Caramel Apple Cinnamon Waffles Recipe Perfect for Fall

Posted on November 9, 2025

Caramel Apple Cinnamon Waffles - featured image

The scent of warm caramel and cinnamon filling the kitchen while golden waffles crisp up on the griddle—it’s the kind of morning magic that makes you want to hit pause. These Caramel Apple Cinnamon Waffles are the ultimate autumn breakfast treat, combining fluffy waffles with sweet caramelized apples and a hint of spice. Whether you’re cuddled up on a chilly fall morning or looking for a showstopping brunch dish, this recipe delivers comfort and flavor in every bite.

I stumbled upon the idea for these waffles while trying to recreate those cozy, fairground caramel apples we all know and love. Let’s face it—waffles are inherently comforting, but paired with cinnamon-kissed apples and drizzled with sticky caramel? Game-changer. Plus, they’re surprisingly easy to whip up. Trust me, this recipe will quickly become a favorite for fall mornings.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Simple Ingredients: Most of the ingredients are pantry staples or easy-to-find items at your local grocery store.
Perfect for Fall: The flavors of caramel, apple, and cinnamon scream autumn. Serve these for breakfast, brunch, or even dessert!
Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will love the sweet and spiced flavor combination.
Versatile: You can switch up the toppings, make them gluten-free, or add a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a dessert twist.
Unbelievably Delicious: The balance of fluffy waffles with tender caramel apples and rich caramel sauce is pure comfort food bliss.

What sets this recipe apart is the caramelized apple topping. Instead of just tossing raw apples into the mix, we take the time to sauté them with butter, brown sugar, and cinnamon. This step elevates the flavor and texture, creating a warm, gooey topping that pairs perfectly with the crispy waffles. It’s the kind of recipe that feels indulgent but is simple enough to make on a whim.

What Ingredients You Will Need

This recipe uses fresh, flavorful ingredients to create a cozy breakfast dish. Here’s a breakdown of what you’ll need:

For the waffles:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon baking powder
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 2 large eggs
- 1 3/4 cups whole milk (or your favorite dairy-free alternative)
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
For the caramelized apple topping:
- 2 medium apples, peeled, cored, and sliced (Honeycrisp or Granny Smith work best)
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- Pinch of nutmeg (optional)
For the caramel sauce:
- 1/2 cup caramel sauce (store-bought or homemade)
- 1-2 tablespoons heavy cream (to thin, if needed)

Tip: If you need a gluten-free option, substitute the flour with a 1-to-1 gluten-free baking mix. For dairy-free waffles, use almond or oat milk and replace the butter with coconut oil.

Equipment Needed

Waffle maker: A standard or Belgian waffle maker works well. If you don’t have one, you can make pancakes instead.
Large mixing bowls: You’ll need at least two—one for the dry ingredients and one for the wet ingredients.
Whisk: To blend your dry and wet ingredients smoothly.
Nonstick skillet: Essential for caramelizing the apples without sticking.
Spatula: For flipping the apples and scraping out the caramel sauce.

Don’t have a waffle maker? Use a griddle or frying pan for pancake-style waffles. For a budget-friendly option, look for waffle makers at thrift stores—sometimes you can snag a great deal!

Preparation Method

Preheat the waffle maker: Follow the manufacturer’s instructions and set it to medium-high heat.
Make the batter: In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, cinnamon, and salt. In another bowl, combine the eggs, milk, melted butter, and vanilla extract. Gradually pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients, mixing until just combined. Avoid overmixing—lumps are okay!
Prepare the apple topping: Heat a nonstick skillet over medium heat. Add the butter and let it melt completely. Stir in the brown sugar, cinnamon, and nutmeg (if using) until combined. Add the sliced apples, tossing to coat them in the caramel mixture. Cook for 5-7 minutes or until the apples are tender and glazed. Remove from heat and set aside.
Make the waffles: Lightly grease the waffle maker with cooking spray or melted butter. Pour the batter onto the waffle iron, being careful not to overfill. Close the lid and cook for 4-5 minutes or until the waffles are golden brown and cooked through. Repeat with the remaining batter.
Warm the caramel sauce: In a small saucepan, gently heat the caramel sauce over low heat until it’s warm and pourable. If it’s too thick, stir in a little heavy cream to thin it out.
Assemble: Plate the waffles, top with a generous spoonful of caramelized apples, and drizzle with warm caramel sauce. Serve immediately and enjoy!

Cooking Tips & Techniques

Don’t overmix: Overmixing the batter can make your waffles dense. Stir until just combined—lumps will smooth out as the batter rests.
Grease the waffle maker: Even if your waffle iron is nonstick, a light coat of butter or spray ensures the waffles release easily.
Caramelize the apples: Take the time to cook the apples until they’re tender but not mushy. The caramel sauce should thicken slightly and coat the apples beautifully.
Keep waffles warm: Place cooked waffles on a baking sheet in a 200°F (93°C) oven to keep them warm while you finish the batch.
Customize the sweetness: If you prefer less sweetness, reduce the brown sugar in the apple topping or use unsweetened caramel sauce.

Variations & Adaptations

Gluten-Free: Use a gluten-free flour blend or almond flour for the waffle batter.
Dairy-Free: Substitute the milk with almond, soy, or oat milk and use coconut oil instead of butter.
Spiced Apple Twist: Add a pinch of cardamom or ginger to the apple topping for extra warmth.
Dessert Waffles: Serve these waffles with a scoop of vanilla ice cream and an extra drizzle of caramel sauce.
Seasonal Variation: Swap the apples with pears or peaches for a different fruit topping.

My personal favorite? Adding a handful of toasted pecans to the caramelized apple topping for a nutty crunch.

Serving & Storage Suggestions

Serve the waffles hot, fresh off the waffle iron, topped with the warm caramelized apples and caramel sauce. For a complete breakfast, pair them with a side of crispy bacon or a steaming cup of coffee. If you’re feeling fancy, garnish with a dollop of whipped cream or a sprinkle of powdered sugar.

Store leftover waffles in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days or freeze them for up to 1 month. Reheat them in a toaster or oven to bring back their crispiness. The caramelized apples can be stored separately in the fridge for up to 5 days—just reheat them on the stovetop or microwave before serving.

Nutritional Information & Benefits

These waffles are a satisfying treat, but they also pack a little nutritional punch:

Apples: Rich in fiber and vitamin C, they add natural sweetness and a bit of healthiness to your breakfast.
Cinnamon: Known for its anti-inflammatory and blood sugar-regulating properties.
Customizable: Swap ingredients to fit dietary needs, making this recipe adaptable for gluten-free or dairy-free diets.

Each waffle (with toppings) contains approximately:

Calories: 320
Protein: 6g
Carbohydrates: 45g
Fat: 12g
Fiber: 3g

Keep in mind that nutritional values may vary depending on the specific brands and portions used.

Conclusion

If you’re looking for the perfect recipe to celebrate cozy mornings or impress brunch guests, these Caramel Apple Cinnamon Waffles deliver on every level. The combination of warm, crisp waffles with gooey caramelized apples and rich caramel sauce is simply irresistible.

Feel free to make this recipe your own—add your favorite spices, experiment with different toppings, or even try it as a dessert. I love how this recipe brings the flavors of fall to life and creates moments worth savoring. Let me know how you’ve adapted it or share your pictures—I’d love to hear from you! Warm wishes and happy cooking!

FAQs

Can I make the batter ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the waffle batter the night before and store it in the fridge. Just give it a good stir before using.

What’s the best apple variety for cooking?

Honeycrisp and Granny Smith apples work best as they hold their shape and have a balanced sweet-tart flavor.

Can I freeze the waffles?

Absolutely! Let the waffles cool completely, then store them in a freezer-safe bag or container for up to 1 month.

Can I make these without a waffle maker?

Sure! You can turn the batter into pancakes by cooking it on a greased griddle or pan over medium heat.

How do I make homemade caramel sauce?

Simply melt sugar in a pan until golden, then whisk in butter and heavy cream until smooth. Let it cool slightly before serving.