Orange Cranberry Waffles (A Cozy Winter Breakfast)

 

These orange cranberry waffles use dried cranberries and fresh orange zest for a simple, cozy winter breakfast that’s perfect for holidays or weekends.

Orange Cranberry Waffles (A Cozy Winter Breakfast)

Picture this: it’s a cold winter morning, the house is still quiet, and you’re wrapped in a sweater with a warm mug in hand. Outside, it feels gray and chilly, but inside the kitchen is cozy and calm. It’s the kind of morning that calls for a real breakfast — something warm, comforting, and a little special, whether it’s a holiday morning or just a slow weekend in December.

The waffle maker heats up on the counter as the smell of orange zest starts to fill the room. Steam lifts when the lid opens, revealing golden waffles dotted with cranberries, crisp at the edges and soft in the center. Butter melts instantly, syrup drips into every pocket, and suddenly the whole kitchen feels warmer. It’s simple, familiar, and exactly what a winter morning should feel like.

These orange cranberry waffles are made for cozy breakfasts like this — easy enough for a weekend, but festive enough for a holiday morning. Bright citrus and tart cranberries add just the right balance, turning an ordinary breakfast into something that feels a little more special, without any extra fuss.

Enjoy!

What Ingredients Do I Need?

• All-purpose flour - The base of the waffles, giving them structure while keeping the texture light.

• Granulated sugar  -Adds just enough sweetness to balance the tart cranberries and bright citrus.

• Cornstarch - Helps create crisp waffle edges with soft, fluffy centers.

• Baking powder & baking soda - Work together to give the waffles lift and an airy texture.

• Salt - Enhances all the flavors and keeps the waffles from tasting flat.

• Dried cranberries - An easy, pantry-friendly option that adds tart pops of flavor without extra prep.

• Buttermilk - Adds richness and a slight tang, keeping the waffles tender.

• Eggs - Bind everything together and help create structure.

• Unsalted butter - Adds flavor and contributes to those golden, crisp edges.

• Orange zest - Brightens the waffles with fresh citrus aroma and flavor.

Substitutions and Variations

Simple Substitutions

• No buttermilk? - Use milk mixed with a splash of lemon juice or vinegar.

• Out of dried cranberries? - Swap in dried cherries, raisins, or chopped dried apricots.

• Dairy-free option - Use plant-based milk and dairy-free butter.

• No orange zest? - Lemon zest works beautifully for a slightly different citrus note.

Variations

• Holiday Spice Waffles - Add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the batter for extra warmth.

• Nutty Orange Cranberry Waffles - Stir in finely chopped walnuts or pecans for added texture.

Kitchen Notes and Tips

• Don’t overmix the batter — a few small lumps help keep the waffles light.

• Let the waffle maker fully preheat for the crispiest results.

• Lightly grease the waffle iron between batches to prevent sticking.

• These waffles are best served hot, straight from the waffle maker.

• To keep waffles warm for a crowd, place them on a wire rack in a low oven.

• Leftovers can be frozen and reheated in a toaster for easy winter breakfasts.

Make Ahead & Freezing

• Make the batter ahead: The waffle batter can be mixed and stored, covered, in the refrigerator overnight. Give it a gentle stir before cooking.

• Cook ahead for guests: Waffles can be cooked earlier in the day and kept warm in a low oven until ready to serve.

• Freezing leftovers: I do this all the time! Let waffles cool completely, then freeze in a single layer before transferring to a freezer-safe bag or container.

• Reheating: Reheat frozen waffles in a toaster or oven until warm and crisp — no need to thaw first.

• Perfect for busy mornings: Having a batch in the freezer makes cozy winter breakfasts easy, even on hectic holiday mornings.

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    RECIPE IS DOWN BELOW👇     

Harvest Morning Waffles with Pumpkin, Cider and Maple Butter

Wake up to cozy fall flavors with these Harvest Morning Waffles made with pumpkin puree, apple cider, and a drizzle of maple butter. These homemade waffles are crisp on the outside, tender inside, and filled with the comforting taste of autumn. 

Harvest Morning Waffles with Pumpkin, Cider and Maple Butter

The mornings here are crisp and and the leaves are starting to turn which has me yearning for a warm, homemade breakfast — the kind that fills your kitchen with the scent of browned butter and spiced pumpkin. I stumbled across a gorgeous waffle recipe on Pinterest from Half Baked Harvest, and it immediately set the mood for a cozy autumn weekend. I decided to try her flavor combination but didn’t have everything on hand, so I made a few tweaks using what I had in my pantry — a splash of Vermont boiled cider, a hint of pure maple syrup, and plenty of pumpkin purée.

One of my favorite touches in this recipe is the Vermont Boiled Cider — a rich, syrupy concentrate made by slowly reducing fresh apple cider until it becomes thick, glossy, and deeply flavorful. It’s like the essence of an autumn orchard captured in a bottle. Just a spoonful adds a subtle tang and warmth that deepens the pumpkin and spice notes in these waffles. If you’ve never used it before, think of it as maple syrup’s apple-forward cousin — sweet, tart, and perfectly at home in cozy fall baking.

The result? These Harvest Morning Waffles with Pumpkin, Cider and Maple Butter are everything I love about fall on a plate — golden and crisp at the edges, soft and fragrant inside, with a buttery maple drizzle that soaks into every little pocket. Serve them with a mug of hot coffee or tea, and you’ve got the perfect start to a slow, golden morning.

Enjoy!

What Ingredients Do I Need?

These waffles come together with simple, comforting ingredients — each one adding its own layer of cozy fall flavor.

• Butter: Adds rich flavor and that irresistible golden crispness when browned. Pumpkin Purée: The heart of this recipe — creamy, earthy, and naturally sweet. It gives the waffles their beautiful color and tender texture.

• Milk: Keeps the batter smooth and light; you can use whole, 2%, or even a non-dairy option like oat milk.

• Vermont Boiled Cider: This secret ingredient deepens the apple notes and enhances the pumpkin spice — pure autumn in a spoonful.

• Eggs: Help bind the batter and give the waffles structure while keeping them fluffy inside.

• Maple Syrup: A touch of natural sweetness that ties in perfectly with the maple butter topping.

• Vanilla Extract: Adds warmth and rounds out the spices.

• All-Purpose Flour: The base that keeps everything balanced and fluffy.

• Baking Powder & Baking Soda: Give the waffles their rise — ensuring that perfect, airy texture.

• Pumpkin Pie Spice: A comforting blend of cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and cloves that smells like fall in the kitchen.

• Kosher Salt: Just a pinch to balance all the sweetness and spice.

For the Maple Butter:

• Unsalted Butter & Maple Syrup: Whipped together for a creamy, caramel-like topping that melts right into the waffles.

Substitutions & Variations

Ingredient Substitutions:

• Milk: Swap for almond milk, oat milk, or even buttermilk for a tangy twist.

• Vermont Boiled Cider: I use this one. For an alternative use a tablespoon of apple cider concentrate or a mix of 2 tablespoons of apple cider with 1 teaspoon of brown sugar.

• Butter: Use coconut oil or plant-based butter for a dairy-free version.

• Pumpkin Purée: Sweet potato purée or even mashed roasted butternut squash make great alternatives.

Variations:

• Apple Harvest Waffles: Add finely diced apples or a spoonful of apple butter to the batter for extra orchard flavor.

• Pumpkin Maple Pecan Waffles: Stir in chopped pecans and drizzle with a touch of melted chocolate for a dessert-like treat.

• Whole Grain Twist: Replace half the flour with whole wheat flour or oat flour for a heartier, rustic bite.

Kitchen Tips and Notes

• Brown the Butter: Don’t skip this step — it adds a nutty, caramel depth that makes these waffles stand out.

• Let the Batter Rest: A short 10-minute rest allows the flour to hydrate and the leavening to activate, giving you light, crisp waffles.

• Preheat the Iron Well: A hot waffle iron ensures even cooking and those beautifully crisp edges.

• Keep Waffles Warm: Place cooked waffles on a wire rack in a 200°F oven while you finish the batch — this keeps them crisp instead of soggy.

• Serve It Up: These waffles are best fresh, with a generous spoonful of maple butter and a drizzle of warm syrup — maybe even a sprinkle of cinnamon sugar for a farmhouse touch.

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    RECIPE IS DOWN BELOW👇     

Fluffy Banana Spice Waffles: Warm, Cozy & Perfectly Crisp!

Fluffy, spiced, and crisp with every bite—made extra delicious with a lush banana mash in the batter!

Fluffy Banana Spice Waffles

There’s something undeniably comforting about a plate of Fluffy Banana Spice Waffles.  These waffles aren’t just your average breakfast treat—they’re infused with a lush banana mash, which adds natural sweetness, moisture, and an irresistibly tender texture. Unlike traditional waffles, where bananas are often just a topping, this recipe incorporates them directly into the batter, creating a rich, subtly sweet flavor with hints of cinnamon and nutmeg. The result? A waffle that’s golden and crisp on the outside, yet soft and fluffy on the inside—pure breakfast bliss!

These waffles are perfect for any occasion. Whip up a batch on lazy weekend mornings, serve them as a special holiday brunch treat, or even make them for a cozy breakfast-for-dinner night. They’re also a great way to use up overripe bananas—turning them into something warm, spiced, and absolutely delicious. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or just treating yourself, these waffles will make any morning feel a little more special.

What makes this recipe even better is how simple it is to make. You likely already have everything you need in your pantry—flour, baking powder, sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, eggs, milk, and vanilla—plus a couple of ripe bananas. There’s no need for fancy ingredients or complicated steps. Just mash the bananas, mix the batter, and let your waffle iron do the work. In no time, your kitchen will be filled with the warm, inviting aroma of spiced banana goodness, and you’ll have a stack of perfectly crisp, golden waffles ready to be drizzled with maple syrup.

These Fluffy Banana Spice Waffles are more than just breakfast—they’re a warm, cozy experience that brings comfort and joy to any table. So grab those bananas, fire up the waffle iron, and get ready for a deliciously easy homemade treat that will have everyone coming back for more!

Enjoy!

What Ingredients do I need?

Produce:

• Bananas

Dairy:

• Eggs
• Milk

Pantry Staples:

• All-purpose flour
• Baking powder
• Sugar
• Ground cinnamon
• Ground nutmeg
• Vanilla extract

Substitutions and Variations

Substitutions

• Milk:  Almond milk, oat milk, or coconut milk – Any non-dairy milk will work just as well as regular milk.  Greek yogurt or buttermilk – Can be used for a tangier flavor and a slightly thicker batter.
• Sugar:  Coconut sugar – For a more natural, slightly caramelized sweetness.
• Flour:  Whole wheat flour – For a heartier, more nutritious waffle.

Variations

• Chocolate Chip Banana Waffles  Stir in some mini chocolate chips to the batter for a rich, sweet twist on your banana waffles. The chocolate pairs perfectly with the warm spices!

• Berry Banana Waffles  Add fresh or frozen berries like blueberries, strawberries, or raspberries into the batter for a fruity burst of flavor. You can also top with more berries for a fresh finish.

• Coconut Banana Waffles  Mix in some shredded coconut to the batter for a tropical vibe. You could even sprinkle some toasted coconut on top for added texture.

• Nutella Stuffed Banana Waffles  Spread a thin layer of Nutella on the batter before closing the waffle iron, then cook as usual. The Nutella will melt into a gooey, indulgent filling.

Kitchen Tips and Notes

• Use Overripe Bananas:  The riper the bananas, the better! Overripe bananas are naturally sweeter and more flavorful, making them perfect for these waffles. They’ll also mash more easily, which is key for smooth batter.

• Don't Overmix the Batter:  When combining the wet and dry ingredients, mix until just combined. A few lumps are perfectly fine. Overmixing can result in dense waffles, so be gentle!

• Let the Batter Rest:  Allow the batter to rest for about 5-10 minutes before cooking. This gives the baking powder time to activate, resulting in fluffier waffles.

• Preheat Your Waffle Iron:  Make sure your waffle iron is fully preheated before adding the batter. This helps the waffles cook evenly and become crispy on the outside while staying fluffy inside.

• Lightly Grease the Waffle Iron:  Even if your waffle iron is non-stick, a light spray of cooking oil or a brush of melted butter helps to prevent sticking and gives the waffles a golden, crispy exterior.

• Don't Open the Waffle Iron Too Soon:  Wait until the waffles are fully cooked before opening the waffle iron. If you open it too soon, the waffles might tear or stick. Most waffle irons will indicate when they’re done.

• Make Extra for Freezing:  These waffles freeze really well! After cooking, let them cool completely and place them in a single layer on a baking sheet. Once frozen, transfer them to a ziplock bag for up to 2 months. To reheat, simply pop them in the toaster for a quick, crispy breakfast.

     Equipment you may need    

• Waffle Iron - The star of the show! A good waffle iron is essential to get that crispy golden outside and fluffy inside. Try this Waffle Iron for a larger family size.

• Mixing Bowls - You’ll need one large bowl to mix the wet ingredients (bananas, eggs, milk, vanilla) and another for the dry ingredients (flour, baking powder, spices, etc.).

• Whisk - A whisk will help you mix the wet and dry ingredients smoothly. It’s especially useful for breaking up any lumps in the flour.

• Measuring Cups and Spoons - For precise measurements of all your ingredients—especially important when working with dry ingredients like flour, sugar, and spices.

• Spatula or Wooden Spoon - For gently folding the wet and dry ingredients together, without overmixing the batter.

• Non-Stick Cooking Spray  - To lightly grease the waffle iron before cooking the waffles. This ensures they don't stick and helps with crisping.

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Fluffy Banana Spice Waffles: Warm, Cozy & Perfectly Crisp!

8 waffles

2¼ cups (270 g) all purpose flour
4 teaspoons baking powder
½ teaspoon salt
1 tablespoon sugar
½ teaspoon cinnamon
½ teaspoon nutmeg
1 cup mashed bananas about 2 large bananas
2 large eggs, room temperature
1¾ cup (420 ml) milk, room temperature
1 teaspoon vanilla extract

In a large bowl, mash the bananas until smooth. Add the eggs whisking until smooth.  Add the milk and vanilla stirring until combined. Add in the flour, sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, baking powder, and salt.  Stir until combined.  A few lumps are okay.  

Rest the batter at room temperature while preheating the waffle iron.  Once heated lightly oil the waffle iron using a non stick cooking spray.

Using a measuring cup, pour the banana batter onto the preheated waffle iron. Cook according to your waffle iron's instructions.  The waffles should be browned and crisp on the outside.  

Remove the cooked waffle and transfer to a baking sheet or serving plate.  Repeat until all the waffles are made.

Top the waffles with banana slices and a drizzle of maple syrup.

Cider Pumpkin Waffles

Indulge in the cozy flavors of the season with Cider Pumpkin Waffles—warm spices, rich pumpkin, and a hint of apple cider in every golden, fluffy bite. Perfect for crisp autumn mornings or festive winter brunches!

Cider Pumpkin Waffles

Today's recipe tastes so good I know you are going to love them!  Cider Pumpkin Waffles are a cozy and flavorful breakfast treat that blends the essence of autumn and winter. These waffles are made with a rich batter incorporating smooth pumpkin puree and a splash of apple cider, and boiled cider for added oomph, creating a perfect harmony of seasonal flavors. Warm pumpkin pie spices infuse the waffles with a fragrant, spiced aroma reminiscent of a crisp fall morning or a festive winter holiday.

The waffles have a golden, slightly crisp exterior with a tender, fluffy interior. They pair beautifully with a drizzle of maple syrup, a dollop of whipped cream, or a sprinkling of powdered sugar. For an extra indulgence, top them with caramelized apples or pecans to enhance their rustic charm. These waffles are ideal for a cozy breakfast or brunch, celebrating the best flavors of the colder months.  Plus, they're easy to make, versatile, and sure to impress family and friends!  Make this large batch and freeze any leftovers for a warm comforting breakfast all through the season.

Enjoy!

What Ingredients do I need?

• Dairy
• Unsalted butter
• Large eggs

• Canned Goods
• Pumpkin puree

• Baking
• All-purpose flour
• Baking powder
• Baking soda
• Pumpkin pie spice
• Kosher salt

• Pantry
• Vanilla extract
• Maple syrup

• Beverages
• Apple cider
• Boiled cider (optional) - can be purchased here

Substitutions and Variations

Substitutions

• Unsalted Butter: Use melted coconut oil, vegetable oil, or unsweetened applesauce for a dairy-free or lower-fat option.

• Pumpkin Puree: Substitute with sweet potato puree

• Apple Cider: Use apple juice or a mix of water and a touch of apple cider vinegar for a similar flavor.

• Boiled Cider: Omit or reduce apple cider in a saucepan until thickened for a homemade substitute.

• Vanilla Extract: Swap with a small amount of maple flavoring.

• All-Purpose Flour: Replace with whole wheat flour, oat flour, or a gluten-free flour blend for dietary needs.

• Pumpkin Pie Spice: Mix cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and cloves if you don’t have pre-made spice.

• Kosher Salt: Use sea salt or table salt, but adjust the quantity (table salt is finer and saltier).

These swaps ensure flexibility without losing the warm, cozy flavor of the waffles!

Variations

• Top the waffles with caramelized apple slices or an apple compote.

• Add ½ cup of chopped pecans, walnuts, or almonds to the batter for added crunch and flavor.

• Sprinkle extra nuts on top with a drizzle of maple syrup for serving.

Kitchen Tips and Notes

• Use Room-Temperature Ingredients:  Bring eggs, butter, and other refrigerated ingredients to room temperature to ensure a smooth batter and even cooking.

• Don’t Overmix the Batter:  Stir the wet and dry ingredients together until just combined to keep the waffles light and fluffy. Overmixing can make them dense.

• Preheat the Waffle Iron Properly:  Allow your waffle iron to heat thoroughly before adding batter for crispy exteriors. A properly heated iron also helps prevent sticking.

• Grease the Waffle Iron:  Even if your waffle maker is non-stick, lightly grease it with a brush or spray before each batch to ensure easy removal.

• Concentrate the Apple Cider Flavor:  The addition of Boiled Cider gives the dish a concentrated apple flavor plus it will last in your refrigerator up to 6 months.  If you are not using you can simmer apple cider on low heat to reduce it by half before adding it to the batter in addition to the regular called for apple cider.

• Freeze Extras:  Make a double batch and freeze leftovers. Cool waffles completely, wrap them in parchment, and store in an airtight container. Reheat in a toaster or oven for a quick breakfast.

• Check for Doneness:  Don’t rely on the waffle iron’s indicator light alone. Peek inside to ensure the waffles are golden and crisp to your liking.

• Serving Ideas:  These waffles pair beautifully with seasonal toppings like whipped cream, toasted pecans, spiced apple compote, or a drizzle of maple syrup. For a festive twist, add caramel sauce or a dusting of powdered sugar.

These tips help ensure your waffles are perfectly cooked, flavorful, and ready to impress!

     Items you may need     

Boiled Cider

Mixing Bowls 

Mixing Bowls with Lids

Belgian Waffle Maker with Pancake Plates

Dash Mini Waffle Maker

Round Belgian Waffle Maker

Spatula

Small Tongs

Platter

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Cider Pumpkin Waffles

serves 6

6 tablespoons unsalted butter
1 cup pumpkin puree
1 1/2 cups apple cider

1 Tablespoon boiled cider
2 large eggs
2 tablespoons maple syrup
2 teaspoons vanilla extract
2 cups all-purpose flour
1 tablespoon baking powder
1/2 teaspoon baking soda
2 teaspoons pumpkin pie spice
1/2 teaspoon kosher salt

Add all the butter to a medium pot over medium heat. Allow the butter to melt and brown, until it smells toasted, about 2-3 minutes, stirring often. Remove from the heat and pour into a large mixing bowl. Whisk in the pumpkin, cider, eggs, maple syrup, and vanilla. Add the flour, baking powder, baking soda, pumpkin pie spice, and salt, stir until just combined.

Preheat your waffle iron. Cook the waffles according to your waffle iron's directions. Serve topped with butter and maple syrup if desired.