Jump to Recipe Print RecipeThe aroma of gingerbread wafting through the air instantly transports me back to festive mornings spent gathered around the table with loved ones. These Christmas Morning Gingerbread Waffles bring all the holiday warmth straight to your breakfast plate, with their light and crispy texture capturing the essence of traditional gingerbread. What makes this recipe a must-try? For one, they’re a delightful treat that adds a festive flair to your holiday brunch, and second, they’re freezer-friendly, making them perfect for busy mornings. Drenched in maple syrup and crowned with fluffy whipped cream, these waffles are sure to become a new favorite. Are you ready to create some delicious holiday memories? Why are Gingerbread Waffles a Holiday Must-Try? Warm, Festive Flavor: The blend of ginger, cinnamon, and cloves envelops your senses in a cozy embrace that perfectly captures the holiday spirit. Freezer-Friendly: Prepare a batch ahead of time, popping them in the freezer for a quick, delightful breakfast on busy Christmas mornings. Simply reheat for that freshly-made taste! Light & Crispy: The unique texture of these waffles combines a light, airy interior with a crispy exterior, making each bite irresistible. Family-Approved: Kids and adults alike will love the sweet, spiced goodness, ensuring smiles all around the breakfast table. Versatile Toppings: Whether you prefer maple syrup, fresh fruits, or a dollop of whipped cream, these waffles are a blank canvas for your holiday favorites. Bring the holiday cheer into your kitchen with these festive Cinnamon Roll Muffins or add a burst of flavor with delightful Lemon Blueberry Muffins. Christmas Morning Gingerbread Waffle Ingredients • Perfect for festive gatherings! For the Waffle Batter All-purpose flour – Works as the base for the waffle batter, providing structure. Granulated sugar – Adds sweetness; can be replaced with coconut sugar for a deeper flavor. Brown sugar – Provides added moisture and sweetness; feel free to use light or dark based on what you have. Baking soda – Essential for lightness; avoid substituting it with baking powder as they function differently. Baking powder – Ensures that the waffles rise beautifully. Salt – Enhances flavors; fine sea salt is recommended for better integration. Ground ginger – Infuses warmth and spice; consider using fresh ginger for an intensified flavor. Ground cinnamon – Adds a cozy, warm spice that you can adjust to your liking. Ground cloves – Adds depth of flavor; optional based on personal preference. Unsalted butter – Provides richness and flavor; can substitute with melted coconut oil or margarine. Whole milk – Hydrates the batter; low-fat milk can be used if preferred, but whole gives superior texture. Eggs – Contributes moisture and structure; room temperature is ideal for best blending. Molasses – Delivers rich sweetness and color; dark corn syrup can be used in a pinch, but won’t replicate the full flavor. Freshly grated ginger – Boosts spice levels; can substitute with more ground ginger if needed. Vanilla extract – Enhances flavor depth; pure vanilla extract will yield the best results. Indulge in the cozy flavors of the holiday with these delectable Christmas Morning Gingerbread Waffles! Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Christmas Morning Gingerbread Waffles Step 1: Combine Dry Ingredients In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, brown sugar, baking soda, baking powder, salt, ground ginger, ground cinnamon, and ground cloves until well blended. This mixture should look light and airy, ensuring your Christmas Morning Gingerbread Waffles will rise perfectly. Step 2: Mix Wet Ingredients In a separate container, whisk the melted unsalted butter, whole milk, eggs, molasses, freshly grated ginger, and vanilla extract until smooth and well combined. The mixture should be creamy and slightly glossy; this blend of flavors is what will elevate your waffles into a festive delight. Step 3: Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures Carefully pour the wet mixture into the dry ingredients, using a whisk to mix until just smooth. Be cautious not to over-mix; some lumps are okay, and this step helps create the ideal texture for your Christmas Morning Gingerbread Waffles. Let the batter rest for about 10 minutes to achieve a lighter consistency. Step 4: Preheat Waffle Iron While the batter rests, preheat your waffle iron on high heat and coat it with baking spray for a non-stick surface. This will ensure that your Christmas Morning Gingerbread Waffles come out easily and have a delightful, crispy texture. Step 5: Cook the Waffles Using a portion scoop, fill the preheated waffle iron with the batter, spreading it evenly. Close the lid and cook for approximately 5 minutes, or until the waffles are deep golden brown and crispy on the outside. Keep an eye on them for that perfect golden hue! Step 6: Keep Waffles Warm Once cooked, gently transfer the waffles onto a cooling rack placed in a warm oven. This prevents them from becoming soggy while you finish cooking the remaining batter, ensuring every waffle is served warm and crisp. Step 7: Serve and Enjoy When all waffles are cooked, serve them warm, topped with your choice of maple syrup and fluffy whipped cream. The aromatic spices will awaken your senses, making these Christmas Morning Gingerbread Waffles a special treat for your holiday gathering. What to Serve with Christmas Morning Gingerbread Waffles The sweet, spicy aroma of these delightful waffles makes the perfect centerpiece for a festive breakfast spread. Maple Syrup: A classic pairing, its rich sweetness enhances the warm spices in the waffles, elevating each bite to a new level of deliciousness. Vanilla Whipped Cream: Light and airy, this luscious topping adds a creamy touch that balances the spiced flavors beautifully and creates a festive presentation. Fresh Berries: Bright, tart fruits like raspberries or strawberries provide a refreshing contrast to the sweet waffles, adding color and nutrition to your plate. Crispy Bacon: The savory crunch of bacon offers a delightful textural contrast to the fluffy waffles, making for a balanced sweet and salty breakfast experience. Spiced Apple Compote: Warm, cinnamon-infused apples bring a comforting, homey flavor that pairs perfectly with the gingerbread profile of the waffles. Hot Chocolate: A steaming mug of rich hot chocolate with a sprinkle of nutmeg creates a cozy beverage pairing, perfect for festive mornings with family. Nutty Granola: A sprinkle of granola adds crunch and mouthfeel, complimenting the soft texture of the waffles while introducing a nutty flavor that rounds out the meal. Chai Tea: The warm spices of chai harmonize beautifully with gingerbread, creating a drinking experience that embraces the holiday spirit. Embrace the festive atmosphere with these delightful accompaniments, ensuring your Christmas Morning Gingerbread Waffles shine at your holiday table! Make Ahead Options These Christmas Morning Gingerbread Waffles are perfect for busy cooks looking to save time on special breakfast occasions! You can prepare the batter up to 24 hours in advance. Just whisk together all the dry ingredients and wet ingredients separately, then store the mixtures in the refrigerator. When you’re ready to cook, simply combine them, let the batter rest for about 10 minutes, and cook as directed. If you want to prepare even further ahead, you can cook the waffles and freeze them in a single layer; they’ll stay fresh for up to 3 months. Reheat in a toaster until crispy before serving, ensuring they taste just as delightful as fresh! Christmas Morning Gingerbread Waffles Variations Feel free to get creative and make this Gingerbread Waffle recipe your own with these fun twists! Buttermilk Boost: Swap out whole milk for buttermilk to add a delightful tanginess that pairs beautifully with the spices. This subtle change enhances each bite, creating a uniquely flavorful experience. Pancake Perfection: Want pancakes instead? Use the same batter in a skillet to whip up delicious, fluffy pancakes for an alternative breakfast option that everyone will enjoy. Nutty Delight: Stir in a handful of chopped nuts, like walnuts or pecans, for extra crunch and depth of flavor. This variation allows the waffles to shine with added texture. Chocolate Indulgence: Mix in some chocolate chips for a sweet twist that your family will adore. The melty chocolate contrasts perfectly with the spices, elevating your festive breakfast. Spicy Kick: For those who enjoy a bit of heat, add a dash of cayenne pepper to the batter. Just a pinch packs a punch, creating a delightful balance of sweet and spicy that will tickle your taste buds. Fruit Fusion: Fold in some fresh berries, like blueberries or raspberries, for a burst of freshness in every bite. These juicy pieces enhance the overall waffle experience and bring a pop of color. Vegan Version: Substitute the eggs with chia or flax eggs, and replace milk with almond milk. This allows everyone to enjoy these delicious waffles without compromising taste or texture. For more delightful breakfast ideas, consider trying our scrumptious Cinnamon Roll Muffins or our refreshing Lemon Blueberry Muffins. Each brings their own festive touch that’s perfect for your holiday celebrations! How to Store and Freeze Christmas Morning Gingerbread Waffles Fridge: Store leftover waffles in an airtight container for up to 4 days. This keeps them fresh and ready for a cozy breakfast or snack anytime. Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the waffles in single layers, separated by parchment paper, for up to 3 months. This prevents sticking and ensures easy access when you need a quick breakfast. Reheating: To enjoy freshly made flavors, reheat frozen waffles in a toaster or oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-7 minutes. This restores their delightful crispiness and warmth. Serving Fresh: Serve warm with maple syrup and whipped cream for that festive touch. Your Christmas Morning Gingerbread Waffles will be a hit all over again! Tips for the Best Christmas Morning Gingerbread Waffles Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure that all wet ingredients are at room temperature to create a smooth batter that combines easily and leads to fluffy waffles. Don’t Over-Mix: Mix the batter until just combined; some lumps are okay. Over-mixing can lead to tough waffles, compromising that light, fluffy texture. Rest the Batter: Allowing the batter to rest for 10 minutes relaxes the gluten, resulting in lighter Christmas Morning Gingerbread Waffles that are crisp on the outside and tender within. Watch Cooking Time: Every waffle iron is different! Stay vigilant while cooking to avoid over-browning; look for a deep golden color and listen for that lovely sizzle. Keep Them Warm: Transfer waffles to a cooling rack in a warm oven to prevent sogginess and ensure every waffle is crispy when served. Customize Toppings: Experiment with toppings like whipped cream, fresh berries, or flavored syrups. These additions can elevate the festive feel of your Christmas Morning Gingerbread Waffles! Christmas Morning Gingerbread Waffles Recipe FAQs How do I select the best ripeness for ingredients like fresh ginger? Absolutely! When selecting fresh ginger, look for firm roots that are smooth and free of wrinkles or dark spots. The fragrance should be strong and spicy, indicating freshness. If the ginger feels soft, it’s likely past its prime and won’t provide the intense flavor you want for your Christmas Morning Gingerbread Waffles. What’s the best way to store leftover gingerbread waffles? You can keep leftover waffles in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Make sure they’re cooled before storing to prevent moisture buildup, which can make them soggy. I often recommend placing a paper towel inside the container to absorb excess moisture, ensuring your waffles stay fresh and delicious! Can I freeze gingerbread waffles for later use? Absolutely! To freeze your Christmas Morning Gingerbread Waffles, place them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze them for about an hour until solid. Then, transfer the waffles to a freezer-safe bag, placing parchment paper between each waffle to prevent sticking. They can be frozen for up to 3 months. Just reheat them in a toaster or oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-7 minutes when you’re ready to enjoy! What should I do if my waffles turn out too dense? Very often, dense waffles result from over-mixing the batter. To achieve fluffy gingerbread waffles, mix the wet and dry ingredients until just combined, leaving a few lumps. Additionally, ensure your baking soda and baking powder are fresh, as expired leavening agents can affect the rise. Don’t forget to let your batter rest for 10 minutes to allow the gluten to relax! Are these gingerbread waffles safe for those with allergies? When making Christmas Morning Gingerbread Waffles, always consider any dietary restrictions. The recipe contains common allergens such as eggs, dairy, and gluten. For a vegan version, you can substitute eggs with flax eggs (1 tbsp flaxseed meal mixed with 2.5 tbsp water for each egg), and replace whole milk with plant-based milk. If allergies are a concern, make sure all substitute ingredients are safe for your specific needs! Can I customize this gingerbread waffle recipe for a healthier version? Certainly! You can substitute granulated sugar with coconut sugar for more natural sweetness and swap out all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour for added fiber. Moreover, using Greek yogurt instead of butter can create a lighter texture while still keeping the waffles moist. Healthier variations still taste delightful and festive—perfect for your Christmas Morning Gingerbread Waffles! Christmas Morning Gingerbread Waffles: Cozy Holiday Bliss These Christmas Morning Gingerbread Waffles are a festive breakfast treat that captures the essence of the holidays with their delightful spices. Print Recipe Pin Recipe Prep Time 10 minutes minsCook Time 20 minutes minsResting Time 10 minutes minsTotal Time 40 minutes mins Servings: 4 wafflesCourse: BreakfastCuisine: AmericanCalories: 220 Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes Ingredients 1x2x3x? For the Waffle Batter2 cups All-purpose flour2 tablespoons Granulated sugar can be replaced with coconut sugar2 tablespoons Brown sugar light or dark1 teaspoon Baking soda don't substitute with baking powder1 tablespoon Baking powder1 teaspoon Salt fine sea salt recommended1 tablespoon Ground ginger can use fresh for more flavor1 teaspoon Ground cinnamon adjust to taste1/2 teaspoon Ground cloves optional1/2 cup Unsalted butter melted1 cup Whole milk low-fat can be used2 large Eggs room temperature preferred1/4 cup Molasses dark corn syrup can substitute1 tablespoon Freshly grated ginger can substitute with more ground ginger1 teaspoon Vanilla extract pure vanilla recommended Equipment waffle ironMixing bowlsWhiskMeasuring Cups and SpoonsCooling rack Method Waffle InstructionsIn a large mixing bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, brown sugar, baking soda, baking powder, salt, ground ginger, ground cinnamon, and ground cloves until well blended.In a separate container, whisk the melted unsalted butter, whole milk, eggs, molasses, freshly grated ginger, and vanilla extract until smooth and well combined.Carefully pour the wet mixture into the dry ingredients, using a whisk to mix until just smooth. Let the batter rest for about 10 minutes.Preheat your waffle iron on high heat and coat it with baking spray.Using a portion scoop, fill the preheated waffle iron with the batter, cooking for approximately 5 minutes, or until deep golden brown.Once cooked, transfer the waffles onto a cooling rack placed in a warm oven.Serve warm, topped with maple syrup and whipped cream. Nutrition Serving: 1waffleCalories: 220kcalCarbohydrates: 30gProtein: 4gFat: 9gSaturated Fat: 5gPolyunsaturated Fat: 0.5gMonounsaturated Fat: 3gCholesterol: 50mgSodium: 300mgPotassium: 150mgFiber: 1gSugar: 10gVitamin A: 300IUCalcium: 100mgIron: 1mg NotesEnsure all wet ingredients are at room temperature for the best texture. Customize toppings to suit your taste. Keep an eye on cooking times as waffle irons vary. Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!