Apple Fritter Waffle Donuts bring together the crispy texture of golden waffles and the sweet, spiced essence of classic apple fritters. Infused with tender cinnamon-sautéed apple chunks and finished with a luscious caramel glaze, these waffle donuts are a cozy, indulgent treat perfect for breakfast, brunch, or dessert.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe merges the best of two beloved comfort foods—apple fritters and waffles—into one delightful creation. The batter is rich with cinnamon and buttermilk, the apples are caramelized for added depth, and the caramel glaze adds a warm, sweet finish. It’s a homemade treat that feels special yet is easy to prepare, making it ideal for weekend brunches or festive mornings.

ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

All-purpose flour
Granulated sugar
Baking powder
Baking soda
Salt
Cinnamon
Eggs
Buttermilk
Melted butter
Vanilla extract
Peeled and diced apples (Granny Smith recommended)
Brown sugar
Butter (for sautéing apples)

For the caramel glaze:

Brown sugar
Butter
Heavy cream
Salt

directions

In a skillet, sauté the diced apples with 2 tablespoons of brown sugar and 1 tablespoon of butter until soft and lightly caramelized. Set aside to cool.
In a large bowl, whisk together flour, granulated sugar, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and cinnamon.
In a separate bowl, whisk the eggs, buttermilk, melted butter, and vanilla extract.
Add the wet ingredients to the dry mixture and stir until just combined. Fold in the sautéed apples.
Preheat and lightly grease your waffle iron. Pour the batter into the waffle iron and cook until golden brown and crisp.
For the glaze, melt brown sugar and butter in a saucepan over medium heat. Stir in the heavy cream and a pinch of salt. Simmer for 2–3 minutes until slightly thickened.
Stack the waffles and generously drizzle with warm caramel glaze. Serve immediately.

Servings and timing

Servings: 5 servings
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Calories: Approximately 420 kcal per serving

Variations

Apple Variety: Try Honeycrisp or Fuji apples for a sweeter profile.
Nutty Crunch: Add chopped walnuts or pecans to the batter or topping.
Maple Glaze: Substitute caramel glaze with maple syrup or a maple glaze for a different twist.
Mini Waffles: Use a mini waffle maker for bite-sized treats.
Dairy-Free: Use plant-based milk and butter alternatives.

storage/reheating

Store any leftover waffles in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a toaster or oven at 350°F for 5–7 minutes until warmed and crisp. The caramel glaze can be reheated gently in the microwave or on the stovetop before drizzling.

FAQs

Can I make the batter ahead of time?

Yes, the batter can be prepared and refrigerated for up to 12 hours. Stir gently before using.

What kind of apples work best?

Granny Smith apples are ideal for their tartness and firm texture, but any crisp variety works.

Do I need a special waffle iron?

No, any standard waffle iron will do. Just make sure it’s properly preheated and greased.

Can I freeze the waffles?

Yes, freeze the cooked waffles in a single layer, then store in a freezer bag. Reheat in the toaster.

Is the caramel glaze necessary?

While optional, it enhances the flavor and gives a dessert-like finish. Maple syrup can be a quicker alternative.

Can I add spices to the batter?

Absolutely. Nutmeg, allspice, or even cardamom pair well with the cinnamon and apples.

How do I prevent the waffles from sticking?

Always preheat and lightly grease the waffle iron before adding batter.

Can this recipe be made gluten-free?

Yes, substitute the flour with a 1:1 gluten-free baking blend.

What can I serve with these waffles?

Serve with whipped cream, vanilla ice cream, or fresh fruit for added indulgence.

Are these suitable for kids?

Yes, they’re sweet and mild, though you can reduce the sugar for a less sweet version.

Conclusion

Apple Fritter Waffle Donuts are a deliciously comforting way to start the day or end a meal. With their crispy texture, warm apple-cinnamon flavor, and rich caramel topping, they deliver homemade decadence with every bite. Whether for brunch, dessert, or a special occasion, this recipe is a crowd-pleaser that brings the charm of fall flavors to any table.