Ingredients

1 cup all-purpose flour

1/4 cup granulated sugar

1 tsp baking powder

1/2 tsp baking soda

1/2 tsp ground cinnamon

Pinch of salt

1/2 cup buttermilk

1 large egg

2 tbsp melted butter

1 tsp vanilla extract

1 medium apple (Granny Smith or Honeycrisp), peeled and diced small

1 tbsp butter

1 tbsp brown sugar

1/2 tsp cinnamon

1 cup powdered sugar

2–3 tbsp milk

1/2 tsp vanilla extract

Instructions

Step 1: In a small skillet over medium heat, melt 1 tablespoon of butter. Add the diced apple, brown sugar, and 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon. Cook for 5 to 7 minutes until the apples are tender and caramelized. Set aside to cool slightly.

Step 2: In a mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, granulated sugar, baking powder, baking soda, ground cinnamon, and a pinch of salt.

Step 3: In a separate bowl, combine the buttermilk, egg, melted butter, and vanilla extract. Pour the wet ingredients into the dry mixture and stir until just combined. Gently fold in the cooled apple mixture.

Step 4: Preheat and lightly grease your waffle iron. Spoon the batter into the center of each mold, then close and cook for 3 to 4 minutes, or until the waffles are golden brown and cooked through. Remove and cool on a wire rack.

Step 5: Whisk together the powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract until smooth. Adjust the consistency by adding more milk or powdered sugar as needed.

Step 6: When the waffle donuts are warm (but not hot), dip the tops into the glaze or drizzle it over with a spoon. Let the glaze set before serving.

Tips & Variations

For a spicier twist, add a pinch of nutmeg or ground ginger to the batter along with the cinnamon.

Try using different apple varieties to vary the sweetness and texture—Fuji or Pink Lady work well.

To keep waffles crispy longer, place them on a wire rack rather than a plate after cooking.

You can substitute regular milk for buttermilk by adding 1 tablespoon of lemon juice or vinegar to a half cup of milk and letting it sit for 5 minutes.

FAQs

Can I make these waffle donuts dairy-free?

Yes, substitute the buttermilk with a dairy-free alternative like almond or oat milk mixed with a teaspoon of vinegar, and use dairy-free butter or oil in place of regular butter.

Can I prepare the apple filling ahead of time?

Absolutely. The caramelized apple filling can be made a day in advance and stored in the refrigerator. Warm it slightly before folding into the batter for best results.