If you’re on the hunt for a cozy treat that brings together the best parts of breakfast and dessert, then this Mini Apple Fritter Waffle Donuts Recipe is about to become your new favorite indulgence. These little delights are crispy on the outside, tender and fluffy inside, bursting with warm cinnamon-spiced shredded apples. Imagine your traditional apple fritter reinvented as a charming mini waffle-shaped donut, perfect for dunking in coffee or savoring with a smile. It’s an irresistible way to brighten any morning or sweeten an afternoon break!
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering simple, accessible ingredients is the first step toward deliciousness with this recipe. Each component plays a crucial role, from the fragrant cinnamon and nutmeg that bring warmth to the batter, to the shredded apples offering juicy texture and natural sweetness. The glaze adds that perfect glossy finish, tying every bite together with a creamy vanilla touch.
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour: The base of the batter, providing structure and tenderness.
- 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon: Adds the classic warm spice that pairs perfectly with apples.
- 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg: Offers subtle depth and enhances the overall flavor complexity.
- 2 tablespoons granulated sugar: Sweetens the batter carefully without overpowering.
- 1 teaspoon baking powder: Helps the batter rise and become fluffy inside.
- 1/4 teaspoon table salt: Balances sweetness and intensifies flavors.
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch: Keeps the texture tender and delicate.
- 1 large egg: Binds ingredients together and adds moisture.
- 1/3 cup milk: Moisturizes the batter and ensures smooth consistency.
- 1/2 tablespoon oil: Adds subtle richness and helps crispness outside.
- 1 1/2 cups shredded apples: The star ingredient, offering freshness and natural sweetness in every bite.
- 2 cups powdered sugar (for glaze): Creates the luscious sweet coating that makes these donuts shine.
- 3-4 tablespoons milk (for glaze): Adjusts the glaze to perfect dipping consistency.
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract (for glaze): Adds a fragrant, comforting aroma to the glaze.
- Cinnamon sugar (optional): A delightful finishing sprinkle to boost flavor and provide a slight crunch.
How to Make Mini Apple Fritter Waffle Donuts Recipe
Step 1: Preheat Your Waffle Iron
Start by heating your waffle iron to the right temperature so it’s ready to create those perfect mini donut shapes. This ensures a quick cooking time and nicely browned edges, setting the stage for crispy outsides and pillowy insides.
Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients and Wet Ingredients Separately
Combine the flour, cinnamon, nutmeg, sugar, baking powder, salt, and cornstarch in one bowl. Whisking them together ensures even distribution of spices and leavening agents. In another bowl, beat the egg, then add milk and oil, mixing these wet ingredients thoroughly before blending them into the dry mixture. This method helps avoid lumps and creates a smooth base for your batter.
Step 3: Fold in the Shredded Apples
Gently stir the shredded apples into the batter, spreading their texture evenly throughout. The moisture and slight tartness from the apples enhance flavor complexity and moisture content, giving your mini donuts that authentic apple fritter vibe.
Step 4: Cook the Mini Donuts in the Waffle Iron
Spray your preheated waffle iron with a nonstick spray to prevent sticking. Drop tablespoon-sized dollops of batter onto each section of the iron, being careful to not overfill. Close the lid and cook for about 3 to 5 minutes until golden brown and crisp on the outside. Once cooked, transfer them onto a wire rack to cool slightly, maintaining their crisp texture.
Step 5: Prepare the Vanilla Glaze
While the mini donuts cool, whisk together powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract to create a smooth, glossy glaze. Adjust the milk amount as needed for a dip-friendly consistency that will coat each mini donut just right.
Step 6: Dip and Decorate
Dip each warm mini waffle donut into the glaze, turning to coat every nook and cranny. Let the excess drip off before placing them back on the rack to set. For an extra touch, lightly sprinkle with cinnamon sugar while the glaze is still wet—this adds a sparkling finish and a little extra spice kick.
How to Serve Mini Apple Fritter Waffle Donuts Recipe
Garnishes
To elevate these Mini Apple Fritter Waffle Donuts, try topping them off with finely chopped toasted pecans or a dusting of additional cinnamon sugar. Fresh apple slices or a sprinkle of powdered sugar can also add aesthetic appeal and extra flavor layers that guests will adore.
Side Dishes
These mini donuts pair wonderfully with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for an indulgent treat. If you want to keep it lighter, serve alongside a warm cup of chai tea or freshly brewed coffee to enjoy a perfectly balanced flavor experience.
Creative Ways to Present
Arrange your mini waffle donuts on a rustic wooden platter with apple slices and small bowls of cinnamon sugar and glaze for dipping. Alternatively, thread them onto skewers with apple chunks, creating cute mini donut kebabs—ideal for brunch gatherings or children’s parties.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have any leftover Mini Apple Fritter Waffle Donuts Recipe treats, simply store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. This keeps them fresh without losing the delightful texture you worked so hard to achieve.
Freezing
For longer storage, freeze cooled donuts in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container. They will keep their flavor and texture well for up to one month, letting you enjoy these anytime a craving strikes.
Reheating
To revive frozen or stored mini donuts, reheat in a toaster oven or conventional oven at 350°F for 5 to 7 minutes. This method restores crispness better than microwaving, ensuring each bite is as tasty as freshly made.
FAQs
Can I use other types of apples for this recipe?
Absolutely! While tart apples like Granny Smith provide a nice balance, sweeter varieties such as Fuji or Honeycrisp work beautifully too. Feel free to experiment with your favorite apples for a flavor twist.
Is there a dairy-free alternative for milk and glaze ingredients?
Yes, you can substitute regular milk with almond, oat, or coconut milk in both the batter and glaze without compromising texture or taste. Just make sure to use a non-dairy milk that is unsweetened to balance flavors properly.
Can I make these without a waffle iron?
The distinctive waffle shape and texture come from using a waffle iron, so it’s highly recommended. However, you could try cooking the batter in a mini donut pan if you have one, though the texture and appearance will slightly differ.
How do I prevent the batter from sticking to the waffle iron?
Using a good-quality nonstick spray before each batch is crucial. Also, make sure your waffle iron is fully preheated, as this helps create that crispy exterior and prevents sticking.
Can I add extra spices or flavorings to the batter?
Definitely! Feel free to enhance the batter with a pinch of ground cloves, allspice, or even a splash of maple syrup for an extra layer of autumnal warmth and sweetness.
Final Thoughts
Sharing this Mini Apple Fritter Waffle Donuts Recipe feels like passing along a little bit of joy wrapped in cinnamon, sugar, and apple goodness. Whether you’re making a special breakfast for loved ones or treating yourself during a cozy afternoon, these donuts never fail to bring smiles and warm hearts. Give it a try—you might just discover your new go-to comfort snack!
Print
Mini Apple Fritter Waffle Donuts Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 mini waffle donuts (serves 4)
- Category: Breakfast, Snack, Dessert
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
These Mini Apple Fritter Waffle Donuts are a delightful twist merging classic apple fritters with the convenience and crispiness of waffle donuts. Lightly spiced with cinnamon and nutmeg, packed with shredded apples, and topped with a smooth vanilla glaze, they offer a perfect balance of sweet and fruity flavors. Ideal for breakfast, brunch, or a sweet snack, these waffle donuts cook quickly in a waffle iron and are sure to satisfy your sweet tooth with a homemade touch.
Ingredients
Dry Ingredients
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
- 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/4 teaspoon table salt
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
Wet Ingredients
- 1 large egg
- 1/3 cup milk (plus extra for glaze)
- 1/2 tablespoon oil
Fruit
- 1 1/2 cups shredded apples
Glaze
- 2 cups powdered sugar
- 3–4 tablespoons milk
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
Optional Topping
- Cinnamon sugar (to taste)
Instructions
- Preheat Waffle Iron: Preheat your waffle iron to the appropriate temperature setting to ensure even cooking and crispiness.
- Mix Batter: In a mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, cinnamon, nutmeg, granulated sugar, baking powder, salt, and cornstarch. Whisk until well incorporated. Add the egg, 1/3 cup milk, and oil, then stir until just combined. Gently fold in the shredded apples to keep the batter light and airy.
- Cook Waffle Donuts: Lightly spray the waffle iron with nonstick spray to prevent sticking. Spoon tablespoon-sized portions of batter onto the waffle iron. Cook each batch for 3-5 minutes, or according to your waffle iron’s instructions, until golden brown and cooked through. Transfer cooked mini waffle donuts to a wire rack to cool slightly.
- Prepare Glaze: In a bowl, whisk together the powdered sugar, 3-4 tablespoons milk, and vanilla extract until smooth and runny enough to dip.
- Glaze and Garnish: Dip each mini waffle donut into the glaze, covering evenly. Flip to glaze both sides and allow any excess glaze to drip off. Optionally, sprinkle with cinnamon sugar while the glaze is still wet. Let the glaze set before serving.
Notes
- Use tart apples like Granny Smith for a balance of sweetness and tartness.
- Make sure to shred the apples finely so they cook evenly.
- Adjust cooking time based on your waffle iron’s heat setting to avoid burning.
- For a dairy-free version, substitute milk with almond or oat milk and use oil instead of butter.
- Leftover waffle donuts can be stored in an airtight container for up to 2 days, but are best enjoyed fresh.
