Name: Gingerbread Waffles
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 30 min
Ingredients: 2 cups all-purpose flour; 1/4 cup granulated sugar; 1/4 cup brown sugar; 1 teaspoon baking soda; 1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 2 teaspoons ground ginger; 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon; 1/8 teaspoon ground cloves; 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted; 1 cup whole milk, at room temperature; 2 large eggs, at room temperature; 1/4 cup molasses; 1 teaspoon freshly grated ginger; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

These gingerbread waffles are the perfect breakfast for the holiday season. Made with warm spices, rich molasses, and real ginger, they’re crispy on the outside, fluffy on the inside, and full of cozy flavor that makes any morning feel festive.

Gingerbread Waffles

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I love how these waffles turn a regular breakfast into something special. The blend of ginger, cinnamon, and cloves paired with molasses gives them that classic holiday gingerbread flavor. They’re not overly sweet, making them ideal for adding your favorite toppings like whipped cream, syrup, or fruit.

ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

2 cups all-purpose flour
1/4 cup granulated sugar
1/4 cup brown sugar
1 tsp baking soda
1 1/2 tsp baking powder
1/2 tsp salt
2 tsp ground ginger
1 tsp ground cinnamon
1/8 tsp ground cloves
1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
1 cup whole milk, at room temperature
2 large eggs, at room temperature
1/4 cup molasses
1 tsp freshly grated ginger
1 tsp vanilla extract

directions

I whisk together the flour, granulated sugar, brown sugar, baking soda, baking powder, salt, ground ginger, cinnamon, and cloves in a large mixing bowl.
In a separate bowl or large measuring cup, I whisk the melted butter, milk, eggs, molasses, fresh ginger, and vanilla extract until smooth.
I pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and whisk until the batter is smooth.
I let the batter rest for 10 minutes while I preheat the waffle iron on high heat.
Once preheated, I spray the waffle iron with baking spray and scoop the batter into the iron using a large portion scoop.
I cook each waffle for about 5 minutes or until deeply browned and crispy.
I transfer the cooked waffles to a cooling rack set over a baking tray and keep them warm in the oven while I finish cooking the rest.
I serve them warm with syrup and freshly whipped cream.

Servings and timing

This recipe makes 6 servings.
Prep time: 15 minutes
Cook time: 15 minutes
Total time: 30 minutes

Variations

Sometimes I mix chocolate chips or chopped nuts into the batter for a fun twist. I’ve also made them dairy-free using plant-based milk and vegan butter with great results. If I want a more intense spice, I add a pinch of nutmeg or extra ground ginger.

storage/reheating

I store leftover waffles in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. For longer storage, I freeze them in a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months. To reheat, I pop them in the toaster or oven to keep them crispy.

FAQs

Can I make the batter ahead of time?

Yes, I’ve made the batter the night before and kept it in the fridge. I give it a good stir before cooking.

Can I freeze these waffles?

Absolutely. I freeze them in a single layer first, then store in a freezer bag. They reheat perfectly in the toaster.

What toppings go best with gingerbread waffles?

I love whipped cream, maple syrup, or even vanilla yogurt and berries. For something richer, try caramel sauce or cream cheese glaze.

Can I make these gluten-free?

Yes, I’ve used a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend and the results were still delicious.

Do I need fresh ginger?

I prefer using freshly grated ginger for its strong flavor, but ground ginger can be used as a substitute if needed.

Can I use buttermilk instead of whole milk?

Yes, I’ve tried it and it adds a nice tang and fluffier texture.

How do I keep waffles warm while cooking the rest?

I place the cooked waffles on a wire rack over a baking tray in a 200°F oven until all are ready to serve.

Can I use oil instead of butter?

Yes, I’ve used vegetable oil and it works well, though I find butter adds more flavor.

What if I don’t have molasses?

You can substitute with dark corn syrup or maple syrup, but the flavor won’t be as rich or classic.

Are these waffles very sweet?

They’re mildly sweet on their own, which makes them perfect for syrup and toppings without being overwhelming.

Conclusion

These gingerbread waffles are one of my favorite cozy breakfasts during the colder months. They’re full of flavor, easy to make, and always a hit with guests or family. Whether it’s a holiday brunch or just a chilly weekend, they bring warmth to the table.