Gingerbread Waffles with Vanilla Whipped Cream

There’s something uniquely comforting about the warm spices of gingerbread combined with the crisp, golden goodness of waffles. These Gingerbread Waffles with Vanilla Whipped Cream are the perfect way to bring cozy holiday vibes to your breakfast table any time of the year. Imagine biting into a waffle with all the festive flavors of ginger, cinnamon, and nutmeg, paired with a silky, lightly sweetened vanilla whipped cream that melts in your mouth. Whether you’re looking for a special weekend treat or a crowd-pleasing brunch idea, this recipe is as delightful as it is approachable.

Why This Recipe Is Reliable

What makes this recipe stand out is its balance of spices and texture. The combination of baking powder and baking soda ensures a fluffy waffle with just the right amount of crispiness on the outside. Using unsweetened applesauce instead of extra oil adds moisture and tenderness while keeping it light. The vanilla whipped cream is easy to whip up and adds a luxurious finish that elevates the whole dish. Plus, the ingredients are pantry staples, making it a fuss-free recipe you can trust to deliver consistent, delicious results every time.

What You’ll Need

• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 2 tablespoons brown sugar
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
• 1 teaspoon ground ginger
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1 large egg
• 1 cup milk
• 1/4 cup unsweetened applesauce
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 2 tablespoons powdered sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (for whipped cream)

What’s in the Gear List

• Waffle iron – essential for achieving those perfect crispy edges and fluffy insides.
• Mixing bowls – one for dry ingredients and one for wet ingredients to keep things organized.
• Whisk – for combining ingredients smoothly.
• Electric mixer or hand whisk – to whip the cream to soft peaks.
• Measuring cups and spoons – to ensure precise measurements.
• Spatula – for folding wet and dry ingredients together.

Gingerbread Waffles with Vanilla Whipped Cream Cooking Guide

Step 1: Combine Dry Ingredients

In a large bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, brown sugar, baking powder, baking soda, ground ginger, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt. Mixing these spices evenly at this stage is key to distributing the warm flavors throughout the waffles.

Step 2: Mix Wet Ingredients

In a separate bowl, beat the egg lightly. Add the milk, unsweetened applesauce, vegetable oil, and vanilla extract. Whisk until everything is well combined. The applesauce adds moisture and a subtle sweetness, helping create a tender waffle without excess fat.

Step 3: Combine Wet and Dry Mixes

Pour the wet ingredients into the bowl with the dry ingredients. Gently fold them together using a spatula until just combined. Be careful not to overmix—some lumps are okay and will help keep the waffles light and fluffy.

Step 4: Preheat and Prepare Waffle Iron

Preheat your waffle iron according to the manufacturer’s instructions. Lightly grease it with a small amount of vegetable oil or nonstick spray to prevent sticking.

Step 5: Cook the Waffles

Pour about 1/3 to 1/2 cup of batter onto the center of the waffle iron (adjust based on your waffle maker size). Close the lid and cook for 3-5 minutes or until the waffles are golden brown and crisp. Remove carefully and place on a wire rack to keep crisp while you cook the remaining waffles.

Step 6: Whip the Vanilla Cream

In a chilled bowl, combine the heavy cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract. Using an electric mixer or a hand whisk, whip the cream until soft peaks form. This luscious vanilla whipped cream is the perfect light and creamy complement to the spiced waffles.

Step 7: Serve and Enjoy

Serve your Gingerbread Waffles warm, topped generously with the vanilla whipped cream. For an extra touch, add a sprinkle of ground cinnamon or a drizzle of maple syrup. These waffles pair beautifully with a cozy cup of coffee or spiced tea.

Dietary Customizations

• Dairy-Free: Substitute the milk with almond or oat milk and use coconut cream or a dairy-free whipping cream alternative for the topping.
• Gluten-Free: Swap the all-purpose flour for a 1:1 gluten-free baking flour blend that includes xanthan gum for structure.
• Lower Sugar: Reduce the brown sugar to 1 tablespoon or replace with a natural sweetener like maple syrup in the wet ingredients.
• Egg-Free: Use a flax egg (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 3 tablespoons water) as an egg substitute.

What I Learned Testing

Testing this recipe multiple times revealed a few key insights:

• Using applesauce instead of additional oil or butter keeps the waffles moist without heaviness.
• The balance of spices is crucial—too much ginger or cinnamon can overpower the waffle, so the measured amounts here are just right.
• Whipping the cream just to soft peaks ensures it’s light and airy, complementing but not overwhelming the waffles.
• Allowing the waffles to rest on a wire rack keeps them crispy instead of soggy when stacking.
• For a fun twist, these waffles pair wonderfully with a cup of Russian Cinnamon Buns Plushki or alongside an Easy Pancake Recipe for a festive breakfast spread.

Storage & Reheat Guide

These gingerbread waffles are best enjoyed fresh but can be stored and reheated with ease:

• Refrigerate: Keep cooked waffles in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
• Freeze: Place waffles in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Transfer to a freezer-safe bag and store for up to 2 months.
• Reheat: Toast refrigerated or frozen waffles in a toaster or toaster oven until hot and crisp. Avoid microwaving to maintain crispness.
• Whipped Cream Storage: Whip the vanilla cream fresh just before serving for best texture and taste.

Reader Questions

Can I make these waffles ahead of time for a brunch party?

Absolutely! You can prepare the batter in advance and refrigerate it overnight. Cook the waffles fresh the morning of your brunch for best texture. Alternatively, cook and freeze the waffles ahead, then reheat them in a toaster or oven when ready to serve.

Is there a substitute for heavy cream in the vanilla whipped cream?

You can try using canned coconut cream chilled overnight for a dairy-free alternative. Whip it just like heavy cream, and add powdered sugar and vanilla for flavor. Keep in mind it will have a slight coconut taste.

Can I add mix-ins like chocolate chips or nuts to the batter?

Yes! Adding mini chocolate chips or chopped walnuts can add texture and flavor. Fold them gently into the batter just before cooking to avoid overmixing. Keep in mind that nuts will add crunch and a different flavor profile.

What’s the best way to prevent waffles from sticking to my waffle iron?

Preheat the waffle iron fully and lightly grease the plates with vegetable oil or nonstick spray before each batch. Using a nonstick waffle maker also helps. Avoid opening the waffle iron too early during cooking, as this can cause sticking.

Reader Favorites

• Russian Cinnamon Buns Plushki – A soft, buttery roll with a cinnamon twist that pairs beautifully with any breakfast.
• Easy Pancake Recipe – A simple, fluffy pancake recipe perfect for weekend mornings.

The Last Word

These Gingerbread Waffles with Vanilla Whipped Cream blend the nostalgic warmth of holiday spices with the effortless joy of homemade waffles. They are a wonderful way to brighten up any morning or weekend brunch, delivering flavor and comfort in every bite. With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, this recipe invites you to savor the season — or any season — with a plate full of spiced, fluffy goodness topped with silky, sweet cream. Whether you keep it classic or add your own creative twists, these waffles are sure to become a beloved staple in your breakfast repertoire.

Enjoy every delicious bite!

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