If you’re looking for the coziest, most crave-worthy treat to bring some autumn magic to your mornings or snack time, look no further than these Mini Apple Fritter Waffle Donuts. They combine the best parts of fluffy waffles, sweet apple fritters, and playful donuts into one absolutely irresistible bite-sized wonder. Picture warm bites of cinnamon-spiced apple nestled in golden, glazed waffles, and you’ll see why this recipe is such a hit at family brunches, bake sales, or those treat-yourself kind of days.

Mini Apple Fritter Waffle Donuts Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

All you need are a handful of simple ingredients, many of which you probably already have in your kitchen. Each component plays a key role in delivering the delicious texture, warmth, and bakery-worthy flavor that make Mini Apple Fritter Waffle Donuts so special.

All purpose flour: The staple that gives your donuts structure and helps create their perfect soft-on-the-inside, crisp-on-the-outside texture.
Cinnamon: Warm, spicy-sweet notes that pair beautifully with apples, adding depth and that signature fall flavor.
Nutmeg: Just a pinch elevates the spice profile, rounding out the apple and cinnamon combo.
Granulated sugar: Sweetens the batter just right without making the donuts cloying.
Baking powder: The leavening agent responsible for those lovely light, puffy bites.
Salt: A tiny amount brings all the flavors together and enhances the sweetness.
Cornstarch: Adds a bit of tenderness to the crumb, making these donuts extra pillowy.
Large egg: Binds everything together and adds richness.
Milk: Moistens the batter for just the right consistency and creates a soft, chewy texture.
Oil: Helps keep the waffles moist while adding richness.
Shredded apples: The star of the show! Juicy, fresh apples add natural sweetness and a gentle tartness in every bite.
Powdered sugar: The base for that luscious glaze that coats every donut to shiny perfection.
Milk (for glaze): Loosens the glaze enough to drizzle effortlessly over the warm donuts.
Vanilla extract: Infuses the glaze with sweet, creamy depth.
Cinnamon sugar: An optional but highly-recommended finishing touch for irresistible sparkle and crunch.

How to Make Mini Apple Fritter Waffle Donuts

Step 1: Preheat and Prep

Start by preheating your waffle iron. Whether you’re working with a cute mini waffle maker or a full-sized one, make sure it’s good and hot before you start. This is the secret to achieving that crisp, golden exterior that makes Mini Apple Fritter Waffle Donuts so delightful.

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients

Grab a bowl and stir together your all purpose flour, cinnamon, nutmeg, granulated sugar, baking powder, salt, and cornstarch. Mixing these first ensures the leavening and spices get evenly distributed, so every little donut delivers on flavor and loft.

Step 3: Whisk in Wet Ingredients

Now, add the egg, milk, and oil to your dry mixture. Whisk everything together until just combined—don’t overmix, a few lumps are fine! This step turns your bowl of basic pantry staples into the promise of tender, cake-like donut waffles.

Step 4: Add the Apples

Gently fold in those freshly shredded apples. Try to keep as much of the apple juice as possible for maximum moisture and apple flavor in your Mini Apple Fritter Waffle Donuts. Your kitchen will already be starting to smell like a bakery at this point!

Step 5: Cook in the Waffle Iron

Spritz the waffle iron with nonstick spray, then drop the batter by tablespoonfuls onto the hot surface. Cook each one for about 3-5 minutes—adjust time as needed for your particular waffle iron. They’re ready when golden and set, with crispy edges and a fluffy center.

Step 6: Cool the Donuts

Transfer the finished donuts to a wire rack to cool slightly. This prevents them from getting soggy, and gives you a perfect canvas for glazing in the next step.

Step 7: Glaze and Finish

Whisk together the powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract into a smooth glaze. Dip each Mini Apple Fritter Waffle Donut into the glaze, letting the excess drip off. For even more deliciousness, sprinkle with cinnamon sugar while the glaze is still tacky. Let the glaze set before serving, if you can resist!

How to Serve Mini Apple Fritter Waffle Donuts

Garnishes

The classic finish is a generous dusting of cinnamon sugar over the shiny glaze, but you could also add a sprinkle of powdered sugar for a snowy effect, a handful of finely chopped toasted nuts for crunch, or even a drizzle of caramel sauce if you’re feeling extra indulgent.

Side Dishes

Serve your Mini Apple Fritter Waffle Donuts with fresh fruit, Greek yogurt, or crispy bacon for the ultimate brunch spread. They also pair beautifully with a mug of hot apple cider, spiced chai, or a creamy cappuccino for a cozy and memorable treat.

Creative Ways to Present

Stack them high on a vintage cake stand, arrange in the shape of a donut “wreath” for festive brunches, or serve with mini dipping bowls of caramel or chocolate sauce for a DIY donut party. These Mini Apple Fritter Waffle Donuts are incredibly photogenic and guaranteed to steal the spotlight at any gathering.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftovers (if you’re lucky enough to have any!) will keep well in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. If you want to keep them fresh and soft, line the container with a paper towel to absorb any excess moisture.

Freezing

For longer storage, you can freeze the cooled, unglazed Mini Apple Fritter Waffle Donuts in a freezer-safe container for up to two months. Just let them thaw at room temperature before glazing and serving to recapture that just-made flavor and texture.

Reheating

These donuts reheat beautifully! Pop them in a toaster oven or air fryer for a few minutes to revive their crisp exterior, or microwave for 15-20 seconds if you just can’t wait. For best results, glaze them after reheating unless you’ve already dipped them.

FAQs

Can I use a regular waffle iron if I don’t have a mini one?

Absolutely! Just space the batter out into smaller portions to mimic the cute look and ensure quick cooking. You can also use the recipe in a full-sized iron and cut the waffles into smaller pieces after they’re cooked.

What kind of apples work best for Mini Apple Fritter Waffle Donuts?

I love using sweet-tart apples like Honeycrisp or Granny Smith, as their bold flavor stands up to the spices and doesn’t get mushy. Any apple you enjoy eating will work—it’s all about your preference!

Can these be made gluten-free?

Yes, simply substitute your favorite measure-for-measure gluten-free flour blend for the all purpose flour. The results are just as tasty, with that tender bite everyone loves.

Can I make Mini Apple Fritter Waffle Donuts without eggs?

You can! For an egg-free version, replace the egg with a flax egg (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed + 3 tablespoons water, mixed and rested for 5 minutes). The texture will be a bit more dense, but still delicious.

How do I prevent the donuts from sticking to the waffle iron?

Make sure your iron is preheated fully and spray generously with nonstick spray before adding the batter each time. If you’ve glazed the donuts, wait until they’re cool so the glaze doesn’t drip and burn onto the iron if you’re reheating.

Final Thoughts

I genuinely hope you give these Mini Apple Fritter Waffle Donuts a try—they’re the kind of treat that sparks smiles, brings friends and family together, and fills your kitchen with the happiest aromas. Have fun with them, and don’t be surprised when you find yourself making them again and again!

Mini Apple Fritter Waffle Donuts Recipe

★★★★★

4.7 from 15 reviews

Author: Lily
Total Time: 30 minutes
Yield: 12 mini waffle donuts 1x
Diet: Vegetarian

Print Recipe

Description

These Mini Apple Fritter Waffle Donuts are a delightful twist on classic apple fritters, combining the flavors of apples, cinnamon, and nutmeg in a waffle iron for a fun and delicious treat.

Instructions

Preheat your waffle iron. 2. Stir together the dry ingredients. Whisk in the egg, milk, and oil. 3. Gently stir in the shredded apples. 4. Spray the waffle iron with nonstick spray. Drop the batter by tablespoon onto the waffle iron. Cook 3-5 minutes, depending on the heat of your iron. (For a small Dash waffle iron, cook each one for 5 minutes.) 5. Place the waffle donuts on a wire rack to cool. 6. Whisk together the glaze ingredients. Dip each waffle donut in the glaze. 7. Flip it around and let the excess drip off. Sprinkle with cinnamon sugar, if desired. Let set.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Category: Dessert
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American