If you love the warm cinnamon sweetness of classic apple fritters but crave the convenience of a waffle, then this recipe is exactly what you need. These Apple fritter donut waffles are crispy on the outside, tender on the inside, and drenched in a luscious vanilla glaze.
Perfect for breakfast, brunch, or a cozy weekend treat, this recipe brings bakery-quality flavor straight to your kitchen.

What Makes Apple Fritter Waffle Donuts So Special?

This recipe is a delicious fusion of three iconic comfort foods:

• The warm, spiced sweetness of apple fritters

• The fluffy texture of homemade waffles

• The sugary glaze of classic donuts

Instead of deep-frying, you cook the fritter batter in a waffle iron, which gives the donuts their signature crispy edges while keeping them wonderfully soft. It’s faster, cleaner, and just as indulgent.

Whether you’re hosting a brunch, creating a fall-inspired treat, or simply craving something comforting, Apple fritter donut waffles deliver flavor, aroma, and texture in every bite.

Ingredients for Apple Fritter Waffle Donuts

Below is the full list of ingredients divided into two easy sections: batter and glaze.

For the Apple Fritter Waffle Donuts

• 2 cups all-purpose flour

• 1/4 cup granulated sugar

• 2 tsp baking powder

• 1 tsp baking soda

• 1 tsp cinnamon

• 1/4 tsp nutmeg

• 1/2 tsp salt

• 2 large eggs

• 1 cup whole milk

• 1/2 cup sour cream (adds tenderness & moisture)

• 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted

• 2 tsp vanilla extract

• 2 large apples, peeled & diced (Honeycrisp, Fuji, or Gala work best)

• 1 tbsp butter (for sautéing the apples)

• 1 tbsp brown sugar

• 1/2 tsp cinnamon (for the apples)

For the Donut-Style Glaze

• 1 cup powdered sugar

• 2–3 tbsp milk (adjust for thickness)

• 1/2 tsp vanilla extract

Kitchen Tools You’ll Need

To prepare perfect Apple fritter donut waffles, you’ll need:

• Waffle maker (round or square)

• Large mixing bowls

• Non-stick skillet for sautéing the apples

• Whisk or hand mixer

• Spatula

• Cooling rack (optional, but helps set the glaze)

How to Make Apple Fritter Waffle Donuts

Follow these clear, step-by-step instructions for the best texture and flavor.

Step 1 — Prepare the Sautéed Apples

This step enhances the flavor and prevents raw apple pieces from staying crunchy inside the donuts.

1. In a skillet, melt 1 tbsp butter over medium heat.

2. Add the diced apples, brown sugar, and cinnamon.

3. Cook for 4–6 minutes, stirring occasionally, until apples soften and turn lightly caramelized.

4. Set aside and let cool slightly.

The apples should be tender but not mushy.

Step 2 — Mix the Dry Ingredients

In a large bowl, whisk together:

• Flour

• Granulated sugar

• Baking powder

• Baking soda

• Cinnamon

• Nutmeg

• Salt

This ensures even distribution of leavening agents before liquids are added.

Step 3 — Prepare the Wet Mixture

In another bowl, combine:

• Eggs

• Milk

• Sour cream

• Melted butter

• Vanilla extract

Whisk until smooth and creamy.

Step 4 — Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients

1. Pour the wet mixture into the bowl of dry ingredients.

2. Mix gently with a spatula—do not overmix.

3. Fold in the sautéed apples until evenly distributed.

The batter should be thick and slightly lumpy.

Step 5 — Cook the Waffle Donuts

1. Preheat your waffle maker and lightly grease it if needed.

2. Add a scoop of batter to the center (avoid overfilling).

3. Cook for 3–5 minutes depending on your waffle maker.

4. Waffles should be golden brown with crisp edges.

5. Transfer to a wire rack for cooling.

Repeat until all the batter is used.

Step 6 — Prepare the Glaze

In a small bowl:

1. Whisk the powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla.

2. Adjust thickness—add milk for a thinner glaze or sugar for a thicker one.

Drizzle generously over warm waffles for a glossy donut-style finish.

Step 7 — Serve and Enjoy

Once the glaze sets slightly, your Apple fritter donut waffles are ready to serve.
Enjoy them warm for the best texture and flavor.

Tips for Making the Best Apple Fritter Waffle Donuts

These notes help you achieve bakery-quality results every time.

1. Use the right apples

Choose crisp and sweet varieties:

• Honeycrisp

• Fuji

• Gala

Soft apples can become mushy.

2. Don’t skip sautéing the apples

Raw apples release moisture and can make the batter gummy.
Sautéing adds caramelization and flavor.

3. Keep the waffle maker hot

Consistent heat ensures evenly cooked waffles with crisp exterior.

4. Don’t overmix the batter

Overmixing creates dense, heavy waffles.
Mix only until ingredients combine.

5. Glaze while warm

Warm waffles absorb the glaze lightly, giving that perfect donut coating.

6. Add chopped walnuts or pecans (optional)

For added crunch and richness.

7. Make them extra indulgent

Serve with:

• Maple syrup

• Caramel drizzle

• A scoop of vanilla ice cream

8. Storage tips

Refrigerator:
Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.

Freezer:
Wrap individually and freeze for up to 2 months.

To reheat:
Use a toaster or oven for maximum crispiness.

Approximate Nutritional Information (per waffle donut)

Values are estimated and may vary based on size and ingredients.

• Calories: 290–340

• Carbohydrates: 45g

• Protein: 5g

• Fat: 12g

• Sugar: 24g

• Fiber: 2g

Because these are donut-style waffles with glaze, they’re meant to be a sweet treat—perfect for special mornings or weekend brunch.

Why These Apple Fritter Waffle Donuts Are Perfect Year-Round

Although they shine during fall and winter months, their warm cinnamon flavor and soft apple filling make them enjoyable any time of the year.

They’re ideal for:

• Weekend breakfasts

• Christmas brunch

• Mother’s Day breakfast in bed

• Thanksgiving dessert tables

• Kids’ snacks

• Holiday mornings

• Café-style breakfasts at home

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make the batter ahead of time?

Yes, prepare the batter 24 hours in advance and store in the refrigerator.
Stir gently before using.

Can I use canned apple pie filling?

Yes, but chop the apples into small pieces to avoid large chunks.

Can I make them gluten-free?

Yes—use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend.

Can I skip the glaze?

You can, but the glaze gives these Apple fritter donut waffles their signature donut finish.

Can I air-fry the waffles?

Absolutely! After cooking in the waffle maker, air fry for 2–3 minutes for extra crispiness.

Serving Ideas for Apple Fritter Waffle Donuts

These waffles pair beautifully with:

• Hot coffee or cappuccino

• Warm apple cider

• Cinnamon whipped cream

• Fresh fruit on the side

• Vanilla bean ice cream

If you’re making a brunch buffet, combine them with:

• Scrambled eggs

• Breakfast sausages

• Fresh berries

• Oatmeal or smoothie bowls

This creates the perfect balance between sweet and savory.

Conclusion

If you’re craving a warm, sweet, bakery-style treat that comes together quickly at home, these Apple fritter donut waffles are the perfect choice. They combine the nostalgic flavor of apple fritters with the crispy joy of waffles and the sugary glaze of donuts.