Save to Pinterest These fluffy pumpkin-spiced waffles layered with creamy ricotta and finished with a drizzle of maple syrup are everything I crave on a crisp autumn morning. Their warmth and gentle sweetness make them just right for special brunches or cozy weekends at home.
Every single time I serve these, they disappear faster than I can stack them. I created this recipe after a leaf-peeping trip in the mountains, and it reminds me of cozy fall mornings even in the middle of spring.
Ingredients
- All-purpose flour: gives structure for perfectly crisp yet tender waffles. Look for unbleached flour for best flavor and less bitterness
- Brown sugar: deepens the sweetness and highlights the spices. Freshly packed is best to avoid lumps
- Baking powder and baking soda: help the waffles rise and add lightness. Make sure yours are fresh for lift
- Salt: sharpens all the other flavors. Fine sea salt dissolves the most thoroughly
- Ground cinnamon, ginger, nutmeg, cloves: combine for warming spice. Buy from a busy store so they’re fragrant and fresh
- Whole milk: provides moisture and creamy richness. Use cold milk from the fridge
- Pumpkin puree: lends flavor, color, and extra moisture check for deep orange color and no added sugars
- Eggs: bind the batter and give a fluffy texture. Room temperature eggs mix most easily
- Melted unsalted butter: adds richness and tenderness. Use good-quality butter European style ups the flavor
- Vanilla extract: brings warmth and balance. Go for pure vanilla if possible
- Ricotta cheese: creates a creamy filling between waffles. Choose whole milk ricotta for the smoothest spread
- Honey or maple syrup: sweetens the ricotta, harmonizing with autumn spices. Local honey or real maple syrup give the best taste
- Orange zest: brings a hint of brightness to balance the richness. Use organic oranges and zest just the colorful part
- Maple syrup: brings it all together with a sticky-sweet finish. Use real maple syrup, not imitation
- Toasted pecans or walnuts: add crunch and contrast. Toast fresh nuts for nutty aroma and bold flavor
- Powdered sugar: offers an elegant, snowy touch. Sift it over right before serving for prettiest results
Instructions
- Preheat the Waffle Iron:
- Turn on your waffle iron and let it heat up fully as you prepare the batter. This ensures crispy waffles from the first round
- Mix Dry Ingredients:
- In a large mixing bowl, vigorously whisk together all-purpose flour, brown sugar, baking powder, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, ginger, nutmeg, and cloves until evenly blended and no streaks remain
- Combine Wet Ingredients:
- In a separate bowl, combine the whole milk, pumpkin puree, eggs, melted unsalted butter, and vanilla extract. Whisk well until the mixture is smooth and fully homogeneous
- Make the Batter:
- Pour the wet ingredient mixture into the dry ingredients. Using a rubber spatula, gently fold the two together just until you no longer see dry flour. Overmixing will make the waffles dense, so stop as soon as it comes together
- Cook the Waffles:
- Lightly coat your preheated waffle iron with oil or nonstick spray. Carefully pour enough batter to cover the waffle grid in an even layer. Close the lid and cook until the waffles are deep golden brown and crisp at the edges. Gently lift them out and repeat with any remaining batter
- Mix the Ricotta Layer:
- While waffles cook, mix the ricotta cheese, honey or maple syrup, vanilla extract, and orange zest in a small bowl. Stir until completely smooth. Taste and add extra honey or zest if desired
- Assemble the Stacks:
- Place one waffle on your serving plate and spread a generous spoonful of the ricotta mixture evenly over the top. Add a second waffle and another layer of ricotta. Repeat for as many layers as you wish. Top with more ricotta, a flowing stream of maple syrup, and sprinkle with toasted nuts or powdered sugar if using
Save to Pinterest Pumpkin gives incredible flavor and nutrition here. My favorite part is watching my kids reach for the fluffy stacks with sticky fingers—I always try to sneak in extra orange zest to brighten the filling.
Storage Tips
Let leftover waffles cool completely before storing in an airtight container in the fridge. They stay fresh for up to three days. To freeze, place cooled waffles in a single layer. Once frozen, stack with parchment paper between each piece. Reheat straight from frozen in the toaster or oven until crisp and steaming again
Ingredient Substitutions
Mascarpone cheese works instead of ricotta for an even richer filling. Greek yogurt is an extra tangy, lighter option. Gluten-free flour blends can be swapped for all-purpose in a one-to-one ratio for those avoiding wheat. Dairy-free? Use almond milk and a vegan butter plus dairy-free ricotta substitute for delicious results
Serving Suggestions
Dust with extra cinnamon or pumpkin pie spice for dramatic flair. Pile on roasted apples or pears for a fruit-forward take. Pair with spiced chai or cappuccino to cozy up the table
Cultural and Seasonal Inspiration
Pumpkin is deeply tied to autumn comfort in American kitchens and the spices trace back to old-fashioned pumpkin pie. This dish channels that classic feeling and showcases American brunch creativity. Try adapting with other seasonal squashes or winter fruits when pumpkin is not in season
Seasonal Adaptations
Use sweet potato puree in place of pumpkin for a different autumn flavor. Swap in hazelnuts or almonds instead of walnuts or pecans. Add fresh cranberries to the batter for a slight tart burst
Success Stories
My sister requests these every Thanksgiving morning and now they are a holiday tradition. We once served them at a harvest brunch party and not a crumb remained. Friends say these waffles taste even better the next morning reheated and slathered in whipped cream
Freezer Meal Conversion
Bake and cool the waffles fully before storing in freezer bags. Ricotta filling can be prepared up to one day ahead and kept chilled. Stack and serve waffles straight from the toaster for a fast brunch, adding fresh ricotta and syrup to finish
Save to Pinterest Always toast your nuts just before topping so they stay crisp and extra fragrant. If you like your waffles extra crisp, keep them on a wire rack in a low oven until ready to serve. This recipe means autumn can come to your table any time of the year.
Recipe FAQs
- → What spices give the waffles their distinct flavor?
The blend includes cinnamon, ginger, nutmeg, and cloves for a warm autumn spice profile.
- → Can I use mascarpone instead of ricotta?
Yes, mascarpone is a delicious substitution for a richer, creamier layer between the waffles.
- → How can I make the dish nut-free?
Simply omit toasted pecans or walnuts when serving and check ricotta for added nut ingredients.
- → What toppings pair well with these waffle stacks?
Maple syrup, powdered sugar, toasted nuts, fresh berries, and orange zest add great flavor and texture.
- → Can I prepare the waffle batter ahead of time?
For best texture, mix just before cooking, but dry ingredients can be measured ahead and kept airtight.
- → Is this suitable for vegetarians?
Yes, all ingredients are vegetarian-friendly. Just verify your ricotta cheese is made from vegetarian rennet.