If you’re craving a delightful brunch treat that feels like autumn on a plate, this Simple Pumpkin Waffles Recipe is exactly what you need. These waffles are perfectly fluffy with just the right hint of warm spices and rich pumpkin flavor, making them a cozy breakfast or snack that’s incredibly easy to whip up. The best part? With minimal ingredients and straightforward steps, these waffles come together quickly yet impressively, turning any ordinary morning into something memorable and delicious.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Every ingredient in this Simple Pumpkin Waffles Recipe plays a vital role, combining to create that classic fall flavor, irresistible texture, and beautiful golden color. The list is surprisingly simple, but don’t let that fool you—each component adds its own magic to the final dish.
- 2 cups all purpose flour: The base that gives your waffles their structure and light fluffiness.
- 1/4 cup brown sugar: Adds a subtle caramel sweetness and moisture.
- 1 teaspoon baking powder: Helps the waffles rise and become airy.
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda: Works alongside the baking powder for perfect lift.
- 1/4 teaspoon salt: Enhances all the flavors and balances the sweetness.
- 1-2 teaspoons pumpkin spice: Brings that warm, comforting blend of cinnamon, ginger, allspice, and nutmeg. (If you don’t have pumpkin spice, just mix these spices yourself!)
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon: Doubles down on the spice for a cozy aroma and taste.
- 3 large eggs: Provides richness and helps bind the batter.
- 1 1/3 cup milk: Keeps the batter smooth and tender.
- 1/4 cup maple syrup: Sweetens naturally and adds depth of flavor.
- 3 tablespoons oil or melted butter: Ensures the waffles stay moist and crisp on the outside.
- 1 cup canned pumpkin: The star ingredient delivering vibrant color and that unmistakable pumpkin taste.
How to Make Simple Pumpkin Waffles Recipe
Step 1: Combine the Dry Ingredients
Start by mixing all your dry ingredients — flour, brown sugar, baking powder, baking soda, salt, pumpkin spice, and cinnamon — in a large bowl. This creates a perfectly seasoned base that ensures the spices and leavening agents are evenly distributed throughout your waffles.
Step 2: Whisk Together the Wet Ingredients
Next, grab a measuring jug and whisk together the eggs, milk, maple syrup, oil or melted butter, and canned pumpkin until completely smooth. This rich, flavorful mixture is what will transform your dry ingredients into that luscious batter full of autumn goodness.
Step 3: Mix Wet and Dry Ingredients
Pour the wet ingredients into the bowl with the dry ingredients, then gently mix just until combined. A few lumps here and there are okay—they actually help keep your waffles tender rather than overworked and tough. The batter will be thick and inviting, ready to hit the waffle iron.
Step 4: Cook Your Waffles
Heat your waffle iron according to the manufacturer’s instructions. Spoon the batter in and cook on medium heat a bit longer than your usual waffle recipe to ensure a cooked-through interior and delightfully crisp edges. The aroma of spices and pumpkin filling your kitchen will be the best part of this step.
How to Serve Simple Pumpkin Waffles Recipe
Garnishes
These pumpkin waffles are fantastic topped with butter and a drizzle of warm maple syrup, but consider adding a dollop of whipped cream, a sprinkle of chopped pecans, or even a dusting of powdered sugar for an extra special touch. Fresh berries or sliced bananas also add a juicy burst of freshness that pairs beautifully with the spiced pumpkin flavors.
Side Dishes
If you want to make your pancake breakfast into a feast, serve these waffles alongside crispy bacon or sausage for a salty contrast. A side of scrambled eggs or a fresh green salad can also balance the sweetness perfectly, turning your Simple Pumpkin Waffles Recipe into a well-rounded meal.
Creative Ways to Present
Feeling fancy? Stack your waffles high and sandwich a spoonful of cream cheese frosting or mascarpone in between layers. For a playful twist, use cookie cutters to shape waffles into festive fall-themed figures. You can even turn leftovers into waffle sandwiches, filling them with nut butter and fruit preserves for a delicious snack anytime.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Let any leftover waffles cool completely then store them in an airtight container or resealable bag in the refrigerator. They’ll stay fresh for about 3 to 4 days, which means you can enjoy that pumpkin goodness even after your busy morning.
Freezing
For longer storage, freeze leftover waffles in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer bag once frozen. This way, you can grab just as many waffles as you want to enjoy later without worrying about them sticking together. Frozen waffles are perfect for quick breakfasts!
Reheating
To reheat, pop your waffles in a toaster or toaster oven for a few minutes until warm and crispy again. This will revive that fresh-from-the-iron texture and keep the edges delightfully crunchy while the inside stays tender and flavorful.
FAQs
Can I use fresh pumpkin instead of canned?
Absolutely, but fresh pumpkin needs to be cooked, pureed, and strained very well to match the texture of canned pumpkin. Using fresh pumpkin can add a wonderful freshness, though canned pumpkin is more convenient and consistent for this recipe.
Do I have to use pumpkin spice or can I use other spices?
You can customize the spice blend according to your preference! Classic cinnamon, ginger, allspice, and nutmeg together mimic pumpkin spice perfectly. Feel free to adjust the amounts or add cloves for a bit more warmth.
Will these waffles be crispy or soft?
Great question! This Simple Pumpkin Waffles Recipe aims for a balance: crisp on the outside with a soft, fluffy inside. Cooking a bit longer than usual on medium heat helps achieve that perfect texture.
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, you can substitute the all-purpose flour for a gluten-free flour blend that’s suited for baking. Make sure it contains xanthan gum or add a binding agent to keep waffles tender and delicious.
How do I adjust this recipe for fewer waffles?
Simply halve or quarter the ingredients to make a smaller batch. This recipe is very forgiving and scales down well, so you won’t waste anything and can still enjoy fresh pumpkin waffles anytime.
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly special about making a Simple Pumpkin Waffles Recipe that’s quick, easy, and so delicious it feels like a mini celebration every time. Whether you’re treating yourself on a cozy weekend morning or want to impress guests with a seasonal classic, these waffles bring warmth, joy, and that irresistible pumpkin flavor to your table. I hope you give this recipe a try and enjoy every bite as much as I do!
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 delicious and easy breakfast treat, perfect for autumn or any time you crave the cozy flavors of pumpkin and warm spices. Made with canned pumpkin and a blend of pumpkin spice, cinnamon, and maple syrup, these waffles are fluffy, tender, and slightly crisp on the outside. Ideal for a comforting morning meal or a festive brunch, this recipe yields 12 waffles with minimal prep time and straightforward instructions.
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 (or substitute ground cinnamon, ginger, allspice, and nutmeg)
- 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 (approx. half a standard 15 oz 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 separate measuring jug or bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, maple syrup, melted butter (or oil), and canned pumpkin until the mixture is smooth and homogeneous.
- Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures: Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and gently mix until just combined; some lumps in the batter are fine and help keep the waffles tender.
- Cook the Waffles: Preheat your waffle iron according to the manufacturer’s instructions. Cook the waffles on medium heat for slightly longer than usual to ensure they are cooked through in the center and crisp on the outside. Serve warm with your favorite toppings.
Notes
- You can substitute pumpkin spice with a mix of ground cinnamon, ginger, allspice, and nutmeg if pumpkin spice is unavailable.
- For richer flavor, use melted butter instead of oil.
- The batter will have lumps; avoid overmixing to keep the waffles light and fluffy.
- Cooking time might vary depending on your waffle iron model; adjust heat and duration accordingly.
- Use canned pumpkin purée, not pumpkin pie filling, to control sweetness and spices.
