If you’re dreaming of a breakfast that wraps you in cozy autumn flavors, the Spiced Pumpkin Waffles Recipe is your new best friend. These waffles bring together fluffy texture with a perfectly balanced blend of cinnamon, nutmeg, and clove, all enriched by vibrant pumpkin purée. Whether you’re serving a festive brunch or just craving a comforting start to your day, this recipe is a delightful way to elevate your waffle game with warm spices and irresistible aroma.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity and the harmony of each ingredient. Every element plays a crucial role, from the light brown sugar that adds subtle sweetness to the pumpkin purée which lends moisture and that gorgeous fall color. Here’s everything that makes these waffles truly shine:
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour: The base that gives structure and the perfect crisp edge.
- 2 tablespoons light brown sugar, packed: Adds gentle sweetness and a hint of molasses flavor.
- 2 teaspoons baking powder: Provides lift to keep your waffles fluffy.
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda: Works with the buttermilk to ensure a light texture.
- 1/4 teaspoon salt: Balances and enhances all the flavors.
- 1 1/4 teaspoons ground cinnamon: The signature spice that warms the batter perfectly.
- 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger: Adds a slight zing and depth.
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg: Infuses a nutty sweetness and autumnal scent.
- 1/8 teaspoon ground cloves: A subtle touch that intensifies the spice blend.
- 2 large eggs: Bind the ingredients while giving a rich texture.
- 1/2 cup canned pumpkin purée (not pumpkin pie filling): Brings moisture, softness, and that irresistible pumpkin flavor.
- 1 1/4 cups buttermilk: Adds tanginess and makes the waffles tender.
- 3 tablespoons melted butter: For richness and to keep waffles crisp on the outside.
- 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract: Rounds out the flavors with a sweet aroma.
- Nonstick cooking spray or additional butter: Essential for greasing the waffle iron for perfect release.
How to Make Spiced Pumpkin Waffles Recipe
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
Start by preheating your waffle iron according to the manufacturer’s instructions. This upfront heat ensures that your waffles cook evenly and develop that gorgeous golden crust that we all love.
Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients
In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, brown sugar, baking powder, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, ginger, nutmeg, and cloves. This combination of spices creates the magic that makes these waffles unforgettable, blending with the pumpkin flavor to produce a warm, inviting taste.
Step 3: Combine Wet Ingredients
In a separate bowl, beat the eggs and then add the pumpkin purée, buttermilk, melted butter, and vanilla extract. Mix until everything is smooth and uniform. The wet mix not only provides moisture but also carries that rich, silky pumpkin base that contrasts so well with the spice.
Step 4: Bring It All Together
Pour the wet ingredients into the dry and gently fold them together. Don’t overmix—in fact, leaving a few small lumps is perfect because overmixing can develop gluten and make waffles tough. The batter should be just combined to guarantee light and fluffy waffles.
Step 5: Cook the Waffles
Lightly grease the waffle iron with cooking spray or melted butter, then spoon in the batter, spreading it slightly. Cook each waffle for 3 to 5 minutes until beautifully golden and crisp on the outside. The smell at this point is sure to make your kitchen feel like a fall wonderland.
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy
Carefully remove the waffles and keep them warm while you cook the rest. These spiced pumpkin waffles are best served fresh, steaming hot, and ready to be adorned with your favorite toppings.
How to Serve Spiced Pumpkin Waffles Recipe
Garnishes
Topping your Spiced Pumpkin Waffles Recipe with the right garnishes can elevate the flavor and presentation magnificently. Try a generous dollop of whipped cream, a drizzle of rich maple syrup, or a sprinkle of chopped toasted pecans for an added crunch. A dusting of powdered sugar or a pinch of cinnamon can also make these waffles feel extra special.
Side Dishes
Pair these waffles with crispy bacon or turkey sausage to balance out the sweet spices with savory goodness. Fresh fruit, like sliced pears or a mixed berry compote, complements the warm spices beautifully and adds a fresh burst of flavor. You could also serve them alongside a creamy yogurt parfait for a lighter contrast.
Creative Ways to Present
Make breakfast an event by stacking your waffles high and layering with cream cheese frosting or pumpkin butter between them. For a festive twist, serve in mini portions as part of a brunch spread with various syrups and toppings on the side—allowing everyone to customize their perfect waffle. Even skewering bite-sized waffles with fruit can make a playful, shareable presentation.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have leftover Spiced Pumpkin Waffles Recipe, don’t worry—they store wonderfully. Place them in an airtight container or zip-top bag and keep them in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This way, you can enjoy the warm spice flavors with minimal effort on busy mornings.
Freezing
For longer storage, freeze your cooked waffles by laying them in a single layer on a baking sheet until solid. Then transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container, where they will keep for up to 2 months. This method keeps them from sticking together and lets you grab them for a quick, delicious breakfast anytime.
Reheating
Reheat waffles in a toaster or oven at 350°F until warmed through and crispy again. Avoid microwaving, as it often makes waffles soggy. To preserve that just-cooked texture and flavor of your Spiced Pumpkin Waffles Recipe, a quick re-toast is your best friend.
FAQs
Can I use fresh pumpkin instead of canned purée?
Absolutely! If you use fresh pumpkin, make sure to steam or roast it first, then puree until smooth. Keep in mind that canned pumpkin purée has a thicker consistency, so you may need to adjust the wet ingredients a bit for the right batter texture.
What if I don’t have buttermilk?
No problem! You can make a buttermilk substitute by adding 1 tablespoon of lemon juice or white vinegar to 1 1/4 cups of milk and letting it sit for 5 to 10 minutes. This acidity helps with leavening and adds a subtle tang that brightens the waffles.
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
You can, but you’ll need to swap the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend that’s suitable for baking. Ensure your baking powder is gluten-free as well. The texture might be slightly different, but the warm spices and pumpkin flavor will still shine through.
How do I get extra crispy waffles?
For crispier waffles, try using a bit more melted butter in the batter and cooking them a little longer in your waffle iron. Also, avoid stacking them immediately; instead, place cooked waffles on a wire rack to keep air circulating and prevent sogginess.
Can I double this Spiced Pumpkin Waffles Recipe?
Definitely! This recipe scales up nicely. Just be sure to mix the batter gently and do not overmix as you increase the quantities. Cooking times per waffle will stay the same, but you’ll have plenty to feed a crowd or save for later.
Final Thoughts
Once you’ve tried this Spiced Pumpkin Waffles Recipe, it will quickly become a cherished staple in your breakfast lineup. The combination of tender, fluffy waffles with warmly spiced pumpkin flavor is pure comfort food joy. So go ahead, gather those simple ingredients, and treat yourself and your loved ones to a memorable breakfast that feels like a hug on a plate.
Print
Spiced Pumpkin Waffles Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 5 servings
- Category: Breakfast
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
These Spiced Pumpkin Waffles are a delicious and cozy breakfast treat perfect for fall. Made with warm spices and pumpkin purée, they offer a moist, flavorful waffle that’s easy to whip up in just 30 minutes. Serve them with your favorite toppings like maple syrup or whipped cream for a comforting start to your day.
Ingredients
Dry Ingredients
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 tablespoons light brown sugar, packed
- 2 teaspoons baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 1/4 teaspoons ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1/8 teaspoon ground cloves
Wet Ingredients
- 2 large eggs
- 1/2 cup canned pumpkin purée (not pumpkin pie filling)
- 1 1/4 cups buttermilk
- 3 tablespoons melted butter
- 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
For Cooking
- Nonstick cooking spray or additional butter, for greasing waffle iron
Instructions
- Preheat Waffle Iron: Preheat your waffle iron according to the manufacturer’s instructions to ensure even cooking and crisp waffles.
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, light brown sugar, baking powder, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, ginger, nutmeg, and cloves until well combined.
- Combine Wet Ingredients: In a separate bowl, mix the eggs, canned pumpkin purée, buttermilk, melted butter, and pure vanilla extract until the mixture is smooth and uniform.
- Combine Wet and Dry: Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients. Stir gently just until combined, being careful not to overmix; a few lumps are okay to keep the waffles tender.
- Prepare Waffle Iron: Lightly grease the waffle iron with nonstick cooking spray or butter to prevent sticking.
- Cook Waffles: Pour the appropriate amount of batter into the center of the waffle iron. Spread slightly if necessary, then cook for 3 to 5 minutes or until the waffles are golden brown and crisp on the outside.
- Remove and Repeat: Carefully remove the cooked waffle and repeat the process with the remaining batter.
- Serve: Serve the waffles warm, topped with maple syrup, whipped cream, or chopped nuts as desired for an extra touch of flavor and texture.
Notes
- Do not overmix the batter to avoid tough waffles; some lumps are fine.
- Use canned pumpkin purée, not pumpkin pie filling, to avoid added sugars and spices.
- You can keep waffles warm in a low oven while cooking the rest.
- For crispier waffles, avoid stacking them as they cool.
- Adjust spices according to your taste preference.
