Vegan Pumpkin Waffles

Fluffy, spiced, and packed with pumpkin flavor, these vegan pumpkin waffles are the perfect fall breakfast. Easy to make and naturally dairy-free, they're a cozy treat everyone will love!

These vegan pumpkin waffles are crispy on the outside, tender on the inside, and full of seasonal spice.

Made in one bowl using only pantry-friendly ingredients, these waffles come together quickly on a budget!

This recipe is adapted from our vegan pumpkin pancakes recipe. Be sure to check those out too if you like to enjoy your pumpkin breakfast treats in many forms!

Ingredients You'll Need

Here is your waffle grocery list:

• All purpose flour: Forms the structure of the waffles and gives them a tender, yet sturdy texture.
• Baking powder: A leavening agent that helps the waffles rise and become fluffy.
• Baking soda: Works with acidic ingredients (like pumpkin) to create additional lift and lightness.
• Salt: Enhances the flavor of the waffles and balances the sweetness.
• Spices: Provide a subtle, zesty spice for depth of flavor.
• Pumpkin puree: Moisturizes the waffles and gives them their signature pumpkin flavor and color.
• Nondairy milk: Provides liquid to create the batter while keeping it vegan.
• Light brown sugar: Adds sweetness and a subtle molasses flavor.
• Molasses: Enhances the richness of flavor and adds a deeper, caramel-like sweetness.
• Vegan butter, melted: Adds richness, tenderness, and flavor to the waffles.
• Vanilla extract: Rounds out the flavor and adds a sweet, aromatic note.

Why You'll Love These Waffles

• Fluffy and tender - Light, airy texture with just the right amount of crispiness on the edges.
• Warm, autumn flavors - Cinnamon, ginger, nutmeg, and cloves perfectly complement the pumpkin.
• Moist and rich - Pumpkin puree and melted vegan butter keep every bite soft and satisfying.
• Perfect for toppings - Pairs beautifully with maple syrup, vegan butter, fresh fruit, or nut butter.
• Vegan-friendly - Made entirely plant-based without sacrificing flavor or texture.

How to Make Vegan Pumpkin Waffles (step-by-step!)

Please see the recipe card at the bottom of the page for full instructions and ingredient measurements.

Begin by whisking together all of the dry ingredients. Add the remaining waffle ingredients to the bowl and mix until just combined. Do not over-mix!

Cook the waffles in your waffle maker according to manufacturer instructions.

Serve with cinnamon butter, maple syrup and powdered sugar!

Tips and Tricks

1. Don't over-mix the batter - Mix just until the wet and dry ingredients are combined. Over-mixing can make the waffles dense.
2. Let the batter rest - Allowing it to sit for 5-10 minutes lets the baking powder activate and the flavors meld.
3. Use room temperature ingredients - Nondairy milk and melted vegan butter at room temperature help the batter rise evenly.
4. Preheat your waffle iron - A hot, well-greased waffle iron ensures a crispy exterior while keeping the inside tender.
5. Add a touch of extra spice - If you love warm autumn flavors, increase cinnamon or nutmeg slightly for a more pronounced taste.
6. Don't lift too early - Let the waffles cook fully in the iron before opening to avoid splitting or sticking.

How to Keep Your Waffles From Sticking

Here are a few tips to keep your waffles from sticking:

1. Preheat your waffle iron fully: A fully heated iron ensures even cooking and helps the waffles release easily. Most irons have an indicator light-wait until it signals "ready."
2. Lightly grease the iron: Even if your waffle iron is nonstick, brush or spray it lightly with vegan butter or neutral oil (like canola or avocado) before the first waffle.
3. Don't over-fill the waffle iron: Too much batter can overflow and stick. Use the recommended amount for your specific waffle iron.
4. Avoid opening too early: Let the waffle cook fully and steam release before lifting the lid. Opening too soon can tear the waffle.
5. Use a nonstick or silicone spatula to remove: Avoid metal utensils that can scratch the surface. Gently lift the waffle with a silicone spatula if it seems stuck.
6. Clean between batches if needed: Residue from previous waffles can cause sticking. Wipe the plates with a lightly oiled paper towel if necessary.

Frequently Asked Questions

Common Mistakes and How to Fix Them

1. Waffles are soggy or dense
   • Cause: Batter too wet, over-mixing, or waffle iron not hot enough.
   • Fix: Use the exact batter ratios, mix until just combined, and preheat the waffle iron fully. Let steam escape before removing the waffle.
2. Waffles stick to the iron
   • Cause: Iron not greased, batter over-filled, or opening too early.
   • Fix: Lightly grease the waffle iron, use correct batter amount, and wait until the waffle is fully cooked before lifting.
3. Edges are burnt while the center is undercooked
   • Cause: Iron too hot or uneven heat distribution.
   • Fix: Reduce cooking temperature slightly and allow preheating to be even. Rotate waffles if your iron allows it.
4. Waffles fall apart when removing
   • Cause: Undercooked or overly soft batter.
   • Fix: Let waffles cook fully and use a silicone spatula to gently lift them out.
5. Waffles are flat and not fluffy
   • Cause: Not enough leavening, or over-mixing deflates the batter.
   • Fix: Make sure baking powder and soda are fresh, and fold batter gently until just combined.

Recipe Variations

Here are a few fun ways you can church up your waffles!

1. Chocolate Chip Pumpkin Waffles: Fold in ½ cup vegan chocolate chips for a sweet, melty twist.
2. Spiced Nut Waffles: Add ½ cup chopped walnuts or pecans for crunch and extra autumn flavor.
3. Spiced Orange Pumpkin Waffles: Add 1 teaspoon orange zest and a pinch of ground cloves for a citrusy twist.
4. Maple Pecan Waffles: Mix 2 tablespoons maple syrup into the batter and top with toasted pecans.
5. Gingerbread Pumpkin Waffles: Swap ¼ teaspoon cloves for ground allspice and ¼ teaspoon ginger for a warm, spicy variation.
6. Savory Pumpkin Waffles: Omit the sugar and spices, add 1 teaspoon garlic powder and ¼ teaspoon smoked paprika for a savory breakfast or side dish.

Make Ahead Tips

Here are a few tips for the people who like to get ahead:

• Batter Prep - Mix the waffle batter a day ahead and store it in an airtight container in the fridge. Give it a gentle stir before cooking.
• Pre-Cook & Freeze - Cook the waffles completely, let them cool, then freeze in a single layer on a baking sheet. Once frozen, transfer to a freezer-safe bag for quick mornings.
• Reheating - Reheat frozen waffles in a toaster, oven, or air fryer to get them crisp again.
• Batch Cooking - Double the recipe and freeze half of the cooked waffles for an easy grab-and-go breakfast all week.
• Toppings Ready - Prep fruit compotes, nuts, or vegan whipped cream in advance for fast assembly.

Serving Suggestions

In my experience, these are the BEST ways to enjoy these vegan pumpkin waffles:

1. Classic Breakfast - Stack 2-3 waffles, drizzle with maple syrup, and top with fresh berries or sliced bananas.
2. Vegan Whipped Cream - Add a dollop of dairy-free whipped cream and a sprinkle of cinnamon or pumpkin spice.
3. Nutty Crunch - Top with chopped toasted pecans, walnuts, or almonds for extra texture.
4. Fruit Compote - Serve with warm apple, cranberry, or berry compote for a seasonal twist.
5. Chocolate Lovers - Drizzle melted vegan chocolate or sprinkle vegan chocolate chips over the top.
6. Savory Option - For a brunch twist, top with sautéed greens or vegan "bacon" and a drizzle of vegan cheese sauce.

If you make this recipe please tag @censoredbaker on Instagram!

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