As autumn’s crispness rolls in, the irresistible scents of pumpkin and warm spices take over my kitchen, evoking cozy memories with each bite. That’s how I discovered the magic of these Cider Pumpkin Waffles with Salted Maple Butter. Picture this: the first golden leaves swirl outside as I whip up these fluffy waffles, their flavors brightened with a hint of spiced apple cider. Whether it’s a lazy Sunday brunch or an everyday breakfast, these waffles are a delightful escape from the mundane.
The best part? This recipe is an easy fix for anyone looking to elevate their morning routine from standard to sensational. Topped with a drizzle of homemade salted maple butter, each bite transports you to a cozy cabin filled with laughter and warmth. Seriously, you won’t believe how quickly they come together, making them a perfect choice for those busy weekday mornings or brunch with friends. So, let’s dive into this delicious adventure that promises to bring a little autumn magic to your table!
Why love Cider Pumpkin Waffles with Salted Maple Butter?
Warm, Cozy Flavors: The blend of pumpkin and spices creates a comforting taste that’s perfect for fall.
Quick and Easy: With just 25 minutes from start to finish, these waffles fit perfectly into any busy morning.
Impressive Presentation: A golden stack drizzled with salted maple butter not only tastes good but looks stunning!
Crowd-Pleasing Delight: Ideal for weekend brunches or family breakfasts, everyone will be asking for seconds.
Versatile Pairing: Whether served with crispy bacon or fresh fruit, they adapt beautifully to any side or topping you enjoy.
Cider Pumpkin Waffles Ingredients
• Get ready to whip up something magical!
For the Batter
- Land O Lakes® Salted Butter – Use this for a rich flavor that enhances your waffles.
- Pumpkin Puree – Adds moisture and a warm, earthy sweetness to the recipe.
- Spiced Apple Cider – Elevates the autumn flavor profile; you can also use unsweetened cider if preferred.
- Large Eggs – Helps bind the ingredients together for a fluffy texture.
- Pure Maple Syrup – A must for that authentic sweetness; avoid imitation syrup for best results.
- Vanilla Extract – Enhances the overall flavor, adding a lovely aromatic note.
- All-Purpose Flour – Forms the basis of your waffles, giving them structure.
- Baking Powder – Essential for making your waffles rise and become light and airy.
- Baking Soda – Helps with leavening; when combined with the buttermilk, it adds extra fluffiness.
- Cinnamon – Offers that warm, inviting spice that complements the pumpkin beautifully.
- Ground Ginger – Adds a zesty kick; you can substitute with ground cloves if desired.
- Ground Nutmeg – Just a pinch gives your waffles a lovely warming flavor.
- Kosher Salt – Balances the sweetness and enhances overall taste.
For the Maple Butter
- Land O Lakes® Salted Butter – This creates the perfect spreadable richness.
- Maple Syrup – Drizzle over your waffles for that additional sweet touch they deserve.
- Flaky Sea Salt – Just a pinch brings out the sweetness and adds a delightful contrast.
These Cider Pumpkin Waffles with Salted Maple Butter come together effortlessly, transforming your ordinary breakfast into an extraordinary feast!
How to Make Cider Pumpkin Waffles with Salted Maple Butter
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Melt and Brown Butter: In a medium pot over medium heat, add 6 tablespoons of Land O Lakes® Salted Butter. Allow it to brown for about 2-3 minutes until fragrant and toasted, stirring often. Remove from heat.
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Combine Ingredients: Pour the browned butter into a large mixing bowl. Whisk in 1 cup of pumpkin puree, 1 1/2 cups spiced apple cider, 2 large eggs, 2 tablespoons pure maple syrup, and 2 teaspoons vanilla extract.
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Mix Dry Ingredients: Add 2 cups of all-purpose flour, 1 tablespoon baking powder, 1/2 teaspoon baking soda, 1 1/2 teaspoons cinnamon, 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger, 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg, and 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt. Stir until just combined; a few lumps are completely fine!
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Rest the Batter: Let the batter sit for 10 minutes. This waiting period helps the flavors meld and creates fluffier waffles.
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Make Maple Butter: While the batter rests, in a small bowl, combine another 6 tablespoons of Land O Lakes® Salted Butter, 1/2 cup maple syrup, and a pinch of flaky sea salt. Mix well until combined.
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Preheat Waffle Iron: Heat your waffle iron according to its manufacturer’s instructions. Pour the batter in and cook until golden brown.
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Serve and Enjoy: Once cooked, serve your waffles drizzled with the homemade salted maple butter and additional maple syrup.
Optional: Top with chopped pecans for an added crunch.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
What to Serve with Cider Pumpkin Waffles with Salted Maple Butter?
Elevate your breakfast experience with delightful sides that add flavor and texture to these warm, spiced waffles.
- Crispy Bacon: The saltiness of bacon contrasts perfectly with the sweetness of the waffles, creating a balanced bite.
- Fresh Fruit Salad: A mix of tart apples, sweet pears, and juicy pomegranate adds freshness and a burst of color to your plate.
- Creamy Greek Yogurt: A dollop of yogurt complements the waffles’ sweetness and adds a creamy texture that feels indulgent.
- Maple-Walnut Granola: Scatter a handful over the waffles for an enticing crunch and added nuttiness that harmonizes with pumpkin flavors.
- Warm Spiced Apples: Sautéed apples with cinnamon and nutmeg create a cozy, warm topping that celebrates fall’s essence.
- Herbal Tea or Cider: A steaming cup of chamomile or spiced apple cider enhances the comforting character of your breakfast.
- Gingerbread Smoothie: Blend up a gingerbread-flavored smoothie for a refreshing and wholesome drink that complements the spices in the waffles.
- Sweet Potato Hash: Crunchy and savory, this colorful hash is a hearty side that provides a satisfying contrast without overshadowing the waffles.
Each of these accompaniments will enhance your Cider Pumpkin Waffles with Salted Maple Butter, making your meal feel special and inviting.
Cider Pumpkin Waffle Variations
Feel free to make it your own with these delightful twists that will elevate your waffles to new heights!
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Gluten-Free: Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend to keep the fluffy texture while catering to gluten sensitivities.
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Dairy-Free: Use coconut oil or a dairy-free butter alternative for the batter and maple butter, delighting those avoiding dairy.
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Nutty Burst: Stir in 1/2 cup of chopped walnuts or pecans into the batter for a delightful crunch and rich flavor.
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Spiced Up: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a splash of vanilla extract for a warm, spicy surprise in every bite.
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Pumpkin Spice Lovers: Amp up the spices by increasing the cinnamon to 2 teaspoons and adding 1/4 teaspoon of ground cloves for that extra cozy kick.
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Fruit Fusion: Toss in 1/2 cup of fresh blueberries or diced apples to the batter for a fruity twist that adds juiciness and sweetness.
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Chocolate Chip Delight: Mix in 1/2 cup of semi-sweet chocolate chips for a decadent treat that pairs perfectly with maple butter.
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Sugary Sweetness: Substitute regular syrup with salted caramel sauce for a sweet twist that creates a delicious contrast to the savory salted butter.
Each variation brings its unique flavor, ensuring your Cider Pumpkin Waffles become a delightful favorite for every palate!
Expert Tips for Cider Pumpkin Waffles
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Perfectly Browned Butter: To achieve a rich flavor, watch your butter carefully while browning; burnt butter can spoil the taste of your Cider Pumpkin Waffles.
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Don’t Overmix: Stir until just combined; a few lumps are fine. Overmixing can lead to tough waffles, so embrace the lumpy batter!
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Resting is Key: Allow the batter to sit for at least 10 minutes. This helps the flour absorb moisture, ensuring light and fluffy waffles.
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Waffle Iron Technique: Preheat your waffle iron fully before adding the batter for even cooking. A too-cold iron can lead to soggy waffles.
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Customize Toppings: Feel free to get creative with toppings! Serve with seasonal fruits or nuts alongside the salted maple butter for added flavor and texture.
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Storage Tips: Leftover waffles can be frozen and reheated in a toaster for a quick breakfast, perfect for busy mornings ahead!
Make Ahead Options
These Cider Pumpkin Waffles with Salted Maple Butter are great for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the batter up to 24 hours in advance and refrigerate it in an airtight container. Just make sure to give the batter a gentle stir before cooking to ensure even consistency. Additionally, the maple butter can be made ahead and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days; simply allow it to come to room temperature before serving to maintain its creamy texture. When you’re ready to indulge, preheat your waffle iron and cook the batter until golden brown for restaurant-quality results with minimal effort. Enjoy the convenience of having a fabulous breakfast ready to go!
Storage Tips for Cider Pumpkin Waffles with Salted Maple Butter
Room Temperature: Keep freshly made waffles at room temperature for up to 2 hours; cover them with a kitchen towel to maintain warmth and softness.
Fridge: Store any leftover waffles in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in a toaster or microwave for perfect texture.
Freezer: Freeze the waffles for up to 2 months in a single layer on a baking sheet. Once frozen, transfer them to a zip-top bag for easy storage.
Reheating: To reheat, pop frozen waffles in a toaster or oven until heated through and crispy. You’ll want to top them with that dreamy salted maple butter again!
Cider Pumpkin Waffles with Salted Maple Butter Recipe FAQs
How do I choose ripe pumpkins for the puree?
Absolutely! When selecting a pumpkin for puree, look for one that feels heavy for its size and has a firm, unblemished skin. The color should be a vibrant orange, and avoid any with soft spots or blemishes.
How should I store leftover waffles, and how long will they last?
Very! Store leftover Cider Pumpkin Waffles in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. If you want to keep them longer, you can freeze them for up to 2 months. Just remember to let them cool completely before storing to maintain their texture!
Can I freeze the waffles, and what’s the best way to do it?
Definitely! To freeze your waffles, start by placing them in a single layer on a baking sheet to freeze individually. Once frozen solid (after about 1-2 hours), transfer them to a zip-top bag, ensuring to squeeze out excess air. They’ll stay fresh for up to 2 months.
What if my batter seems too thick or too thin?
No worries! If your batter is too thick, simply add a small splash of spiced apple cider to loosen it up until you reach the desired consistency. Conversely, if it’s too thin, you can whisk in a little extra flour a tablespoon at a time until it’s just right.
Are these waffles suitable for a gluten-free diet?
The more the merrier! You can easily make these Cider Pumpkin Waffles gluten-free by substituting all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend. Just ensure that the blend contains xanthan gum to help bind the ingredients together for that fluffy texture.
Is pumpkin puree safe for my pets?
Very! Though pumpkin puree is safe for dogs in moderation and can actually be beneficial for their digestion, always consult with your veterinarian to ensure it fits into your pet’s diet. Avoid spiced or sweetened versions as they can contain ingredients harmful to pets.
Cider Pumpkin Waffles with Salted Maple Butter Bliss
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Melt and Brown Butter: In a medium pot over medium heat, add 6 tablespoons of Land O Lakes® Salted Butter. Allow it to brown for about 2-3 minutes until fragrant and toasted, stirring often. Remove from heat.
- Combine Ingredients: Pour the browned butter into a large mixing bowl. Whisk in 1 cup of pumpkin puree, 1 1/2 cups spiced apple cider, 2 large eggs, 2 tablespoons pure maple syrup, and 2 teaspoons vanilla extract.
- Mix Dry Ingredients: Add 2 cups of all-purpose flour, 1 tablespoon baking powder, 1/2 teaspoon baking soda, 1 1/2 teaspoons cinnamon, 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger, 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg, and 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt. Stir until just combined; a few lumps are completely fine!
- Rest the Batter: Let the batter sit for 10 minutes. This waiting period helps the flavors meld and creates fluffier waffles.
- Make Maple Butter: While the batter rests, in a small bowl, combine another 6 tablespoons of Land O Lakes® Salted Butter, 1/2 cup maple syrup, and a pinch of flaky sea salt. Mix well until combined.
- Preheat Waffle Iron: Heat your waffle iron according to its manufacturer’s instructions. Pour the batter in and cook until golden brown.
- Serve and Enjoy: Once cooked, serve your waffles drizzled with the homemade salted maple butter and additional maple syrup.