Imagine biting into a waffle that's not just another bland breakfast staple, but a culinary masterpiece that dances between sweet and tangy, crispy and tender. These Cranberry Cornmeal Waffles with Cider Syrup are about to transform your morning routine from mundane to extraordinary! Packed with vibrant cranberries and crowned with a luxurious apple cider syrup, this recipe promises a gourmet experience that will make your taste buds sing and your family beg for seconds.
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 15 mins
Total Time: 25 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 cup cornmeal
- 2 tablespoons sugar
- 1 tablespoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 2 large eggs
- 2 cups milk
- 1/4 cup vegetable oil
- 1 cup fresh or frozen cranberries
- 1 cup apple cider
- 1/2 cup maple syrup
Instructions
- Prepare the dry ingredients by combining all-purpose flour, cornmeal, sugar, baking powder, and salt in a large mixing bowl. Whisk together until well blended and no lumps remain.
- In a separate bowl, beat the eggs thoroughly. Add milk and vegetable oil to the eggs, whisking until completely combined and smooth.
- Pour the wet ingredient mixture into the dry ingredients. Gently fold and stir until just combined, being careful not to overmix. Some small lumps are acceptable.
- Carefully fold in the fresh or frozen cranberries, distributing them evenly throughout the waffle batter.
- Preheat your waffle iron according to manufacturer's instructions. Lightly grease the waffle iron with non-stick cooking spray or melted butter.
- Pour the appropriate amount of batter into the waffle iron (amount depends on your specific waffle maker). Close and cook until golden brown and crispy, typically 3-4 minutes.
- While waffles are cooking, prepare the cider syrup by combining apple cider and maple syrup in a small saucepan. Simmer over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the mixture reduces and thickens slightly, about 8-10 minutes.
- Remove waffles from the iron and keep warm. Repeat cooking process with remaining batter.
- Serve waffles immediately, drizzling the warm cider syrup generously over the top. Optionally garnish with additional fresh cranberries or a dusting of powdered sugar.
Tips
- Do not overmix the batter - some small lumps are your secret to fluffy waffles! Overmixing can lead to tough, dense waffles.
- For extra cranberry burst, consider lightly tossing the cranberries in a tablespoon of flour before folding into the batter. This prevents them from sinking and ensures even distribution.
- If using frozen cranberries, do not thaw them first. Add them directly to the batter while still frozen to maintain their shape and prevent color bleeding.
- Preheat your waffle iron thoroughly and ensure it's evenly greased for that perfect golden-brown crispy exterior.
- The cider syrup can be made ahead of time and gently rewarmed, which actually helps intensify its flavors.
- For a more decadent version, try adding a pinch of cinnamon or orange zest to the waffle batter for additional depth of flavor.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 450kcal
Carbohydrates: 65g
Protein: 12g
Fat: 18g
Saturated Fat: 4g
Cholesterol: 95mg
