Gingerbread Waffles

If you’re looking for a cozy breakfast that feels like a warm hug on a plate, then you’ve stumbled upon the perfect recipe: Gingerbread Waffles! These delightful waffles are infused with the comforting spices of ginger, cinnamon, and cloves, making them an unforgettable treat for the holiday season. Whether you’re hosting a festive brunch or just wanting to add some cheer to your busy weekday mornings, these waffles are sure to impress.

What I love most about this recipe is how easy it is to whip up a batch. They cook up light and crispy, and their inviting aroma will fill your kitchen with holiday spirit. Plus, they’re not overly sweet, allowing the rich flavors of molasses and spices to shine through. Let’s dive in!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: With just 15 minutes of prep time, you can have these delicious Gingerbread Waffles ready in no time!
• Family-Friendly: Perfect for everyone at the breakfast table, even the pickiest eaters will love these flavorful waffles.
• Make-Ahead Friendly: You can prepare the batter ahead of time and cook them fresh in the morning for an effortless breakfast.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a holiday gathering or a simple family breakfast, these waffles fit right in.

Ingredients You’ll Need

These Gingerbread Waffles come together with simple and wholesome ingredients that you might already have in your pantry. Here’s what you’ll need:

For the Waffle Batter

• 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
• 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

One of the best things about Gingerbread Waffles is how flexible this recipe can be! Feel free to get creative and customize them to suit your taste.

• Add Some Fruit: Toss in some blueberries or chopped apples for an extra burst of flavor.
• Spice It Up: Want a little heat? Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or nutmeg for a unique twist.
• Swap the Milk: Use almond milk or oat milk if you’re looking for dairy-free options without losing flavor.
• Top It Your Way: Instead of syrup, try serving with yogurt and fresh fruit for a refreshing change.

How to Make Gingerbread Waffles

Step 1: Mix the Dry Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, sugars, baking soda, baking powder, salt, ground ginger, cinnamon, and cloves. This step is essential as it evenly distributes all those lovely spices throughout your batter.

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 ingredients well ensures that every waffle will have that creamy texture we all love.

Step 3: Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures

Pour the wet mixture into your dry ingredients. Whisk everything together until smooth. This is where the magic happens! Don’t worry if there are a few lumps—it’s okay; they will cook out!

Step 4: Let It Rest

Set your batter aside to rest for about 10 minutes while you preheat your waffle iron on high heat. Resting allows gluten to relax making your waffles lighter and fluffier.

Step 5: Cook Your Waffles

Spray your preheated waffle iron with baking spray before using a large portion scoop to fill it with batter. Cook your waffles for about 5 minutes or until they’re deeply brown and crispy. The smell wafting through your kitchen will be irresistible!

Step 6: Keep Warm & Serve

Place cooked waffles on a cooling rack set over a baking tray and pop them in a low oven to keep warm while you cook any remaining batter. Serve these delicious Gingerbread Waffles warm with syrup or freshly whipped cream if desired.

There you have it—your very own batch of delightful Gingerbread Waffles! Enjoy every sweet bite with family and friends!

Pro Tips for Making Gingerbread Waffles

Making the perfect gingerbread waffles is easier than you think! Here are some pro tips to ensure your breakfast turns out just right.

• Use room temperature ingredients: Bringing your eggs and milk to room temperature helps the batter mix more smoothly, resulting in a lighter texture for your waffles.
• Let the batter rest: Allowing the batter to sit for 10 minutes encourages the flavors to meld and gives the gluten a chance to relax, which leads to fluffier waffles.
• Preheat your waffle iron thoroughly: A hot waffle iron will create a crispy exterior while keeping the inside soft. Make sure it’s hot enough before pouring in the batter.
• Don’t overfill the waffle iron: Filling it too much can cause overflow and make a mess. A large portion scoop should be just right—leave some space for expansion!
• Keep waffles warm in the oven: If you’re making multiple batches, place cooked waffles on a cooling rack in a low oven. This keeps them warm and crispy without becoming soggy.

How to Serve Gingerbread Waffles

Serving these gingerbread waffles can be as delightful as making them! Here are some ideas to present this cozy breakfast dish beautifully.

Garnishes

• Powdered sugar: A light dusting of powdered sugar adds a touch of sweetness and elegance.
• Chopped nuts: Sprinkle some toasted pecans or walnuts on top for added crunch and flavor.
• Fresh fruit: Add slices of bananas or berries to bring freshness and color to your plate.

Side Dishes

• Greek yogurt: A creamy side that pairs wonderfully with the spices in gingerbread, offering a cool contrast.
• Scrambled eggs: Fluffy scrambled eggs provide protein and balance out the sweetness of the waffles.
• Fruit salad: A vibrant mix of seasonal fruits complements the warmth of gingerbread while adding a refreshing element.
• Maple syrup: While not technically a side dish, serving these waffles with real maple syrup elevates their flavor profile, making every bite heavenly.

Now that you have all these tips and serving suggestions at your fingertips, you’re ready to impress your family or guests with delicious gingerbread waffles! Enjoy this festive twist on breakfast that is sure to warm hearts during the holiday season.

Make Ahead and Storage

These Gingerbread Waffles are perfect for meal prep, making your mornings a breeze during the busy holiday season. You can easily prepare the batter in advance or store cooked waffles for quick breakfasts on the go!

Storing Leftovers

• Allow cooked waffles to cool completely.
• Place them in an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing

• Once cooled, layer waffles between parchment paper in a freezer-safe bag.
• Seal tightly, removing as much air as possible.
• Freeze for up to 2 months.

Reheating

• For best results, reheat in a toaster or toaster oven until crispy.
• Alternatively, warm them in the microwave for about 30 seconds, but they will be softer.

FAQs

Here are some common questions you might have about making Gingerbread Waffles.

Can I make Gingerbread Waffles without eggs?

Yes! You can replace each egg with a flaxseed egg (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 2.5 tablespoons water) or unsweetened applesauce (1/4 cup per egg) for a delicious vegan option!

How do I make the batter for Gingerbread Waffles ahead of time?

Simply prepare the wet and dry ingredients separately. Combine them just before cooking for the freshest taste and texture.

What toppings go well with Gingerbread Waffles?

These waffles pair beautifully with maple syrup, fresh fruit, or whipped cream. You can also sprinkle some powdered sugar or add a dollop of yogurt for extra creaminess!

Final Thoughts

I hope you’re as excited to make these Gingerbread Waffles as I am! They carry the warm flavors of the holiday season and are sure to become a cherished breakfast tradition in your home. Enjoy sharing these delightful waffles with family and friends—you might even spark some new holiday memories! Happy cooking!