Cozy Cider Pumpkin Waffles with Maple Butter

Last updated on August 4, 2025

There’s nothing that warms the heart quite like the smell of cinnamon and freshly cooked waffles wafting through the kitchen on a crisp fall morning. I remember the first time I attempted to make waffles for a Sunday brunch with friends. I was so excited but worried about getting the batter just right. What if they came out dense or, heaven forbid, stuck to the waffle iron? My kitchen turned into a testing ground for all the tips I had gathered, and after a few mishaps, I finally found a recipe that eased my fears, filling each square with fluffy goodness. If you share that worry—that one tiny misstep could ruin the dish—don’t fret. This recipe for Cider Pumpkin Waffles with Salted Maple Butter is incredibly simple, stress-free, and absolutely achievable, even for those who are new to the kitchen.

Why I Love This Recipe of Cider Pumpkin Waffles with Salted Maple Butter

This recipe holds a special place in my heart because it encapsulates the flavors of autumn in every bite. The combination of pumpkin and spiced apple cider offers a delightful hug of warmth, reminiscent of cozy afternoons spent with loved ones. For beginner cooks, this recipe is a dream. Space is given for error; the batter can be a little lumpy, and that’s perfectly okay! Plus, the salted maple butter is a sensational finishing touch that adds a rich, sweet, and savory punch. It’s the kind of breakfast that feels special enough for holidays yet is easy enough for a regular weekend morning, making it the go-to recipe I reach for time and time again.

Ingredients You’ll Need for Cider Pumpkin Waffles with Salted Maple Butter

Here’s a breakdown of the essential ingredients you will need to gather for these delightful waffles, along with substitutes and shortcuts.

Cozy Cider Pumpkin Waffles with Maple Butter

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• Author: Sarah Mendez
• Total Time: 45 minutes
• Yield: 8 waffles 1x
• Diet: Vegetarian

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Description

These Cider Pumpkin Waffles are packed with cozy fall flavors like spiced apple cider, pumpkin puree, and warm spices, then topped with a luscious salted maple butter for a breakfast that feels like a celebration of autumn.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

For the Waffles:

• 6 tbsp Land O Lakes® Salted Butter
• 1 cup pumpkin puree (fresh or canned)
• 1 1/2 cups spiced apple cider
• 2 large eggs
• 2 tbsp pure maple syrup
• 2 tsp vanilla extract
• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 tbsp baking powder
• 1/2 tsp baking soda
• 1 1/2 tsp cinnamon
• 1/2 tsp ground ginger
• 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg
• 1/2 tsp kosher salt

For the Salted Maple Butter:

• 6 tbsp Land O Lakes® Salted Butter
• 1/2 cup maple syrup
• Pinch of flaky sea salt

Optional Add-Ons:

• Chopped pecans or walnuts
• Chocolate chips
• Fresh berries

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Instructions

1. Brown the Butter: In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt 6 tbsp salted butter until golden and fragrant, about 2–3 minutes. Pour into a large bowl to cool slightly.
2. Mix Wet Ingredients: Add pumpkin puree, spiced apple cider, eggs, maple syrup, and vanilla extract to the browned butter. Whisk until well combined.
3. Combine Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, ginger, nutmeg, and kosher salt.
4. Mix Batter: Gently fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture until just combined. Do not overmix. Let the batter rest for 10 minutes.
5. Prepare Maple Butter: While the batter rests, stir together 6 tbsp salted butter, 1/2 cup maple syrup, and a pinch of flaky sea salt until smooth. Set aside.
6. Cook the Waffles: Preheat your waffle iron. Once ready, pour in the batter and cook according to your waffle maker’s instructions until golden brown and crisp.
7. Serve: Top warm waffles with a dollop of salted maple butter and extra maple syrup if desired. Enjoy!

Notes

• Butter Substitutes: Use coconut oil or vegetable oil if needed.
• Pumpkin Substitutes: Mashed sweet potato works well in place of pumpkin.
• Healthier Option: Replace some butter with unsweetened applesauce.
• Flour Options: Whole wheat flour can be used, but will yield denser waffles.
• Storage Tip: Leftover waffles can be frozen and reheated in a toaster for a quick breakfast.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Category: Breakfast
• Method: Waffle Iron
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 waffle with butter
• Calories: 320
• Sugar: 15g
• Sodium: 290mg
• Fat: 16g
• Saturated Fat: 9g
• Unsaturated Fat: 6g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 40g
• Fiber: 2g
• Protein: 5g
• Cholesterol: 70mg

Keywords: pumpkin waffles, cider pumpkin waffles, fall breakfast, maple butter waffles, homemade waffles, autumn brunch

Essentials

1. 6 tablespoons Land O Lakes® Salted Butter: This will give your waffles a rich flavor, while salted butter adds a lovely balance when paired with sweetness.
2. 1 cup pumpkin puree: Fresh or canned, pumpkin is the star of this dish, delivering moisture and that signature fall flavor.
3. 1 1/2 cups spiced apple cider: The spiced cider imbues the batter with warm notes of nutmeg and clove, tying everything together beautifully.
4. 2 large eggs: Eggs provide structure to the waffles, ensuring they rise properly.
5. 2 tablespoons pure maple syrup: A delightful sweetener that enhances the other flavors without overpowering them.
6. 2 teaspoons vanilla extract: This adds a sweet warmth and balances the spices perfectly.
7. 2 cups all-purpose flour: The base for your waffles, helping to give them the essential structure.
8. 1 tablespoon baking powder: The leavening agent that helps the waffles puff up and become light.
9. 1/2 teaspoon baking soda: This complements the baking powder for extra lift.
10. 1 1/2 teaspoons cinnamon: A warm spice that accentuates the fall flavors in this dish.
11. 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger: A lovely zippy flavor that boosts the warmth of the spices.
12. 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg: Adds a nutty, aromatic depth to the mix.
13. 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt: Enhances all the flavors and balances the sweetness.
14. 6 additional tablespoons Land O Lakes® Salted Butter (for the maple butter): Provides richness.
15. 1/2 cup maple syrup (for the maple butter): More of that delicious, natural sweetness.
16. 1 pinch flaky sea salt: A finishing touch that enhances all the flavors.

Optional Add-Ons

Feel free to adapt the recipe to your taste by adding the following if desired:

• Chopped pecans or walnuts: For added crunch and a lovely nutty flavor.
• Chocolate chips: Because who doesn’t love a little decadence in their breakfast?
• Fresh berries: They can be a great topping for those seeking a fruity accompaniment.

Substitutions and Shortcuts

If you’re out of any of the core ingredients or seeking a quicker route:

• Butter: You can use vegetable oil or coconut oil, though the flavor will change slightly.
• Pumpkin puree: Masked sweet potato makes for a great substitute in taste and consistency.
• Applesauce: Unsweetened applesauce can be used to replace some of the butter for a healthier take.
• Flour: Whole wheat flour can be a suitable alternative, though it may alter the texture to be a bit denser.

How to Make Cider Pumpkin Waffles with Salted Maple Butter Step-by-Step

Creating these delectable Cider Pumpkin Waffles is easier than you might think. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the steps involved to ensure your cooking experience is as smooth and enjoyable as possible.

1. Browning the Butter

First, grab a medium-sized pot. Set it over medium heat, adding in your 6 tablespoons of Land O Lakes® Salted Butter. Allow the butter to melt and start bubbling gently. Keep an eye on it and stir often, letting it cook until it becomes a lovely golden brown and releases a nutty aroma, which should take about 2-3 minutes. This browning step adds incredible depth of flavor to your waffles. When it’s ready, remove it from the heat and pour the melted butter into a large mixing bowl.

2. Mixing the Wet Ingredients

Next, add your 1 cup of pumpkin puree, 1 1/2 cups of spiced apple cider, 2 large eggs, 2 tablespoons of pure maple syrup, and 2 teaspoons of vanilla extract into the bowl with the browned butter. Whisk everything together thoroughly until it is well combined. The resulting mixture should be velvety and aromatic, making the kitchen smell like autumn.

3. Combining the Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl, combine the dry ingredients: 2 cups of all-purpose flour, 1 tablespoon of baking powder, 1/2 teaspoon of baking soda, 1 1/2 teaspoons of cinnamon, 1/2 teaspoon of ground ginger, 1/4 teaspoon of ground nutmeg, and 1/2 teaspoon of kosher salt. Stir these together to ensure the leavening agents and spices are evenly distributed.

4. Bringing it All Together

Now, gently fold the dry mixture into your wet ingredients using a spatula until everything is just combined. It’s okay if the batter is slightly lumpy; overmixing can lead to tough waffles, and we definitely want them to be tender and light. Once your batter is mixed, allow it to rest for about 10 minutes. This resting time helps the gluten relax and results in fluffier waffles.

5. Preparing the Salted Maple Butter

While the batter is resting, you can whip up the salted maple butter. In a small bowl, combine 6 tablespoons of Land O Lakes® Salted Butter with 1/2 cup of maple syrup and a pinch of flaky sea salt. Mix until smooth and set aside. This butter is heavenly and takes your waffles to the next level.

6. Cooking the Waffles

Now, preheat your waffle iron according to the manufacturer’s instructions. Once it’s hot and ready, ladle some of the batter onto the waffle iron, filling it according to the size of your waffle maker. Close the lid and cook until the waffles are golden brown and crispy. The smell will be simply irresistible!

7. Serving Your Waffles

Once cooked, serve the waffles immediately, topped with a generous dollop of your salted maple butter and an extra drizzle of maple syrup, if you like. Enjoy the warmth and comfort these waffles bring to your table.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

There are a few common pitfalls that even the most enthusiastic home cooks can fall into when making waffles. Here’s how to avoid them:

Overmixing the Batter

A fluffy waffle is a happy waffle! Be careful not to overmix the batter. It’s okay if a few lumps remain. Overmixing can lead to tough, chewy waffles rather than the light, fluffy texture we all crave.

Not Preheating the Waffle Iron Properly

Give your waffle iron enough time to heat up. A well-preheated iron will create a golden crust that is crisp on the outside while fluffy on the inside. If you rush this step, you may end up with soggy waffles.

Incorrect Measuring of Ingredients

Precision is key to success in baking. Use measuring cups and spoons rather than estimating any ingredient—especially flour which can vary in density based on how it’s packed. Scooping and shaking can lead to flour being improperly measured, affecting the outcome of your waffles.

Skipping the Resting Time

Much like bread dough, waffle batter benefits from resting. This allows the gluten to relax, resulting in a lighter, fluffier waffle. Don’t skip this!

Serving Suggestions for Cider Pumpkin Waffles with Salted Maple Butter

The beauty of Cider Pumpkin Waffles with Salted Maple Butter is not just in their taste, but also in how versatile they can be once they’re ready to eat. Here are a few serving suggestions to elevate your breakfast experience.

A Selection of Fresh Fruits

Add color and freshness to your plate by serving alongside sliced bananas, berries, or thinly sliced apples. The natural sweetness and acidity of fruit can balance the rich waffles beautifully.

Yogurt Parfaits

For those who enjoy a creamy addition to their breakfast, consider layering your waffles with yogurt and fresh fruit. A drizzle of honey or a sprinkle of granola on top will add both sweetness and crunch for a delightful contrast in textures.

Savory Pairings

While Cider Pumpkin Waffles shine as a sweet breakfast treat, you can also set out some crispy bacon or turkey sausage on the side. The saltiness of the savory item can complement the sweet maple butter perfectly.

Toasted Nuts

For some added crunch, sprinkle chopped walnuts or pecans on top of your waffles or offer them dusted with a light sprinkle of toasted nuts as a side option. Not only do they add texture, but they also provide a lovely nutty flavor that pairs well with the spices in the waffles.

Pro-Level Tips for When You’re Ready

Once you’ve mastered the basic recipe of Cider Pumpkin Waffles, there are a few advanced tips to take your cooking game to the next level.

Experiment with Different Spices

Feel free to adjust the spices to match your personal tastes. Want a little kick? Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or swap the ginger for allspice. The base recipe is a wonderful canvas for creating your signature flavor.

Make Ahead and Freeze

If your mornings tend to be rushed, make a big batch of waffles and freeze the extras. Just pop them in your toaster when you’re ready to enjoy; they’ll taste almost as delightful as fresh.

Try Infusing Flavors

Consider steeping your apple cider with additional spices like star anise or cloves before using it in the recipe. This can add even more depth and complexity to your waffles.

Make a Variety

Don’t be afraid to mix in other ingredients if you want a different twist—consider adding shredded coconut, chocolate chips, or dried fruits to the batter for a creative take on the classic recipe.

Conclusion & Next Steps

As you can see, making Cider Pumpkin Waffles with Salted Maple Butter is easier than it looks! With a few simple steps, you can create a delightful breakfast that’s cozy, classic, and beginner-approved. I hope you feel inspired to give this recipe a try, customizing it to suit your tastes and serving it with your favorite accompaniments.

Now it’s your turn—head to the kitchen and whip up a batch of these delectable waffles. I promise they will become a cherished recipe in your home!

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FAQs About Cider Pumpkin Waffles with Salted Maple Butter

With these FAQs, you’re well-equipped to make wonderful Cider Pumpkin Waffles with Salted Maple Butter! Enjoy your cooking experience, and happy eating!