Pumpkin Nut Waffles
Warm, flavorful pumpkin nut waffles combine the comforting taste of spiced pumpkin with crunchy pecans, making them perfect for a cozy breakfast or brunch. Their rich aroma and balanced spices appeal to all ages, offering a delightful start to any day with a hint of autumn in every bite.
Ingredients
Instructions
- In a large bowl, sift together the flour, baking powder, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg.
- In a separate bowl, beat the egg yolks and then stir in the milk, melted shortening, and pumpkin.
- Fold the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients until just combined.
- In a clean bowl, beat the egg whites until stiff peaks form.
- Gently fold the egg whites into the batter to add lightness.
- Preheat the waffle iron and lightly grease it.
- Pour the batter onto the hot waffle iron and cook until golden brown and crisp.
- Serve warm, topped with additional pecans or syrup if desired.
Tips & Substitutions
For lighter waffles, ensure your egg whites are beaten to stiff peaks before folding them into the batter. If you don't have pecans, walnuts or almonds can be used as a substitute. For a more intense pumpkin flavor, use canned pumpkin puree. Sifting the dry ingredients is essential for removing lumps and ensuring an even mix, which contributes to the perfect texture.
Serving Suggestions
These Pumpkin Nut Waffles are delicious on their own but can be enhanced with toppings like maple syrup, whipped cream, or fresh fruit. They pair beautifully with a side of Tropical Fruit Slaw for a refreshing contrast. For a complete breakfast, serve alongside scrambled eggs or a slice of Kougel.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover waffles in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, pop them in a toaster or a preheated oven at 350°F until heated through and crisp. You can also freeze them for up to 3 months; just layer them with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Pumpkin Nut Waffles contains roughly 429 calories, with 8g protein, 86g carbohydrates, and 10g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin A (98% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (73% of the Daily Value), and calcium (56% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein and vitamin C. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2576mg per serving (112% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make the batter ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the batter a few hours in advance. However, it's best to fold in the egg whites just before cooking to maintain the waffles' light and fluffy texture. Keep the batter covered in the refrigerator until ready to use.
What can I use instead of shortening?
If you prefer not to use shortening, melted butter or coconut oil can be excellent alternatives. Both will provide a similar richness to the waffles. Keep in mind that using butter will add a slightly different flavor profile.
Can I make these waffles vegan?
To make vegan Pumpkin Nut Waffles, substitute the eggs with flaxseed meal or a commercial egg replacer. Use plant-based milk and replace the shortening with coconut oil or a vegan butter alternative. Adjust baking times as needed to achieve the desired texture.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).