Cinnamon Brown Sugar Waffles

Cinnamon waffles always bring cozy warmth to weekend mornings in my kitchen Their crisp edges and tender centers feel extra special with a touch of cinnamon and a slick of maple butter My kids start hovering the minute the waffle iron goes on and nothing beats a big plate of these fresh and hot from the iron

I first made these cinnamon waffles during a holiday brunch for friends and now they are the number one request for lazy Sunday breakfasts

Ingredients

• Whole milk: Makes the batter rich and ensures moist waffles Whole milk is best for a creamy interior
• Large eggs: Yolks add richness and structure whites create fluffy airiness Separate for the best texture
• Vegetable oil: Keeps the waffles light and helps create a crisp edge Use any neutral flavored oil
• Vanilla extract: Adds sweetness and warmth Use real vanilla for the best flavor
• All-purpose flour: Is the main structure of the waffle Sift or spoon and level for accurate measuring
• Cornstarch: Lightens the batter and helps make extra crisp waffles Look for a fine white powder without clumps
• Light brown sugar: Provides caramel notes and a tender crumb Pack the sugar lightly for the correct amount
• Cinnamon: Is the star spice Choose fresh ground cinnamon for the brightest flavor
• Nutmeg: Adds just a little background warmth Fresh grated gives the best aroma
• Baking powder: Creates lift for fluffy waffles Make sure yours is not expired
• Baking soda: Works with the acid from the brown sugar for an extra rise
• Coarse salt: Balances the flavors Kosher is ideal
• Maple butter and maple syrup: Classic toppings that melt into the warm waffles Use real syrup for best results

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preheat the Waffle Iron:

Set your waffle iron to a medium high or high setting Allow it to heat fully for that crisp finish test with a few drops of water they should dance or sizzle

Mix the Liquid Ingredients:

In a medium bowl whisk the milk egg yolks oil and vanilla until completely blended This step makes sure the fat and liquids are well combined for even texture

Combine the Dry Ingredients:

In a separate large bowl whisk together flour cornstarch brown sugar cinnamon nutmeg baking powder baking soda and salt Whisking not only combines but also aerates the flour for lighter waffles

Whip the Egg Whites:

In another bowl use a handheld electric mixer to beat the egg whites until firm stiff peaks form This is what makes the waffles extra light and airy Do not overbeat or they will become dry

Mix Wet Into Dry:

Pour the liquid mixture into the dry ingredients and fold with a spatula or spoon Only mix until just combined Stop as soon as no dry streaks remain Overmixing makes tough waffles

Fold in the Egg Whites:

Gently fold the stiff egg whites into the batter in thirds Use a gentle cutting and folding motion to preserve the air you whipped in This makes the waffles so fluffy

Cook the Waffles:

Ladle or scoop the batter onto the hot waffle iron filling about two thirds to three quarters full Close the lid and cook until deep golden and crisp On most irons this takes about five minutes Repeat until all the batter is used

Serve Warm:

Enjoy the waffles hot from the iron with maple butter and warm syrup Spoon toppings over as soon as they come out for the best melting and flavor

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My favorite part of making these is the aroma of cinnamon filling the house I remember my son sneaking extra sprinkles of cinnamon into the bowl when he thought I was not looking which always turned out even better

Waffle Storage Tips

Cool extra waffles completely on a wire rack so they do not steam and lose crispness Stack with parchment and freeze in a zip top bag Reheat straight from the freezer in a toaster or oven They will crisp right up and taste freshly made I always stash a batch for school mornings

Ingredient Substitutions

No whole milk on hand Mix half heavy cream with half water or substitute any plant milk for a dairy free waffle Out of brown sugar White sugar plus a drizzle of molasses works For an egg free waffle try a trusted egg replacer though the texture changes a bit

Serving Suggestions

Pile your cinnamon waffles with whatever your family loves Slices of banana toasted pecans or berries make them feel fancy For dessert I sometimes add a scoop of vanilla ice cream and drizzle with caramel My favorite is a spread of rich maple butter on a warm waffle and a sprinkle of flaky salt

A Little History

Waffles have their roots in ancient Greece but the spiced variety became popular in Northern Europe The addition of cinnamon was inspired by Scandinavian holiday treats Using cornstarch makes these similar to Belgian style waffles which are known for great crunch

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If you want to double the recipe for a crowd go for it just be sure to whip the egg whites in batches for best results These cinnamon waffles are the kind of treat that make any morning feel like an occasion

Frequently Asked Questions

→ What makes these waffles light and crisp?

Beating egg whites to stiff peaks and folding them into the batter yields a fluffy, airy waffle. Cornstarch also helps create a crispy exterior.

→ Can I use a different sweetener instead of brown sugar?

Light brown sugar gives a mellow sweetness, but you can substitute with white sugar or coconut sugar for a slightly different taste and texture.

→ Is it necessary to use maple butter?

Maple butter adds a rich, sweet finish, but you can enjoy these waffles with regular butter, whipped cream, or your favorite fruit preserves.

→ How do I know when the waffles are done?

The waffles are ready when crisp and golden outside. In most waffle makers, this takes about 5 minutes, depending on your device's settings.

→ Can I make the batter ahead of time?

For best results, prepare the batter just before cooking. However, you can whisk the dry ingredients ahead and keep them sealed until needed.