Introduction

Mini  Apple Fritter  Waffle  Donuts are the best of three worlds combined: the warm, cinnamon-spiced apples of a classic apple fritter, the golden crispness of waffles, and the irresistible charm of donuts. Made in a waffle iron or mini waffle maker, these treats are easier and less messy than deep-frying, yet still deliver that cozy bakery flavor everyone loves.

Each bite is filled with tender apple pieces, brown sugar, and cinnamon, then finished with a smooth vanilla glaze that melts into every nook. They’re perfect for fall mornings, brunch spreads, bake sales, or anytime you want a quick homemade treat that feels special.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• No deep frying required

• Crispy edges with soft, cake-like centers

• Packed with real apples and warm spices

• Ready in under 30 minutes

• Perfect for glazing, dipping, or dusting with sugar

Ingredients

For the Apple Filling

• 1½ cups apples, peeled and finely diced (Granny Smith or Honeycrisp)

• 2 tablespoons butter

• 2 tablespoons brown sugar

• 1 teaspoon cinnamon

• ¼ teaspoon nutmeg

• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

For the Waffle Donut Batter

• 2 cups all-purpose flour

• ¼ cup granulated sugar

• 2 teaspoons baking powder

• ½ teaspoon baking soda

• ½ teaspoon salt

• 1½ teaspoons cinnamon

• 2 large eggs

• ¾ cup milk

• ¼ cup melted butter

• ¼ cup sour cream or Greek yogurt

• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

For the Vanilla Glaze

• 1½ cups powdered sugar

• 2–3 tablespoons milk

• ½ teaspoon vanilla extract

Preparation Time

• Prep Time: 15 minutes

• Cook Time: 10–12 minutes

• Total Time: About 25 minutes

• Yield: 10–14 mini waffle donuts

How to Make Mini Apple Fritter Waffle Donuts

Step 1: Cook the Apples

In a small skillet over medium heat, melt the butter. Add diced apples, brown sugar, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Cook for 4–5 minutes until apples are slightly softened and coated in syrup.

Remove from heat and stir in vanilla extract. Let cool slightly.

Step 2: Make the Batter

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

In another bowl, whisk eggs, milk, melted butter, sour cream, and vanilla extract.

Add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients and mix just until combined. Fold in the cooked apples gently.

Step 3: Cook in the Waffle Maker

Preheat and lightly grease your waffle iron or mini waffle maker.

Spoon batter into the waffle iron, filling just enough to avoid overflow. Cook for 3–4 minutes, or until golden brown and crisp.

Remove carefully and repeat with remaining batter.

Step 4: Glaze the Donuts

Whisk powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla until smooth. Dip each warm waffle donut into the glaze or drizzle generously over the top.

Allow glaze to set for a few minutes before serving.

Serving Suggestions

• Serve warm with coffee or apple cider

• Add a scoop of vanilla ice cream for dessert

• Sprinkle with powdered sugar instead of glaze

• Drizzle with caramel sauce for extra indulgence

Tips for Best Results

• Dice apples small so they cook evenly

• Don’t overmix the batter—this keeps donuts fluffy

• Grease the waffle iron lightly to prevent sticking

• Glaze while warm for the best coating

Delicious Variations

Caramel Apple Fritter Waffle Donuts

Replace glaze with caramel sauce or drizzle both caramel and glaze.

Apple Pie Style

Add ¼ teaspoon ground cloves and top with crumb streusel.

Maple Glazed

Swap vanilla glaze for maple glaze using maple syrup and powdered sugar.

Cinnamon Sugar Coated

Brush with butter and toss in cinnamon sugar instead of glazing.

Storage and Reheating

Storage:
Store in an airtight container at room temperature for 1 day or refrigerate up to 3 days.

Reheating:
Warm briefly in a toaster oven or air fryer to restore crispness.

Calorie Information (Approximate)

Per mini waffle donut:

• Calories: 180–210

• Carbohydrates: 30 g

• Fat: 7 g

• Protein: 3 g

Final Thoughts

Mini  Apple Fritter  Waffle  Donuts are a simple yet impressive treat that brings bakery-style flavor right into your kitchen—without the hassle of frying. Crispy, fluffy, sweet, and packed with apples, they’re guaranteed to become a favorite for brunches, holidays, and cozy mornings.