Fluffy & Crispy Vegan Pumpkin Waffles: Your Ultimate Easy Fall Breakfast (Gluten-Free Option!)
There’s nothing quite like the comforting embrace of autumn, and these vegan pumpkin waffles perfectly capture that cozy, rich, and flavorful essence. Imagine waking up to the aroma of warm spices and sweet pumpkin, then indulging in a breakfast that’s soft and moist on the inside, yet wonderfully crispy on the outside. These waffles are not just a meal; they’re an experience, packed with hearty pumpkin goodness and brimming with your favorite fall flavors, making them the ideal start to any cool, crisp day.
Lately, my kitchen has been on a serious waffle spree. Waffles offer such an effortlessly luxurious breakfast, allowing endless creativity with toppings to satisfy any craving. However, many vegan waffle recipes tend to be disappointingly dense or overly chewy. My goal was to craft a recipe that delivered on lightness, fluffiness, and moisture, without compromising on that essential crispy exterior. After perfecting my traditional Vegan Waffles, it felt like the natural progression to transition to my absolute favorite autumnal breakfast: fluffy pumpkin waffles.
These truly exceptional vegan pumpkin waffles are bursting with the complex, sweet, and earthy flavor of pumpkin, beautifully complemented by a symphony of traditional fall and winter spices. Each bite transports you to a Thanksgiving dessert table, but in a breakfast form, with a wonderfully soft and pillowy texture. Best of all, they demand only about 15 minutes of active preparation time, are entirely vegan, and can be effortlessly adapted to be gluten-free. Trust me, once you try them, you’ll be hooked!
Why You’ll Fall in Love with These Vegan Pumpkin Waffles
As soon as the weather begins its delightful shift towards cooler temperatures, this easy pumpkin waffle recipe quickly becomes a weekly staple in my household. Here’s a closer look at why I’m confident you’ll cherish it just as much as I do:
- Embrace the Ultimate Fall Flavors. There’s so much to adore about fall: the crisp sweater weather, the stunning transformation of colorful leaves, the joy of the holidays, and, of course, the unparalleled seasonal food! These waffles are a celebration of autumn, featuring rich, sweet, and spicy notes from real pumpkin puree, a touch of fresh mashed banana for natural sweetness and moisture, a drizzle of pure maple syrup, and a generous blend of classic pumpkin spice seasoning. Every mouthful is a warm hug of seasonal goodness.
- Remarkably Easy to Prepare. Despite their gourmet taste and appearance, reminiscent of something you’d savor at your favorite weekend brunch spot, these rich pumpkin waffles are surprisingly simple to whip up. The entire recipe boasts a mere 15 minutes of active work, making it perfect for busy mornings or when you simply want a delicious treat without a fuss. The instructions are straightforward and easy to follow, ensuring a successful batch every time, even for novice bakers.
- Perfect for Any Brunch Gathering. Speaking of brunch, if you’re planning to host a delightful fall gathering, these vegan pumpkin waffles would be an absolutely stellar addition to your menu! They’re visually appealing, universally loved, and offer a plant-based option that everyone can enjoy. Serve them alongside a variety of toppings, and watch them become the star of your autumn spread. Their light yet satisfying nature makes them an ideal centerpiece for a festive brunch.
Essential Ingredients for Your Pumpkin Waffles
To create these delectable pumpkin puree waffles, you’ll need a handful of pantry staples that combine to form a truly magical breakfast. For precise measurements of each ingredient, please refer to the detailed recipe card conveniently located at the bottom of this page.
- Flour: You have flexibility here! All-purpose flour yields a classic waffle texture, while oat flour or finely ground oats (made from rolled oats in a food processor or coffee grinder) offer a fantastic gluten-free alternative and a slightly chewier bite. Choose what best suits your dietary needs and preferences.
- Baking Powder & Baking Soda: These are your leavening agents, working in tandem to create that desired light, airy, and fluffy interior that makes waffles so enjoyable. Ensure they are fresh for optimal lift.
- Salt: Just a pinch of salt is crucial for balancing the sweetness and enhancing all the other wonderful flavors in the waffles, preventing them from tasting flat.
- Banana: Make sure your banana is extremely ripe – the browner, the better! Mashed ripe banana not only adds natural sweetness but also acts as a binder and contributes to the moistness of the waffles. If you don’t have a ripe banana, unsweetened applesauce or even a bit more pumpkin puree can be used in a pinch.
- Pumpkin Puree: This is the star ingredient! Be sure to use 100% pure pumpkin puree, not pumpkin pie filling, which is pre-sweetened and spiced. Opt for unsweetened and unseasoned puree to control the flavor profile yourself.
- Maple Syrup or Agave Nectar: These natural sweeteners provide depth of flavor and complement the pumpkin spice beautifully. Use whichever you prefer or have on hand.
- Non-Dairy Milk: Any unsweetened and unflavored non-dairy milk will work perfectly. Almond, soy, oat, or cashew milk are all excellent choices that contribute to the batter’s liquid consistency without adding unwanted flavors.
- Coconut Oil: Melted coconut oil adds richness and helps create that desirable crispy exterior. If you prefer, a good quality vegan butter can be substituted for similar results.
- Pumpkin Spice: This essential blend brings all the warm, inviting fall flavors together. It typically includes cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and cloves, making these waffles truly aromatic and festive.
Crafting Your Delicious Vegan Pumpkin Waffles: A Step-by-Step Guide
Creating these incredibly moist, rich, and flavorful vegan pumpkin waffles is surprisingly straightforward. Follow these simple steps for a perfect batch every time:
- Combine the Dry Ingredients. In a large mixing bowl, measure out your flour (whether all-purpose or oat), baking powder, baking soda, salt, and pumpkin spice. Use a whisk to thoroughly combine these ingredients, ensuring that the leavening agents and spices are evenly distributed throughout the flour mixture. This crucial step prevents pockets of unmixed ingredients and helps achieve a uniform rise.
- Mix the Wet Ingredients. In a separate, medium-sized mixing bowl, add your pumpkin puree, thoroughly mashed ripe banana (aim for a smooth consistency), non-dairy milk, melted coconut oil (or vegan butter), and your chosen sweetener (maple syrup or agave nectar). Whisk these wet ingredients together until they are well combined and smooth.
- Prepare the Batter. Now, gently pour the wet ingredients into the bowl containing the dry ingredients. Using a whisk or a spatula, mix them together until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; a few small lumps are perfectly fine and actually preferable, as overmixing can lead to tough waffles.
- Allow the Batter to Rest. This step is often overlooked but truly makes a difference in the final texture of your waffles. Let the batter sit undisturbed for about 15 minutes. This resting period allows the flour to fully hydrate and the leavening agents to activate, resulting in a lighter and fluffier waffle. If you’re really pressed for time, you can skip this, but for the best results, it’s highly recommended.
- Preheat Your Waffle Maker. While your batter is resting, it’s the perfect time to turn on your waffle iron. Allow it to heat up fully to your desired setting. A well-preheated waffle maker is key to achieving that perfectly crispy exterior.
- Add the Batter. Once your waffle maker is hot and ready, scoop approximately 1/2 cup of the batter into the center of the iron. If your waffle maker is particularly large or small, you may need to adjust this amount slightly to ensure full coverage without overflow.
- Cook to Perfection. Close the lid and allow the waffle to cook until it’s beautifully golden brown and the steam coming out of the machine has significantly reduced or stopped entirely. This steam indicator is a reliable sign that your waffle is fully cooked and perfectly crisp. Once done, carefully remove the waffle and transfer it to a wire rack to prevent it from getting soggy. Repeat this process with the remaining batter.
- Serve Immediately. For the best experience, serve your freshly cooked pumpkin waffles hot, piled high with your favorite toppings. Enjoy the delightful contrast of the fluffy interior and crispy exterior!
Expert Tips for Perfect Vegan Pumpkin Waffles Every Time
To ensure your autumnal waffle-making adventure is a resounding success, consider these tried-and-true tricks:
- Elevate Flavor with Homemade Puree. While store-bought pumpkin puree is absolutely convenient and works well in this recipe, you can truly elevate the depth and richness of flavor by making your own. Homemade Pumpkin Puree is surprisingly simple to prepare and results in a puree that boasts a stronger, more vibrant, and naturally sweeter pumpkin essence. This subtle difference can transform a good waffle into an extraordinary one.
- Master the “No Steam” Cooking Method. This is perhaps the most crucial tip for achieving waffles that are both airy and fluffy on the inside, with an irresistible crisp, caramelized exterior. When cooking your waffles, resist the urge to open the waffle maker too soon. Instead, wait patiently until the steam stops visibly emerging from the machine. Often, the “ready” light on your waffle maker might illuminate before all the steam has escaped. If you remove the waffles at this point, they’ll likely be softer and less crisp. Continuing to cook until the steam ceases ensures that excess moisture has evaporated, leaving you with perfectly textured waffles.
- Customize to Your Waffle Maker and Taste. For optimal results, don’t be afraid to make minor adjustments based on the specific model of your waffle machine and your personal preference for waffle crispiness. I typically use about ½ cup of batter per waffle, which I’ve found to be ideal for a standard-sized waffle maker. If your appliance is larger or smaller, adjust the batter quantity accordingly to prevent overflow or underfilling. Similarly, experiment with the temperature settings; I usually set mine two notches below maximum for a perfect balance of crispiness and fluffiness. While modern non-stick waffle makers rarely require it, if you notice any sticking, a light spray of baking oil can prevent frustration.
- Keep Warm, But Prevent Steaming. Once your waffles are cooked to perfection, the way you store them before serving can make or break their crispiness. Immediately transfer them to a single layer on a wire rack. Avoid stacking waffles directly on top of each other or placing them on a solid plate, as this traps steam and will quickly make them soggy. If you’re cooking multiple batches and want to keep earlier waffles warm, place the wire rack in your oven on the lowest possible setting (or “warm” setting if available). This keeps them toasty without compromising their delightful texture.
Perfect Pairings: What to Serve With These Pumpkin Waffles
These fluffy vegan pumpkin waffles are a delight on their own, but they truly shine when paired with complementary beverages and a creative array of toppings. I typically enjoy them with a steaming mug of hot coffee or a frothy glass of homemade Whipped Coffee for an indulgent start to the day. For toppings, the possibilities are endless and deliciously autumnal:
- A generous dollop of light and airy Coconut Whipped Cream
- Crunchy, sweet Stovetop Candied Pecans for added texture
- A decadent drizzle of rich Vegan Caramel Sauce
- Fresh fruit like sliced apples or pears, or even a sprinkle of pomegranate seeds for a burst of freshness.
- A dusting of powdered sugar or a generous pour of warm maple syrup.
Feel free to get creative and top them with whatever seasonal delights you fancy!
Storing Leftover Pumpkin Waffles
Should you have the rare occurrence of leftover pumpkin waffles, proper storage will keep them fresh and delicious for future enjoyment. First, allow them to cool completely on a wire rack. Once fully cooled, place them in an airtight plastic bag, separating each waffle with a piece of parchment paper to prevent sticking. Stored this way, they will remain fresh in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat them easily in a toaster or toaster oven for a quick, crispy refresh.
Can I Freeze Pumpkin Waffles?
Absolutely! These vegan pumpkin waffles are excellent for freezing, making them a fantastic meal prep option for quick breakfasts throughout the week or month. Prepare them for freezing exactly as you would for refrigeration: allow them to cool completely, then stack them in an airtight plastic bag with parchment paper between each waffle. They can be stored in the freezer for up to 6 months. When you’re ready to enjoy them, simply pop them directly from the freezer into a toaster or toaster oven until heated through and crisp.
More Delightful Fall Breakfast Ideas
One of the many joys of autumn is the incredible variety of seasonal breakfasts it inspires. If you adore these pumpkin waffles, you’re sure to love these other favorite autumnal recipes for your morning table:
- Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Pancakes: A delightful twist on classic pancakes, infused with pumpkin spice and melty chocolate chips.
- Pecan Banana Bread: A moist and flavorful loaf, packed with ripe bananas and crunchy pecans, perfect for a cozy morning.
- Vegan Gingerbread Pancakes: Spiced with warm ginger and molasses, these pancakes are a festive and comforting treat.
- Orange Cranberry Waffles With Maple Cranberry Compote: Bright citrus and tart cranberries make these waffles a refreshing yet comforting choice.
- Vegan Pumpkin French Toast: A flavorful alternative to traditional French toast, with a rich pumpkin twist.
- Pumpkin Granola: A crunchy, spiced granola perfect for topping yogurt, smoothies, or enjoying on its own.
Pumpkin Waffles
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Ingredients
- 1 ¼ cups oat flour or all-purpose flour, you can also use oats that you grind in a food processor or coffee grinder
- 2 teaspoons baking powder
- ½ teaspoon baking soda
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 1 small very ripe banana, mashed (about 1/3 cup) – you could also use unsweetened apple sauce or even more pumpkin puree
- ½ cup pumpkin puree
- 1 tablespoon agave nectar or maple syrup
- 1 cup non-dairy milk
- 2 tablespoons coconut oil, (melted) or vegan butter
- 2 teaspoons pumpkin spice
Instructions
- Mix all of the dry ingredients together in a bowl, then mix all of the wet ingredients together in a separate bowl.
- Add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and mix together until fully incorporated.
- Let batter sit for 15 minutes. While the batter rests, preheat your waffle iron according to the manufacturer’s instructions. I set mine two dials before max because I like my waffles crisp but also very fluffy.
- Scoop out about ½ cup of batter and pour it into the waffle maker. Close the lid and let the waffles cook until the steam has completely finished to rise from the waffle maker. Remove each waffle and place on a wire rack until finished with the entire batter.
- Serve while hot with maple syrup, coconut cream, candied pecans, or any other toppings.
Notes
- Store the leftovers in an airtight plastic bag, separated by parchment paper. They’ll last in the fridge for 3 days or in the freezer for 6 months, and can be reheated in the toaster.
- Adjust the amount of batter that you use, and the heat of the waffle iron based on your iron and your preferences.
- After cooking, place the waffles in a single layer on a wire rack to keep them from steaming and getting soggy. Keep them warm in an oven on the lowest setting if you’re making a few batches.
Disclaimer: Although jessicainthekitchen.com attempts to provide accurate nutritional information, kindly note that these are only estimates. Nutritional information may be affected based on the product type, the brand that was purchased, and in other unforeseeable ways. Jessicainthekitchen.com will not be held liable for any loss or damage resulting for your reliance on nutritional information. If you need to follow a specific caloric regimen, please consult your doctor first.