, brunch, or even dessert, they bring a cozy and joyful experience to your table that everyone will love. Give them a whirl and watch how quickly these irresistible treats disappear!
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Apple Fritter Waffle Donuts Recipe
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 6 waffle donuts 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Delight in these Apple Fritter Waffle Donuts, combining the crispy, golden texture of waffles with the sweet, tender bite of caramelized apples. Topped with a smooth vanilla glaze, these treats perfectly capture the flavors of classic apple fritters in an easy-to-make waffle form, ideal for breakfast, brunch, or a comforting snack.
Ingredients
Apple Filling
- 1 tbsp butter
- 1 medium apple (Granny Smith or Honeycrisp), peeled and diced small
- 1 tbsp brown sugar
- 1/2 tsp cinnamon
Batter
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tsp baking powder
- 1/2 tsp baking soda
- 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
- Pinch of salt
- 1/2 cup buttermilk
- 1 large egg
- 2 tbsp melted butter
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
Glaze
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 2–3 tbsp milk
- 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
Instructions
- Prepare the Apple Filling: In a small skillet over medium heat, melt 1 tablespoon of butter. Add the diced apple, brown sugar, and 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon. Cook for 5–7 minutes until the apples are tender and caramelized. Remove from heat and set aside to cool slightly.
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In a mixing bowl, whisk together all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, baking powder, baking soda, ground cinnamon, and a pinch of salt, ensuring ingredients are evenly combined.
- Combine Wet Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together buttermilk, egg, melted butter, and vanilla extract until well blended.
- Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures with Apple Filling: Pour the wet ingredients into the bowl of dry ingredients and stir gently until just combined; do not overmix. Fold the slightly cooled apple filling into the batter carefully to distribute evenly.
- Cook the Waffle Donuts: Preheat and lightly grease a waffle iron. Spoon batter into the center of each mold, filling appropriately but not overfilling. Close the lid and cook for 3–4 minutes or until the waffle donuts are golden brown and cooked through. Remove and set on a wire rack to cool slightly.
- Prepare the Glaze: In a small bowl, whisk together powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract until smooth. Adjust consistency by adding more milk or powdered sugar as needed for a drizzleable glaze.
- Glaze the Waffle Donuts: When the waffle donuts are warm (not hot), dip the tops into the glaze or drizzle the glaze over them with a spoon. Allow the glaze to set before serving for best flavor and texture.
Notes
- Use firm apples like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp for best texture in the filling.
- Do not overmix the batter to keep the waffle donuts tender.
- Make sure the waffle iron is well-greased to prevent sticking.
- The glaze can be adjusted in sweetness and thickness according to preference.
- Serve warm for the best taste and texture experience.
- Leftover waffle donuts can be reheated briefly in a toaster or oven to refresh crispiness.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Breakfast, Snack, Dessert
- Method: Waffle Iron Cooking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 waffle donut
- Calories: 220 kcal
- Sugar: 15 g
- Sodium: 180 mg
- Fat: 8 g
- Saturated Fat: 4.5 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 32 g
- Fiber: 2 g
- Protein: 4 g
- Cholesterol: 50 mg
Keywords: apple fritter waffle donuts, apple waffles, breakfast waffle donuts, apple fritters, caramelized apple waffles, glazed waffle donuts, easy breakfast recipe
