Brimming with autumn flavor, these Cider Pumpkin Waffles with Salted Maple Butter are the perfect way to transform a crisp weekend morning into something truly special. Imagine waffles infused with warm pumpkin, a swirl of apple cider, and just the right amount of spice, each bite melting in your mouth thanks to a rich, maple-kissed butter. This recipe is a celebration of everything cozy and comforting, with a harmony of flavors that takes breakfast to new heights.

Cider Pumpkin Waffles with Salted Maple Butter Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

Making these dreamy Cider Pumpkin Waffles with Salted Maple Butter doesn’t call for anything fancy—just a lineup of kitchen staples and a few seasonal gems. Each ingredient brings something important to the table, whether it’s depth of flavor, texture, or a touch of creamy indulgence.

Land O Lakes® Salted Butter: This is your flavor foundation, adding richness and those crave-worthy browned butter notes to both the waffles and the maple butter topper.
Pumpkin puree: Beyond its creamy texture, pumpkin lends earthiness and that iconic orange hue—don’t use pumpkin pie filling as it’s too sweet and already spiced.
Spiced apple cider: Amp up the flavor with sparkling orchard sweetness; it makes these waffles taste like fall in every bite.
Large eggs: Eggs offer structure and binding, keeping your waffles fluffy on the inside.
Pure maple syrup: Adds natural sweetness and depth both inside the batter and in the lush salted maple butter.
Vanilla extract: For complexity and warmth that perfumes every bite.
All-purpose flour: The base of your batter, for structure and that classic waffle crumb.
Baking powder: Works with the baking soda to ensure tender, airy waffles.
Baking soda: Balances acidity while boosting fluffiness.
Cinnamon: Brings warmth and a touch of sweetness, echoing classic pumpkin spice flavor.
Ground ginger: Offers gentle heat and zing, helping to wake up your palate.
Ground nutmeg: A dash delivers cozy complexity to round out the spices.
Kosher salt: Heightens every flavor and ensures the waffles aren’t flat-tasting.
Maple syrup (for the butter): Makes the maple butter irresistible, with those deep, caramel-like notes.
Flaky sea salt: Just a pinch brings out the full power of the maple butter and offers the perfect sweet-savory contrast.

How to Make Cider Pumpkin Waffles with Salted Maple Butter

Step 1: Brown the Butter

Begin by melting 6 tablespoons of salted butter in a medium pot over medium heat. Give it a stir every so often and wait until it turns golden and smells nutty and toasted—about 2 to 3 minutes. Don’t rush this step; browned butter is what gives these Cider Pumpkin Waffles with Salted Maple Butter their irresistible aroma and depth. Remove the pot from the heat.

Step 2: Mix the Wet Ingredients

Pour the browned butter into your largest mixing bowl. Immediately whisk in the pumpkin puree so it melds with that warmth, then add the spiced apple cider, eggs, maple syrup, and vanilla extract. Mixing the liquids together first ensures everything is evenly incorporated for waffles with a consistent, soft crumb.

Step 3: Add the Dry Ingredients

Sprinkle in the flour, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, ginger, nutmeg, and kosher salt. Stir until just combined; don’t over-mix, or you’ll end up with tough waffles. It’s perfectly fine if your batter is still a bit lumpy. Once mixed, set the bowl aside and let the batter rest for 10 minutes—this resting period is key for light, crisp waffles.

Step 4: Make the Salted Maple Butter

While your batter is resting, make the star of this recipe: the salted maple butter. In a small bowl, mash together the remaining 6 tablespoons of salted butter with 1/2 cup maple syrup and a big pinch of flaky sea salt. The result is a sweet-salty “spread” that you’ll basically want to put on everything.

Step 5: Cook the Waffles

Now, preheat your waffle iron according to the manufacturer’s instructions. Once it’s hot, ladle in the batter and cook until the waffles are deeply golden and crisp on the outside. Every iron is a little different, so keep an eye on yours—don’t hesitate to let them get a bit extra golden for the best crunch.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy

Stack your fresh, piping hot Cider Pumpkin Waffles with Salted Maple Butter high on a plate, then smear them generously with that salted maple butter. Finish with a drizzle of extra maple syrup if you like and serve immediately for pure autumn joy.

How to Serve Cider Pumpkin Waffles with Salted Maple Butter

Garnishes

For a restaurant-worthy plate, sprinkle your waffles with toasted pecans or walnuts, a dusting of powdered sugar, or even a handful of pomegranate seeds for bright pops of color and flavor. And of course, a pat or two more of the salted maple butter sets the stage for a decadent morning.

Side Dishes

Pair these Cider Pumpkin Waffles with Salted Maple Butter with crispy bacon, spicy sausage links, or a light fruit salad to balance their richness. A tangy yogurt parfait or a simple mug of hot apple cider is also perfect for rounding out the meal.

Creative Ways to Present

If you’re hosting brunch or want to dazzle guests, cut the waffles into quarters and serve upright in a waffle “bar,” alongside bowls of different toppings—think maple whipped cream, roasted apples, or even a maple pecan sprinkle. Alternatively, stack mini waffles with piped salted maple butter in between each layer for a show-stopping centerpiece!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Any leftover Cider Pumpkin Waffles with Salted Maple Butter should be cooled completely before storing. Stack them with pieces of parchment paper in between, then seal in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. The salted maple butter can be stored in a covered dish in the fridge as well.

Freezing

For longer storage, freeze the waffles (separated by parchment) in a freezer-safe container or bag for up to two months. The salted maple butter freezes well, too—just scoop it into a small airtight container, and let it thaw overnight in the fridge before serving.

Reheating

To bring your Cider Pumpkin Waffles with Salted Maple Butter back to life, pop them straight from the fridge (or freezer) into a toaster or warm oven until heated through and re-crisped. Avoid the microwave, as it can make them soft. Let the salted maple butter warm to room temperature so it’s spreadable and dreamy.

FAQs

Can I use homemade pumpkin puree instead of canned?

Absolutely! Homemade pumpkin puree works beautifully in these waffles. Just make sure it’s not too watery; if it is, strain it through a fine mesh sieve to remove excess moisture for the best texture.

What if I don’t have spiced apple cider?

If you can’t find spiced apple cider, use regular apple cider and add a pinch more cinnamon, ginger, and nutmeg to your batter. You could even simmer your cider briefly with a cinnamon stick or a few cloves for that layered autumn flavor.

Is it necessary to brown the butter?

Browning the butter adds exceptional nutty and caramel notes, elevating these Cider Pumpkin Waffles with Salted Maple Butter from “good” to unforgettable. While you could use melted butter in a pinch, I highly encourage taking the extra few minutes to brown it!

Can I make the batter the night before?

It’s best to make the batter fresh, but you can certainly mix the wet and dry ingredients separately the night before. In the morning, gently fold them together (don’t over-mix), let the batter rest for 10 minutes, and proceed from there.

How do I keep waffles crispy for a crowd?

Warm your oven to 200°F, place cooked waffles in a single layer on a rack or baking sheet, and keep them in the oven uncovered until you’re ready to serve. This keeps them crisp and fresh without drying out.

Final Thoughts

If you’re searching for a breakfast treat that feels like a warm hug on a fall morning, look no further than Cider Pumpkin Waffles with Salted Maple Butter. This recipe is a true gem—beautifully spiced, deeply flavorful, and surprisingly simple to make. Give it a try and let your kitchen fill with the aromas of the season!

Cider Pumpkin Waffles with Salted Maple Butter Recipe

★★★★★

5.2 from 26 reviews

Author: Mariam
Total Time: 30 minutes
Yield: Makes about 8 waffles 1x
Diet: Vegetarian

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Description

Delight your taste buds with these flavorful Cider Pumpkin Waffles topped with Salted Maple Butter. Perfect for a cozy breakfast or brunch!

Instructions

Prepare the Waffle Batter: In a medium pot over medium heat, brown 6 tablespoons of butter. Remove from heat and mix in pumpkin, cider, eggs, maple syrup, and vanilla. Add flour, baking powder, baking soda, spices, and salt. Let it sit for 10 minutes.
Make the Salted Maple Butter: Combine 6 tablespoons of butter, maple syrup, and a pinch of sea salt in a small bowl.
Cook the Waffles: Preheat the waffle iron and cook waffles according to the iron’s instructions.
Serve: Top waffles with Salted Maple Butter and extra maple syrup. Enjoy!

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Category: Breakfast, Brunch
Method: Mixing, Cooking
Cuisine: American