Apple Fritter Waffle Donuts: 7 Steps to Deliciousness!

October 15, 2025

By:

Julia marin

Let me tell you about one of my absolute favorite treats: apple fritter waffle donuts! Seriously, these little gems combine the warm, comforting flavors of traditional apple fritters with the delightful texture of waffles, and it’s pure magic! Every bite is a burst of sweet, cinnamon-spiced apples, just like a cozy autumn day. I remember the first time I tried making them; my kitchen smelled heavenly, and I couldn’t believe how easy they were! Plus, they’re perfect for breakfast or dessert, making them an all-around winner in my book. Trust me, once you try these apple fritter waffle donuts, you’ll be hooked and want to share them with everyone you know!

apple fritter waffle donuts - detail 1

Ingredients List

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

2 cups all-purpose flour – This is the base for our donuts, giving them structure and that lovely fluffy texture.
1 tablespoon baking powder – This little magic powder is what makes our donuts rise and get that perfect fluffiness.
1/2 teaspoon salt – Just a pinch to enhance all those sweet flavors.
1 teaspoon cinnamon – The warm, inviting spice that adds a cozy touch to each bite.
1/2 cup sugar – For that sweet kick! Adjust it based on how sweet your apples are.
1/2 cup milk – Adds moisture to the batter. I usually go for whole milk, but any milk will do!
2 large eggs – These help bind everything together and give our donuts that nice richness.
1/4 cup melted butter – Because butter makes everything better! It adds a richness that complements the apples.
1 cup diced apples – Use your favorite variety! I love Granny Smith for their tartness, but any apple you enjoy works.
1/2 cup chopped walnuts (optional) – For that extra crunch and nutty flavor, but feel free to skip if you’re not a fan!
1 teaspoon vanilla extract – A splash of vanilla elevates all the flavors and brings warmth.
Oil for frying – You’ll need enough oil to submerge the donuts, so don’t skimp here! Canola or vegetable oil works great.

How to Prepare Apple Fritter Waffle Donuts

Step-by-Step Instructions

Alright, let’s dive into making these delicious apple fritter waffle donuts! It’s easier than you might think, and the results are absolutely worth it.

First off, in a large mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, baking powder, salt, cinnamon, and sugar. Just give it a good stir to mix everything evenly.
In another bowl, whisk together the milk, eggs, melted butter, and vanilla extract until it’s all nice and smooth. This is where the magic starts!
Now, pour the wet ingredients into the dry mix. Don’t overmix—just stir until everything is combined. It’s okay if there are a few lumps; you want to keep that fluffy texture!
Gently fold in the diced apples and, if you’re using them, the chopped walnuts. The apples should be evenly distributed throughout the batter.
Next, heat your oil in a deep fryer or large pot to about 350°F (175°C). You want it hot enough for frying, but be careful—oil splatters!
Once the oil is ready, pour some of the batter into your waffle maker and cook until it’s golden brown. This usually takes about 4-5 minutes, but keep an eye on it!
After that, carefully fry each donut for about 2-3 minutes on each side until they turn a beautiful golden color. I know it’s tempting, but don’t overcrowd the fryer; let them have some space to fry up perfectly!
Once done, remove them and let them drain on paper towels to soak up any excess oil. Let them cool a bit before digging in!

And there you have it—the perfect apple fritter waffle donuts, ready to be enjoyed! You’ll want to savor each bite, trust me.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick and easy to prepare—perfect for busy mornings or last-minute dessert cravings!
Unique flavor combination of apple fritters and waffles that will have everyone coming back for more.
Fun for the whole family; get the kids involved in mixing and adding the ingredients!
Versatile—enjoy them as breakfast, a snack, or a sweet treat any time of the day.
Customizable with your favorite apples and toppings—glaze, powdered sugar, or even a scoop of ice cream!
Perfect for sharing at gatherings or brunch with friends; they’re a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.

Tips for Success

Okay, let’s make sure your apple fritter waffle donuts turn out absolutely perfect! Here are some of my favorite tips to keep in mind:

Choose the Right Apples: The type of apple you use can really change the flavor! I love using Granny Smith for their tartness, but you can also try Fuji or Honeycrisp for a sweeter taste. Adjust the sugar in the recipe based on how sweet your apples are to get that perfect balance.
Watch the Oil Temperature: Keeping the oil at around 350°F (175°C) is crucial for perfect frying. If it’s too hot, your donuts will burn on the outside but remain raw inside. If it’s too cool, they’ll soak up too much oil. A candy thermometer can be a great tool here!
Don’t Overmix: When mixing the wet and dry ingredients, remember that a few lumps are okay. Overmixing can lead to tough donuts, and we want them to be light and fluffy!
Fry in Batches: To ensure even cooking, fry only a few donuts at a time. This keeps the oil temperature steady and helps them get that beautiful golden color without getting soggy.
Let Them Drain: After frying, let your donuts sit on paper towels for a few minutes. This helps remove excess oil, making them lighter and more enjoyable!
Experiment with Toppings: Don’t hesitate to get creative! A simple glaze or a dusting of powdered sugar can elevate these treats, but you can also try drizzling caramel or chocolate for an extra indulgence.

With these tips, you’ll be well on your way to mastering the art of apple fritter waffle donuts. Happy cooking!

Variations

Now, let’s have some fun with variations on these delicious apple fritter waffle donuts! There are so many ways to customize this recipe to suit your taste or to use what you have on hand. Here are some ideas to get your creativity flowing:

Spice it Up: Swap out the cinnamon for other warm spices! Nutmeg or cardamom can add a unique twist. You could even try a pumpkin spice blend for a cozy autumn vibe.
Different Fruits: While apples are classic, don’t hesitate to experiment with other fruits! Diced pears, peaches, or even berries can bring a fresh flair to your donuts. Just adjust the sugar depending on the sweetness of the fruit.
Nutty Goodness: Add a variety of nuts for extra crunch! Chopped pecans or almonds can be great alternatives to walnuts, or you can skip the nuts altogether for a nut-free version.
Glaze or Frosting: Elevate your donuts with a delicious glaze! A simple powdered sugar glaze or a maple glaze pairs wonderfully with the apple flavor. You can even mix in some vanilla or almond extract for added depth.
Chocolate Drizzle: For the chocolate lovers out there, try drizzling melted chocolate over the top of your cooled donuts. It adds a rich flavor that complements the apples beautifully!
Stuffed Donuts: Get adventurous and fill your donuts! After frying, you can inject them with apple pie filling or custard for a delightful surprise inside.

These variations are just the beginning—feel free to get creative and make this recipe your own! The possibilities are endless, and I can’t wait to see what you come up with!

Nutritional Information

When it comes to enjoying apple fritter waffle donuts, it’s always nice to know what you’re getting in each delightful bite! Here’s a typical nutritional breakdown per serving (1 donut), based on common ingredients used:

Calories: 250
Fat: 12g
Saturated Fat: 5g
Unsaturated Fat: 4g
Trans Fat: 0g
Sodium: 150mg
Carbohydrates: 30g
Fiber: 2g
Sugar: 10g
Protein: 4g
Cholesterol: 40mg

Keep in mind, these values are estimates and can vary based on the specific ingredients you choose. So, feel free to adjust and enjoy your apple fritter waffle donuts while keeping an eye on those numbers!

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Now, let’s talk about how to store those delicious apple fritter waffle donuts you’ve just made! If you happen to have any leftovers (which is rare in my house!), here’s how to keep them fresh and tasty.

First off, let the donuts cool completely before storing them. This helps prevent any moisture from building up, which can make them soggy. Once they’re cool, you can place them in an airtight container. I like to layer them with parchment paper to keep them from sticking together—trust me, it makes a difference!

Store the container in a cool, dry place for up to 2 days. If you want to keep them longer, I recommend popping them in the fridge for about a week. Just remember, the fridge can sometimes change the texture a bit, so they might not be as fluffy as when they were freshly made.

When you’re ready to enjoy them again, you can reheat your apple fritter waffle donuts in a few different ways. For the best results, I suggest using an oven. Preheat it to 350°F (175°C) and place the donuts on a baking sheet for about 5-7 minutes, or until they’re warmed through. This helps restore that lovely crispiness!

If you’re in a hurry, a microwave works too! Just pop one in for about 15-20 seconds, but be careful not to overdo it, or they can get a bit chewy. And if you want a little extra indulgence, consider giving them a quick glaze or sprinkle of powdered sugar after reheating—yum!

With these simple storage and reheating tips, you can savor the joy of your apple fritter waffle donuts well beyond the first day! Enjoy every single bite!

FAQ Section

Can I use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour?
Absolutely! Whole wheat flour can be a great substitute, but keep in mind that it might change the texture slightly, making the donuts a bit denser. You might also want to add a touch more milk to balance the moisture.

What type of apples are best for this recipe?
I love using Granny Smith because they’re tart and hold up well during cooking, but you can use any apple you enjoy! Honeycrisp or Fuji also work beautifully for a sweeter flavor.

Can I make these donuts ahead of time?
Yes, you can! I recommend making them the day before and storing them in an airtight container. Just reheat them in the oven for that fresh-out-of-the-fryer taste!

What’s the best way to store leftovers?
Once cooled, store your apple fritter waffle donuts in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days or in the fridge for about a week. Just remember, they’re best enjoyed fresh!

Can I freeze apple fritter waffle donuts?
You sure can! Just let them cool completely, then wrap them individually in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer bag. They’ll keep well for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge before reheating!

Do I need a special waffle maker for this recipe?
Not at all! A regular waffle maker works perfectly. Just make sure it’s preheated and greased well to prevent sticking. If you have a Belgian waffle maker, that’ll work great too!

What can I serve with these donuts?
Oh, the possibilities are endless! You can serve them with a simple glaze, drizzle of caramel, or even a dollop of whipped cream. A scoop of vanilla ice cream on the side is always a hit too!

Can I make these donuts without frying?
While frying gives them that signature crispy texture, you could try baking them in the oven. Just adjust the cooking time and temperature; they might not be as fluffy, but they’ll still be delicious!

What if my batter is too thick?
If your batter seems too thick, just add a splash more milk until you reach a pourable consistency. It should be thick but still flow easily from the mixing bowl.

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About me

Hi, my name is Julia, I am the heart of Vihaad Recipes and a passionate lover of good food. My love for cooking began in childhood, inspired by my grandmother's delicious meals. Today, I share tasty recipes that bring people together through the shared enjoyment of food.