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Craving something sweet and easy? You’re in for a treat with my Apple Fritter Waffle Donuts! This recipe combines the best flavors of classic apple fritters with the fun of donuts and waffles. You’ll discover how simple it is to whip up these tasty delights in just a few steps. Grab your waffle maker, and let’s dive into the delicious world of apple fritter waffles!
Why I Love This Recipe
- Deliciously Unique Combination: These apple fritter waffle donuts combine the best of both worlds—a fluffy waffle texture and the indulgent sweetness of apple fritters.
- Easy to Make: This recipe is straightforward and perfect for both novice and experienced bakers, making it a fun weekend project.
- Perfect for Sharing: With 10 servings, these treats are great for gatherings, brunches, or simply to enjoy with family and friends.
- Customizable: You can easily modify the recipe by adding nuts or other fruits, allowing you to create your own version of this delightful treat.
Ingredients
Complete list of ingredients for Apple Fritter Waffle Donuts
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 tablespoon baking powder
– ½ teaspoon baking soda
– 1 teaspoon cinnamon
– ¼ teaspoon nutmeg
– ½ teaspoon salt
– ¾ cup brown sugar
– 1 cup buttermilk
– 2 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 cup apples, peeled, cored, and diced (preferably Granny Smith)
– ½ cup granulated sugar (for coating)
– 1 teaspoon cinnamon (for coating)
– Oil for frying
Measurement conversions for easy preparation
– 2 cups = 480 ml
– 1 tablespoon = 15 ml
– ½ teaspoon = 2.5 ml
– 1 teaspoon = 5 ml
– ¾ cup = 180 ml
These simple conversions help make cooking easy.
Recommended apple varieties for best flavor
I suggest using Granny Smith apples. They bring a nice tartness. Honeycrisp and Fuji apples are also great options. They add sweetness and crunch to the donuts. Choose fresh apples for the best taste.

Step-by-Step Instructions
Detailed instructions to make Apple Fritter Waffle Donuts
First, gather your ingredients. You will need two cups of flour, one tablespoon of baking powder, and half a teaspoon of baking soda. Also, get one teaspoon of cinnamon, a quarter teaspoon of nutmeg, and half a teaspoon of salt. Next, grab three-quarters of a cup of brown sugar, one cup of buttermilk, two large eggs, and one teaspoon of vanilla extract. Finally, prepare one cup of peeled, cored, and diced apples, preferably Granny Smith.
1. In a large bowl, mix the flour, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt. Stir well and set aside.
2. In another bowl, whisk together the brown sugar, buttermilk, eggs, and vanilla extract until smooth.
3. Slowly add the wet mix to the dry mix. Stir until just combined. Be careful not to overmix.
4. Gently fold in the diced apples into the batter. Make sure they are evenly spread.
5. Preheat your waffle maker based on the instructions. Lightly grease the waffle plates with cooking spray.
6. Pour enough batter into the waffle maker to fill the plates. Close the lid and cook for about 3 to 4 minutes until golden brown.
7. Meanwhile, heat oil in a deep pan to 350°F (175°C) for frying.
8. Use a donut cutter or two round cookie cutters to cut rings from the leftover batter.
9. Carefully fry the donuts for 1 to 2 minutes per side until golden brown. Drain on paper towels.
10. In a small bowl, mix granulated sugar with cinnamon for coating. Roll the warm donuts in this mixture.
11. For extra fun, serve warm with a drizzle of glaze made from powdered sugar and milk.
Tips for achieving the perfect batter consistency
To get the best batter, aim for a thick but pourable consistency. If it looks too runny, add a little more flour. If it’s too thick, a splash of buttermilk can help. Remember to mix just until combined. Overmixing can lead to tough donuts.
Instructions for cooking in a waffle maker vs. frying
Cooking in a waffle maker gives a nice crisp texture and is very easy. Just pour the batter in and let it cook. Frying gives you a soft donut with a crisp outside. If you choose to fry, make sure the oil is hot enough. Test it by dropping a small piece of batter in; it should sizzle right away. Both methods are fun, so pick your favorite!
Tips & Tricks
How to prevent sticking in the waffle maker
To stop your Apple Fritter Waffle Donuts from sticking, grease the waffle plates well. Use cooking spray or a brush to coat the surfaces before adding the batter. This simple step keeps the donuts intact and easy to remove. If your waffles still stick, try preheating the waffle maker properly. A hot surface helps create a nice crust that releases easily.
Best practices for frying donuts
When frying your donuts, heat the oil to 350°F (175°C). This magic number helps the donuts cook evenly. If the oil is too cold, they will absorb too much oil and turn greasy. Use a deep fryer or a heavy pot for even heat distribution. Fry the donuts for 1-2 minutes per side until golden brown. Always drain them on paper towels to remove excess oil.
Flavor enhancements for a unique twist
Want to add some extra flavor to your Apple Fritter Waffle Donuts? Consider adding a dash of ginger or cardamom to the batter for a warm spice kick. You can also mix in nuts like walnuts or pecans for crunch. For a fun twist, drizzle maple syrup or caramel sauce over the finished donuts. This adds sweetness and makes them even more tempting.
Pro Tips
- Use Fresh Apples: For the best flavor and texture, opt for fresh Granny Smith apples, which add a nice tartness to balance the sweetness.
- Don’t Overmix: When combining wet and dry ingredients, mix just until combined to keep your waffles light and fluffy.
- Temperature Check: Ensure your oil is at the right temperature (350°F) for frying donuts; too hot can burn them, while too cool can make them greasy.
- Serving Suggestions: Serve the waffle donuts warm for the best experience, and consider topping them with a drizzle of glaze or a scoop of ice cream for extra indulgence.

Variations
Gluten-free options for Apple Fritter Waffle Donuts
You can make these delightful treats gluten-free with a simple swap. Use 2 cups of gluten-free all-purpose flour. Make sure it has xanthan gum for the right texture. This change will keep your waffles light and fluffy. The flavor will still shine through, especially with the apples.
Alternative toppings and topping suggestions
Toppings can change how your Apple Fritter Waffle Donuts taste. Consider these fun ideas:
– Caramel sauce: Drizzle it on top for a sweet touch.
– Chopped nuts: Sprinkle some pecans or walnuts for crunch.
– Maple syrup: A classic choice that pairs well with apples.
– Whipped cream: Add a dollop for extra creaminess.
Feel free to mix and match these toppings to find your favorite combo!
Seasonal variations for different occasions
You can adjust the flavors of your Apple Fritter Waffle Donuts for the seasons. In fall, add pumpkin spice to the batter for a cozy vibe. During winter, consider adding cranberries for a tart twist. Spring could use fresh berries mixed in, while summer is perfect for peaches. Each season can bring a new taste to this classic treat.
Storage Info
How to store leftover Apple Fritter Waffle Donuts
To keep your apple fritter waffle donuts fresh, store them in an airtight container. Line the container with paper towels to absorb moisture. This helps keep the donuts crisp. You can also place them in a zip-top bag. Make sure to remove the air before sealing. Store them at room temperature for up to 2 days. If you want to keep them longer, refrigeration is a good option. However, they may lose some of their crunch.
Best methods for reheating
When it’s time to enjoy your leftovers, reheating is key. The best way to reheat these donuts is in the oven. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the donuts on a baking sheet. Heat them for about 5-7 minutes or until warm. This method keeps them crispy. You can also use a toaster oven. If you are in a hurry, the microwave works too, but use it sparingly. Heat for about 10-15 seconds. This keeps them soft but may make them a bit chewy.
Freezing tips for longer shelf life
If you want to save your apple fritter waffle donuts for later, freezing is a great choice. First, let them cool completely. Then, wrap each donut in plastic wrap. Place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. This keeps them protected from freezer burn. Label the bag with the date. You can freeze them for up to 2 months. When ready to eat, thaw them in the fridge overnight. Reheat them in the oven for the best results. Enjoy your delicious treats anytime!
FAQs
What are Apple Fritter Waffle Donuts?
Apple Fritter Waffle Donuts are a fun twist on classic apple fritters and donuts. They blend the fluffy texture of waffles with the rich flavor of apple fritters. You get crispy edges and a soft inside, all packed with sweet apple chunks. This recipe uses apples, cinnamon, and a hint of nutmeg for a warm, comforting taste. They are perfect for breakfast or a sweet snack.
Can I make Apple Fritter Waffle Donuts without a waffle maker?
Yes, you can make Apple Fritter Waffle Donuts without a waffle maker. Instead, you can fry the batter like traditional donuts. Use a donut cutter to shape the batter and fry them in hot oil. This method gives you the same great flavor, but with a different texture. Just remember to watch the cooking time to ensure they cook through.
How do I adjust the recipe for fewer servings?
To adjust the recipe for fewer servings, simply cut the ingredient amounts in half. For example, use 1 cup of flour instead of 2 cups. If you want to make a larger batch, just double the amounts. This flexibility helps you make the perfect number of Apple Fritter Waffle Donuts for your needs.
What is the best way to serve Apple Fritter Waffle Donuts?
Serve Apple Fritter Waffle Donuts warm for the best taste. You can roll them in cinnamon sugar for a sweet touch. Drizzling a glaze made from powdered sugar and milk adds extra sweetness. They pair well with coffee or tea. Enjoy them fresh for a delightful treat!
In this article, we covered how to make delicious Apple Fritter Waffle Donuts. We listed the ingredients and shared measurement conversions for easy cooking. I provided step-by-step instructions, tips for perfecting your batter, and differences between using a waffle maker or frying. I also included storage tips to keep them fresh.
With these pointers, you can enjoy this tasty treat any time. Now, gather your ingredients and start cookin
Apple Fritter Waffle Donuts
Delicious apple fritter donuts made in a waffle maker, coated in cinnamon sugar.
Course Dessert
Cuisine American
Servings 10
Calories 250 kcal
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tablespoon baking powder
- 0.5 teaspoon baking soda
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
- 0.25 teaspoon nutmeg
- 0.5 teaspoon salt
- 0.75 cup brown sugar
- 1 cup buttermilk
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup apples, peeled, cored, and diced (preferably Granny Smith)
- 0.5 cup granulated sugar (for coating)
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon (for coating)
- Oil for frying
In a large bowl, combine the flour, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt. Mix well and set aside.
In another bowl, whisk together the brown sugar, buttermilk, eggs, and vanilla extract until smooth.
Gradually add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients, mixing until just combined. Do not overmix.
Fold in the diced apples gently into the batter until evenly distributed.
Preheat your waffle maker according to the manufacturer's instructions.
Lightly grease the waffle plates with cooking spray. Pour enough batter to fill the waffle plates and close the lid, cooking for about 3-4 minutes or until golden brown and cooked through.
Meanwhile, heat oil in a deep fryer or deep pan for frying donuts to 350°F (175°C).
Using a donut cutter or two round cookie cutters of different sizes, cut out rings from the leftover batter.
Carefully fry the donuts in the hot oil for about 1-2 minutes per side until they are golden brown. Remove and drain on paper towels.
In a small bowl, mix the granulated sugar and cinnamon for the coating. Once the donuts are cool enough to handle, roll them in the cinnamon sugar mixture.
For added indulgence, serve the waffle donuts warm with a drizzle of glaze made from powdered sugar and milk.
Serve warm with a glaze for added indulgence.
Keyword apple, dessert, donuts, waffles
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