Apple Fritter Waffle Donuts

Step-by-step instructions

1. Preheat your waffle iron and lightly grease it with vegetable oil to ensure the batter doesn’t stick.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together the dry ingredients: flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt until well combined.
3. In a separate bowl, mix the wet ingredients: combine buttermilk, egg, melted butter, and vanilla extract.
4. Pour the wet mixture into the dry ingredients, mixing until just combined. Be careful not to over mix! Gently fold in the chopped apple.
5. Fill the waffle iron with batter, about three-quarters full. Close the lid and cook until the waffles are golden brown and cooked through, usually about 4-5 minutes.
6. Remove the waffles from the iron and use a donut cutter or two different-sized round cutters to shape them into donuts.
7. In a large skillet, heat about 1 inch of vegetable oil over medium heat. Fry each donut cutout for 1-2 minutes per side until they’re golden and crisp. Drain them on paper towels.
8. In a small bowl, whisk together the powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla until smooth. Dip the warm donuts into the glaze, then place them on a wire rack to let the excess glaze drip off.

Best ways to enjoy it

Serving these Apple Fritter Waffle Donuts can be as simple or as creative as you like. They are best enjoyed warm and freshly glazed. For extra flair, serve them alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream. Drizzle with caramel sauce, or add a sprinkle of crushed nuts for added texture. A cup of hot coffee or apple cider pairs perfectly too!

How to store

To keep your Apple Fritter Waffle Donuts fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. If you have leftovers, you can also refrigerate them for up to a week. For longer storage, freeze the donuts (without the glaze) in a freezer-safe bag. When ready to enjoy, thaw and warm them in the oven before glazing.

Helpful cooking tips

• Make sure your waffle iron is adequately preheated for the best texture.
• Don’t overmix the batter; this keeps the donuts light and fluffy.
• Use a thermometer to check the oil temperature when frying to ensure even cooking.
• Feel free to add nuts, raisins, or other spices to the batter for added flavor!

Creative twists

The beauty of Apple Fritter Waffle Donuts is that they’re incredibly versatile. You can switch up the spices—try adding cardamom or allspice for a unique twist. For a healthier alternative, consider using oats in place of some of the flour or substituting maple syrup for granulated sugar. You can also explore different types of apples for added flavor variations.

Your questions answered

How long do these take to make?

The entire process takes about 30-45 minutes from start to finish, making it a quick and fun option for brunch.

Can I make these gluten-free?

Absolutely! Just substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend, and ensure your baking powder and powdered sugar are gluten-free.

How do you reheat them?

To reheat, pop them in the oven at 350°F for about 5–7 minutes to regain their crispiness, or use a toaster oven for a few minutes.

Can I prepare the dough in advance?

You can mix the dry ingredients ahead of time and store them in an airtight container. Just mix the wet and dry ingredients on the day you wish to make the donuts.