Best Pumpkin Pecan Waffles Recipe

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It’s still summer, but it’s never too early for pumpkin! Pumpkin is one of my favorite flavors and I couldn’t wait until September to make these Pumpkin Pecan Waffles.

Pumpkin Pecan Waffles have a subtle pumpkin taste and are studded with chopped pecans. Canned pumpkin gives them an orange hue and a moist texture. I topped them with butter and maple syrup.

Ingredients You Will Need

Flour is the base that provides structure and holds the waffle together.

Baking powder is the leavening agent that makes the waffles rise and become light and fluffy.

Pumpkin pie spice adds the warm, fall flavors characteristic of pumpkin dishes.

Salt enhances the overall flavor and balances the sweetness.

Sugar sweetens the waffles.

Eggs bind the ingredients together and contribute to structure. Separating the eggs and folding in the whipped egg whites creates a lighter texture.

Milk adds moisture and richness to the batter.

Vegetable oil contributes moisture and helps crisp up the outside of the waffle.

Canned pumpkin provides pumpkin flavor and moisture. Look for pure pumpkin puree, not pumpkin pie filling.

Chopped pecans add a delicious nutty flavor.

Frequently Asked Questions

My waffles are turning out dense, what can I do? There could be a couple of reasons for this. First, make sure you haven’t overmixed the batter. Overmixing can develop the gluten in the flour, leading to a tough waffle. Second, ensure you’re using the correct amount of leavening agent (baking powder). Not enough baking powder won’t give your waffles enough lift.

Can I make waffles ahead of time? Yes, you can! Cooked waffles can be stored in a single layer on a wire rack and placed in the freezer for up to a month. Reheat them in a toaster or waffle iron for a few minutes until warmed through.

My waffles are sticking to the iron, what can I do? Make sure your waffle iron is preheated and lightly greased with cooking spray or oil before adding batter.

How can I keep my waffles warm while I cook the rest of the batter? Preheat your oven to 200°F (93°C) and place the cooked waffles on a wire rack in the oven to keep them warm and crispy.

Can I make the batter ahead of time? Yes, you can mix the batter up to an hour before cooking. Just let it rest at room temperature before using.

How much batter should I use per waffle? A good rule of thumb is to fill each section of your waffle iron about 3/4 full. This will allow the waffle to rise and cook evenly without overflowing.

How can I make my waffles extra crispy?

• Let your waffle iron preheat fully before adding batter.
• Use a non-stick cooking spray to coat the waffle iron even if it claims to be non-stick.
• Try using buttermilk instead of milk in the batter. The acidity in buttermilk helps create crispier waffles.

Why are the eggs separated? Eggs are separated to achieve light and fluffy waffles. Here’s the science behind it:

• Egg Yolks: These contribute richness, flavor, and some binding to the batter.
• Egg Whites: When whisked vigorously, egg whites trap air bubbles and expand, creating a foam.

By separating the eggs, you can whip the egg whites into a much larger volume than if the yolk was present. This whipped egg white mixture, then gently folded into the batter, acts like a leavening agent, giving your waffles lift and a light, airy texture.

It’s important to note that separating eggs is an extra step, so you can skip it to save time. You can still get delicious waffles without separating the eggs, although they might be denser.

Helpful Tips

Don’t own a flour sifter? Use a whisk instead.

Preheat your waffle iron: This ensures even cooking and crispy edges. Most waffle irons have an indicator light to let you know when it’s ready.

Spray with cooking spray: Even with a non-stick waffle iron, a light spray of cooking spray helps prevent sticking and ensures crispy edges.

Let the batter rest (optional): Letting the batter rest for 15-30 minutes allows the flavors to meld and can help create crispier waffles.

Don’t overmix: Just like pancakes, overmixing the batter can lead to tough waffles. Mix the dry ingredients first, then gently fold in the wet ingredients until just combined. A few lumps are okay!

Don’t open the waffle iron too early: Resist the urge to peek! Let the waffles cook undisturbed until the indicator light lets you know they’re done.

Toast the pecans (optional): Toasting the pecans for a few minutes in a dry skillet intensifies their nutty flavor.

Pecan size: Consider the size of your waffle iron cavities. Large chunks might be difficult to distribute evenly in the batter.

Substitutions and Variations

Nuts: If you don’t have pecans, try walnuts, chopped almonds, or even chopped pistachios for a different flavor and texture.

Chocolate Chips: Swap the pecans for mini chocolate chips or chopped dark chocolate for a decadent twist.

Spiced Syrup: Add a pinch of pumpkin pie spice to your warmed maple syrup for an extra flavor boost.

Pancakes: Craving pancakes instead? Use the same batter recipe and cook them on a preheated griddle.

Pumpkin Waffle Sundae: Turn your waffles into dessert! Top them with a scoop of vanilla ice cream, whipped cream, and a drizzle of caramel sauce for a decadent treat.

What to Serve with Pumpkin Pecan Waffles

Maple syrup: This is a classic choice that complements the pumpkin flavor perfectly.

Whipped cream: Adds a light and fluffy element to the waffles.

Powdered sugar: For a simple and elegant touch.

Fresh fruit: Berries, sliced bananas, or peaches add a refreshing touch.

Fried chicken: An unexpected but delicious combination.

Crispy Bacon or Sausage: Add a salty and savory element to complement the sweet waffles.

Scrambled Eggs: Add protein and can be seasoned with herbs or cheese for extra flavor.

Eggs Florentine: These have a layer of garlic-sautéed spinach, topped with eggs and crispy panko crumbs. Baked until the whites are firm and the yolks are perfectly runny, it’s finished off with a sprinkle of fresh parsley. Perfect to complete your meal!

Hash Browns: Are a hearty and delicious side.

Pumpkin Spice Latte: A fun and thematic drink that goes well with the fall flavors in the waffles.

Other Recipes You May Enjoy

If you like my Pumpkin Pecan Waffles, you might also like my Pumpkin Torte or my Pumpkin Bread. These Pumpkin Cream Cheese Muffins and these Apple Pie Cheesecake Stuffed Waffles are also delicious. For a quick and easy breakfast for the whole family, try these Sheet Pan Pancakes from Mix by Sarah at Front Range Fed.

Final Thoughts

No matter what time of year you make them, Pumpkin Pecan Waffles are truly scrumptious. But there’s something about pumpkin and fall that makes me feel cozy. These waffles were tasty in July, but I know they will really hit the spot once it’s actually fall.