Pumpkin Spice Waffles

Introduction

Hey there! If pumpkin spice everything makes you feel all warm and cozy, you’re in for a treat. Today, we’re whipping up one of my favorite fall breakfast classics: Pumpkin Spice Waffles! These waffles are fluffy on the inside, crisp on the outside, and bursting with the comforting flavors of cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger. Perfect for weekend brunches, or when you need a little seasonal pick-me-up in the middle of the week.

Ready to bring those fall vibes straight to your breakfast table? Let’s dive in!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Cozy Autumn Flavors: The rich, spiced flavors of pumpkin and cinnamon make these waffles irresistible.
Quick and Easy: Ready in under 30 minutes, these waffles are a great option for a weekend brunch or a weekday treat.
Freezer-Friendly: Make a big batch and freeze the extras—they reheat beautifully.
Customizable: Add chocolate chips, nuts, or extra spices to make them uniquely yours.

Ingredients Breakdown

Essentials

1 3/4 cup all-purpose flour
2 tablespoons sugar
1 tablespoon baking powder
2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
1/4 teaspoon ground ginger
1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
1/2 teaspoon salt
1 cup pumpkin puree (not pumpkin pie filling)
2 large eggs
1 1/2 cup milk (dairy or plant-based)
1/4 cup melted butter or vegetable oil
1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Pro Tip:

The spices are what give this recipe its warm, comforting autumn flavor. If you don’t have all the individual spices on hand, no worries! You can swap them with 2 1/2 teaspoons of store-bought pumpkin pie spice for a shortcut.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preheat your waffle iron: You want it nice and hot, so the waffles get that crispy golden exterior. Set it to medium-high heat for best results.
Mix the dry ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, cloves, and salt.
Combine the wet ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the pumpkin puree, eggs, milk, melted butter (or oil), and vanilla extract until smooth.
Combine wet and dry: Pour the wet ingredients into the dry mixture and gently stir until just combined. Don’t overmix! It’s okay if the batter is a little lumpy.
Cook the waffles: Grease your waffle iron lightly (if needed) and scoop about 1/3 to 1/2 cup of batter onto the waffle iron, depending on its size. Cook according to your waffle iron’s directions, usually about 4-5 minutes until golden and crisp.

Chef’s Tips and Tricks

Make ahead: Double the recipe and freeze extra waffles. Just pop them in the toaster when you’re ready to enjoy them again!
Avoid overmixing: Overmixing the batter will make your waffles dense instead of light and fluffy. Stir gently, and stop when the ingredients are just combined.
Crispier Waffles? For extra crispy waffles, cook them a little longer than the automatic waffle maker shut-off. This adds an amazing crunch that pairs beautifully with the tender interior.

Recipe Variations and Serving Suggestions

Recipe Variations:

Add-ins: Try mixing in chocolate chips, chopped pecans or walnuts for extra texture and flavor.
Gluten-Free: Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free 1-to-1 flour blend.
Dairy-Free: Use almond or oat milk and replace the butter with coconut oil or a dairy-free butter alternative.

Serving Suggestions:

Whipped Cream & Maple Syrup: Top with a generous dollop of whipped cream and a drizzle of real maple syrup for the ultimate cozy breakfast.
Candied Pecans: Sprinkle some candied pecans on top for extra crunch and sweetness.
Fresh Fruit: Serve with sliced bananas or fresh berries for a touch of freshness and color.

FAQs

Can I freeze pumpkin spice waffles?

Yes! These waffles freeze wonderfully. Just let them cool completely, then stack with parchment paper between each waffle and store in a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months. To reheat, pop them into the toaster or oven until heated through and crispy.

How do I keep waffles warm while making multiple batches?

You can keep the waffles warm by placing them on a baking sheet in a 200°F (90°C) oven while you finish cooking the rest. Keep them in a single layer to prevent sogginess.

Can I make these waffles without a waffle iron?

Technically, yes—you can cook the batter like pancakes on a griddle. They won’t have the same crispy exterior, but they’ll still taste great!

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