Name: Gingerbread Buttermilk Waffles Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 cups all-purpose flour; 2 tsp baking powder; 1/2 tsp baking soda; 1/2 tsp salt; 1 1/2 tsp ground ginger; 1 tsp ground cinnamon; 1/4 tsp ground cloves; 1/4 cup brown sugar; 2 large eggs; 1 3/4 cups buttermilk; 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted; 2 tbsp molasses; 1 tsp vanilla extract

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Gingerbread Buttermilk Waffles are my favorite way to bring cozy holiday flavors to the breakfast table. With warm spices like ginger, cinnamon, and cloves mixed into a fluffy buttermilk waffle batter, these waffles come out golden, crisp on the edges, and soft on the inside. They taste like a stack of festive cheer—and I’ll happily eat them all year round.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I love how these waffles fill the kitchen with the comforting aroma of spiced gingerbread. The buttermilk makes them tender and gives them a little tang, while the molasses adds depth and that signature gingerbread flavor. Whether I’m making them for a holiday brunch or just because it’s a chilly morning, they always feel special. They’re also freezer-friendly, so I can enjoy them even on a busy day. Gingerbread Buttermilk Waffles Recipe

Ingredients

(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

All-purpose flour
Baking powder
Baking soda
Salt
Ground ginger
Ground cinnamon
Ground cloves
Brown sugar
Eggs
Buttermilk
Unsalted butter, melted
Molasses
Vanilla extract

Directions

I preheat the waffle iron and lightly grease it with oil or butter.
In a large bowl, I whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and spices.
In another bowl, I beat the eggs, then add buttermilk, melted butter, molasses, brown sugar, and vanilla. I whisk until smooth.
I pour the wet ingredients into the dry and stir just until combined—being careful not to overmix.
I pour the batter into the hot waffle iron and cook according to the manufacturer’s instructions, usually about 3–5 minutes, until the waffles are golden brown and crisp.
I serve immediately with butter, maple syrup, whipped cream, or even a dollop of spiced apples or cranberry compote.

Servings and timing

This recipe makes about 4–6 waffles, depending on the size of the waffle iron. It takes around 25–30 minutes total—10 minutes to prep and 15–20 minutes to cook.

Variations

Sometimes I fold in chopped pecans or mini chocolate chips for extra texture. I’ve also topped them with cream cheese glaze for a dessert-style breakfast. For a dairy-free version, I use almond milk with lemon juice instead of buttermilk and coconut oil in place of butter. I’ve even made mini waffles and used them as a base for holiday breakfast sandwiches.

storage/reheating

I store leftover waffles in the fridge for up to 3 days or freeze them for up to a month. To reheat, I pop them in the toaster or oven to bring back the crispiness—way better than microwaving. Gingerbread Buttermilk Waffles Recipe

FAQs

Can I make the batter ahead of time?

Yes, I prepare the batter and store it in the fridge for up to 12 hours. I give it a gentle stir before cooking.

What if I don’t have buttermilk?

I make a quick substitute by adding 1 tablespoon of lemon juice or vinegar to 1 cup of milk, then letting it sit for 5 minutes.

Can I make these waffles gluten-free?

Yes. I use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend, and the results are still fluffy and flavorful. Just make sure the blend contains xanthan gum or add it separately.

Are these very sweet?

They’re mildly sweet—just enough to bring out the gingerbread flavor. I let the syrup and toppings add the extra sweetness.

Can I use this batter for pancakes?

Absolutely. I’ve poured it onto a griddle and made delicious gingerbread pancakes with the same cozy flavor.

Conclusion

Gingerbread Buttermilk Waffles are my go-to when I want a breakfast that feels warm, nostalgic, and just a little indulgent. I love how easy they are to make and how the spices turn an ordinary waffle into something comforting and festive. Whether I’m celebrating the season or just craving something cozy, these waffles always hit the spot.