Pumpkin Waffles Recipe

If you’re looking to cozy up your breakfast game, these Pumpkin Waffles are an absolute must-try. Bursting with warm pumpkin flavor and perfectly spiced with pumpkin pie seasoning, these waffles come out fluffy, tender, and golden brown every time. They’re the ideal way to bring autumn vibes right to your morning table, even when the temperature outside hasn’t quite caught up yet. Whether you’re serving a crowd or enjoying a solo treat, Pumpkin Waffles offer a delightful balance of sweet, spice, and everything nice that will have you reaching for seconds—maybe even thirds!

Ingredients You’ll Need

These ingredients are simple, pantry-friendly essentials that come together to create the perfectly cozy and flavorful Pumpkin Waffles we all crave. Each component plays a key role, from moisture and richness to lightness and the signature seasonal taste.

• Pumpkin puree: This is the star that gives you that rich, earthy pumpkin flavor and moist texture.
• Egg yolks and egg whites: Separating them allows for a fluffy, airy texture when the whites are whipped and folded in.
• Light brown sugar: Adds a gentle sweetness and a hint of molasses that complements pumpkin beautifully.
• Milk (or a plant-based alternative): Keeps the batter smooth and the waffles tender.
• Canola or vegetable oil: Ensures the waffles stay moist and crisp on the outside without heaviness.
• Pumpkin pie spice: The perfect blend of cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves that gives these waffles their signature warmth.
• Vanilla extract: Enhances all the flavors and adds a lovely aromatic depth.
• All-purpose flour: The structure builder that holds everything together just right.
• Baking powder: Gives the waffles lift, so they’re light and fluffy.
• Salt: Balances out the sweetness and enhances all the flavor layers.
• Cream of tartar (optional): Helps stabilize the whipped egg whites for maximum fluffiness.

How to Make Pumpkin Waffles

Step 1: Prepare the Wet Ingredients

Start by combining the pumpkin puree, egg yolks, brown sugar, milk, oil, pumpkin pie spice, and vanilla extract in a large bowl. Whisk everything together until you have a smooth, velvety mixture. This blend ensures your waffles will have that signature moistness and warming pumpkin flavor right from the start.

Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. This step is important because it evenly distributes the leavening so your waffles rise just right, and the salt balances the sweetness perfectly.

Step 3: Combine Wet and Dry

Gently fold your dry ingredients into the wet mixture. Be careful not to overmix here—just stir until everything is incorporated and you see no dry flour patches. Overmixing can make waffles dense, which is the last thing we want with these fluffy beauties.

Step 4: Whip the Egg Whites

Now, in a clean, dry bowl, beat the egg whites (and cream of tartar if using) until stiff peaks form. This step is the secret weapon behind light, airy waffles. When you fold these whipped whites into your batter, they introduce air that makes each waffle so delightfully tender.

Step 5: Fold Egg Whites into Batter

Gently fold the whipped egg whites into your batter. Use a spatula and fold carefully to preserve the air bubbles, making sure the mixture stays as light as possible.

Step 6: Cook the Waffles

Preheat your waffle iron, and liberally spray it with cooking spray to prevent sticking. Pour the right amount of batter (about a scant 1/2 cup per 5-inch square, adjusting based on your waffle iron’s size) and cook for about 3 to 4 minutes, or until your waffles are golden and cooked through. Repeat this process with the rest of the batter, spraying as needed between batches.

How to Serve Pumpkin Waffles

Garnishes

The charm of Pumpkin Waffles really shines when topped with simple but delicious garnishes. A pat of melted butter is classic, while a drizzle of maple syrup creates that perfect sweet contrast. For an extra touch, sift powdered sugar over the waffles or add dollops of whipped cream. Fresh berries or chopped nuts can add a delightful burst of brightness and crunch!

Side Dishes

Pair your Pumpkin Waffles with savory sides to create a well-rounded meal. Crispy bacon or breakfast sausage adds a salty counterpoint that balances the sweet spices wonderfully. If you’re leaning into the autumn theme, try serving with spiced apple slices or a warm fruit compote.

Creative Ways to Present

Want to impress your guests or just have fun? Stack fluffy Pumpkin Waffles high and insert layers of cream cheese or mascarpone between them. You can also serve them alongside a bowl of spiced yogurt or pumpkin butter for dipping. For kiddos, let them drizzle chocolate syrup or sprinkle cinnamon sugar for a fun, interactive breakfast experience.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you happen to have leftovers (though they rarely last long!), store your cooled Pumpkin Waffles in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This keeps them fresh and ready for a quick breakfast.

Freezing

Pumpkin Waffles freeze beautifully, making them perfect for busy mornings. Lay cooled waffles on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and freeze until solid, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag. They’ll keep for up to 2 months and you can defrost as needed.

Reheating

To bring your waffles back to their crispy glory, toast them in a toaster or reheat in a hot oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5 to 7 minutes. Avoid microwaving, as it tends to make waffles soggy and loses that delightful crispness.

FAQs

Can I use fresh pumpkin instead of canned pumpkin puree?

Absolutely! If using fresh pumpkin, roast and puree it until smooth before measuring out the amount called for in the recipe. Just make sure it’s well-drained to avoid adding too much moisture to your batter.

What if I don’t have pumpkin pie spice on hand?

No worries! You can easily make your own by blending cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and cloves. This DIY mix will give your Pumpkin Waffles the same cozy, warming flavor.

Why separate the eggs when making these waffles?

Separating and whipping the egg whites provides the batter with extra lift and airy texture. Folding them in gently ensures your Pumpkin Waffles come out light and fluffy rather than dense.

Can I make these waffles dairy-free?

Yes! Using Silk Unsweetened Cashewmilk, Unsweetened Vanilla Almondmilk, or any other plant-based milk substitutes works perfectly in this recipe without sacrificing taste or texture.

How do I prevent my waffles from sticking to the waffle iron?

Make sure to thoroughly spray your waffle iron with cooking spray before each batch. Also, preheat the iron fully so the batter cooks quickly and forms a crisp crust that naturally releases from the plates.

Final Thoughts

There’s something utterly comforting about waking up to a stack of warm, freshly made Pumpkin Waffles that smell like fall and taste like a hug on a plate. Once you try this recipe, it’s sure to become your go-to for breakfast, brunch, or even a sweet snack. Trust me, Pumpkin Waffles are a simple yet magical way to bring a little seasonal joy into every bite. Give them a go—you won’t regret it!

Print