In a large bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, brown sugar, baking powder, baking soda, ground ginger, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt.
In a separate bowl, beat the egg lightly. Add the milk, unsweetened applesauce, vegetable oil, and vanilla extract. Whisk until well combined.
Pour the wet ingredients into the bowl with the dry ingredients. Gently fold together using a spatula until just combined, leaving some lumps.
Preheat your waffle iron according to manufacturer’s instructions. Lightly grease with vegetable oil or nonstick spray.
Pour about 1/3 to 1/2 cup of batter onto the waffle iron. Close the lid and cook for 3-5 minutes until golden brown and crisp. Remove and keep on a wire rack. Repeat with remaining batter.
In a chilled bowl, combine heavy cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract. Whip with an electric mixer or hand whisk until soft peaks form.
Serve waffles warm topped generously with vanilla whipped cream. Optionally sprinkle ground cinnamon or drizzle maple syrup.