Apple Fritter Waffle Donuts are the ultimate fusion of cozy comfort and indulgent fun—crispy, golden waffle donuts infused with sweet cinnamon apples and lightly fried to perfection. Finished with a dusting of powdered sugar, these treats are perfect for brunch, dessert, or a fall-inspired snack any time of year.

Why You’ll Love These Apple Fritter Waffle Donuts

Combines waffles, donuts, and fritters in one fun recipe
Crispy outside, soft and fluffy inside
Packed with real apple and cinnamon flavor
Great for kids, guests, and weekend indulgence

Ingredients Breakdown

Dry Ingredients:

All-Purpose Flour (2 cups): Forms the structure of the batter.
Sugar (2 tablespoons): Adds sweetness to balance the apples.
Baking Powder (1 tablespoon): Helps the batter rise and stay fluffy.
Salt (1/2 teaspoon): Enhances overall flavor.
Cinnamon (1 teaspoon): Adds warm spice that pairs perfectly with apples.

Wet Ingredients:

Large Eggs (2): Bind the batter and add richness.
Milk (1 cup): Provides moisture and a smooth batter consistency.
Melted Butter (1/4 cup): Adds richness and flavor.

Filling:

Diced Apples (1 cup): Bring texture, moisture, and natural sweetness.

For Frying & Finishing:

Oil: For frying the waffle donuts to golden crispness.
Powdered Sugar: For dusting over the finished donuts.

Tips and Tricks:

Use firm apples to avoid sogginess. Granny Smith works beautifully.
Let waffles cool slightly before cutting to avoid tearing.
Use a candy thermometer to maintain the oil temperature for perfect frying.
Don’t overcrowd the pan while frying—fry in batches.

Variations and Customizations:

Apple Pie Glaze: Drizzle with a glaze made of powdered sugar, apple juice, and cinnamon.
Air Fry Option: Instead of deep frying, brush with butter and crisp in an air fryer.
Pumpkin Spice Twist: Swap cinnamon with pumpkin spice for a fall spin.

Pairing Suggestions:

Serve with a warm mug of spiced chai latte or vanilla cappuccino.
Pair with a Greek yogurt parfait for balance.
Add a side of maple bacon for a sweet-savory combo.

Storage Instructions:

Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Reheat: Crisp in a toaster oven or air fryer for best texture.
Freeze: Freeze cooled donuts for up to 2 months. Reheat directly from frozen.

Apple Fritter Waffle Donuts

Author: easysweetmeal
Total Time: 25 minutes
Yield: 8 waffle donuts 1x

Print Recipe

Description

Apple Fritter Waffle Donuts – A heavenly mashup of crispy waffled donuts and caramelized cinnamon apples, dusted with snowy powdered sugar. Hot, buttery, and packed with cozy fall vibes—no deep fryer required!

Ingredients

Scale

2 cups all-purpose flour
2 tablespoons granulated sugar
1 tablespoon baking powder
½ teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
2 large eggs
1 cup milk
¼ cup unsalted butter, melted
1 cup finely diced apples (peeled and cored)
Oil, for frying
Powdered sugar, for dusting

Instructions

1. Mix the Dry Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, salt, and cinnamon.

2. Combine the Wet Ingredients

In a separate bowl, beat eggs, milk, and melted butter until smooth.

3. Create the Batter

Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients. Stir gently until just combined—do not overmix.
Fold in diced apples until evenly distributed.

4. Cook in Waffle Maker

Preheat your waffle iron according to the manufacturer’s directions.
Lightly grease with nonstick spray if needed.
Pour enough batter to fill the waffle plate without overflowing.
Close and cook until golden brown and crisp (about 3–5 minutes, depending on your waffle iron).

5. Cut into Donut Shapes

Remove the waffles and let them cool slightly.
Use a round cutter or small glass to cut each waffle into donut shapes (cut out center if desired).

6. Fry the Waffle Donuts

In a deep skillet or pan, heat about 1–2 inches of oil to 350°F (175°C).
Carefully add waffle donut pieces and fry for 1–2 minutes per side, or until golden brown.
Remove with a slotted spoon and drain on paper towels.

7. Add the Finishing Touch

While still warm, dust generously with powdered sugar.
Serve immediately for best texture and flavor.

Notes

These waffle donuts are best enjoyed fresh, but leftovers can be revived easily.
Perfect for brunch spreads, kids’ parties, or weekend breakfast indulgence.
Add a dusting of cinnamon sugar for a fairground-style twist.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Category: Appetizer
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American