Gingerbread Waffles

If you’re looking for a cozy breakfast that brings the warmth of the holiday season right to your table, you’ve come to the right place! These Gingerbread Waffles are not just any waffles; they’re infused with the delightful flavors of ginger, cinnamon, and molasses. Perfect for family gatherings or a special weekend treat, this recipe will make your mornings extra cheerful. Plus, they’re so easy to whip up that even busy weekdays will feel festive!

There’s something about the aroma of spices wafting through the kitchen while these waffles cook that instantly lifts your spirits. Whether you enjoy them topped with syrup or a dollop of whipped cream, these Gingerbread Waffles are bound to become a favorite in your home!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: With just a few simple steps, you can have these delicious waffles ready in no time.
• Family-Friendly: Kids love them! The warm spices and sweet flavor make them a breakfast hit for everyone.
• Perfect for Meal Prep: Make a big batch and freeze leftovers for quick breakfasts throughout the week.
• Customizable Toppings: Enjoy them with syrup, fruit, or your favorite toppings for endless variety.
• Holiday Cheer: The warm spices will instantly put you in a festive mood!

Ingredients You’ll Need

These Gingerbread Waffles use simple and wholesome ingredients that you probably already have in your pantry. Let’s gather everything we need to create this delightful breakfast!

Dry Ingredients

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• ¼ cup granulated sugar
• ¼ cup brown sugar
• 1 tsp. baking soda
• 1 ½ tsp. baking powder
• ½ tsp. salt
• 2 tsp. ground ginger
• 1 tsp. ground cinnamon
• ⅛ tsp. ground cloves

Wet Ingredients

• ½ cup unsalted butter (melted)
• 1 cup whole milk (at room temperature)
• 2 large eggs (at room temperature)
• ¼ cup molasses
• 1 tsp. freshly grated ginger
• 1 tsp. vanilla extract

Variations

This recipe is wonderfully flexible! Feel free to get creative with your Gingerbread Waffles by trying out these fun variations:

• Add some chocolate: Fold in chocolate chips for an extra sweet twist.
• Make it gluten-free: Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend for a gluten-free version.
• Spice it up: Add more spices like nutmeg or cardamom for an even warmer flavor profile.
• Fruit infusion: Toss in some chopped apples or pears to add a fruity element.

How to Make Gingerbread Waffles

Step 1: Mix the Dry Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, granulated sugar, brown sugar, baking soda, baking powder, salt, ground ginger, cinnamon, and cloves. This step is important because combining the dry ingredients evenly ensures that every bite is packed with flavor.

Step 2: Combine Wet Ingredients

In another bowl or large measuring cup, whisk together the melted butter, milk, eggs, molasses, freshly grated ginger, and vanilla extract until smooth. Mixing these wet ingredients thoroughly helps to incorporate air into the batter which contributes to light and fluffy waffles.

Step 3: Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures

Pour the wet mixture into the dry ingredients. Whisk gently until just combined; it’s okay if there are still a few lumps. Letting this batter rest for about 10 minutes allows it to thicken slightly and enhances the texture of your waffles.

Step 4: Preheat Your Waffle Iron

While the batter rests, preheat your waffle iron on high heat. This ensures that your waffles cook evenly and get crispy on the outside but remain soft inside.

Step 5: Cook Your Waffles

Spray the preheated waffle iron with baking spray before using a large portion scoop to fill it with batter. Cook for about 5 minutes or until they are deeply browned and crispy. This step is crucial for achieving that perfect golden crust!

Step 6: Keep Warm and Serve

Place cooked waffles on a cooling rack set over a baking tray and keep them warm in the oven while you finish cooking the rest. Serve them hot with syrup and freshly whipped cream if desired—your family will be delighted!

Enjoy making these delightful Gingerbread Waffles! They’re sure to bring joy to your breakfast table this season.

Pro Tips for Making Gingerbread Waffles

Making the perfect gingerbread waffles can be a delightful experience, and with these pro tips, you’ll ensure they come out light, crispy, and full of flavor every time!

• Use room temperature ingredients: Bringing your eggs and milk to room temperature helps create a smoother batter, resulting in fluffier waffles that cook evenly.

• Let the batter rest: Allowing the batter to rest for 10 minutes before cooking lets the gluten relax, which leads to lighter waffles with a wonderful texture.

• Preheat your waffle iron thoroughly: A hot waffle iron is key to achieving that golden-brown, crispy exterior. Make sure it’s preheated before pouring in the batter for the best results.

• Don’t overfill the waffle iron: Using too much batter can lead to messy waffles that overflow. A large portion scoop should provide just the right amount for perfectly sized waffles.

• Keep cooked waffles warm in the oven: As you cook each batch, place them on a cooling rack in a warm oven. This keeps them crispy while you finish making the rest.

How to Serve Gingerbread Waffles

Serving gingerbread waffles can be just as fun as making them! With a few thoughtful additions, you can transform this breakfast treat into a festive feast that everyone will enjoy.

Garnishes

• Whipped cream: A dollop of freshly whipped cream adds a light and airy contrast to the spices in the waffles.

• Chopped pecans or walnuts: Sprinkle some chopped nuts on top for an added crunch and nutty flavor that complements the sweetness of the dish.

• Cinnamon sugar dusting: Lightly dust your waffles with cinnamon sugar just before serving for an extra touch of sweetness and spice.

Side Dishes

• Fresh fruit salad: A colorful mix of seasonal fruits provides a refreshing balance to the sweet and spiced waffles, brightening your plate.

• Yogurt parfaits: Layer creamy yogurt with granola and berries for a delightful side that brings both texture and acidity to offset the rich flavors of gingerbread.

• Maple-glazed bacon alternatives: Consider using turkey bacon or plant-based bacon alternatives that add a satisfying savory element without overpowering the sweet notes of your meal.

• Scrambled eggs: Fluffy scrambled eggs are an excellent protein-packed side that balances out the sweetness of your gingerbread waffles while complementing their warm spices.

With these ideas in mind, you’re all set to create not just delicious gingerbread waffles but also an enchanting breakfast experience! Enjoy every bite!

Make Ahead and Storage

These Gingerbread Waffles are a fantastic option for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy a delightful breakfast any day of the week with minimal effort. They can be made in advance and stored for later, ensuring that you have a warm, comforting treat ready to go!

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the waffles to cool completely before storing.
• Place them in an airtight container or wrap them tightly in plastic wrap.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing

• Once cooled, layer the waffles between sheets of parchment paper in an airtight container or freezer bag.
• Freeze for up to 3 months.
• Make sure to label the container with the date for easy tracking.

Reheating

• To reheat from frozen, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
• Place the waffles on a baking sheet and heat for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through.
• For quicker reheating, pop them in a toaster until crispy.

FAQs

Have questions about these delicious Gingerbread Waffles? Here are some answers!

Can I make Gingerbread Waffles without eggs?

Yes! You can substitute eggs with flaxseed meal mixed with water (1 tablespoon flaxseed meal + 2.5 tablespoons water = 1 egg). This will help bind your ingredients together.

How should I serve my Gingerbread Waffles?

These Gingerbread Waffles are perfect topped with maple syrup, fresh fruit, or even a dollop of whipped cream. Get creative with your toppings!

Can I use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour?

Absolutely! Whole wheat flour can be used as a healthier alternative. Just keep in mind that it may change the texture slightly, making them denser.

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in making these delightful Gingerbread Waffles! They truly capture the essence of holiday comfort with their warm spices and cozy flavors. Whether it’s a special occasion or just an ordinary morning, they are sure to bring smiles to your breakfast table. Enjoy whipping up this recipe and sharing it with loved ones. Happy cooking!