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–+ servings
Chai Spiced Apple Waffles 1

Chai Spiced Apple Waffles

These Chai Spiced Apple Waffles bring together the comfort of traditional waffles with the aromatic complexity of chai spices and the sweet-tart flavor of fresh apples. Perfect for those crisp fall mornings when you crave something special but don't want to spend hours in the kitchen.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 35 minutes
Course Breakfast, Brunch
Cuisine American, Fall
Servings 3 people
Calories 385 kcal

Equipment

  • Waffle Iron
  • Skillet
  • Mixing Bowls

Ingredients
  

Chai Spice Mix

  • 2 tsp ground cinnamon
  • 1 tsp ground cardamom
  • 1/2 tsp ground ginger
  • 1/4 tsp ground cloves
  • 1/4 tsp ground allspice
  • 1/8 tsp freshly ground black pepper adds authentic chai depth

Waffle Batter

  • 2 cups all-purpose flour substitute with 1:1 gluten-free flour blend if needed
  • 2 tbsp sugar coconut sugar works beautifully for a caramel-like flavor
  • 1 tbsp baking powder
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 2 large eggs room temperature
  • 1 3/4 cups milk plant-based alternatives like oat or almond milk work well
  • 1/2 cup melted butter or neutral oil
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
  • 1 tbsp freshly brewed strong black tea optional but enhances the chai flavor

Apple Topping

  • 2 medium apples Honeycrisp or Granny Smith provide the perfect sweet-tart balance
  • 2 tbsp butter
  • 2 tbsp brown sugar or maple syrup for a natural option
  • 1 tsp chai spice mix

Instructions
 

  • Combine all spices (cinnamon, cardamom, ginger, cloves, allspice, and black pepper) in a small bowl and whisk thoroughly to create your chai spice mix.
  • Preheat your waffle iron according to manufacturer instructions. For best results, set to medium-high heat.
  • In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, salt, and 1 tablespoon of your chai spice mix.
  • In a separate bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, melted butter (or oil), vanilla extract, and brewed tea (if using).
  • Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and stir until just combined. A slightly lumpy batter is ideal. Let the batter rest for 5 minutes.
  • While the batter rests, prepare the apple topping. Peel, core, and dice the apples into 1/4-inch pieces.
  • In a medium skillet over medium heat, melt the butter, then add the apples, brown sugar, and 1 teaspoon of chai spice mix. Cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the apples are tender and slightly caramelized.
  • Ladle the batter onto the preheated waffle iron (approximately 1/3 cup per waffle section). Cook until golden brown and crisp, about 3-5 minutes or until steam stops escaping from the waffle iron.
  • Transfer waffles to serving plates, top with the warm spiced apple mixture, and add optional toppings of your choice. Serve immediately for maximum crispness.

Notes

Make a double batch of the chai spice mix and store it in an airtight container for future recipes.
For extra crispiness, set your waffle iron to a medium-high setting.
Leave small lumps in the batter - overmixing is the number one cause of dense, tough waffles.
Rather than relying on the indicator light, look for steam to stop escaping from the waffle iron as a more reliable indicator of doneness.
To keep waffles crispy while making multiple batches, place them in a single layer on a wire rack in a warm oven (200°F/95°C).

Nutrition

Calories: 385kcalCarbohydrates: 52gProtein: 8gFat: 17gFiber: 3gSugar: 18g
Keyword Waffles, Apple Waffles, Chai Spiced, Fall Breakfast, Apple Recipe
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