Recipe for Pumpkin Waffles with Caramel Filling

Recipe for Pumpkin Waffles with Caramel Filling

Pumpkin waffles with caramel filling combine the warm flavors of pumpkin and spices with a luscious caramel center for a breakfast treat that feels like dessert. These golden, fluffy waffles are ideal for cozy fall mornings, brunch gatherings, or anytime you crave a comforting dish with a hint of sweetness. This recipe brings out the essence of autumn with every bite, making it a seasonal favorite for the whole family to enjoy.

Ingredients:

For the Pumpkin Waffles:

• 1 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
• 2 teaspoons baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1 tablespoon pumpkin pie spice (or a mix of cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and cloves)
• 3 tablespoons brown sugar
• 2 large eggs
• 1 cup pumpkin puree
• 1 1/4 cups milk (or buttermilk for a tangier taste)
• 1/4 cup melted butter
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

For the Caramel Filling:

• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 1/4 cup heavy cream, warmed
• 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
• A pinch of salt (optional, for salted caramel)

Instructions:

Step 1: Make the Caramel Filling

1. Prepare the Caramel
   In a small saucepan, heat the sugar over medium heat, stirring constantly until it melts and turns a deep amber color.

2. Add Cream and Butter
   Carefully add the warm heavy cream to the melted sugar (it may bubble up). Stir in the butter and a pinch of salt if desired. Stir until smooth and set aside to cool.

3. Allow to Thicken
   Let the caramel cool for a few minutes to thicken slightly. For easier layering, transfer the caramel to a small bowl and let it cool while you prepare the waffle batter.

Step 2: Prepare the Pumpkin Waffle Batter

1. Mix Dry Ingredients
   In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, pumpkin pie spice, and brown sugar.

2. Combine Wet Ingredients
   In another bowl, whisk the eggs until frothy. Add the pumpkin puree, milk, melted butter, and vanilla extract, mixing until smooth.

3. Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients
   Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients, stirring gently until just combined. Be careful not to overmix for light and fluffy waffles.

Step 3: Cook the Waffles

1. Preheat the Waffle Iron
   Preheat your waffle iron according to its instructions and lightly grease it with cooking spray if needed.

2. Layer Batter and Caramel
   Pour a portion of the batter onto the waffle iron. Add a spoonful of caramel to the center, then cover with a bit more batter. Close the waffle iron and cook according to the manufacturer’s directions.

3. Repeat
   Continue with the remaining batter and caramel, making sure to layer caramel inside each waffle.

Step 4: Serve the Waffles

1. Drizzle with Extra Caramel
   For an extra touch of sweetness, drizzle additional caramel over the waffles before serving.

2. Add Toppings
   Garnish with whipped cream, a sprinkle of cinnamon, or a few toasted pecans for an autumn-inspired presentation.

Tips for Making the Perfect Pumpkin Waffles with Caramel Filling

1. Use Fresh Pumpkin Puree: Fresh pumpkin puree can give a richer flavor, but canned works well and is convenient.
2. Thicken Caramel Slightly: Allow the caramel to cool a bit so it doesn’t spread too much in the waffle.
3. Serve Warm: The caramel inside will be gooey when served warm, making each bite more indulgent.

Variations on Pumpkin Waffles with Caramel Filling

1. Maple-Caramel Drizzle
   Add a tablespoon of maple syrup to the caramel for a warm maple flavor.

2. Chocolate Caramel Waffles
   Add a few chocolate chips to the batter for a pumpkin-chocolate twist.

3. Cinnamon Apple Waffles
   Add thinly sliced apples to the batter for an apple-pumpkin combo that’s perfect for fall.

4. Nutty Pumpkin Waffles
   Sprinkle chopped pecans or walnuts into the batter for a nutty crunch.

Storing and Serving Pumpkin Caramel Waffles

1. Refrigeration
   Store leftover waffles in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

2. Freezing
   Freeze waffles in a single layer, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag. Reheat in the toaster or oven.

Serving Ideas for Pumpkin Waffles with Caramel Filling

1. With Fresh Fruit
   Serve with sliced apples, bananas, or pears for a fresh, fruity contrast.

2. As a Dessert Waffle
   Top with vanilla ice cream for a dessert-worthy treat.

3. With a Dusting of Powdered Sugar
   A light dusting of powdered sugar enhances the presentation and adds sweetness.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I Use Store-Bought Caramel?
   Yes, store-bought caramel sauce can save time and works well.

2. Can I Make These Dairy-Free?
   Substitute milk and butter with dairy-free alternatives for a dairy-free version.

3. Is Pumpkin Puree Necessary?
   For a milder flavor, you can reduce the amount of pumpkin or substitute with mashed sweet potato.

Conclusion

Pumpkin waffles with caramel filling bring the best flavors of fall to your breakfast table. With a soft, fluffy texture, a rich caramel surprise inside, and endless topping options, these waffles are a decadent way to celebrate the season. Try them with different variations or serve with your favorite toppings for a memorable autumn treat.