Step-by-Step Guide to Making Perfect Gingerbread Waffles

Get ready to make your holiday breakfast special with gingerbread waffles. This guide will show you how to make the perfect batch of these festive treats.

Instructions:

1. Gather Your Ingredients
   Collect all the ingredients needed, and ensure you have measuring cups and spoons.
2. Prepare Your Waffle Iron
   Preheat your waffle iron according to the manufacturer’s instructions. If your waffle iron requires greasing, lightly coat it with a bit of cooking spray or oil.
3. Mix Dry Ingredients
   In a large mixing bowl, combine the following dry ingredients:

   • 1 cup whole wheat flour
   • 1/2 cup rolled oats
   • 1 tablespoon ground ginger
   • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
   • 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
   • 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
   • 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
   • 1/4 teaspoon salt
     Whisk these dry ingredients together until well combined.

4. Mix Wet Ingredients
   In a separate bowl, combine the following wet ingredients:

   • 1/4 cup unsweetened applesauce
   • 2 tablespoons honey or maple syrup (you can adjust the sweetness based on preference)
   • 1 cup unsweetened almond milk (or any other plant-based milk)
   • 1 large egg (if using a flax egg, mix 1 tablespoon ground flaxseed with 2.5 tablespoons water and let sit for a few minutes)
   • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
     Whisk the wet ingredients until they are well mixed.

5. Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients
   Pour the wet ingredients into the bowl with the dry ingredients. Gently stir the mixture with a spatula or spoon until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; it's okay if there are a few lumps.
6. Cook the Waffles
   Once your waffle iron is hot, pour an adequate amount of batter onto the center of the waffle iron (the amount will depend on the size of your iron). Close the lid and cook according to the manufacturer's instructions, usually for 3 to 5 minutes, until the waffles are golden brown and crisp.
7. Check and Serve
   Carefully open the waffle iron and use a fork or tongs to remove the waffle. Serve immediately or keep warm in a low oven (around 200°F) while you cook the remaining waffles.
8. Add Toppings
   Top your gingerbread waffles with sliced bananas, fresh berries, a sprinkle of nuts, or a dollop of Greek yogurt or dairy-free yogurt for added flavor and nutrition.
9. Enjoy!
   Serve your nutritious gingerbread waffles warm and enjoy!

Feel free to explore different toppings and make this recipe your own! Enjoy your healthy breakfast!