There’s something magical about the warm, spiced aroma of gingerbread waffles filling your kitchen on a cozy morning. These golden, crispy-on-the-outside, fluffy-on-the-inside waffles are infused with cinnamon, ginger, and molasses, creating a comforting flavor that feels like a holiday hug. Ready in just 20 minutes, they’re perfect for busy mornings or lazy weekends when you want a treat without the fuss.
Each bite delivers a delightful balance of sweetness and spice, with a hint of richness from the molasses. Topped with a drizzle of maple syrup or a dollop of whipped cream, these waffles are a feast for the senses. Plus, they’re surprisingly light, making them a guilt-free indulgence you’ll want to savor again and again.
Gingerbread Waffles: Ingredients
- 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 ½ teaspoons baking powder
- ½ teaspoon baking soda
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- ¾ teaspoon ground ginger
- ¼ teaspoon nutmeg
- Pinch ground cloves
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 2 large eggs
- ⅓ cup white sugar (can substitute with brown sugar for a deeper flavor)
- ¾ cup milk (dairy or non-dairy alternatives like almond or oat milk work well)
- ½ cup molasses (use unsulphured molasses for best flavor)
- ¼ cup butter, melted (can substitute with coconut oil for a dairy-free option)
Gingerbread Waffles: Step-by-Step Instructions
- Preheat your waffle iron according to the manufacturer’s instructions. Lightly spray it with nonstick cooking spray once hot.
- In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, ginger, nutmeg, cloves, and salt until well combined.
- In a separate bowl, beat the eggs and sugar together until the mixture becomes thick and foamy (about 1-2 minutes). Stir in the milk and molasses until fully incorporated.
- Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients. Stir gently until just combined (a few lumps are okay).
- Slowly fold in the melted butter until the batter is smooth and evenly mixed.
- Using a measuring cup or ladle, pour the batter onto the preheated waffle iron, following the manufacturer’s instructions for the correct amount. Close the lid and cook until the waffles are golden brown and crisp (about 3-5 minutes, depending on your waffle iron).
- Carefully remove the waffles and serve immediately. Top with powdered sugar, whipped cream, fresh fruit, or your favorite syrup for a delicious finish.
Topping Ideas to Elevate Your Gingerbread Waffles
Take your gingerbread waffles to the next level with creative toppings! Dust them with powdered sugar for a classic touch, or drizzle with maple syrup for a sweet, autumnal vibe. For a festive twist, add a dollop of whipped cream and a sprinkle of cinnamon. Fresh fruit like sliced bananas, berries, or caramelized apples adds a refreshing contrast to the rich, spiced waffles.
Perfect Pairings: Serving Suggestions
These gingerbread waffles are a star on their own, but they pair beautifully with other breakfast favorites. Serve alongside crispy bacon or sausage links for a savory balance. For a cozy brunch, add a cup of spiced chai tea or hot cocoa. If you’re feeling indulgent, a scoop of vanilla ice cream turns these waffles into a decadent dessert!
Storage & Reheating Tips for Freshness
To store leftover waffles, let them cool completely and place them in an airtight container or ziplock bag. They’ll keep in the fridge for up to 3 days or in the freezer for 1-2 months. Reheat in a toaster or oven at 350°F for 5-7 minutes until crispy. Avoid the microwave to maintain that perfect waffle texture!
Quick Swaps: Recipe Variations
Customize your gingerbread waffles to suit your taste! Swap all-purpose flour for whole wheat flour or a gluten-free blend if needed. For a lighter version, use almond milk instead of regular milk. If you’re out of molasses, try dark brown sugar or honey for a similar depth of flavor. Add a handful of chopped nuts or chocolate chips to the batter for extra texture and indulgence.
Waffle Iron Wisdom: Equipment Tips
For the best results, make sure your waffle iron is fully preheated before adding the batter. Lightly coat it with nonstick spray between each batch to prevent sticking. If your waffle iron has adjustable settings, aim for a medium-high heat to achieve a crispy exterior and fluffy interior. Don’t peek too soon—wait until the steam subsides to check for doneness!
Gingerbread Waffles
Ingredients
- 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 ½ teaspoons baking powder
- ½ teaspoon baking soda
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- ¾ teaspoon ground ginger
- ¼ teaspoon nutmeg
- pinch ground cloves
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 2 eggs
- ⅓ cup white sugar
- ¾ cup milk
- ½ cup molasses
- ¼ cup butter, melted
Instructions
- Preheat waffle iron.
- In a large bowl, combine flour, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, ginger, nutmeg, cloves, and salt.
- In a separate bowl, beat the eggs and sugar together until thick and foamy. Stir in the milk and molasses.
- Add liquid mixture to the dry ingredients. Stir until well-combined.
- Slowly fold in the melted butter.
- Spray the hot waffle iron with nonstick cooking spray.
- Follow the manufacturer’s directions for the waffle maker to measure batter, and cook the waffles until finished.
- Top waffles with powdered sugar, whipped cream, and fresh fruit or your favorite syrup.