Sweet Potato Waffles Recipe
If you’re anything like me, there’s nothing quite as comforting and delicious as waking up to a hot stack of waffles that carry a special twist. This Sweet Potato Waffles Recipe is my go-to morning treat when I want something a little different but still absolutely familiar. Sweet potato adds a lovely earthy sweetness along with a gorgeous orange hue that makes these waffles as beautiful as they are flavorful. Plus, they’re crisp on the outside and tender on the inside, creating the perfect canvas for your favorite toppings. Trust me, these waffles will quickly become a breakfast staple you’ll want to make again and again.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering simple yet essential ingredients is key to making these Sweet Potato Waffles shine. Each one plays a vital role in balancing flavor, texture, and that irresistible aroma that fills your kitchen when they’re cooking.
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour: The base that gives your waffles structure and a light crumb.
- 1 tsp baking soda: Helps the waffles rise and become airy.
- 1 tsp baking powder: Adds extra fluffiness for the perfect texture.
- 1 tsp pumpkin pie spice: Adds warm, aromatic notes that complement the sweet potato beautifully.
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon: A cozy spice that enhances the overall flavor profile.
- 2 egg yolks: Enrich the batter with moisture and tenderness.
- 3 egg whites: Whisked separately to fold in airiness and create light waffles.
- 1 cup mashed sweet potatoes: The star ingredient that brings moisture, natural sweetness, and vibrant color.
- 1/4 cup melted butter (or neutral oil): Adds richness and ensures a crispy finish on the waffles.
- 1 tsp pure vanilla extract: A subtle sweetness that brightens all the flavors.
- 1 cup milk (or milk alternative): Maintains the perfect batter consistency and adds creaminess.
- 1/4 cup packed brown sugar (dark or light): Gives a hint of caramel sweetness and helps develop a beautifully golden crust.
How to Make Sweet Potato Waffles Recipe
Step 1: Mix Dry Ingredients
Start by whisking together the flour, baking soda, baking powder, pumpkin pie spice, and cinnamon in a large bowl. This ensures that all the flavor and leavening agents are evenly distributed so your waffles rise beautifully and offer a consistent burst of warm spice.
Step 2: Prepare Wet Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together the egg yolks, mashed sweet potatoes, melted butter, vanilla extract, and milk until the mixture becomes smooth and silky. This combination brings moisture, richness, and a gentle sweetness to the batter.
Step 3: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients
Gradually add the wet mixture to the dry ingredients, stirring just until everything is combined. Be careful not to overmix; you want the batter to be slightly lumpy for tender waffles that aren’t dense.
Step 4: Beat Egg Whites
Using a hand mixer, beat the egg whites until soft peaks form. Then add the brown sugar and continue beating until stiff, glossy peaks appear. This step is key to giving these sweet potato waffles their signature light and airy texture.
Step 5: Fold Egg Whites into Batter
Gently fold the beaten egg whites into the batter using a spatula. Take your time to preserve as much air as possible so your waffles come out fluffy yet crisp.
Step 6: Preheat Waffle Iron
Before cooking, preheat your waffle iron and lightly spray it with cooking spray to prevent sticking. A hot surface is essential for getting that golden, crispy exterior.
Step 7: Cook Waffles
Scoop enough batter onto the waffle iron to evenly cover the surface without overflowing. Close the iron and cook for about 5 minutes or until the waffles turn golden brown and develop a delightful crispness.
Step 8: Serve
Serve these sweet potato waffles immediately with your favorite toppings, and enjoy the perfect balance of cozy spices and hearty sweetness in every bite.
How to Serve Sweet Potato Waffles Recipe
Garnishes
Your garnishes can elevate these waffles from breakfast to a true feast. Classic maple syrup pairs beautifully with the sweet potato flavor, but don’t shy away from adding fresh berries for a bright contrast or a dollop of whipped cream for extra indulgence. A sprinkle of chopped nuts can provide a satisfying crunch, too.
Side Dishes
To round out your meal, consider classic breakfast sides like crispy bacon or breakfast sausage. For a lighter touch, a simple spinach salad or roasted vegetables works well. Even a creamy fried egg on the side adds a savory note that complements the sweetness of the waffles perfectly.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, stack your sweet potato waffles layered with mascarpone and drizzled with honey, or turn them into waffle sandwiches with turkey and melted cheese. You could even cut them into bite-sized pieces for a brunch-friendly finger food. Presentation is all about making these waffles as inviting to the eye as they are to the palate.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you find yourself with leftover waffles (and honestly, it’s hard not to), store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. This keeps them fresh without losing too much of their crisp texture.
Freezing
Sweet Potato Waffles Recipe also freeze extremely well. Place cooled waffles in a single layer on a baking sheet to freeze initially, then transfer them to a zip-top freezer bag. They can last up to one month in the freezer, making it so easy to enjoy a quick breakfast anytime.
Reheating
The best way to reheat these waffles and restore their initial crispness is by popping them in a toaster or toaster oven. Avoid microwaving if you want to keep that delightful crunch intact. Just 2-3 minutes on medium heat, and they are ready to enjoy all over again.
FAQs
Can I use canned sweet potatoes for this Sweet Potato Waffles Recipe?
Yes, canned sweet potatoes can work as a convenient substitute. Just be sure to drain any excess liquid and mash them well for the best texture.
What milk alternatives work best for this recipe?
Almond milk, oat milk, or soy milk all work wonderfully, adding their own subtle flavors while keeping the batter moist and tender.
Can I make these waffles gluten-free?
Absolutely! Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend designed for baking. You may need to adjust the liquid slightly to get the right batter consistency.
How can I make these waffles vegan?
To make the Sweet Potato Waffles Recipe vegan, replace egg yolks and whites with flaxseed or chia seed egg substitutes, use plant-based milk, and swap melted butter for a vegan oil like coconut or vegetable oil.
Are these waffles suitable for kids?
Definitely! The mild sweetness and familiar flavors make them a hit with kids. You can also customize toppings to their preferences, whether that’s fruit, yogurt, or a little maple syrup.
Final Thoughts
I truly hope you give this Sweet Potato Waffles Recipe a try because it’s a beautiful way to transform a humble ingredient into something special. Whether for a weekend brunch or a weekday breakfast that feels like a treat, these waffles won’t disappoint. They’re comforting, flavorful, and a fun twist on a classic that will brighten your mornings and warm your heart.
Print
Sweet Potato Waffles Recipe
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Description
Delight in these fluffy and flavorful Sweet Potato Waffles, perfectly spiced with pumpkin pie spice and cinnamon. Made with mashed sweet potatoes and lightened by whipped egg whites, these waffles offer a tender texture and a hint of natural sweetness. Ideal for a cozy breakfast or brunch, they pair wonderfully with maple syrup, fresh berries, or even savory sides.
Ingredients
Dry Ingredients
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp baking soda
- 1 tsp baking powder
- 1 tsp pumpkin pie spice
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon
Wet Ingredients
- 2 egg yolks
- 3 egg whites
- 1 cup mashed sweet potatoes (leftover or freshly made)
- 1/4 cup melted butter (or neutral-tasting oil)
- 1 tsp pure vanilla extract
- 1 cup milk (or milk alternative)
- 1/4 cup packed brown sugar (dark or light)
Instructions
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, baking powder, pumpkin pie spice, and ground cinnamon until evenly combined.
- Prepare Wet Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk the egg yolks, mashed sweet potatoes, melted butter, vanilla extract, and milk together until the mixture is smooth and uniform.
- Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients: Gradually add the wet mixture to the dry ingredients, stirring gently until just combined, being careful not to overmix to keep the batter tender.
- Beat Egg Whites: Use a hand mixer to beat the egg whites until soft peaks form. Then add the brown sugar and continue beating until stiff peaks develop, adding lightness to the waffles.
- Fold Egg Whites into Batter: Gently fold the beaten egg whites into the batter with a spatula, preserving as much airiness as possible for a fluffy texture.
- Preheat Waffle Iron: Heat your waffle iron according to the manufacturer’s instructions and lightly spray it with cooking spray to prevent sticking.
- Cook Waffles: Scoop an appropriate amount of batter onto the preheated waffle iron and close the lid. Cook each waffle for about 5 minutes or until they are golden brown and crisp on the outside.
- Serve: Serve the waffles immediately with your favorite toppings such as maple syrup, fresh berries, or a side of savory eggs for a balanced meal.
Notes
- For extra crispiness, let cooked waffles cool on a wire rack instead of stacking them.
- Leftover sweet potatoes from a previous meal work perfectly in this recipe.
- Use a neutral oil instead of butter if you prefer a lighter taste or dairy-free option.
- Beating and folding in egg whites gently is key to light and airy waffles.
- If you don’t have a waffle iron, the batter can be adapted to make pancakes on a griddle with a slightly longer cooking time.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Breakfast
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
