These sweet, golden waffle-donut hybrids combine the best of both worlds—soft and fluffy like a donut on the inside, with crisp waffle edges and a shiny vanilla glaze on top. Whether you’re serving them for a decadent breakfast, a playful brunch, or a weekend treat, these glazed donut waffles come together quickly and are as fun to make as they are to eat.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Glaze Donut Waffles offer the nostalgic flavor of classic donuts with the ease and texture of waffles. They’re incredibly simple to prepare, require no frying, and use basic pantry ingredients. With a glossy vanilla glaze that sets beautifully, they’re a showstopper on any breakfast or brunch table. Serve them warm and watch them disappear in seconds.

ingredients

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

For the Waffles:

2 cups all-purpose flour
1/4 cup granulated sugar
1 tbsp baking powder
1/2 tsp salt
2 eggs
1 1/2 cups whole milk
1/3 cup unsalted butter, melted
1 tbsp vanilla extract

For the Donut Glaze:

1 1/2 cups powdered sugar
3 tbsp milk
1 tsp vanilla extract

directions

1. Preheat the waffle iron:
Heat your waffle iron according to manufacturer instructions and lightly grease it with nonstick spray or melted butter.

2. Make the waffle batter:
In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, granulated sugar, baking powder, and salt.
In a separate bowl, whisk the eggs, milk, melted butter, and vanilla extract until fully combined.
Pour the wet mixture into the dry ingredients and stir just until smooth. Do not overmix to avoid dense waffles.

3. Cook the waffles:
Spoon 1/3 to 1/2 cup of batter (depending on your waffle iron size) into the center of the hot waffle iron.
Close the lid and cook for 3–5 minutes, or until the waffles are golden brown and crisp on the edges.
Transfer the cooked waffles to a wire rack to cool slightly.

4. Prepare the glaze:
In a small bowl, whisk together the powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract until the glaze is smooth and pourable.

5. Glaze the waffles:
While the waffles are still warm but not hot, dip the top of each waffle into the glaze or spoon the glaze generously over the top.
Let the glaze set for 3–5 minutes until it becomes firm and glossy.

6. Serve:
Serve warm, ideally with a cup of coffee, a glass of milk, or a bowl of fresh fruit for a complete breakfast or brunch experience.

Servings and timing

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes
Servings: 6 waffles
Calories: 310 kcal per waffle

Variations

Chocolate glaze: Substitute cocoa powder for some of the powdered sugar and add a touch more milk for a chocolate version.
Cinnamon sugar topping: Instead of glaze, brush warm waffles with melted butter and sprinkle with cinnamon sugar.
Filled waffles: Add a teaspoon of jam or Nutella in the center of each waffle before closing the iron for a gooey surprise.
Sprinkle fun: Top the glaze with colorful sprinkles for birthdays, holidays, or kids’ parties.
Mini waffles: Use a mini waffle maker for bite-sized donut waffles that are perfect for serving a crowd.

storage/reheating

Storage: Store unglazed waffles in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days, or refrigerate for up to 4 days.
Reheating: Toast waffles in a toaster or oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed and crisped. Add glaze after reheating if storing separately.
Freezing: Freeze unglazed waffles in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer bag. Reheat directly from frozen in the toaster or oven.

FAQs

Can I make these waffles ahead of time?

Yes, you can make the waffles a day in advance and reheat them before glazing and serving. This is ideal for busy mornings or brunch prep.

Can I use a different type of milk?

Absolutely. Whole milk provides the best texture, but 2%, almond, oat, or soy milk can be substituted.

Do I have to glaze the waffles?

Not at all. The waffles are delicious on their own or topped with maple syrup, honey, or fruit.

Can I make these waffles without a waffle iron?

This recipe is specifically designed for a waffle iron. However, the batter may work for pancakes with slight texture differences.

How do I prevent waffles from becoming soggy?

Place cooked waffles on a wire rack instead of stacking them to allow air circulation, which keeps them crisp.

What kind of waffle iron works best?

A classic Belgian or standard waffle iron both work well. Adjust the batter amount based on the size and depth of your waffle maker.

Can I double the recipe?

Yes, this recipe doubles easily for larger batches. Just be sure to mix gently and avoid overmixing the batter.

Can kids help with this recipe?

Yes, kids can help with whisking the batter and glazing the waffles, making it a fun and interactive breakfast activity.

Is this recipe suitable for brunch parties?

Absolutely. These waffles are eye-catching, easy to make in batches, and always a hit on any brunch spread.

What’s the best way to serve them?

Serve warm with fresh fruit, coffee, or even a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a dessert-style twist.

Conclusion

Glaze Donut Waffles are the ultimate fusion of indulgent donut sweetness and the warm, crisp texture of waffles. Quick to prepare and customizable for any occasion, they’re perfect for breakfast, brunch, or a special treat. Whether you’re hosting guests or treating yourself, this recipe guarantees smiles and satisfaction with every glazed bite.