When the cold weather sets in and the holidays come knocking, nothing warms the heart quite like the scent of cinnamon wafting through the kitchen. Picture this: a cozy morning with your loved ones gathered around the table, smiles brightening the chilly air as you serve up a stack of fluffy, golden-brown Cinnamon-Pecan Yeasted Waffles. These delightful treats are not just a breakfast— they’re a comforting hug in waffle form, perfectly blending warm spices and crunchy pecans.
The magic of these waffles comes from their make-ahead batter, allowing you to whisk up the mixture the night before. Imagine waking up to an already-risen batter ready to be transformed into a feast, giving you more time to savor your morning coffee and enjoy each other’s company. Topped with gooey maple syrup and a sprinkle of candied pecans, these waffles are bound to become a new family favorite. Let’s dive into this recipe and bring a little bit of warmth to your mornings!
Why are Cinnamon-Pecan Yeasted Waffles a must?
Comforting, Cozy Breakfast: These waffles deliver a warm, inviting aroma that instantly brightens even the coldest of mornings.
Make-Ahead Convenience: Prepare the batter overnight, saving you precious time in the morning while letting the flavors meld beautifully.
Delicious Texture: Experience the perfect balance of fluffy interiors with a crispy exterior, enhanced by the crunch of pecans in every bite.
Customizable Options: Add chocolate chips, fruits, or experiment with different nuts to make this recipe your own!
Crowd-Pleaser Appeal: Perfect for holiday gatherings or a weekend treat, these waffles are sure to win over your family and friends with their delightful flavors.
Cinnamon-Pecan Yeasted Waffles Ingredients
For the Batter
- Whole Milk – Liquid base for the batter; substitute with almond milk for a dairy-free option.
- Active Dry Yeast – Leavening agent for fluffiness; ensure it’s fresh for optimal rise.
- Unsalted Butter – Adds richness and tenderness; substitute with margarine or coconut oil for a dairy-free alternative.
- Vanilla – Flavor enhancer; use pure vanilla extract for the best taste.
- Light Brown Sugar – Sweetness and moisture; can be swapped with granulated sugar if desired.
- Kosher Salt – Balances sweetness and enhances all flavors; regular table salt can be used as a substitute.
- All-Purpose Flour – Provides structure; a gluten-free flour blend can be used, but results may vary.
- Cinnamon – Adds warm spice; adjust to your preference or omit for plain waffles.
- Large Eggs – Binds ingredients and adds richness; flaxseed meal mixed with water can serve as an egg replacement.
- Pecans (Chopped) – Add crunch and nuttiness; replace with walnuts or omit for a nut-free version.
For Serving
- Candied Pecans – Optional topping for serving; use store-bought or homemade for an extra sweet crunch.
- Maple Syrup – A traditional sweet topping; agave syrup can be a delicious vegan alternative.
How to Make Cinnamon-Pecan Yeasted Waffles
- Warm the Milk: Start by gently warming the whole milk in a saucepan until it’s lukewarm. This helps activate the active dry yeast effectively.
- Dissolve the Yeast: Sprinkle the active dry yeast into the warm milk and allow it to dissolve fully. Wait for about 5 minutes until it becomes frothy, indicating it’s alive and ready to work!
- Mix the Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the melted unsalted butter, vanilla extract, light brown sugar, kosher salt, all-purpose flour, cinnamon, and eggs. Stir in the yeast mixture and mix until smooth and well combined.
- Incorporate Pecans: Gently fold in the chopped pecans, ensuring they’re evenly distributed throughout the batter for that delightful crunch in every bite.
- Refrigerate Overnight: Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate the batter for up to 9 hours to allow it to rise and develop flavor.
- Preheat the Waffle Iron: When you’re ready to cook, preheat your waffle iron. A hot iron is crucial to achieve that golden brown exterior!
- Cook the Waffles: Pour an appropriate amount of batter into the preheated waffle iron, ensuring not to overfill. Cook the waffles until they’re crispy and golden brown, about 3-5 minutes, depending on your waffle iron.
- Serve With Toppings: Keep the cooked waffles warm in a low oven while you finish the rest. Serve them hot with maple syrup and a sprinkle of candied pecans for an extra treat!
Optional: Drizzle with whipped cream for a decadent twist!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Make Ahead Options
These Cinnamon-Pecan Yeasted Waffles are a fantastic choice for busy home cooks looking to save time! You can prepare the waffle batter the night before and refrigerate it for up to 9 hours—this allows the flavors to meld beautifully. Simply follow the initial steps to mix the ingredients and then cover the bowl tightly to prevent drying out. When you’re ready to cook, just preheat your waffle iron and pour in the batter as usual. This way, you’ll have delicious, fresh waffles with minimal morning hassle, ensuring that breakfast is still a delightful gathering moment for your loved ones!
How to Store and Freeze Cinnamon-Pecan Yeasted Waffles
Fridge: Store leftover waffles in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a toaster for a quick and tasty breakfast.
Freezer: Freeze cooked waffles by placing them in a single layer on a baking sheet until solid, then transfer to a freezer bag. They can last for up to 3 months.
Reheating: For the best texture, reheat frozen waffles in a toaster or a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-12 minutes until heated through.
Make-Ahead Storage: If you want to prepare the batter in advance, keep it covered in the refrigerator for up to 9 hours before cooking your Cinnamon-Pecan Yeasted Waffles.
Cinnamon-Pecan Variations
Feel free to get creative with these delightful variations to suit your taste and dietary preferences!
- Nut-Free: Omit the pecans or replace them with sunflower seeds for a nut-free alternative that still adds crunch.
- Dairy-Free: Substitute whole milk with unsweetened almond milk and unsalted butter with coconut oil for a dairy-free treat.
- Fruit-Infused: Fold in fresh blueberries or mashed bananas for a fruity twist; they’ll add natural sweetness and moisture.
- Chocolate Lover’s: Mix in semi-sweet or dark chocolate chips for an indulgent chocolate version that’s sure to please any sweet tooth!
- Spice It Up: Add a pinch of nutmeg or ginger to the batter for an extra layer of warmth and complexity—just a little can transform the flavor!
- Vegan Option: Use flaxseed meal mixed with water as an egg substitute, and select a plant-based milk and oil to create a delicious vegan version.
- Crispy Edges: For added texture, sprinkle a little cornmeal into the batter for a delightful crunch in every bite!
- Savory Twist: Incorporate crumbled bacon or cheese for a savory version; this unusual combination will surprise and delight!
With these options, you can make each batch a new adventure in flavor.
What to Serve with Cinnamon-Pecan Yeasted Waffles?
To create a memorable breakfast experience, consider these delightful pairings that enhance the flavors of your waffles while adding a wholesome touch.
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Fresh Berries: The bright acidity of strawberries, blueberries, or raspberries provides a refreshing contrast to sweet, rich waffles. Nestled atop your waffles, they’ll add a burst of color and nutrition.
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Whipped Cream: Light and airy, homemade whipped cream takes your waffle experience to a new level. Its creamy texture complements the crispy waffles perfectly, creating a decadent treat everyone will love.
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Greek Yogurt: For a tangy twist, serve a dollop of Greek yogurt. Its creamy richness balances the sweetness while providing a protein boost, making this breakfast even more satisfying.
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Candied Pecans: Add a sprinkle of these sweet and crunchy nuts on top for an irresistible texture that enhances the pecan flavor in the waffles. They create a delightful crunch in each bite, making your meal feel extra special.
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Maple Syrup: A classic companion for waffles, drizzling warm maple syrup brings that cozy sweetness that makes breakfast feel like a hug. Its rich flavor is the perfect complement to spiced waffles.
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Hot Coffee or Tea: A steaming cup of coffee or a cozy tea cuts through the sweetness of the waffles while warming your soul. Plus, sipping on a comforting beverage as you enjoy your breakfast is the perfect way to savor each bite.
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Sautéed Apples: Warm apples sautéed with cinnamon add an extra layer of flavor and warmth. Their soft, spiced profile pairs beautifully with the crunch of pecans, creating a comforting combination.
Expert Tips for Cinnamon-Pecan Yeasted Waffles
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Active Yeast Check: Always proof your yeast before mixing—dissolve it in warm milk and wait for it to foam. This confirms it’s alive and will give your waffles the perfect rise.
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Proper Mixing Technique: Avoid over-mixing the batter. Stir just until ingredients are combined to keep the waffles light and fluffy.
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Controlled Cooking: Preheat your waffle iron adequately. A hot iron results in crispy, golden-brown exteriors while keeping the insides fluffy and airy.
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Don’t Overfill: Adding too much batter can lead to messy overflow. Use a ladle for a consistent waffle size and so your waffles cook evenly.
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Cooling Racks: If you want to maintain the crispiness, place cooked waffles on a cooling rack instead of stacking them. This prevents steaming and keeps them delightful until served.
Cinnamon-Pecan Yeasted Waffles Recipe FAQs
What kind of milk is best for the batter?
You can use whole milk for a rich flavor, but almond milk is a great dairy-free alternative. Just ensure it is unsweetened to keep the flavor balanced and true to the recipe.
How should I store leftover waffles?
Leftover waffles can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Just pop them in the toaster for a quick reheat that’ll bring back their crispy texture.
Can I freeze Cinnamon-Pecan Yeasted Waffles?
Absolutely! To freeze, place the cooked waffles in a single layer on a baking sheet until they’re completely frozen. Then transfer them to a freezer bag, where they can live happily for up to 3 months. Just remember to reheat in a toaster or a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-12 minutes for the best texture.
What can I do if my waffles aren’t rising well?
Make sure your yeast is fresh and activate it properly by dissolving it in lukewarm milk before mixing it into the batter. If your waffles are flat, check the yeast’s expiration date and consider proofing it to ensure it’s alive before adding to the batter.
Are there any dietary considerations for the ingredients?
Yes! For those with nut allergies, you can skip pecans or substitute them with sunflower seeds or pumpkin seeds for a crunchy element. Additionally, for egg-free options, try replacing the eggs with a flaxseed meal and water mixture; mix 1 tablespoon of flaxseed meal with 2.5 tablespoons of water per egg and let it sit for a few minutes until it thickens.
How can I enhance the flavor of the waffles?
Consider adding a splash of nutmeg for warmth or using a splash of orange juice in place of a bit of the milk for a zesty twist. Experiment with the cinnamon and sugar amounts too—find your perfect balance!
Cinnamon-Pecan Yeasted Waffles: Your Perfect Make-Ahead Treat
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Warm the milk in a saucepan until lukewarm to activate the yeast.
- Sprinkle the yeast into the warm milk and dissolve fully, waiting for about 5 minutes until frothy.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine melted butter, vanilla, brown sugar, salt, flour, cinnamon, and eggs. Stir in the yeast mixture until smooth.
- Fold in the chopped pecans to evenly distribute them throughout the batter.
- Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate the batter for up to 9 hours.
- Preheat the waffle iron.
- Pour batter into the preheated waffle iron and cook until crispy and golden brown, about 3-5 minutes.
- Serve waffles hot with maple syrup and candied pecans.