Bring a taste of apple pie to your breakfast table with a big batch of these apple cinnamon waffles. Their cozy fall flavors make them perfect for welcoming the cooler months.

cinnamon apple waffles recipe with whipped cream and an apple slice on top.

Plus, making waffles from scratch is fun! With simple ingredients and straightforward instructions, this recipe is so easy just about anyone can whip up a batch of these delicious waffles.

The combination of warm cinnamon and sweet apples gives these waffles a homey vibe that’s the perfect comforting vibe, especially for chilly fall mornings. Your home will smell amazing.

The taste and texture make them even better than they smell. The light, fluffy waffle batter and tender pieces of apple combine for a texture that’s crispy on the outside and soft and airy on the inside.

As for nutrition, the apples in the batter not only add a serving of fruit for the day but also natural sweetness. That reduces the need to add as much syrup as we do to plain waffles. These cinnamon apple waffles are also customizable. You can try them with different toppings, syrups, or even mix-ins to create new flavor combinations.

apple cinnamon waffles with whipped cream on top on a white plate.

What to serve with apple cinnamon waffles

Top the waffles with homemade whipped cream and drizzle about a tablespoon of pure maple syrup for a sweet, creamy finish.

Balance the sweetness with a side of crispy bacon or savory sausage. To increase the meal’s overall nutrition, add more protein and fiber with a half-cup of cooked rolled oats topped with fresh berries.

While waffles aren’t strictly a breakfast food, the usual morning drinks go best with them — cold milk, a mug of hot coffee, juice and tea.

Dietary substitutions you can try with these waffles

Waffles are a comfort food, without a doubt, but that doesn’t mean you can try a few things to suit any dietary considerations you have for yourself, family or guests.

If you’re aiming for lower sugar, reduce the amount of granulated sugar by one-quarter to one half. While they won’t be as sweet, the apples will help make the difference.

You could also swap the sugar for a substitute. Just use the recommended conversation ratio for the sweetener you choose. Plus, you could opt for a sugar-free syrup.

To make these waffles gluten free, replace the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend made from rice, almond, or chickpea flour. If the blend you use doesn’t include xanthan gum or guar gum, add 1/4 teaspoon of either to the mix to help with binding and structure.

These adjustments will alter the taste and texture, so you may need to experiment a bit to get them just right for your preferences.

Ingredients needed for this apple cinnamon waffles recipe

Here are the ingredients to gather when you make these delicious waffles.

All-Purpose Flour: Forms the waffle batter base.
Sugar: Just enough for added sweetness.
Baking Powder & Baking Soda: Help the waffles rise to become light and fluffy.
Salt: Balances the sweetness and enhances the other flavors.
Cinnamon: Brings a warm, cozy spice to the waffles.
Milk: Creates a smooth, creamy batter.
Butter: Leeps the waffles moist and tender.
Eggs: Help bind the ingredients and add richness.
Vanilla Extract: Provides depth of flavor.
Apples: Whether finely chopped, grated, they give the waffles a burst of sweet, fruity flavor.
Whipped Cream: My homemade recipe is so easy and linked in the recipe. It adds a creamy, indulgent touch as an optional topping.
Maple Syrup: Adds a classic, sweet finish.

Be sure to check out the full ingredient measurements and complete recipe below.

Kitchen Equipment Needed

Two mixing bowls
Waffle maker
Grater
Tongs

Frequently asked questions about apple cinnamon waffles

Whenever I serve or share these apple cinnamon waffles, I get the same questions, which I have answered below. Comment if you have a question I’ve not covered, and I will respond as soon as I can!

How do you make waffles crispy and not soggy?

To prevent your waffles from becoming soggy, start with your apples. Once you chop or grate them, squeeze out any excess liquid before adding them to the batter.

Next, let the batter rest for 5-10 minutes before cooking. With the traditional all-purpose flour recipe like this one, the extra time allows the gluten to relax and the baking powder to start activating, resulting in more tender waffles.

Be careful not to overload the waffle iron with batter. Then, be sure to cook them until they’re a deep golden brown. Once cooked, avoid stacking the hot waffles directly on top of one another; the steam can cause them to become soggy.

What is the difference between pancake batter and waffle batter?

While pancake and waffle batters share many ingredients, waffle batter typically contains more sugar and fat, resulting in a crispier texture and richer flavor. Waffle batter also often includes a leavening agent, like baking powder, which helps create those airy pockets in the waffle grid.

How to store waffles without getting soggy?

To store waffles without them getting soggy, you’ll skip the fridge and send them straight to the freezer. Well, almost.

First, let them cool completely on a wire cooling rack, then place them in a single layer on a baking sheet. Freeze the waffles for about an hour before transferring them to an airtight container or freezer bag for long-term storage.

How to reheat waffles so they are crispy?

To reheat waffles and keep them crispy, place them in a single layer on a baking sheet and heat them at medium heat in a preheated 350°F oven for about 10 minutes, or until they’re warmed through and crisp. Avoid using the microwave, which usually makes them soggy.

How to jazz up waffles?

Try experimenting with various toppings and mix-ins. Fresh berries, sliced bananas, chocolate chips, and flavored syrups are all delicious options to consider. You can also try adding spices like nutmeg or cardamom to the batter for a unique twist on these classic apple waffles.

apple waffles with cinnamon and whipped cream topping.

More Grandma-Approved Recipes To Try

If you enjoyed this waffle recipe, take a look at some of these other yummy breakfast treats:

Have you made apple cinnamon waffles? What about other variations? I’d love to hear what you do in the comments below!