Vegan Apple Cinnamon Waffles With Spelt Flour

After our summer trip to the U.S., where hotel breakfasts often meant help-yourself waffle stations, my kids began asking me: “Can you make waffles?” Not long after, we picked up the cutest Disney-themed ceramic waffle maker at Costco, and I began experimenting in the kitchen. There were a few less-than-stellar batches along the way, but eventually I landed on these vegan apple cinnamon waffles—crispy, satisfying, and surprisingly wholesome.

I knew this recipe was a keeper when a neighbour texted me asking for it after her daughter had breakfast with us one morning and couldn’t stop talking about the waffles. Delicious, nourishing, and kid-approved, these waffles have officially become a regular in our home.

Jump down to the recipe or read on for more about what makes these waffles a win!

Why Use Spelt Flour in Waffles

Spelt flour is an ancient grain that works well in most recipes where modern wheat would normally be used. It has a slightly nutty flavour that enhances the flavour of these waffles, giving them a rich, wholesome taste. The benefit of using spelt is that it has a weaker gluten and starch structure than modern wheat, making it easier to digest, and may be an option for those with gluten sensitivities. These weaker gluten bonds also result in waffles that have a softer texture.

I use a blend of whole grain and light spelt to make the waffles fluffier and less dense, while providing the nutrition that whole grain spelt has to offer. For more information on the nutritional benefits of spelt, check out my blog posts Simple & Delicious Sourdough Spelt Bread and Surprisingly Good Cream of Spelt.

Tools You May Need

• Waffle iron – I have this waffle maker
• Mixing bowl
• Whisk
• Measuring cups and spoons

Ingredients

Dry Ingredients

• Whole grain spelt
• Light spelt
• Coconut sugar
• Cinnamon
• Baking powder
• Baking soda
• Salt

Wet Ingredients

• Unsweetened vanilla almond milk – or any plant-based milk
• Lemon juice
• Egg replacer + water
• Avocado oil – or melted refined coconut oil
• Apple – finely chopped

How To Make Vegan Apple Cinnamon Waffles

1. Activate the Egg Replacer

Whisk the egg replacer with water in a small bowl and set aside to thicken.

2. Prepare the Vegan Buttermilk

In a liquid measuring cup or medium bowl, whisk the almond milk and lemon juice together. Allow to sit for a few minutes.

3. Mix the Dry Ingredients

Combine spelt flours, coconut sugar, baking soda, baking powder, salt and cinnamon in a large bowl. Whisk well.

4. Combine the Wet Ingredients

Add the vegan buttermilk, thickened egg replacer, and avocado oil to the dry ingredients. Stir until just combined, being careful not to overmix.

5. Fold in the Apple

Fold the chopped apple into the batter without overmixing.

6. Rest the Batter

Allow the batter to rest for 5 minutes for fluffier waffles.

7. Cook the Waffles

While the batter is resting, preheat the waffle iron.

Lightly grease the iron (I use avocado oil spray) and pour 1/4 cup to 3/4 cup of batter, depending on the size of your iron. Cook until golden and crisp.

8. Serve Warm

Add your favourite toppings (maple syrup, coconut whipped cream, fruit compote, etc.) and enjoy!

Tips

• Extra crispy waffles: cook a little longer after the steam stops.
• Sweeter waffles: increase coconut sugar to 4 tbsp or add a little maple syrup to the batter.
• Meal prep: cook the waffles until just before they become crispy. Allow them to cool completely before adding them to a freezer bag and storing them in the freezer. Add to the toaster (for smaller, Eggo-sized waffles) or reheat in the oven for 8-10 minutes at 375°F.