Apple Fritter Waffle Donuts

Here’s a  recipe for Apple Fritter Waffle Donuts – a perfect blend of crispy waffle exterior, soft donut texture, and sweet apple fritter goodness. These can be made using a waffle iron and are finished with a classic glaze.

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🍩 Apple Fritter Waffle Donuts Recipe

✨ What You’ll Get:

• Crispy edges from the waffle iron

• Tender, cinnamon-apple interior

• Sweet vanilla glaze drizzled over the top

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📝 Ingredients

For the Apple Mixture:

• 2 medium apples (Granny Smith or Honeycrisp), peeled, cored, and diced small

• 2 tbsp unsalted butter

• 2 tbsp brown sugar

• 1 tsp ground cinnamon

• ¼ tsp nutmeg

• 1 tsp lemon juice (optional – prevents browning and adds brightness)

For the Donut Batter:

• 1 cup all-purpose flour

• ¼ cup granulated sugar

• 1 tsp baking powder

• ¼ tsp baking soda

• ¼ tsp salt

• ½ tsp ground cinnamon

• ⅛ tsp nutmeg

• 1 large egg

• ⅓ cup whole milk (or buttermilk for tang)

• 1 tsp vanilla extract

• 2 tbsp melted butter (plus more for greasing the waffle iron)

For the Glaze:

• 1 cup powdered sugar

• 1–2 tbsp milk

• ½ tsp vanilla extract

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🔪 Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Make the Apple Filling 🍎

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

2. Add the diced apples, brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, and lemon juice.

3. Cook for 5–7 minutes, stirring often, until apples are tender and caramelized.

4. Remove from heat and let it cool slightly.

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2. Make the Donut Batter 🍥

1. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg.

2. In a separate bowl, whisk the egg, milk, vanilla, and melted butter.

3. Pour the wet ingredients into the dry and stir until just combined – do not overmix.

4. Fold in the cooked apple mixture gently.

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3. Cook in Waffle Iron 🧇

1. Preheat your waffle iron and lightly grease with butter or non-stick spray.

2. Scoop about ⅓ cup of batter into each waffle section (amount depends on the size of your waffle iron).

3. Close and cook for 3–5 minutes, or until golden brown and crispy at the edges.

4. Remove carefully and place on a cooling rack.

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4. Make the Glaze & Finish 🍯

1. In a small bowl, whisk together powdered sugar, milk (1 tbsp at a time), and vanilla until smooth and pourable.

2. Drizzle the glaze over warm waffle donuts, or dip the tops for full coverage.

3. Let glaze set for a few minutes before serving.

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✅ Tips for Success

• Apple choice: Tart apples like Granny Smith balance the sweetness, but sweeter varieties like Fuji or Gala also work well.

• Make ahead: Cook the apples and batter ahead and refrigerate separately. Combine and cook when ready.

• No waffle iron? You can cook these like pancakes or bake them in a donut pan at 350°F (175°C) for 10–12 minutes.

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🍽️ Serving Suggestions

• Serve warm for best flavor and texture.

• Add a scoop of vanilla ice cream for dessert vibes.

• Dust with powdered sugar instead of glaze for a lighter option.