Why Make This Recipe
Are you tired of the same old breakfast choices? The Apple Fritter Waffle Donuts offer a delightful twist that combines the fluffy texture of waffles with the sweetness of apple fritters. This mashup is perfect for those who want a fun and delicious way to start their day. With a mix of tart apples and warm spices, these treats are sure to bring a smile to your face every time you take a bite.
How to Make Apple Fritter Waffle Donuts
Ingredients:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 teaspoons baking powder
- ½ teaspoon baking soda
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- ¼ teaspoon nutmeg
- 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
- 1½ cups peeled, diced tart apple (such as Granny Smith)
- Optional: ¼ cup chopped pecans or walnuts
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 2–3 tablespoons milk
- ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
- Extra powdered sugar for dusting
Directions:
- Peel, core, and dice apples into small chunks. Set aside.
- In a large bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg.
- In a separate bowl, whisk eggs, granulated sugar, brown sugar, buttermilk, melted butter, and vanilla until smooth.
- Pour the wet mixture into the dry ingredients and stir gently until just combined.
- Fold in the diced apples and nuts if using.
- Preheat your waffle iron and lightly grease it with nonstick spray or butter.
- Spoon ¼ cup of batter onto the waffle iron for each donut. Close the lid and cook until golden and crisp, about 3–5 minutes.
- Transfer the cooked waffle donuts to a wire rack.
- To make the glaze, whisk powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla until smooth.
- Drizzle the glaze over slightly cooled waffles and dust with extra powdered sugar.
- Serve warm or at room temperature.
How to Serve Apple Fritter Waffle Donuts
These waffle donuts are best served warm, fresh off the waffle iron, and drizzled with glaze. You can enjoy them just as they are, but feel free to add some fresh fruit or a dollop of whipped cream on top for extra sweetness. They also pair wonderfully with coffee or a warm cup of tea.
How to Store Apple Fritter Waffle Donuts
If you happen to have leftovers, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. For longer storage, you can freeze them. Wrap each donut tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag. They will keep well for up to a month. When ready to enjoy, simply reheat in a toaster or oven.
Tips to Make Apple Fritter Waffle Donuts
- Make sure the apples are diced into small, even pieces to ensure even cooking.
- Preheating the waffle iron is key to getting that golden, crunchy exterior.
- Don’t overmix the batter; it’s okay if there are a few lumps.
Variation
For a nut-free version, simply omit the pecans or walnuts. You can also switch up the spices by adding a little ginger or allspice for a different flavor profile.
FAQs
Can I use other types of apples?
Yes, while Granny Smith apples are recommended for their tartness, you can use any apple variety you like.
What if I don’t have buttermilk?
You can make a quick buttermilk substitute by adding 1 tablespoon of vinegar to ¾ cup of regular milk and letting it sit for 5 minutes before using.
Can I make these in advance?
Yes, these waffle donuts can be made ahead of time and stored. Just reheat them before serving for the best texture.
Apple Fritter Waffle Donuts
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
Filling Ingredients
- 1½ cups peeled, diced tart apple (such as Granny Smith)
- ¼ cup chopped pecans or walnuts Optional
Glaze Ingredients
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 2–3 tablespoons milk
- ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
- to taste tablespoons extra powdered sugar for dusting
Instructions
Preparation
- Peel, core, and dice apples into small chunks. Set aside.
- In a large bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg.
- In a separate bowl, whisk eggs, granulated sugar, brown sugar, buttermilk, melted butter, and vanilla until smooth.
- Pour the wet mixture into the dry ingredients and stir gently until just combined.
- Fold in the diced apples and nuts if using.
Cooking
- Preheat your waffle iron and lightly grease it with nonstick spray or butter.
- Spoon ¼ cup of batter onto the waffle iron for each donut. Close the lid and cook until golden and crisp, about 3–5 minutes.
- Transfer the cooked waffle donuts to a wire rack.
Glazing
- To make the glaze, whisk powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla until smooth.
- Drizzle the glaze over slightly cooled waffles and dust with extra powdered sugar.