Save These cinnamon apple protein waffles are my go to breakfast when I want something cozy wholesome and satisfying. The blend of warm cinnamon spice with sweet bits of apple delivers classic comfort all while sneaking in a protein boost to keep you full till lunch. Perfect for busy mornings or a post workout plate when you want real nourishment without a sugar crash.
My family asks for these all autumn long and I love how they make the kitchen smell just like apple pie. When I made these before a big family hike we all tackled the trails with extra energy.
Ingredients
- Oat flour: for a naturally gluten friendly whole grain base try to choose a fine grind for fluffiest waffles
- Vanilla protein powder: to amp up the protein skip blends with added artificial sweeteners for best flavor
- Ground cinnamon: gives warmth and that bakery style aroma use fresh for best results
- Baking powder: helps the waffles rise choose aluminum free baking powder if possible
- Salt: balances the sweet and rounds out the flavor choose fine sea salt for easy mixing
- Eggs: for structure and additional protein choose large eggs from pasture raised hens if you can
- Unsweetened almond milk or any milk you like: adds moisture using unsweetened keeps sugar in check
- Melted coconut oil or unsalted butter: for richness go for virgin coconut oil for the most flavor
- Maple syrup or honey: a touch of natural sweetness pure maple syrup really deepens the flavor
- Vanilla extract: builds on the cozy scent opt for pure extract instead of imitation for the best taste
- Apple peeled cored and diced: for juicy bites choose a crisp apple such as honeycrisp or fuji for best texture
- Cooking spray or a small amount of oil: keeps your waffles from sticking use neutral oil for no extra flavor
Instructions
- Preheat the Waffle Iron:
- Set your waffle iron to preheat according to the manufacturer's directions. Letting the iron get fully hot is important for achieving that crisp exterior and fluffy inside.
- Mix the Dry Ingredients:
- In a large bowl combine oat flour vanilla protein powder ground cinnamon baking powder and salt. Whisk thoroughly to evenly distribute the leaveners and spice so every bite is consistent.
- Prepare the Wet Ingredients:
- In a separate medium bowl crack the eggs and whisk well. Add almond milk melted coconut oil maple syrup and vanilla extract. Whisk until smooth and homogenous to help the batter mix together without clumps.
- Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures:
- Pour the wet ingredients over the dry ingredients. Stir gently with a spatula just until you no longer see dry flour. Stop as soon as combined to avoid overmixing which can make the waffles tough.
- Add the Apples:
- Fold in the diced apple so the fruit is distributed throughout the batter. This step ensures each waffle has juicy apple bites for sweet flavor in every section.
- Grease the Waffle Iron:
- When the iron is hot lightly spray or brush with oil. This prevents sticking and helps the waffles release cleanly when cooked.
- Cook the Waffles:
- Spoon the batter into the center of the hot waffle iron about one half to three quarter cup per waffle depending on your model. Close the lid and cook for three to five minutes until the waffle is golden crisp and set. Avoid opening too early for the best texture.
- Repeat and Serve:
- Continue cooking with the remaining batter greasing the iron as needed. Serve the waffles immediately while warm and crisp. Top with extra apples a sprinkle of cinnamon or a drizzle of maple syrup if you want even more flavor.
Save One of my favorite parts of these waffles is the scent that fills the kitchen as they cook. When my kids were little they would run downstairs as soon as they caught a whiff of cinnamon in the air and it always brings that rush of family memories back every time I make them.
Storage Tips
Let leftover waffles cool completely before storing. Stack with parchment or wax paper between each waffle and keep in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat in the toaster or toaster oven so they stay crisp and not soggy. For longer keeping freeze them on a baking sheet then transfer to a freezer bag for up to two months. Just pop the frozen waffles right in the toaster.
Ingredient Substitutions
Swap oat flour with whole wheat pastry or regular flour if you are not concerned about gluten. If you need the waffles to be totally gluten free make sure your oat flour and protein powder specify this on the label. Dairy milk or soy milk both work instead of almond milk and plant based protein powder can make the recipe completely dairy free. You can mix in a handful of chopped walnuts or pecans for crunch or use diced pears for a fun twist on flavor.
Serving Suggestions
For a breakfast plate add a dollop of Greek yogurt fresh fruit and extra maple syrup. To make these portable layer waffles with nut butter and apple slices for a grab and go sandwich. As a post workout treat I love topping mine with cottage cheese and extra cinnamon for a savory sweet bite. You can even make dessert style waffles with a scoop of vanilla yogurt and toasted nuts.
Cultural and Seasonal Context
Waffles have a special place in American breakfast culture but every family's twist tells a story. Cinnamon and apple are iconic for fall and winter but in my house these waffles make appearances all year. There is something about that apple cinnamon combo reminiscent of warm apple pie that never goes out of style no matter the season.
Save These waffles bring cozy comfort and lasting energy to even the busiest mornings. Try them once and they may become your family's new favorite too.
Common Questions
- → How can I make these waffles gluten-free?
Use certified gluten-free oat flour and protein powder to ensure the waffles are completely gluten-free.
- → Can I use a different type of milk?
Yes, you can substitute almond milk with dairy or any preferred plant-based milk to suit your needs.
- → How should I prepare the apple for the batter?
Peel, core, and dice the apple into small pieces so they cook evenly and integrate well into the batter.
- → Is it possible to make these waffles dairy-free?
Simply use plant-based protein powder, non-dairy milk, and oil instead of butter for a dairy-free option.
- → What toppings pair well with these waffles?
Top with extra apple slices, a sprinkle of cinnamon, a drizzle of maple syrup, or add Greek yogurt for extra protein.