These pumpkin waffles bring the warmth and flavors of fall into every bite! The combination of soft, fluffy waffles with rich pumpkin and spices like cinnamon and nutmeg makes for the ultimate autumn breakfast treat. Whether you’re serving them for a weekend brunch or enjoying them during a cozy morning, these waffles are sure to become a seasonal favorite. Top them with maple syrup, whipped cream, and a sprinkle of chopped pecans for the perfect finish.
These pumpkin waffles are incredibly easy to make and perfect for meal prepping ahead of time. The fluffy texture combined with the spices makes every bite feel like a warm hug. They’re ideal for enjoying with your family on a chilly autumn day, or serving to guests at your next brunch. Plus, they’re made with wholesome ingredients, so you can feel good about what you’re eating.
Full recipe:
Ingredients:
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1 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
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2 tablespoons brown sugar
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1 tablespoon baking powder
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1 teaspoon cinnamon
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1/2 teaspoon ground ginger
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1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
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1/4 teaspoon salt
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2 large eggs
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1 cup milk
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1 cup canned pumpkin puree
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1/4 cup vegetable oil
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1 teaspoon vanilla extract
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Optional: maple syrup, whipped cream, and chopped pecans for serving
Directions:
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Preheat your waffle iron according to its manufacturer’s instructions.
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In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, brown sugar, baking powder, cinnamon, ginger, nutmeg, and salt.
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In a separate bowl, whisk the eggs, milk, pumpkin puree, vegetable oil, and vanilla extract until smooth.
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Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and stir until just combined. Do not overmix.
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Lightly grease the waffle iron with cooking spray or a brush of oil.
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Pour about 1/2 cup of the batter onto the waffle iron and cook according to the manufacturer’s instructions, usually for about 3-4 minutes, or until golden brown.
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Serve with maple syrup, whipped cream, and chopped pecans, if desired.
Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cooking Time: 15 minutes | Total Time: 25 minutes
Kcal: 320 kcal | Servings: 4 servings
Why Pumpkin Waffles Are Perfect for Fall
Pumpkin is a quintessential ingredient during fall, and there’s something about its natural sweetness and dense texture that perfectly complements the crisp air and fall foliage. While pumpkin can be enjoyed in many dishes, like soups, pies, or lattes, pumpkin waffles provide a fun twist on the traditional waffle. The addition of pumpkin to the batter creates a soft, moist texture and gives the waffles a warm, orange hue, making them visually appealing as well as delicious.
Not only are pumpkin waffles a treat for the taste buds, but they also capture the essence of autumn. The spices commonly added to pumpkin recipes—cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger—are all warm and comforting, providing a natural warmth that is perfect for the colder weather. The aroma of these spices filling your kitchen while the waffles cook creates an inviting atmosphere that encourages relaxation and enjoyment.
The Health Benefits of Pumpkin
Pumpkin is often celebrated for its health benefits, and adding it to your waffles is a great way to boost their nutritional value. Pumpkin is rich in vitamins A and C, which are important for supporting your immune system, skin health, and eye health. It’s also packed with fiber, which aids in digestion and helps you feel fuller longer. Additionally, pumpkin is a low-calorie food, making it a great choice for anyone looking to enjoy a tasty breakfast without overindulging.
When you add pumpkin puree to waffles, you’re not just infusing flavor; you’re also incorporating these health benefits into your meal. So, while you enjoy a stack of fluffy waffles topped with syrup, you can feel good knowing that you’re also getting essential nutrients that contribute to your overall well-being.
How to Make Pumpkin Waffles Even Better
Although pumpkin waffles are delicious on their own, there are many ways to elevate the flavor and presentation. A drizzle of rich maple syrup is a classic choice, but there are other creative ways to top your waffles and make them even more indulgent. Whipped cream is a great way to add a creamy, sweet element to your waffles, and you can also sprinkle some chopped pecans or walnuts on top for a satisfying crunch.
If you love the combination of pumpkin and chocolate, consider adding chocolate chips to the batter for an extra treat. The sweetness of the chocolate pairs beautifully with the spiced pumpkin, creating a sweet and savory balance that will satisfy your cravings. You can also experiment with different spices in the batter. A dash of allspice or cloves can bring out new flavors and make your waffles even more aromatic.
For a healthier twist, you can opt for toppings like fresh fruit, such as sliced bananas or berries, which add natural sweetness and extra nutrients to your meal. If you’re looking to make your waffles even more indulgent, consider adding a dollop of pumpkin spice cream cheese or yogurt for a creamy, tangy contrast to the sweet waffles.
How to Make Pumpkin Waffles Ahead of Time
One of the great things about pumpkin waffles is that they can be made in advance, making them perfect for busy mornings or for serving a crowd. After preparing the waffles, allow them to cool completely on a wire rack. Then, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. When you’re ready to enjoy them, simply reheat them in a toaster or toaster oven until crispy.
If you’d like to make a larger batch and freeze the waffles, they can be stored in a single layer in a freezer bag or airtight container. When ready to eat, just pop them in the toaster or oven for a quick and easy breakfast. This makes pumpkin waffles a fantastic option for meal prepping, ensuring that you always have a delicious, homemade breakfast ready to go.
Pumpkin Waffles for Special Occasions
While pumpkin waffles are perfect for a casual fall breakfast, they’re also an excellent choice for special occasions. Imagine serving a stack of warm pumpkin waffles at a cozy brunch gathering, where friends and family can sit around, enjoy the fall ambiance, and indulge in a delicious meal. You can easily serve pumpkin waffles with a variety of sides, such as scrambled eggs, crispy bacon, or fresh fruit, to create a balanced and hearty meal.
They’re also an ideal choice for holiday gatherings, such as Thanksgiving or Christmas brunch. Pumpkin is a holiday favorite, and by incorporating it into waffles, you’ll have a dish that feels festive and comforting. You can even make a waffle bar for your guests, offering different toppings like whipped cream, maple syrup, nuts, and fresh berries for everyone to customize their waffles to their liking.
Vegan and Gluten-Free Pumpkin Waffles
If you’re following a vegan or gluten-free diet, you can still enjoy the deliciousness of pumpkin waffles. For vegan pumpkin waffles, substitute the eggs with flax eggs or aquafaba (the liquid from canned chickpeas). You can also swap the milk for any plant-based milk, such as almond milk, oat milk, or soy milk. Instead of butter, use a plant-based oil, such as coconut oil or vegetable oil. For a gluten-free version, simply replace the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Be sure to check that the baking powder is gluten-free as well.
These substitutions will allow you to create pumpkin waffles that are suitable for a variety of dietary needs, ensuring that everyone can enjoy this fall treat. The best part is that the waffles will still be fluffy, flavorful, and satisfying, making them just as good as the traditional version.
Conclusion
Pumpkin waffles are the perfect way to celebrate fall with their warm, comforting flavors and fluffy texture. They’re easy to make, packed with nutrients, and can be customized to suit a variety of tastes and dietary preferences. Whether you’re enjoying them with maple syrup and whipped cream for a cozy breakfast or serving them at a special occasion with a variety of toppings, pumpkin waffles are sure to become a favorite autumn dish. The addition of pumpkin provides health benefits while enhancing the overall flavor of the waffles, making them both a tasty and nutritious choice. So, grab your waffle iron, whip up a batch of these delicious pumpkin waffles, and enjoy all the flavors of fall in one bite.