The scent of warm spices drifting through the house instantly transports me to cozy holiday mornings. These Christmas Morning Gingerbread Waffles are not just a breakfast; they’re a festive celebration on a plate! Combining rich molasses, zesty ginger, and aromatic cinnamon, these waffles are light and crispy, making them an ideal way to kick off your day. They come together quickly and are not overly sweet, perfect for family gatherings or a delightful treat for yourself. Top them with a dollop of vanilla whipped cream or drizzle of maple syrup for an irresistible touch. Are you ready to bring this scrumptious holiday tradition into your kitchen?

Why are Gingerbread Waffles a Holiday Must?

Festive Flavor: These Christmas Morning Gingerbread Waffles burst with warm spices that evoke the essence of the holiday season, invigorating your senses right from the first bite.

Quick and Easy: With minimal prep time, you’ll whisk up a delightful breakfast that brings everyone together without the fuss.

Light and Crispy: The waffles maintain a perfect balance of crispiness on the outside and fluffiness within, making every bite an unforgettable experience.

Versatile Serving Ideas: Pair them with maple syrup or a dusting of powdered sugar, or try topping with fresh fruit for a pop of color and flavor.

Crowd-Pleaser: They’re sure to impress guests at holiday gatherings, just like a delicious breakfast buffet spread! For more festive breakfast ideas, don’t miss our recipe for Christmas Breakfast Casserole and Deviled Egg Christmas Trees.

Christmas Morning Gingerbread Waffle Ingredients

For the Waffles

All-purpose flour – Provides structure; you can substitute with a gluten-free flour blend for gluten-free options.
Granulated sugar – Adds sweetness and helps achieve a delightful golden brown color.
Brown sugar – Introduces moisture and a hint of rich molasses flavor.
Baking soda – Essential for leavening, ensuring your waffles are nice and fluffy.
Baking powder – Works alongside baking soda to give these gingerbread waffles an even better rise.
Salt – Enhances the flavor complexity of the waffles.
Ground ginger – Imparts the warm, spicy essence characteristic of gingerbread.
Ground cinnamon – Adds aromatic sweetness and warmth.
Ground cloves – Delivers an earthy note that perfectly complements the warm spices.
Unsalted butter – Infuses richness and moisture into the waffles; be sure to melt it before use.
Whole milk – Contributes moisture; for a tangy flavor, you can use buttermilk instead.
Eggs – Provide richness and structure; for a vegan alternative, try flax eggs.
Molasses – Sweetens and adds depth; light or dark varieties work well based on your preference.
Freshly grated ginger – Adds a zesty kick that freshens up the flavor profile.
Vanilla extract – Enhances flavor, helping to round out the sweetness.

Optional Toppings

Maple syrup – A classic pairing that adds sweet sophistication to your waffles.
Powdered sugar – A light dusting for extra sweetness and festive flair.
Whipped cream – A dollop elevates these gingerbread waffles to a luxurious treat.

Get ready to savor these Christmas Morning Gingerbread Waffles and create cherished, delicious memories with your loved ones!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Christmas Morning Gingerbread Waffles

Step 1: Whisk Dry Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, combine 2 cups of all-purpose flour, 2 tablespoons of granulated sugar, 2 tablespoons of brown sugar, 1 teaspoon of baking soda, 2 teaspoons of baking powder, 1 teaspoon of salt, 2 teaspoons of ground ginger, 1 teaspoon of ground cinnamon, and 1/2 teaspoon of ground cloves. Whisk these ingredients together until they are well-blended and free of lumps, ensuring an even distribution of spices before moving on.

Step 2: Prepare Wet Ingredients
In a separate large measuring cup, melt 1/2 cup of unsalted butter and let it cool slightly. Then, add 2 cups of whole milk, 2 large eggs, 1/2 cup of molasses, 1 tablespoon of freshly grated ginger, and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract. Whisk these wet ingredients until the mixture is smooth and homogenous, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully before combining with the dry ingredients.

Step 3: Combine Mixtures and Rest
Pour the wet mixture into the bowl with the dry ingredients and gently whisk until the batter is just combined. Be careful not to overmix; a few lumps are perfectly fine! Once combined, set the batter aside to rest for 10 minutes. This brief resting time will improve the texture of your Christmas Morning Gingerbread Waffles.

Step 4: Preheat the Waffle Iron
While the batter is resting, preheat your waffle iron according to the manufacturer’s instructions. Lightly coat the grates with non-stick baking spray for effortless waffle removal. As the iron heats up, the delightful aroma of spices will start filling your kitchen, setting the stage for a festive breakfast.

Step 5: Cook the Waffles
After the batter has rested, pour the recommended amount of batter (usually about 1/2 to 3/4 cup) onto the preheated waffle iron. Close the lid and cook for approximately 5 minutes or until the waffles are golden brown and crispy on the outside. Keep an eye on them, as cooking times may vary depending on your specific waffle iron model.

Step 6: Keep Waffles Warm
Once the waffles are cooked to perfection, transfer them to a wire cooling rack placed over a baking tray in the oven set to a low temperature (around 200°F). This method keeps the waffles warm and crispy while you continue cooking the rest of the batter, ensuring every bite is delicious.

Step 7: Serve and Enjoy
When all the waffles are cooked, plate them warm and add your favorite toppings such as maple syrup, a dusting of powdered sugar, or a generous dollop of whipped cream. These Christmas Morning Gingerbread Waffles are sure to bring joy to your holiday breakfast table, making every bite a festive celebration!

Make Ahead Options

These Christmas Morning Gingerbread Waffles are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the waffle batter up to 24 hours in advance. Just mix your dry ingredients and store them in an airtight container, and whisk your wet ingredients separately, refrigerating them until you’re ready to combine them. When you’re set to whip up breakfast, simply mix the rested wet and dry ingredients, let the batter sit for about 10 minutes, and pour it into the preheated waffle iron. This way, you can enjoy a festive holiday breakfast that’s just as delicious, with minimal effort on busy mornings!

Expert Tips for Christmas Morning Gingerbread Waffles

Rest the Batter: Allowing the batter to sit for 10 minutes improves texture, ensuring lighter, fluffier Christmas Morning Gingerbread Waffles.
Preheat Waffle Iron: Heating your waffle iron properly is crucial for crispy, golden results. Wait until it’s ready before pouring in the batter.
Avoid Overmixing: Mixing too much can lead to tough waffles. Stir gently until just combined, allowing the batter to remain slightly lumpy.
Use a Cooling Rack: Keep waffles warm on a cooling rack to prevent sogginess while cooking the remaining batch. The raised rack allows airflow.
Experiment with Flours: Try substituting half of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour for added nutrition without sacrificing taste in your gingerbread waffles.

What to Serve with Christmas Morning Gingerbread Waffles

The delightful crunch and warm aroma of these waffles create a magical holiday breakfast experience that deserves the perfect accompaniments.

Maple Syrup: A classic pairing that enhances the warm spices with its rich, sweet flavor, creating a cozy vibe.
Whipped Cream: A dollop of freshly whipped cream adds a luxurious touch that melts into the waffles, making them irresistibly indulgent.
Crisp Bacon: The salty crunch of crispy bacon contrasts beautifully with the sweetness of the waffles, providing a savory balance to your meal.
Fresh Berries: A mix of vibrant strawberries and blueberries adds a burst of freshness, enhancing the festive presentation while bringing a hint of tartness.
Warm Apple Compote: The sweet, spiced flavor of warm apple compote brings a comforting element that complements the gingerbread spice.
Chai Tea Latte: Sip on this creamy, spiced beverage that echoes the flavors of the waffles, creating a harmonious start to your holiday morning.

These accompaniments bring a delightful variety of flavors and textures, elevating your Christmas Morning Gingerbread Waffles into a truly memorable feast!

Customize Your Christmas Morning Gingerbread Waffles

Feel free to put your own spin on these delicious waffles to make them uniquely yours!

Whole Wheat Flour: Substitute half of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour for added fiber and a nuttier flavor.
Chocolate Chip Addition: Fold in a handful of chocolate chips to the batter for a sweet surprise that pairs wonderfully with ginger.
Nuts Galore: Adding chopped nuts like walnuts or pecans enhances the crunch and richness, giving a delightful contrast to the soft waffles.
Spiced Apple Topping: Sauté diced apples with cinnamon and brown sugar for a warm, fruity topping that complements the gingerbread perfectly.
Vegan Twist: For a vegan option, swap eggs for flax eggs, use almond milk, and replace butter with coconut oil or vegan butter. These variations prove that everyone can enjoy the festive flavors!
Fruity Blend: Use mashed bananas or pureed pumpkin in the batter for extra moisture and a subtle twist in flavor. It adds a cozy touch that enhances the gingerbread experience.
Heat It Up: If you enjoy a little heat, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or chopped jalapeños to the batter, giving your waffles a zesty kick that contrasts beautifully with the sweetness.

And while you’re at it, why not check out our recipe for Christmas Smoked Salmon Bruschetta Wreath or try your hand at some delectable Christmas Maraschino Cherry Shortbread Cookies? These delightful dishes will perfectly complement your festive breakfast spread!

How to Store and Freeze Christmas Morning Gingerbread Waffles

Fridge: Store leftover gingerbread waffles in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. This keeps them fresh and ready to enjoy anytime.

Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the waffles in a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months. Make sure to separate them with parchment paper to prevent sticking.

Reheating: To reheat, simply pop the frozen or refrigerated waffles in a toaster until heated through, restoring their delightful crispiness. Enjoy them warm with your favorite toppings!

Christmas Morning Gingerbread Waffles Recipe FAQs

How do I choose the best molasses for my gingerbread waffles?
Absolutely! When selecting molasses, you can go for light or dark varieties depending on your taste preference. Light molasses has a milder flavor while dark molasses offers a richer, deeper taste. I often recommend using unsulfured molasses as it is smoother and more pleasant for baking. Just a quick tip: check the expiration date to ensure maximum flavor and freshness!

How should I store leftover Christmas Morning Gingerbread Waffles?
For sure! Store leftover gingerbread waffles in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. This way, they stay fresh and delightful! If you want to keep them longer, consider freezing them. Just layer them with parchment paper to prevent sticking and place them in a freezer-safe bag. They will keep well for up to 3 months.

Can I freeze my gingerbread waffles? How?
Yes, you absolutely can! To freeze your Christmas Morning Gingerbread Waffles, let them cool completely after cooking. Then, place a piece of parchment paper between each waffle to avoid sticking and stack them in a freezer-safe bag. Squeeze out any excess air before sealing the bag and label it with the date. When ready to enjoy, simply toast them straight from the freezer—no need to thaw! They’ll be just as crispy and delicious as when they were first made.

I don’t have a waffle iron. How can I cook this batter?
No problem at all! If you don’t have a waffle iron, you can easily transform this batter into pancakes. Just heat a non-stick skillet over medium heat and pour about 1/4 cup of batter for each pancake. Cook for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until bubbles form and the edges look set. They may not have the same crispiness as waffles, but they’ll still be wonderfully flavorful as a festive pancake alternative.

Is there a gluten-free option for this gingerbread waffle recipe?
Very much so! You can substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend designed for baking. Look for one that includes xanthan gum, as this will help mimic the structure and texture of traditional flour. Just be sure to check the package instructions for any adjustments needed! It’s a delicious way for everyone to enjoy these Christmas Morning Gingerbread Waffles.