The moment the first hint of autumn hits the air, I find myself dreaming of comforting treats like Apple Fritter Waffle Donuts. Combining the taste of warm cinnamon-spiced apples with the delightful textures of both a donut and a waffle, this cozy hybrid is your new go-to for breakfast or an afternoon pick-me-up. What I love most about this recipe is how easy it is to whip up in just 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy mornings or unexpected guests. Plus, they can easily be made gluten-free with a simple flour swap, ensuring everyone can indulge in this sweet delight. Are you ready to transform your morning routine into something truly special?
Why Choose Apple Fritter Waffle Donuts?
Irresistible Flavors: The warm and cozy combination of apples, cinnamon, and vanilla creates a delicious experience in every bite.
Quick & Easy: Whip these up in just 30 minutes, making breakfast feel special and effortless.
Versatile Delight: Feel free to switch up the apples, spices, or add chocolate chips for a delightful twist.
Gluten-Free Option: Easily transform this recipe for a gluten-free indulgence, so nobody misses out on the fun!
Crowd-Pleaser: Perfect for brunch with friends or a sweet treat for the family—everyone will come back for seconds!
For more apple-inspired desserts, check out my Salted Caramel Apple treat!
Apple Fritter Waffle Donuts Ingredients
• Let the baking adventure begin!
For the Batter
• All-Purpose Flour – Provides the structure of the donuts; substitute with a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend for a gluten-free option.
• Baking Powder – A leavening agent that helps achieve a fluffy texture in your Apple Fritter Waffle Donuts.
• Baking Soda – Works with acidic ingredients to further boost leavening for a light and airy finish.
• Salt – Enhances flavor and balances sweetness, making your donuts irresistible.
• Ground Cinnamon – Adds warmth and that classic apple pie flavor everyone loves.
• Nutmeg – Complements the spiced apple flavor; freshly grated will elevate your recipe.
• Large Eggs – Binds ingredients together and adds moisture for a tender donut.
• Granulated Sugar – Provides sweetness; coconut sugar can be used for a lower glycemic index option.
• Light Brown Sugar – Adds depth of flavor and moisture to every bite.
• Buttermilk – Creates a tender texture; you can substitute with milk mixed with vinegar if needed.
• Unsalted Butter – Adds richness; coconut oil works well for a dairy-free alternative.
• Vanilla Extract – Enhances sweetness and aroma, making each donut truly special.
• Diced Tart Apples (e.g., Granny Smith) – Adds fresh flavor and texture; feel free to experiment with other tart varieties like Honeycrisp.
• Chopped Pecans or Walnuts (optional) – Brings a delightful crunch; omit if nut allergies are a concern.
For the Glaze
• Powdered Sugar – Sweetens the glaze; use less for a lighter touch.
• Milk – Adjusts the consistency of the glaze; plant-based milk can be substituted for a dairy-free version.
• Extra Powdered Sugar (for dusting) – Provides a beautiful finishing touch that adds pure sweetness.
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Apple Fritter Waffle Donuts
Step 1: Prep Apples
Start by peeling, coring, and dicing tart apples (like Granny Smith) into small chunks. This should yield about 1 to 1.5 cups, depending on your preference. Set the diced apples aside in a bowl, as they’ll add delightful flavor and texture to your Apple Fritter Waffle Donuts later in the process.
Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together 2 cups of all-purpose flour, 2 teaspoons of baking powder, 1 teaspoon of baking soda, ½ teaspoon of salt, 1 teaspoon of ground cinnamon, and ¼ teaspoon of nutmeg. This combination will create a flavorful base for the batter. Make sure to mix thoroughly, as these dry ingredients are essential for achieving that perfect fluffy texture in your donuts.
Step 3: Mix Wet Ingredients
In another bowl, whisk together 2 large eggs, ½ cup of granulated sugar, ¼ cup of light brown sugar, 1 cup of buttermilk, ¼ cup of melted unsalted butter, and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract. Beat until the mixture is smooth and well combined. This wet mixture is crucial for binding the ingredients together to create a tender batter for your Apple Fritter Waffle Donuts.
Step 4: Combine Mixtures
Pour the wet ingredients into the bowl with the dry ingredients, stirring gently until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; a few lumps are perfectly fine. Next, fold in your prepped diced apples and, if you desire, some chopped pecans or walnuts for an added crunchy texture. This creates a delightful batter filled with interesting elements.
Step 5: Prepare Waffle Iron
Preheat your waffle iron according to the manufacturer’s instructions and lightly grease it with nonstick spray or melted butter. This step is crucial for ensuring that your Apple Fritter Waffle Donuts come out crispy and don’t stick to the plates. Make sure the iron is hot before moving on to the next step.
Step 6: Cook Donuts
Spoon about ¼ cup of the prepared batter into the centers of the waffle iron for each donut. Close the lid gently and cook for approximately 3 to 5 minutes, or until the donuts are golden brown and crisp. You may need to check the waffle iron frequently, as cooking times may vary by model.
Step 7: Cool Waffles
Once cooked, carefully transfer the waffle donuts to a wire rack to cool slightly. This allows any excess steam to escape, keeping your Apple Fritter Waffle Donuts from becoming soggy. Let them cool for about 5 minutes while you prepare the glaze.
Step 8: Make Glaze
In a mixing bowl, whisk together 1 cup of powdered sugar, 2 tablespoons of milk, and ½ teaspoon of vanilla extract until smooth and creamy. Adjust the milk to achieve your desired glaze consistency—thicker for dripping or thinner for a light coat. This glaze will add sweetness to your Apple Fritter Waffle Donuts.
Step 9: Glaze Donuts
Once the donuts are slightly cooled, drizzle the sweet glaze over them generously. If you like, dust with additional powdered sugar for an extra touch of sweetness and visual allure. Serve your Apple Fritter Waffle Donuts warm for a delightful breakfast treat or an indulgent snack that everyone will love!
Make Ahead Options
These Apple Fritter Waffle Donuts are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the batter up to 24 hours in advance by mixing the dry ingredients (flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg) and storing them in an airtight container. Additionally, you can dice the apples and refrigerate them, which helps prevent browning. When ready to serve, simply whisk together the wet ingredients, combine with dry ingredients, and fold in the apples before cooking. This way, you’ll have warm, fresh Apple Fritter Waffle Donuts ready for your busy mornings with minimal effort, ensuring they’re just as delicious and comforting!
What to Serve with Apple Fritter Waffle Donuts?
Delight your senses with a full meal that perfectly complements the sweet warmth of apple fritter waffle donuts.
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Maple Syrup: The classic accompaniment that enhances the sweet and spiced flavors, allowing each bite to dance with sticky goodness.
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Fresh Fruit Salad: A vibrant medley of seasonal fruits brings freshness, balancing the richness of the donuts while adding a colorful touch to your plate.
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Crispy Bacon: Savory bacon provides a crunchy contrast to the fluffy sweetness, making for a delightful sweet-and-salty combination that everyone loves.
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Yogurt Parfait: Layer some creamy yogurt with granola and berries for a wholesome side that adds a creamy texture and a burst of fruity flavor.
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Chai Latte: The aromatic spices in a warm chai latte echo the flavors of your waffle donuts while offering a cozy drink option to sip.
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Whipped Cream: Light and airy, a dollop of homemade whipped cream adds a luxurious touch, making each bite even more indulgent.
These pairings will elevate your Apple Fritter Waffle Donuts into a complete breakfast experience, bringing joy to your mornings!
Expert Tips for Making Apple Fritter Waffle Donuts
- Avoid Overmixing: Mixing the batter too much can result in tough donuts. Stir just until combined for tender, fluffy Apple Fritter Waffle Donuts.
- Right Apple Choice: Using tart apples like Granny Smith keeps the donuts balanced in sweetness and provides a refreshing burst of flavor.
- Crispy Edges: For extra crispiness, set finished waffles in a warm oven (200°F) while cooking the rest—this keeps them from getting soggy.
- Waffle Iron Prep: Ensure your waffle iron is properly preheated and greased to prevent sticking, helping you achieve that perfect unleavened donut shape.
- Glaze Consistency: Adjust the glaze thickness to your liking; use less milk for a thicker drizzle or more for a lighter coating that seeps into every bite.
How to Store and Freeze Apple Fritter Waffle Donuts
Room Temperature: Store leftover Apple Fritter Waffle Donuts in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 day to maintain their freshness.
Fridge: To extend the life, refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 3 days; gently reheat in the microwave for a warm treat.
Freezer: Freeze the waffle donuts for up to 2 months, layered between wax paper to prevent sticking. Let them cool completely before freezing.
Reheating: To enjoy, simply reheat in an oven at 350°F for about 10-15 minutes or in the microwave for 20-30 seconds until warmed through.
Apple Fritter Waffle Donuts Variations
Feel free to personalize your Apple Fritter Waffle Donuts with these fun and delightful twists!
- Gluten-Free: Substitute all-purpose flour for a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend for everyone to enjoy.
- Fruit Swap: Use different apple varieties like Fuji for sweetness or Braeburn for a fruity punch.
- Spice It Up: Add cardamom or allspice to the batter for an aromatic twist that elevates the flavor.
- Chocolate Lovers: Mix in chocolate chips before cooking for a sweet surprise in every bite.
- Nutty Crunch: Boost texture by incorporating chopped pecans or walnuts into the batter for added crunch.
- Dairy-Free Option: Replace buttermilk with a plant-based milk mixed with vinegar for a dairy-free delight.
- Cinnamon Sugar Dusting: After glazing, toss in cinnamon sugar for a delightful, sweet crust.
- Seasonal Spices: Experiment with pumpkin spice for a seasonal touch that captures autumn’s essence.
For more creative apple recipes, don’t miss out on my delicious Apple Cake Cream or the decadent Salted Caramel Apple. Enjoy crafting your perfect apple fritter experience!
Apple Fritter Waffle Donuts Recipe FAQs
What apples are best for making Apple Fritter Waffle Donuts?
Using tart apples like Granny Smith is ideal for this recipe, as they provide a refreshing burst of flavor that balances the sweetness of the sugars. If you’d like to experiment, Honeycrisp or Fuji apples can add extra sweetness or a different flair to your donuts!
How should I store leftover Apple Fritter Waffle Donuts?
For short-term storage, keep your Apple Fritter Waffle Donuts in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 day. To extend their freshness, store them in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Just gently reheat them in the microwave or toaster oven for a warm treat.
Can I freeze Apple Fritter Waffle Donuts?
Absolutely! To freeze your waffle donuts, let them cool completely and then layer them between sheets of wax paper in an airtight container. They’ll keep well in the freezer for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, reheat them in the oven at 350°F for about 10-15 minutes for a crispy result.
What should I do if my batter is too thick?
If your batter turns out thicker than you’d like, don’t worry! Simply add a splash of buttermilk or milk to loosen it up. Stir gently until you achieve a smooth, pourable consistency that will spread nicely in the waffle iron without being too runny.
Are there any nut-free alternatives for this recipe?
Certainly! If you’re looking to avoid nuts altogether, simply omit the chopped pecans or walnuts. The recipe still shines with just the apple batter and glaze. Also, if allergies are a concern, you can substitute any other ingredient, like gluten-free flour or dairy-free milk, to cater to specific dietary needs.
How can I make these donuts healthier?
To lighten up your Apple Fritter Waffle Donuts, you can reduce the sugar using coconut sugar, which has a lower glycemic index, or use less sugar in the glaze. You can also swap out half of the all-purpose flour for a whole grain option, providing extra fiber while still keeping that delightful taste!
Apple Fritter Waffle Donuts: Your New Breakfast Obsession
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Start by peeling, coring, and dicing tart apples (like Granny Smith) into small chunks. Set aside in a bowl.
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg.
- In another bowl, whisk together eggs, granulated sugar, brown sugar, buttermilk, melted butter, and vanilla extract until smooth.
- Pour the wet ingredients into the bowl with the dry ingredients, stirring gently until just combined. Fold in diced apples and optional nuts.
- Preheat your waffle iron according to instructions and lightly grease it.
- Spoon about ¼ cup of batter into the centers of the waffle iron for each donut and cook for 3 to 5 minutes until golden brown.
- Transfer waffle donuts to a wire rack to cool for about 5 minutes.
- Whisk together powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract until smooth to make the glaze.
- Once cooled, drizzle the glaze over the donuts and dust with additional powdered sugar if desired. Serve warm.
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