Apple Fritter Waffle Donuts with a Sweet Glaze Finish

I made these apple fritter waffle donuts on a calm morning when I wanted something warm and sweet without much work. The smell of apples cooking with cinnamon filled the kitchen before the batter even touched the waffle maker. The finished donuts were soft inside with a gentle crisp on the outside.

This apple fritter waffle donuts recipe is simple and comforting. It blends chopped apples, cinnamon, and a smooth batter into a warm donut shape that holds the glaze perfectly. The glaze seeps into the small pockets of the waffle donut and gives each bite a soft sweet finish.

If you enjoy apple treats, you may like my Crispy Baked Apple Fritters which offer a more traditional texture or my Amish Apple Fritters Bread, which brings the same flavors in a soft loaf form. Both pair beautifully with the rich apple flavor in these waffle donuts.

Why You Will Love These Apple Fritter Waffle Donuts

These waffle donuts are easy to prepare and have a wonderful warm apple flavor. The texture is soft and tender with a gentle crisp from the waffle iron. The glaze melts slightly over the top and adds a smooth sweet layer that complements the apple filling.

They take very little effort and cook in minutes. The batter holds the chopped apples well and creates a donut like shape that feels special without much work. These donuts also stay soft after cooling and taste even better with a warm cup of coffee or tea.

Ingredients You Need

For the Waffle Donuts

• 1 medium apple, peeled and chopped
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 2 tablespoons sugar
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1 teaspoon cinnamon
• 1 pinch of salt
• 1 egg
• 1 cup milk
• 2 tablespoons melted butter
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

For the Sweet Glaze

• 1 cup powdered sugar
• 2 tablespoons milk
• 1 splash vanilla extract

These ingredients bring together a simple batter with warm spices and tender apples, giving the donut its soft sweet crumb and delicate flavor.

Step by Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the apples

Peel and chop the apple into small pieces. Place them in a small pan and warm them over low heat with a small splash of water. Cook for three to four minutes until the apples begin to soften. Stir gently so they cook evenly. Remove from heat and let them sit while you prepare the batter.

Step 2: Mix the dry ingredients

In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, cinnamon and salt. Mix until the ingredients are evenly combined and smooth. This helps the batter rise and stay light when cooked in the waffle maker.

Step 3: Mix the wet ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together the egg, milk, melted butter, and vanilla extract. Stir until everything is blended and the mixture is smooth with no streaks of egg or butter.

Step 4: Combine the batter

Pour the wet mixture into the dry ingredients. Stir with a spatula or spoon until the batter comes together. Do not overmix. A few small lumps are normal. Fold in the cooked apple pieces gently so they do not break apart.

Step 5: Warm the waffle iron

Turn on your waffle maker and lightly coat the plates with a thin layer of oil or butter. This ensures the donuts release easily and do not stick. Let the waffle maker heat completely before adding the batter.

Step 6: Cook the waffle donuts

Spoon a small amount of batter into each waffle section. Close the lid and cook for three to four minutes or until the waffle donuts are golden and slightly crisp on the outside. The apples inside will soften even more as the waffles cook. Lift them carefully and place them on a cooling rack.

Step 7: Prepare the sweet glaze

In a small bowl, whisk together powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract. Adjust the milk amount if needed until the glaze is smooth and easy to drizzle. A thick glaze gives the donuts a sweet coating, while a thinner glaze soaks into the waffle pockets.

Step 8: Dip or drizzle the donuts

Dip each warm waffle donut into the glaze or drizzle it across the top. The warmth allows the glaze to melt slightly and settle into the waffle texture. Place the glazed donuts back on the cooling rack and allow the glaze to set for five to ten minutes.

Step 9: Serve warm

Enjoy the waffle donuts warm, while the glaze is fresh and the apple centers are soft. They hold their shape well and offer a sweet and comforting bite that is perfect for breakfast or dessert.

Helpful Tips

• Chop the apples into small pieces so they mix evenly into the batter.
• Warm the waffle maker fully before cooking for the best crisp texture.
• Do not overmix the batter to keep the donuts light and tender.
• Glaze the donuts while warm for a smooth finish that settles into the waffle pockets.
• You can add a pinch of nutmeg for extra warm flavor.

How to Store

Store leftover waffle donuts in the refrigerator for up to three days. Warm them in a toaster oven or microwave before serving. If you prefer to make them ahead, keep the glaze separate and add it right before eating.

Variations

• Add chopped pecans for crunch.
• Mix a small amount of brown sugar into the apples while warming for deeper flavor.
• Add a swirl of cinnamon sugar on top before glazing.
• Use a maple glaze for a fall-inspired twist.

FAQs

Can I use canned apples

Yes, drain them well and chop them into small pieces before adding to the batter.

Can I use a mini waffle maker

Yes, the batter works well in both regular and mini waffle makers. Cook time may be slightly shorter.

Can I freeze the waffle donuts

Yes, freeze without glaze. Reheat and glaze before serving.

Do the donuts stay soft

Yes, the apples help keep the interior moist, while the waffle iron gives the outside a gentle crisp.

Closing Thoughts

Apple fritter waffle donuts have a warm and comforting flavor that feels welcoming at any time of day. The waffle shape gives them a soft texture with small pockets that hold the glaze perfectly. The apples stay tender inside the batter and blend smoothly with the cinnamon. They are easy to make and feel special without a long process.