Save These cinnamon apple protein waffles are the breakfast I turn to when I want something cozy yet nourishing that keeps me energized for hours. Juicy apple bits and warm spices tucked into each fluffy bite make these waffles a joyful way to start the day or refuel after a tough workout.
My family loves these as a weekend breakfast. The house fills with cinnamon warmth and nobody argues about eating something nutritious.
Ingredients
- Oat flour: brings fiber and a naturally nutty flavor. Use certified gluten free if needed
- Vanilla protein powder: adds body and boosts the protein content. Choose a plant-based variety for dairy free
- Ground cinnamon: infuses deep spice and balances the apple’s sweetness. Fresh aromatic cinnamon will make a difference
- Baking powder: ensures the waffles turn out fluffy and tender. Make sure your baking powder is fresh for the best rise
- Salt: subtly enhances flavors and balances all the sweet and spiced notes
- Eggs: give structure and help with that classic waffle texture. Look for free range eggs for richer flavor
- Unsweetened almond milk: keeps things light. Any milk will work if you prefer something else
- Melted coconut oil: offers moisture and a gentle coconut note. You can opt for unsalted butter for richness
- Maple syrup or honey: adds just a kiss of sweetness. Go with pure maple syrup for that caramel nuance
- Vanilla extract: rounds out flavors and ties everything together. Real vanilla is worth the little splurge
- A fresh medium apple: brings bursts of juicy freshness in every bite. Choose a crisp sweet-tart apple like Honeycrisp or Gala
- Cooking spray or oil: is essential for perfect release from the waffle iron
Instructions
- Prepare the Waffle Iron:
- Set your waffle iron to preheat following the directions for your specific model. A properly heated iron prevents sticking and helps waffles turn out crisp
- Mix the Dry Ingredients:
- Grab a large mixing bowl and combine oat flour protein powder ground cinnamon baking powder and salt. Whisk thoroughly so the leavening and spice disperse evenly
- Blend the Wet Ingredients:
- In a separate bowl whisk the eggs almond milk melted coconut oil maple syrup and vanilla extract until the mixture is completely smooth and creamy
- Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures:
- Pour the wet ingredients into the bowl with the dry ingredients and use a spatula to fold everything together. Stir gently until the batter just comes together without pockets of dry flour
- Add the Apples:
- Fold diced apple pieces into the batter ensuring they are evenly distributed but taking care not to overmix
- Grease the Waffle Iron:
- Very lightly coat the hot waffle iron with cooking spray or brush with oil. This step ensures your waffles release easily and get a lovely crisp edge
- Cook the Waffles:
- Spoon enough batter onto the center of your waffle iron to just cover the grate. Use roughly half to three quarter cup per batch. Close and cook without peeking for three to five minutes or until golden and crisp
- Repeat and Serve:
- Continue with the rest of the batter refreshing your oil or spray between each batch. Serve the hot waffles right away with extra apple fresh cinnamon dusting or more maple syrup
Save My favorite part of this recipe is the tangible sweetness you get when a warm apple chunk peeks through the waffle’s golden exterior. I always make it when I want to bring everyone to the kitchen with the scent of apples and cinnamon in the air. Last fall my youngest insisted on adding extra cinnamon and it has been our little twist ever since
Storage Tips
Let leftover waffles cool completely on a wire rack before storing. Keep them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. I like to pop them straight into the toaster from the fridge for a fresh crisp texture
Ingredient Substitutions
If you do not have oat flour handy you can pulse rolled oats in a blender until finely ground. For a nut free version swap almond milk and coconut oil for dairy milk and melted unsalted butter. Use applesauce instead of fresh apples for an even softer crumb
Serving Suggestions
Pile waffles high then top with Greek yogurt banana slices or nut butter for a complete meal. For a fun brunch platter serve alongside scrambled eggs turkey bacon and a berry fruit salad
Cultural and Historical Notes
Waffles have roots in European cooking but this twist brings in classic American fall flavors with cinnamon and apple. Swapping in protein powder keeps it modern for today’s health minded eaters
Seasonal Adaptations
Swap diced apple for fresh ripe pear chunks in winter. Try grated zucchini and chopped walnuts for a summer vegetable version. In early autumn add pumpkin puree and pumpkin spice for a cozy treat
Success Stories
Many readers tell me this is their go-to meal prep breakfast. A friend of mine loves packing these for busy workdays and her kids see them as a treat instead of just something healthy
Freezer Meal Conversion
To freeze waffles layer them with parchment in a freezer safe bag. Reheat in a toaster or oven straight from frozen until hot and crisp again. I often double the batch just for this purpose
Save With a pantry staple like oat flour and fresh apple these waffles make mornings something special and wholesome. Try them soon for a breakfast that feels both cozy and nourishing
Recipe Guide
- → Can I use regular flour instead of oat flour?
Yes, substitute with whole wheat or all-purpose flour for a similar texture and taste.
- → How do I make these dairy-free?
Use plant-based protein powder and non-dairy milk like almond or oat for a completely dairy-free option.
- → What protein powders work best?
Vanilla flavored protein powders blend well but any mild protein powder of your choice works, including vegan or whey.
- → Can I add other mix-ins?
Absolutely! Chopped nuts, raisins, or flaxseed can add more flavor or texture as desired.
- → Are these waffles gluten-free?
If you use certified gluten-free oat flour and protein powder, these waffles are suitable for a gluten-free diet.
- → What toppings pair well?
Serve with Greek yogurt, fresh apple slices, extra cinnamon, or a drizzle of honey or maple syrup for added flavor.