Save Pumpkin Spice Waffles with Pecans are the heart of a cozy weekend breakfast in my kitchen. They come out incredibly fluffy with warm autumn spices and the welcoming sweetness of real pumpkin. Toasted pecans add crunch in every bite and maple syrup finishes it perfectly. When I want to bring everyone to the table for a comforting brunch, this is my go-to recipe for crisp-edged waffles that taste like fall.
The combination of pumpkin and spices feels extra special on chilly mornings. My family always lingers at the table a little longer when I pull these out. One rainy Saturday, we made a double batch and enjoyed leftovers all week I never thought waffles could taste even better reheated.
Ingredients
- All-purpose flour: creates a tender but sturdy waffle. Sift for the fluffiest results and check for freshness by rubbing a pinch between your fingers.
- Brown sugar: adds molasses depth and a caramel touch that pairs beautifully with pumpkin.
- Baking powder and baking soda: provide lift ensuring your waffles rise light and crisp. Make sure both are no more than six months old.
- Salt: balances out the sweetness and spices. Use fine sea salt for the cleanest flavor.
- Ground cinnamon: brings classic warmth while ground ginger adds gentle spice and brightness.
- Nutmeg and ground cloves: lend that signature holiday aroma. Always use freshly ground for more vivid flavor if possible.
- Whole milk: yields a rich batter. Use full fat for the best texture.
- Pumpkin puree: makes these waffles moist and gives them their beautiful golden color. Look for pure pumpkin not pumpkin pie mix.
- Eggs: bind the batter and add richness. Large eggs at room temperature mix in easier.
- Melted unsalted butter: gives flavor and juiciness. The extra is for greasing your waffle iron for those golden edges.
- Vanilla extract: rounds out and ties all the flavors together. Pure vanilla will shine in a simple recipe like this.
- Chopped pecans: toasted for maximum crunch and nutty aroma. Toast right before use for the freshest flavor.
- Maple syrup: to drizzle over the finished waffles. Real maple syrup makes a big difference look for Grade A dark amber.
Instructions
- Preheat the Waffle Iron:
- Plug in your waffle iron and let it get hot as you prepare the batter. A preheated iron is absolutely essential for crisp waffles with those picture-perfect edges.
- Mix the Dry Ingredients:
- In a large mixing bowl combine the flour brown sugar baking powder baking soda salt cinnamon ginger nutmeg and cloves. Whisk thoroughly until everything is evenly distributed and no streaks remain.
- Blend the Wet Ingredients:
- In a separate bowl whisk together the whole milk pumpkin puree eggs melted butter and vanilla extract. Whisk for a full minute until the mixture is smooth and the eggs are fully incorporated.
- Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures:
- Pour the wet ingredients into the bowl of dry ingredients. Use a spatula or large spoon to stir gently just until you no longer see dry pockets of flour. Stop as soon as the batter comes together. Overmixing yields tough waffles.
- Fold in the Toasted Pecans:
- Sprinkle in the toasted chopped pecans and fold them in gently. Make sure every spoonful of batter has a few crunchy bits. If you love lots of pecans go ahead and add a little extra here.
- Grease and Fill the Waffle Iron:
- Lightly brush the hot waffle iron with melted butter. Using about half a cup of batter for each waffle spoon it into the center and spread it out gently to the edges.
- Cook Until Golden and Crisp:
- Close the lid and cook according to your waffle iron instructions usually three to five minutes. Waffles are done when the outside is deeply golden the edges are crisp and they release easily from the iron.
- Serve and Enjoy:
- Pile the warm waffles onto plates and top with extra toasted pecans and a generous drizzle of maple syrup. Enjoy immediately while the waffles are at their crispiest.
Save My favorite part has always been the pecans. I remember my grandmother roasting big trays of them each fall for baking it makes the kitchen smell like the holidays instantly. It is that finishing crunch and warmth that makes these waffles feel so nostalgic in my house.
Storage Tips
Leftover waffles keep well in the fridge for up to three days. Just stack them with parchment sheets between layers and store in an airtight container. Reheat in your toaster or oven at 350 degrees for a few minutes instead of the microwave to bring back that crispy exterior without drying them out.
Ingredient Substitutions
For whole-grain flavor swap out up to half of the all-purpose flour for whole wheat flour. If avoiding dairy use your favorite unsweetened plant milk and melted coconut oil instead of butter. No pecans handy Try walnuts or leave out nuts entirely for a plain spiced waffle.
Serving Suggestions
These are wonderful with just maple syrup but try topping with whipped cream Greek yogurt or even a spoonful of spiced apple compote. A light dusting of powdered sugar makes them extra festive for brunch guests.
Cultural and Seasonal Context
Pumpkin spice blends are a beloved American autumn tradition. Waffles themselves have roots in European breakfast tables but in the US pumpkin spice waffles are the celebration of fall produce and homey comfort food. Serving these on Thanksgiving morning is one of my most requested traditions.
Save Let these pumpkin spice waffles fill your kitchen with autumn warmth and nostalgia. You will return to this recipe every time you crave comfort on a cool morning.
Recipe Guide
- → How do I achieve fluffy waffles?
Use fresh baking powder and gently mix the batter until just combined—avoid overmixing for light texture.
- → Can I use canned pumpkin puree?
Yes, canned pumpkin puree works well and provides the signature flavor and moisture needed for tender waffles.
- → Is it possible to make these dairy-free?
Absolutely. Substitute plant-based milk and melted coconut oil in place of dairy ingredients for a dairy-free version.
- → What toppings pair well with these waffles?
Delicious options include maple syrup, extra toasted pecans, whipped cream, Greek yogurt, or powdered sugar.
- → Can I prepare the batter ahead of time?
Mix dry and wet ingredients separately and combine just before cooking for best results and fresher flavor.
- → What tools are needed to prepare these waffles?
You'll need a waffle iron, mixing bowls, whisk, measuring tools, and a spatula for easy preparation.