Apple Cinnamon Waffles with Peanut Butter Swirls – A Cozy Fall Favorite That Fuels the Day

Introduction

Bring the flavors of a warm apple pie to the breakfast table with these Apple Cinnamon Waffles with Peanut Butter Swirls. Filled with grated apples, applesauce, and a sprinkle of cinnamon, these waffles are soft, cozy, and perfect for crisp autumn mornings—or really any day that calls for something warm and comforting.

Instead of syrup, top them with a generous swirl of natural peanut butter and a sprinkle of granola for extra crunch and staying power. These waffles are naturally sweetened, protein-packed, and kid-approved. They’re the kind of breakfast that tastes like a treat, but keeps little bellies full ‘til lunch. 🍎🧇🥜

Ingredients

For the Waffles:

• 1 cup whole wheat flour (or all-purpose)
• ½ cup oat flour (or finely blended rolled oats)
• 2 teaspoons baking powder
• ½ teaspoon baking soda
• ½ teaspoon salt
• 1 ½ teaspoons ground cinnamon
• 1 large egg
• 1 cup milk (dairy or non-dairy)
• ½ cup unsweetened applesauce
• 1 tablespoon maple syrup or honey (optional)
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 medium apple, peeled and grated (about ½ cup)
• 2 tablespoons melted butter or coconut oil

For Topping:

• Natural peanut butter (slightly warmed for drizzling)
• Granola (your favorite kind!)
• Optional: extra apple slices or a dash of cinnamon

Preparation Tips

• Grate the apple finely so it blends into the batter and cooks evenly.
• Use natural peanut butter with no added sugar or oils for a wholesome topping—just stir well before drizzling.
• These waffles are naturally sweetened, but you can add more maple syrup or a handful of raisins for extra sweetness if desired.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Mix the Dry Ingredients

1. In a large bowl, whisk together whole wheat flour, oat flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and cinnamon.

Step 2: Mix the Wet Ingredients

2. In another bowl, whisk together egg, milk, applesauce, maple syrup (if using), vanilla, and melted butter or oil.

Step 3: Combine & Add Apples

3. Add the wet ingredients to the dry and stir just until combined.
4. Gently fold in the grated apple. Let the batter rest for 5 minutes to thicken.

Step 4: Cook the Waffles

5. Preheat your waffle iron and lightly grease if needed.
6. Pour batter into the waffle maker (about ½–¾ cup, depending on your iron) and cook for 3–5 minutes, or until golden brown.
7. Repeat with remaining batter.

Step 5: Add the Peanut Butter Swirl & Toppings

8. Drizzle each warm waffle with slightly warmed natural peanut butter.
9. Sprinkle with a handful of granola, and add apple slices or a dusting of cinnamon if you’d like.

Serving Suggestions

• Serve with a side of Greek yogurt or a glass of milk for a full protein-packed breakfast.
• Pair with a hot apple cider or cinnamon tea for full fall coziness.
• Cut into strips for an easy finger food breakfast for toddlers—the peanut butter dip is a fun bonus!

Make-Ahead & Storage

• Fridge: Store leftover waffles (without toppings) in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
• Freezer: Freeze for up to 2 months. Toast to reheat for a crisp, warm waffle on busy mornings.
• Tip: Keep peanut butter and granola separate until ready to serve to preserve crunch and texture.

Conclusion

These Apple Cinnamon Waffles with Peanut Butter Swirls are the ultimate cozy-meets-healthy breakfast. With warm apple flavor, hearty oats, and creamy peanut butter, they’re perfect for fall mornings, weekend brunch, or school-day fuel-ups.

Simple to prep, easy to customize, and totally delicious—this is one of those recipes you’ll come back to again and again. For more feel-good breakfasts with kid-friendly flair, find your next favorite right here on Cozy Cadence! 🍎🧇🥜🍂