If you’re craving a cozy, delightful breakfast that feels like a warm hug in waffle form, then you absolutely must try this Simple Pumpkin Waffles Recipe. It’s packed with all the autumnal flavors you adore — from cinnamon and pumpkin spice to the rich sweetness of maple syrup. These waffles come out perfectly crisp on the outside yet tender and fluffy inside, making them an instant favorite for chilly mornings or whenever you want to bring a bit of seasonal magic to your table.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This Simple Pumpkin Waffles Recipe relies on pantry staples that come together effortlessly to create that perfect balance of flavor, texture, and aroma. Each ingredient has a special role to play, whether it’s adding moisture, fluffiness, spice, or that irresistible golden color.
- 2 cups all purpose flour: The base that gives your waffles structure and lightness.
- 1/4 cup brown sugar: Adds subtle sweetness and a hint of molasses flavor.
- 1 teaspoon baking powder: Helps your waffles rise nice and fluffy.
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda: Works with the pumpkin’s acidity to create extra lift.
- 1/4 teaspoon salt: Enhances all the flavors and balances sweetness.
- 1-2 teaspoons pumpkin spice: Bursting with cinnamon, ginger, allspice, and nutmeg for authentic autumn vibes.
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon: Adds warmth and depth to the flavor profile.
- 3 large eggs: Provide richness and help bind everything together.
- 1 1/3 cup milk: Keeps your batter smooth and adds needed moisture.
- 1/4 cup maple syrup: Natural sweetness with a hint of earthiness that pairs beautifully with pumpkin.
- 3 tablespoons oil (or melted butter): Keeps the waffles tender and crisp on the edges.
- 1 cup canned pumpkin: The star ingredient that adds color, moisture, and that unmistakable fall flavor.
How to Make Simple Pumpkin Waffles Recipe
Step 1: Mix Your Dry Ingredients
Start by stirring together the flour, brown sugar, baking powder, baking soda, salt, pumpkin spice, and cinnamon in a large bowl. Combining these first ensures that every bite of your waffles has that perfect blend of spices and leavening to make them rise beautifully.
Step 2: Whisk the Wet Ingredients
In a measuring jug or separate bowl, whisk the eggs, milk, maple syrup, oil or melted butter, and canned pumpkin until smooth and fully combined. This mixture introduces moisture and richness, which will make your waffles wonderfully tender and flavorful.
Step 3: Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures
Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and stir gently until just combined. It’s okay if the batter has a few lumps — overmixing can make waffles tough. This step is key to achieving the ideal light, fluffy texture with pockets of pumpkin-y goodness.
Step 4: Cook to Perfection
Heat your waffle iron and bake the waffles according to the manufacturer’s directions. For this Simple Pumpkin Waffles Recipe, I recommend setting the iron to medium heat and cooking the waffles a bit longer than usual so they cook through fully inside and develop a crisp, golden crust outside. This little tweak makes all the difference!
How to Serve Simple Pumpkin Waffles Recipe
Garnishes
Treat yourself with warm maple syrup drizzled over the waffles and a dusting of powdered sugar. For an extra special touch, add a dollop of whipped cream or a sprinkle of chopped pecans or toasted walnuts for crunch. Fresh berries or sliced bananas can also bring bright contrast to the spice-laden waffles.
Side Dishes
These pumpkin waffles pair wonderfully with savory sides like crispy bacon or breakfast sausage to balance the sweetness. For a vegetarian option, serve alongside scrambled eggs or sautéed mushrooms. And don’t overlook a glass of freshly brewed coffee or warm spiced cider to complete your autumn-inspired breakfast feast.
Creative Ways to Present
For a festive brunch, stack your waffles high like a pumpkin-flavored tower and sprinkle cinnamon sugar between each layer. Or make waffle sandwiches by adding cream cheese and cinnamon apple compote between two waffles. You can even use cookie cutters to shape waffles into fall leaves for a charming presentation kids will love.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you happen to have leftover waffles (though that’s rare!), store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Lining the container with paper towels can help absorb moisture and keep the waffles from becoming soggy.
Freezing
Simple Pumpkin Waffles Recipe makes great freezer-friendly breakfasts. Once cooled, freeze waffles in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer to a resealable freezer bag. They’ll keep their flavor and texture for up to 3 months and are super convenient to have on hand for busy mornings.
Reheating
To reheat, pop frozen waffles in a toaster or toaster oven until warmed through and crisp again, about 2-3 minutes. Avoid microwaving for the best texture, as it can make waffles soft or rubbery. This way, your waffles will taste just as good as fresh the second time around.
FAQs
Can I use fresh pumpkin instead of canned in this Simple Pumpkin Waffles Recipe?
Yes, you can! Just roast and puree fresh pumpkin first. Make sure it’s fully cooked and drained of excess moisture for the best results. Measuring the same 1 cup of pumpkin puree will keep the texture right.
What can I substitute for pumpkin spice if I don’t have it on hand?
Mix equal parts ground cinnamon, ginger, allspice, and nutmeg to create your own pumpkin spice blend. This perfectly mimics the warm, cozy flavors intended in the recipe.
Is this recipe gluten-free or can it be adapted?
While the recipe calls for all-purpose flour, you can swap in a gluten-free all-purpose blend rated for baking. Just check the blend’s instructions for one-to-one substitution to maintain the right consistency.
Can I make this recipe vegan?
To make the Simple Pumpkin Waffles Recipe vegan, replace the eggs with flax or chia egg substitutes and use plant-based milk and oil or vegan butter. The waffles may be slightly different in texture but will still taste delicious!
How can I make the waffles crispier?
Cooking at a medium heat a bit longer helps crispiness. Also, make sure your waffle iron is well-preheated and don’t overcrowd it. Using melted butter instead of oil can add a lovely golden crisp too.
Final Thoughts
This Simple Pumpkin Waffles Recipe is a total game-changer for anyone looking to bring those cozy fall flavors to the breakfast table in an easy, welcoming way. The balance of spices, pumpkin, and the perfect waffle texture will make this your go-to for weekends or any day you want to feel a little extra special. Trust me, once you try these, they’ll become a beloved favorite you’ll want to share again and again.
Print
Simple Pumpkin Waffles Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 12 waffles
- Category: Breakfast
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
These Simple Pumpkin Waffles are a delightful fall breakfast treat that combine warm spices with creamy pumpkin for a perfectly moist and flavorful waffle. Easy to prepare and bake in a waffle iron, they offer a wholesome, cozy start to any morning.
Ingredients
Dry Ingredients
- 2 cups all purpose flour
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1–2 teaspoons pumpkin spice (use ground cinnamon, ginger, allspice, and nutmeg if you don’t have pumpkin spice)
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
Wet Ingredients
- 3 large eggs
- 1 1/3 cup milk
- 1/4 cup maple syrup
- 3 tablespoons oil (OR melted butter)
- 1 cup canned pumpkin (NOT a whole can)
Instructions
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, stir together the flour, brown sugar, baking powder, baking soda, salt, pumpkin spice, and cinnamon until evenly combined.
- Combine Wet Ingredients: In a measuring jug, whisk the eggs, milk, maple syrup, melted butter or oil, and canned pumpkin together until smooth and well mixed.
- Mix Wet and Dry: Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and gently mix until just combined. It’s okay if the batter has some lumps; over-mixing can make the waffles tough.
- Cook Waffles: Preheat your waffle iron according to the manufacturer’s instructions. Pour batter onto the iron and bake on medium heat slightly longer than regular waffles to ensure they cook through and develop a crisp exterior. Repeat until all batter is used.
Notes
- Adjust the pumpkin spice amount based on your preference for a milder or stronger spice flavor.
- Using melted butter instead of oil gives a richer flavor but oil makes the waffles lighter.
- For a dairy-free option, substitute milk with a plant-based milk and use oil instead of butter.
- Ensure the waffles fully cool on a wire rack to maintain crispness.
- Leftover waffles can be frozen and reheated in a toaster or oven.
