If you’re craving a cozy breakfast or brunch that feels like a warm hug in every bite, this Spiced Pumpkin Waffles Recipe will become your new best friend. Combining the earthy richness of pumpkin purée with a delightful blend of cinnamon, ginger, nutmeg, and cloves, these waffles bring the essence of fall to your plate all year round. Light, fluffy, and perfectly crisp, they’re easy to whip up and sure to bring smiles around the table. Whether you’re an experienced cook or a weekend kitchen adventurer, this recipe is a wonderful way to celebrate the comforting flavors and inviting aroma of spiced pumpkin waffles.

Spiced Pumpkin Waffles Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

This Spiced Pumpkin Waffles Recipe keeps things simple but packs a punch with every carefully chosen ingredient. Each element plays a vital role—from the fluffy flour base to the warm spices that give the waffles their iconic flavor and inviting color.

1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour: The foundation that ensures the waffles are light and tender.
2 tablespoons light brown sugar, packed: Adds just a hint of sweetness and moisture to balance the spice.
2 teaspoons baking powder: Gives the waffles a fluffy, airy texture that melts in your mouth.
1/2 teaspoon baking soda: Works with the buttermilk to provide lift and a tender crumb.
1/4 teaspoon salt: Enhances all the flavors and keeps the taste well-rounded.
1 1/4 teaspoons ground cinnamon: The star of the spice mix, giving a warm, familiar scent.
1/2 teaspoon ground ginger: Adds a gentle zing that complements the pumpkin perfectly.
1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg: Brings a slightly sweet, nutty depth to the spice blend.
1/8 teaspoon ground cloves: A little goes a long way to add a cozy, aromatic touch.
2 large eggs: Bind ingredients together and add richness and fluffiness.
1/2 cup canned pumpkin purée (not pumpkin pie filling): The heart of the recipe, giving moisture, vibrant color, and that unmistakable pumpkin flavor.
1 1/4 cups buttermilk: Reacts with baking soda for lightness and adds a delightful tang.
3 tablespoons melted butter: Adds richness and ensures the waffles crisp beautifully on the outside.
1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract: Provides a sweet, fragrant backdrop to all the spices.
Nonstick cooking spray or additional butter, for greasing waffle iron: Crucial to keep waffles from sticking and help them release easily.

How to Make Spiced Pumpkin Waffles Recipe

Step 1: Preheat the Waffle Iron

First things first, preheat your waffle iron according to the manufacturer’s instructions. This ensures that the waffles will start cooking immediately for a perfectly crisp outside and tender inside.

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 step combines all your dry ingredients and evenly distributes those festive spices throughout the batter.

Step 3: Combine Wet Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk the eggs until light, then add the pumpkin purée, buttermilk, melted butter, and vanilla extract. Stir until smooth so your batter has a silky consistency with no lumps in sight.

Step 4: Bring Wet and Dry Together

Pour the wet mixture into the bowl with your dry ingredients and gently stir just until combined. Remember, a few tiny lumps are perfectly fine and will help keep your waffles tender rather than dense.

Step 5: Grease the Waffle Iron

Lightly spray the waffle iron with nonstick cooking spray or brush it with butter to prevent sticking and help create that golden crust we all love.

Step 6: Cook Your Waffles

Pour the right amount of batter (usually about 1/2 to 3/4 cup, depending on your waffle iron) onto the center, then gently spread it out. Close the lid and cook for 3 to 5 minutes, or until the waffles look golden brown and have crisp edges.

Step 7: Repeat and Serve Warm

Carefully remove the waffles, set them aside on a wire rack or warm plate to keep crispy, and repeat with the remaining batter. Serve these irresistible spiced pumpkin waffles fresh and warm for the best experience.

How to Serve Spiced Pumpkin Waffles Recipe

Garnishes

The charm of this Spiced Pumpkin Waffles Recipe comes alive with the right toppings. A drizzle of rich maple syrup enhances the spices, while a dollop of freshly whipped cream adds lightness and indulgence. For crunch and texture, sprinkle chopped toasted pecans or walnuts on top. If you love a bit of freshness, a scattering of pomegranate seeds or sliced apples lends a beautiful pop of color and flavor contrast.

Side Dishes

Balance the sweet and spicy nature of these waffles with savory pairings like crispy bacon or sausage links. A fresh fruit salad brightens the plate, and a simple green salad with a citrus vinaigrette can round out brunch for a wholesome meal. Even a side of creamy yogurt with honey and granola complements the flavors wonderfully.

Creative Ways to Present

Turn your Spiced Pumpkin Waffles Recipe into a festive centerpiece by stacking waffles and layering between each with cinnamon-spiced mascarpone or cream cheese frosting. Dust with powdered sugar or drizzle with caramel sauce for a dessert-worthy treat. For gatherings, consider making mini waffles and serving them with a variety of fun toppings, letting everyone personalize their plate.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you find yourself with leftover waffles (which is just the best kind of problem), allow them to cool completely on a wire rack. Then, place them in an airtight container or zip-top bag and store them in the refrigerator for up to 3 days without losing much of their fresh flavor and texture.

Freezing

This Spiced Pumpkin Waffles Recipe is perfect for freezing. Lay cooled waffles in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until firm, about an hour. Then stack them with parchment paper between each waffle and store in an airtight container or freezer bag. They can stay delicious in your freezer for up to 2 months, making busy mornings easy and delicious anytime.

Reheating

To reheat, pop frozen waffles directly into a toaster or toaster oven to restore that freshly-cooked crispiness. If you prefer the microwave, do so on medium power for 20–30 seconds, though you may lose a bit of crunch. Either way, your waffles will taste almost as good as fresh from the waffle iron.

FAQs

Can I use fresh pumpkin instead of canned purée?

Absolutely! If using fresh pumpkin, you’ll need to cook and puree it until smooth before measuring out 1/2 cup to match the texture and moisture content of canned pumpkin purée. This keeps the batter balanced and the waffles tender.

What if I don’t have buttermilk on hand?

No problem! You can make a quick buttermilk substitute by adding 1 tablespoon of lemon juice or white vinegar to 1 1/4 cups of milk. Let it sit for 5 minutes before using. This acidity reacts with the baking soda to give your waffles their light texture.

Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Yes! Swap the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend that’s designed for baking. Make sure it contains xanthan gum or another binder to maintain the waffles’ structure. The spices and pumpkin flavors will shine just as beautifully.

How do I know when the waffles are done?

The waffle iron’s indicator light is a great guide, but also look for a deep golden color and crisp edges. The waffles should easily lift from the iron without tearing. Cooking times may vary slightly depending on your waffle maker’s model.

Can I add mix-ins like chocolate chips or nuts?

Definitely! Fold in mini chocolate chips, chopped nuts, or even dried cranberries after mixing the wet and dry ingredients for an extra layer of texture and flavor. Just don’t add too much or the batter might not cook evenly.

Final Thoughts

There’s something truly magical about the aroma and taste of this Spiced Pumpkin Waffles Recipe filling your kitchen and warming your soul. It’s a perfect way to celebrate the flavors of the season or to brighten any morning with a friendly, comforting hug on a plate. I can’t wait for you to give this recipe a try and see how effortlessly it becomes a beloved part of your breakfast repertoire. Happy cooking and even happier eating!

Spiced Pumpkin Waffles Recipe

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3.8 from 50 reviews

Author: admin
Total Time: 30 minutes
Yield: 5 servings 1x

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Description

These Spiced Pumpkin Waffles are a perfect fall breakfast treat, combining warm spices with the rich flavor of pumpkin purée. Fluffy on the inside and crisp on the outside, they make a deliciously comforting morning meal.

Ingredients

Scale

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

Other

Nonstick cooking spray or additional butter, for greasing waffle iron

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Instructions

Preheat the waffle iron: Begin by preheating your waffle iron according to the manufacturer’s instructions to ensure it is hot and ready for cooking.
Combine 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 mixed.
Mix wet ingredients: In a separate bowl, beat the eggs and then stir in the pumpkin purée, buttermilk, melted butter, and vanilla extract until the mixture is smooth and uniform.
Combine wet and dry: Pour the wet ingredients into the bowl with the dry ingredients and gently stir until just combined. It’s important not to overmix; some lumps are perfectly fine to keep the waffles tender.
Grease the waffle iron: Lightly spray the waffle iron with nonstick cooking spray or brush with butter to prevent sticking.
Cook the waffles: Pour the appropriate amount of batter onto the center of the waffle iron and spread it slightly. Cook for 3 to 5 minutes, or until the waffles are golden brown and crisp.
Repeat cooking: Remove the cooked waffle carefully and repeat the process with the remaining batter, greasing the waffle iron as needed.
Serve warm: Serve the waffles immediately while warm, topped with maple syrup, whipped cream, or chopped nuts for added flavor and texture.

Notes

Do not overmix the batter; visible lumps help keep the waffles light and fluffy.
Use canned pumpkin purée, not pumpkin pie filling, for the best texture and flavor balance.
Adjust the spices according to your taste preference; more cinnamon or ginger can add warmth.
Waffles can be kept warm in an oven set to low heat if preparing in batches.
Leftover waffles freeze well; reheat them in a toaster or oven for best results.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Category: Breakfast
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American