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Apple Fritter Waffle Donuts Recipe

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4.6 from 64 reviews

Delight in the comforting flavors of Apple Fritter Waffle Donuts, a perfect fusion of classic apple fritters and fluffy waffles. These treats are infused with warm cinnamon and nutmeg, studded with tart diced apples, and finished with a luscious vanilla glaze. Ideal for breakfast or a sweet snack, they offer crispy edges, a tender inside, and a sweet, spiced glaze that’s simply irresistible.

Ingredients

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

Add-ins

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

For the Glaze

  • 1 cup powdered sugar
  • 2–3 tablespoons milk
  • ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
  • Extra powdered sugar for dusting

Instructions

  1. Prepare Apples. Peel, core, and dice the tart apples into small chunks and set aside to incorporate later in the batter for fresh bursts of flavor and texture.
  2. Mix Dry Ingredients. In a large bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, ground cinnamon, and nutmeg to evenly distribute the leavening agents and spices.
  3. Combine Wet Ingredients. In a separate bowl, vigorously whisk the eggs with granulated sugar, light brown sugar, buttermilk, melted butter, and vanilla extract until the mixture is smooth and homogeneous.
  4. Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures. Pour the wet ingredients into the bowl with the dry ingredients and gently stir just until everything is combined to avoid overmixing which could toughen the batter.
  5. Add Apples and Nuts. Fold in the diced apples and chopped nuts if using, distributing them evenly throughout the batter for texture and flavor.
  6. Preheat and Grease Waffle Iron. Preheat your waffle iron and lightly grease it with nonstick spray or butter to ensure the waffles release easily after cooking.
  7. Cook Waffle Donuts. Spoon about ¼ cup of batter onto the center of the waffle iron for each donut. Close the lid and cook for about 3–5 minutes or until the waffles turn golden brown and crisp on the outside.
  8. Cool on Wire Rack. Transfer the cooked waffle donuts to a wire rack to cool slightly, allowing air to circulate so they maintain crispness.
  9. Prepare Glaze. In a small bowl, whisk together powdered sugar, milk (start with 2 tablespoons and add more for desired consistency), and vanilla extract until smooth and pourable.
  10. Glaze and Serve. Drizzle the glaze over the warm or room temperature waffle donuts and dust with extra powdered sugar for a sweet, decorative finish. Enjoy immediately or store for later.

Notes

  • Buttermilk can be substituted with regular milk mixed with 1 tablespoon of vinegar or lemon juice to create a similar tangy effect.
  • Use tart apples like Granny Smith for a balanced sweet-tart flavor that stands out against the sugary glaze.
  • Ensure not to overmix the batter to keep the waffle donuts light and tender.
  • Optional nuts add a lovely crunch; pecans or walnuts work best.
  • Waffle iron cooking times may vary—monitor closely to prevent burning.
  • Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days; reheat gently to restore crispness.