Apple Waffles

Apple Waffles

Ingredients (makes 8 waffles)

• 2 cups all-purpose flour

• 2 tbsp granulated sugar

• 1 tbsp baking powder

• 1/2 tsp baking soda

• 1/2 tsp fine salt

• 1 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon

• 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg (optional)

• 2 large eggs

• 1 3/4 cups buttermilk (or 1 3/4 cups milk + 1 3/4 tbsp lemon juice or vinegar, let sit 5 minutes)

• 1/3 cup unsalted butter, melted and slightly cooled

• 1 tsp vanilla extract

• 1 medium apple (about 6–7 oz), peeled, cored and finely diced or grated

• Vegetable oil or nonstick spray for waffle iron

Optional toppings

• Butter

• Maple syrup

• Powdered sugar

• Toasted pecans or walnuts

• Whipped cream

• Caramel sauce

Instructions

1. Preheat and prepare

• Preheat your waffle iron according to the manufacturer's directions. Lightly grease with oil or nonstick spray.

1. Mix dry ingredients

• In a large bowl whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg.

1. Mix wet ingredients

• In a separate bowl whisk the eggs, then add the buttermilk, melted butter, and vanilla; whisk until combined.

1. Combine batter

• Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and stir gently until just combined. Lumps are fine; avoid overmixing. Fold in the diced or grated apple.

1. Cook waffles

• Spoon or pour batter onto the preheated waffle iron (amount depends on your iron — about 1/2 to 3/4 cup). Close the lid and cook until the waffles are golden and crisp and steam has decreased, usually 3–6 minutes depending on your waffle maker. Remove carefully and keep warm on a wire rack in a low oven (about 200°F) if making multiple waffles.

1. Serve

• Serve warm with butter and maple syrup or any preferred toppings. For extra texture, sprinkle with toasted nuts or a drizzle of caramel.

Tips and variations

• Crispier waffles: Separate the eggs. Beat the egg whites to soft peaks and fold into the batter at the end for lighter, crispier waffles.

• Apples: Try tart apples like Granny Smith for contrast, or sweet varieties like Honeycrisp for more sweetness. Leave the skin on for extra texture and fiber if you prefer.

• Spices: Increase cinnamon or add 1/4 tsp ground ginger or cardamom for a different flavor profile.

• Make-ahead: Cook waffles, cool completely, then freeze in a single layer. Reheat in a toaster or oven for a quick breakfast.

• Vegan option: Replace eggs with 1/2 cup applesauce + 2 tbsp oil, use plant-based milk plus 1 3/4 tbsp vinegar for buttermilk, and swap melted butter for coconut oil or vegan butter.

Nutrition (approximate, per waffle without toppings)

• Calories: 250–320

• Protein: 5–7 g

• Fat: 10–14 g

• Carbohydrates: 35–45 g

Adjust quantities and cooking time according to your waffle iron and portion preferences.