As the crisp autumn air settles in and the leaves turn golden, there’s nothing quite like the warmth of a cozy, flavorful breakfast to start your day. Fall is the season of pumpkin, and what better way to celebrate it than with Pumpkin Pecan Waffles? These delicious waffles blend the earthy sweetness of pumpkin puree with the rich crunch of toasted pecans, offering a breakfast experience that is both hearty and indulgent. Topped with maple syrup, whipped cream, or even caramel drizzle, these waffles are the perfect weekend treat for family brunch or a special weekday morning indulgence. Whether you’re a pumpkin spice enthusiast or just looking for a comforting fall recipe, these waffles are sure to hit the spot.
In this article, we’ll walk through everything you need to know about making the perfect Pumpkin Pecan Waffles. From key ingredients and step-by-step instructions to tips for gluten-free and dairy-free variations, this recipe will quickly become a seasonal favorite.
Recipe Card
| Recipe Name | Pumpkin Pecan Waffles |
|---|---|
| Description | Warm, spiced waffles with pumpkin puree and crunchy pecans – perfect for fall mornings! |
| Prep Time | 15 minutes |
| Cook Time | 10 minutes |
| Total Time | 25 minutes |
| Servings | 4 |
| Calories | 350 per serving |
Table of Contents
Ingredients
- 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup pumpkin puree
- 2 teaspoons baking powder
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
- ½ teaspoon nutmeg
- ¼ teaspoon ground cloves
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 1 cup milk (or non-dairy alternative)
- 2 large eggs
- ¼ cup melted butter (For dairy-free, use coconut oil)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- ½ cup chopped pecans
- Maple syrup or whipped cream for serving
Instructions
- Preheat your waffle iron according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
- Mix dry ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, cinnamon, nutmeg, ground cloves, and brown sugar.
- Whisk wet ingredients: Beat the eggs, milk, melted butter, pumpkin puree, and vanilla extract in a different bowl until smooth.
- Combine: Slowly add the wet ingredients into the dry mixture, stirring just until combined. Fold in the chopped pecans.
- Cook the waffles: Lightly grease your waffle iron with cooking spray or butter. Pour the batter into the waffle iron and cook until golden brown and crisp (about 4-5 minutes).
- Serve: Top your pumpkin pecan waffles with maple syrup, whipped cream, or a drizzle of caramel for an extra indulgent touch!
Notes
- For extra crunch, toast the pecans before adding them to the batter.
- If you like sweeter waffles, feel free to increase the brown sugar to 3 tablespoons.
Nutrition Information
| Serving Size | 1 waffle |
|---|---|
| Calories | 350 |
| Sugar | 10g |
| Sodium | 300mg |
| Fat | 15g |
| Saturated Fat | 6g |
| Unsaturated Fat | 9g |
| Trans Fat | 0g |
| Carbohydrates | 45g |
| Fiber | 5g |
| Protein | 8g |
| Cholesterol | 90mg |
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Warm Fall Flavors: The combination of pumpkin, cinnamon, and nutmeg brings out the best of autumn in every bite.
- Simple to Make: With just a few basic ingredients and minimal prep time, these waffles are easy enough to whip up on a weekday.
- Versatile: Whether you prefer a sweet or savory topping, these waffles go well with a variety of accompaniments.
- Perfect for Sharing: This recipe makes enough to feed a crowd, making it perfect for weekend brunches with family and friends.
- Customizable: From dairy-free to gluten-free options, this recipe can easily be adapted to fit your dietary needs.
Key Ingredients and Substitutions
- Pumpkin Puree: The star of the show! The best results come from using canned pumpkin puree, not pumpkin pie filling. You can also use homemade pumpkin puree if you prefer.
- Pecans: These add a delightful crunch and nutty flavor to the waffles. Almonds or walnuts are excellent alternatives if pecans are not your thing.
- Spices: Cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves give the waffles their signature fall flavor. Feel free to adjust the spice levels to your taste or add ginger for a little extra warmth.
- Butter: For a rich, buttery taste, use melted butter in the batter. To make the recipe dairy-free, substitute with coconut oil or a non-dairy butter.
- Milk: Any type of milk works here—whether it’s whole milk, almond milk, or oat milk.
How to Make Pumpkin Pecan Waffles (Step-by-Step)
- Preheat the Waffle Iron: Start by warming up your waffle iron. It’s essential that the waffle iron is hot enough to give you those crispy edges and fluffy centers.
- Mix the Dry Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine flour, baking powder, and spices. This ensures that all the flavors are evenly distributed throughout the batter.
- Prepare the Wet Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the pumpkin puree, eggs, milk, melted butter, and vanilla. The pumpkin puree will add moisture and a subtle sweetness to the waffles.
- Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures: Slowly add the wet mixture to the dry ingredients, stirring until just combined. Overmixing can result in tough waffles, so it’s important to stop as soon as the batter is smooth.
- Fold in Pecans: Gently fold the chopped pecans into the batter, ensuring that they are evenly distributed.
- Cook the Waffles: Pour the batter into the waffle iron and cook according to the manufacturer’s instructions. Each waffle should be golden brown and slightly crispy on the outside.
- Serve: Once cooked, serve the waffles warm with your favorite toppings like maple syrup, whipped cream, or even a sprinkle of powdered sugar.
Expert Tips for Success
- Don’t Overmix: Overmixing the batter can lead to dense, tough waffles. Stir just until the ingredients are combined.
- Preheat the Waffle Iron: Ensuring your waffle iron is preheated properly will give you crispy waffles with fluffy centers.
- Toast the Pecans: Toasting the pecans beforehand enhances their nutty flavor and adds extra crunch to the waffles.
- Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Make sure to let the eggs and milk sit out until they reach room temperature before combining them. This helps the batter blend more evenly and gives you lighter waffles.
Variations and Customizations
- Gluten-Free: To make these waffles gluten-free, simply swap out the all-purpose flour for a gluten-free flour blend. Make sure your baking powder is also gluten-free.
- Dairy-Free: Substitute the milk and butter with non-dairy alternatives like almond milk and coconut oil.
- Add Chocolate Chips: For a sweeter twist, fold in some dark chocolate chips along with the pecans.
- Spice it Up: If you’re a fan of spicy flavors, try adding a pinch of ginger or allspice to the batter for an extra kick.
Storage and Reheating Instructions
Storing: Store any leftover waffles in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheating: To reheat, simply pop the waffles in the toaster for a few minutes. This will help bring back their crispy texture.
Freezing: These waffles freeze beautifully. Store them in a freezer-safe bag and freeze for up to two months. To reheat, toast them straight from the freezer or warm them in the oven.
Serving Suggestions
- Maple Syrup and Whipped Cream: A classic combination that never fails.
- Caramel Drizzle: For a decadent twist, try drizzling caramel sauce over your waffles.
- Fresh Berries: Add a pop of color and flavor with a handful of fresh berries like blueberries or raspberries.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
- What type of pumpkin puree should I use for Pumpkin Pecan Waffles?
Always use pure pumpkin puree, not pumpkin pie filling, as it contains additional sweeteners and spices. - Can I substitute pecans with other nuts or ingredients?
Yes, walnuts or almonds are great alternatives, or you can leave out the nuts entirely. - How can I make these waffles gluten-free or dairy-free?
Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend and use almond milk or coconut oil for a dairy-free option. - What toppings pair best with Pumpkin Pecan Waffles?
Maple syrup, whipped cream, caramel drizzle, or fresh fruit are all excellent choices. - How can I store leftoverwaffles, and how long will they stay fresh?
Leftover waffles can be stored in the fridge for 3 days or frozen for up to 2 months in an airtight container. - Can I make Pumpkin Pecan Waffles in advance and reheat them?
Yes, these waffles freeze and reheat well, making them a great make-ahead option for busy mornings.
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Conclusion
Pumpkin Pecan Waffles are the ultimate way to bring cozy fall flavors to your breakfast table. Packed with warm spices, sweet pumpkin, and the satisfying crunch of pecans, these waffles create a seasonal experience in every bite. The blend of cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger enhances the pumpkin’s natural sweetness, while the pecans add a delightful texture that complements the fluffy interior of the waffles. It’s a breakfast treat that captures the essence of autumn, making these Pumpkin Pecan Waffles perfect for chilly mornings, weekend brunches, or even a special holiday breakfast.
What makes Pumpkin Pecan Waffles so irresistible is their versatility and ease. Whether you’re making them for a family gathering, a cozy morning with loved ones, or meal-prepping for the week ahead, these waffles are incredibly adaptable. Whip up a big batch and freeze extras for busy mornings—you’ll have a delicious, homemade breakfast ready to go whenever you need it. Simply reheat in the toaster or oven, and they’re as good as fresh off the griddle! You can even customize them with toppings like whipped cream, maple syrup, or a sprinkle of powdered sugar to add a little extra sweetness.
Pumpkin Pecan Waffles aren’t just delicious; they’re also packed with nutrients. Pumpkin is high in vitamins A and C, as well as fiber, making it a nourishing ingredient to start your day. The pecans add healthy fats and protein, giving these waffles a bit of staying power to keep you full and energized. If you’re looking for ways to adapt the recipe, consider using whole-grain flour for added fiber or experimenting with dairy-free milk options to suit different dietary needs.
These waffles offer all the comfort of a classic breakfast with the added richness of fall flavors. They’re the kind of dish that brings people together around the table, creating memories with each delicious bite. So, whether you’re celebrating a crisp autumn morning or simply craving a cozy breakfast, Pumpkin Pecan Waffles are an excellent choice. Gather your ingredients, fire up the waffle iron, and enjoy the seasonal goodness of pumpkin and pecans in every warm, flavorful bite. Try them today, and experience just how comforting and delicious fall breakfasts can be!
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