The inviting aroma of cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves fills the kitchen as these Banana Spice Waffles cook to golden perfection. With a crisp outside and fluffy center, they bring together all the cozy, nostalgic notes of fall mornings and comfort food breakfasts.
Topped with a drizzle of warm maple syrup and slices of ripe banana, these waffles are a wholesome and delicious treat perfect for lazy weekends or festive brunches. The combination of banana and warm spices makes this dish a hit for both kids and adults, served fresh off the waffle iron or made ahead and reheated for a quick, satisfying morning.
Full recipe:
Ingredients:
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2 cups all-purpose flour
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2 tablespoons packed light brown sugar
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1 tablespoon baking powder
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1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
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1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
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1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
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1/2 teaspoon salt
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2 large eggs
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1 3/4 cups milk
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1/2 cup mashed ripe banana (about 1 medium banana)
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6 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
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1 teaspoon vanilla extract
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Maple syrup and sliced bananas, for serving
Directions:
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Preheat a waffle iron according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
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In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, brown sugar, baking powder, cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves, and salt.
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In another bowl, beat the eggs and then add the milk, mashed banana, melted butter, and vanilla extract. Mix well.
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Add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients and stir until just combined. Do not overmix.
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Lightly grease the waffle iron with non-stick spray or melted butter.
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Pour about 1/2 to 3/4 cup of batter (depending on your waffle iron size) onto the preheated iron and close the lid.
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Cook until golden brown and crisp, about 3 to 5 minutes.
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Serve immediately with maple syrup and extra banana slices.
Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cooking Time: 20 minutes | Total Time: 30 minutes
Kcal: 310 kcal | Servings: 6 servings
The Origins of Spiced Waffle Dishes
While waffles have been a staple in European and American cuisines for centuries, the spiced banana variation leans into modern fusion trends. Bananas, widely available and affordable, pair exceptionally well with warming spices rooted in global traditions. Cinnamon and nutmeg have long histories in African, Indian, and Middle Eastern cooking, and their use in Western breakfasts can be traced back to colonial spice trade influences.
Blending these spices with mashed banana creates a natural sweetness that requires less added sugar, making the dish both wholesome and indulgent. The combination speaks to a broader culinary movement where comfort food meets mindful cooking.
Perfect for Any Season—but Especially Fall
Though Banana Spice Waffles can be enjoyed year-round, they shine brightest during the cooler months. Autumn and winter mornings call for cozy, spiced meals, and this recipe delivers on that craving without being overly rich. The aroma of cloves and cinnamon wafting through the kitchen is enough to draw anyone out of bed.
Served with maple syrup, warm butter, and fresh banana slices, these waffles transform any breakfast into a seasonal celebration. You can also pair them with spiced chai tea, cinnamon coffee, or hot apple cider to round out the sensory palette.
Healthier Yet Indulgent
One of the standout aspects of this dish is its ability to feel decadent while still offering health-conscious benefits. Bananas are naturally rich in potassium, vitamin B6, and dietary fiber. Because the fruit adds moisture and sweetness to the batter, you can reduce the need for excessive oils or sugars.
Additionally, the spices used are more than just flavorful—they’re loaded with health perks. Cinnamon is known for its anti-inflammatory properties and potential to regulate blood sugar, while nutmeg and cloves contain antioxidants that support overall wellness. For those aiming to eat mindfully without sacrificing flavor, Banana Spice Waffles are a smart choice.
Endless Customization Possibilities
One of the best things about waffles in general—and this recipe in particular—is how customizable they are. Want more texture? Add chopped walnuts or pecans to the batter. Craving a bit more decadence? A handful of mini chocolate chips or a caramel drizzle can turn the dish into a dessert-worthy brunch.
For a dairy-free version, you can substitute plant-based milk and vegan butter. For a gluten-free alternative, use a one-to-one gluten-free flour blend. The flavor profile holds up beautifully with these substitutions, making the recipe inclusive for a wide range of dietary needs.
You can also use different fruits. While bananas are the hero here, try mixing in mashed roasted sweet potato or pumpkin purée for a twist. Applesauce is another excellent alternative for moisture and sweetness if bananas aren’t your thing.
Presentation Tips for Serving
When it comes to serving Banana Spice Waffles, presentation is key—especially if you’re sharing them on social media or hosting brunch guests. Stack the waffles neatly on a warm plate, layer them with sliced bananas, and drizzle with warm maple syrup. A light dusting of powdered sugar can add a touch of elegance, and a dollop of whipped cream makes it truly indulgent.
Fresh berries can add color contrast, while a sprinkle of crushed nuts gives texture and visual appeal. For a cozy, rustic vibe, serve on a wooden board or ceramic plate with natural-toned napkins. For a more elegant presentation, use white or pastel-colored dishware to make the golden waffles pop.
A Family-Friendly Crowd Pleaser
Banana Spice Waffles are an excellent recipe for feeding a crowd. Children love the sweetness and familiar banana flavor, while adults appreciate the sophisticated spice blend. These waffles are ideal for weekend brunches, holiday mornings, or even breakfast-for-dinner nights.
You can make a large batch and freeze the extras—simply toast them to revive their crispiness when you’re ready to eat. They hold up well to storage, making them a great make-ahead option for busy families or meal preppers.
If you’re entertaining guests, consider setting up a waffle bar with various toppings—think whipped cream, fresh fruit, syrups, nut butters, and even savory options like bacon or fried chicken for a sweet-savory twist.
Pairing Suggestions for a Complete Meal
To turn your Banana Spice Waffles into a well-rounded meal, think about balance. Pair with a protein like scrambled eggs, Greek yogurt, or a smoothie for added nutrition. You might also serve with a side of citrus or berries to contrast the sweetness and spices with brightness and acidity.
If you’re looking for beverage pairings, these waffles go beautifully with coffee drinks—especially flavored ones like vanilla lattes or cinnamon cappuccinos. For something non-caffeinated, chai or rooibos teas are a perfect match thanks to their complementary spice profiles.
Why Banana and Spice Work So Well Together
The banana-spice combination isn’t just delicious—it’s strategic. Bananas provide a creamy, rich base that absorbs and amplifies spice flavors beautifully. The sugars in the fruit caramelize slightly during cooking, creating a naturally sweet crust, especially when cooked in a waffle iron. The spices cut through the sweetness and round out the flavor, making the dish multidimensional rather than one-note.
There’s also a psychological element: these spices evoke warmth, comfort, and nostalgia. This is why they’re so common in holiday dishes and baked goods. When you combine that sensory connection with the hearty satisfaction of waffles, the result is pure breakfast bliss.
Banana Spice Waffles Around the World
While this exact recipe may be rooted in Western-style brunch culture, it draws inspiration from various global cuisines. In India, spices like cardamom and cinnamon are frequently paired with bananas in desserts. In the Caribbean, banana fritters are a breakfast staple, often flavored with nutmeg.
What makes Banana Spice Waffles unique is that they fuse these global flavors into a familiar and beloved format—waffles—making them a delicious culinary bridge between cultures.
Conclusion: The Ultimate Cozy Breakfast
Whether you’re making them for a special brunch, a cozy weekend breakfast, or even prepping them for busy weekday mornings, Banana Spice Waffles are a must-try. They’re warm, satisfying, and endlessly versatile. By blending ripe bananas with a medley of aromatic spices, you create a waffle experience that’s deeply flavorful yet surprisingly easy to pull off.
These waffles aren’t just food—they’re comfort on a plate, a treat for the senses, and a celebration of the little joys in life. From their rich aroma to their golden, crisp bite, Banana Spice Waffles are sure to become a favorite in your recipe collection. So grab your waffle iron, some ripe bananas, and your favorite spices, and treat yourself to a breakfast that’s as nourishing as it is delightful.