PUMPKIN PIE SPICED WAFFLES

When autumn arrives, it’s time to break out the pumpkin spice! But there’s no need to limit these iconic fall flavors to just coffee and pies. With the rich taste of pumpkin pie spices like cinnamon, ginger and nutmeg, you can give classic homemade waffles a cozy seasonal twist. Warm, fluffy waffles studded with spices and maple syrup make an easy breakfast treat the whole family will flip for. Keep reading to learn the secrets to making perfect pumpkin pie spiced waffles at home.

Pick the Right Flour

For tender, fluffy waffles with a slight crisp exterior, all-purpose flour is the tried and true choice. Soft wheat flour creates waffles with the ideal texture.

For a whole grain option, use half white and half whole wheat flour. Or experiment with oat flour, almond flour or coconut flour for unique flavors.

Regardless of the type, make sure to whisk the flour thoroughly before mixing to prevent lumps.

Weigh for Best Results

Using a kitchen scale to weigh flour gives you more consistent, reliable results compared to measuring cups.

Leaven it Up

The leavening agent is what makes waffles light, airy and crisp. Baking powder is a classic choice. It reacts with liquid ingredients and heat to produce carbon dioxide bubbles that make waffles rise.

Self-rising flour already contains baking powder, so no need to add more. You can also use yeast for fluffiness, but it requires proofing the batter.

Use around 2 teaspoons of baking powder per 1 1⁄4 cups of flour. Too much can make waffles taste bitter.

Don't Forget the Salt

A pinch of salt is essential to balance flavors and enhance the effects of leavening agents. Sprinkle in 1⁄4 teaspoon per cup of flour.

Mix in Milk and Eggs

When it comes to mixing up waffle batter, stick with the basics: flour, milk, eggs, butter and leavening. Whole or lowfat milk adds moisture, protein and a touch of sweetness.

Eggs help bind the batter together, add structure and provide richness. Two eggs per 1 cup of flour is standard. Crack eggs straight into the dry ingredients for ease.

Whisk thoroughly to break up any flour lumps before adding your spiced pumpkin puree.

Spice it Up with Pumpkin

Here’s where things get seasonal! Adding pumpkin puree gives waffles an autumnal hue and amazing flavor. Look for canned 100% pure pumpkin, not pumpkin pie filling.

Start with around 1⁄2 cup pumpkin puree per batch of waffles. Then spice it up with classics like cinnamon, ginger, nutmeg and allspice.

You can add the spices directly, or use a pumpkin pie spice blend for convenience. Just make sure to whisk thoroughly so flavors distribute evenly.

Swap in Sweet Potato

For variation, try using mashed sweet potato in place of pumpkin puree. The sweet flavor pairs perfectly with fall spices.

Sweeten Naturally

While waffles are traditionally fairly sweet, we can reduce added sugar by sweetening with pure maple syrup after cooking. But you can also add a touch of sweetness right to the batter.

Honey, maple syrup, or vanilla extract are all great options. For sugar-free, use stevia, monk fruit or erythritol. Just a tablespoon or two will do!

Skip the Chocolate Chips

As tempting as it is to mix in chocolate chips, they’ll weigh down the batter. Top cooked waffles with chocolate sauce instead.

Make Them Thick

Heavier, thicker waffle batter will produce delicious waffles with crispy edges and fluffy, custardy centers. Don’t thin out the batter too much.

Spoon batter onto the hot waffle iron and smooth into an even layer. Close and cook 3-5 minutes until steaming stops and waffles release easily.

Topping Ideas

A drizzle of maple syrup is classic, but getting creative with toppings takes pumpkin pie spiced waffles to the next level. Have fun with mix-ins like:

• Pecans or walnuts
• Whipped cream
• Vanilla yogurt
• Sliced fruit
• Pumpkin butter
• Chocolate sauce

Make it a fall flavor explosion by topping waffles with pecans, pumpkin butter, and a dollop of whipped cream. Yum!

Conclusion

Pumpkin pie spiced waffles are the perfect way to indulge seasonal flavors for breakfast. With juicy pumpkin puree, classic pie spices, and hints of sweetness, you’ll fall in love with this fall-flavored twist on a breakfast favorite. Cook up a batch on a lazy weekend morning and customize with your favorite toppings. Enjoy waffles worth flipping for all autumn long!

FAQs

1. What kind of pumpkin works best?

Look for canned 100% pure pumpkin puree, not the sugary pie filling. Pie pumpkin has the best flavor.

2. Can I make them gluten-free?

Yes, use GF flour like almond, coconut or oat flour instead of regular wheat flour.

3. How long does batter keep?

Store covered waffle batter in the fridge up to 3 days. Stir well before using.

4. What’s the best way to reheat?

Place cooled waffles in the toaster or re-crisp them in a hot pan with butter.

5. Can I meal prep waffles?

Yes, let cool completely then freeze in an airtight container up to 3 months. Toast straight from frozen.