Name: Banana Waffles with Pecans Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 16
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: ½ cup pecans; 1½ cups all purpose flour; ½ cup Yellow Cornmeal; 1 tbsp baking powder; ¼ tsp salt; 1¼ cups milk; 6 oz unsalted butter; 3 large eggs; 2 large ripe bananas; ¼ cup sugar; maple syrup

This delectable dish is a beloved classic with a twist. Banana pecan waffles are a mouthwatering blend of sweet bananas and crunchy pecans, all encased in a fluffy waffle. This recipe brings the warmth of the Southern comfort food to your breakfast table, guaranteed to start your day on a high note.

Photos of Banana Waffles with Pecans Recipe

All the ingredients in this recipe are commonly found in most supermarkets. However, pecans might be located in the nuts section, which is usually separate from the baking aisle where you'd find the flour and baking powder. Also, make sure you choose ripe bananas to ensure the perfect sweetness and texture for your waffles.

Ingredients for Banana Pecan Waffles

Pecans: Known for their rich buttery flavor, these add a much-needed crunch to the waffles.

All purpose flour: The base ingredient for the waffle batter.

Yellow cornmeal: Helps give the waffles a bit of texture.

Baking powder: The leaving agent which makes the waffles light and fluffy.

Salt: Balances out the sweetness of the other ingredients.

Milk: Adds moisture and assists in browning the waffles when they cook.

Unsalted butter: Adds richness and more flavor to the waffles.

Eggs: Gives structure to the waffles.

Bananas: Imparts a lovely sweet flavor which complements the pecans.

Sugar: Adds sweetness to the batter.

Maple syrup: Drizzled on the top for an extra layer of sweetness.

One reader, Ivette Ceballos says:

This banana pecan waffles recipe is a game-changer! The combination of ripe bananas and crunchy pecans creates a delightful texture and flavor. The waffles turn out fluffy and golden, and the addition of maple syrup takes it to the next level. It's a must-try for a delicious breakfast treat!

Ivette Ceballos

Key Techniques for Making Banana Pecan Waffles Recipe

Preheat the oven to 350°f: This step is essential to ensure that the oven reaches the correct temperature before baking the waffles.

Spread the pecans in a pie plate and bake for 10 minutes, or until golden: This process helps to enhance the flavor of the pecans by toasting them, adding a rich, nutty taste to the waffles.

Let the pecans cool, then coarsely chop: Allowing the pecans to cool before chopping prevents them from becoming too soft and makes it easier to achieve a coarse texture.

Lower the oven temperature to 225°f: Lowering the oven temperature ensures that the waffles can be kept warm without overcooking while the remaining batter is being cooked.

Preheat a waffle iron: Preheating the waffle iron ensures that it reaches the optimal temperature for cooking the waffles evenly and achieving a golden brown exterior.

Stir the liquid into the dry ingredients just until moistened; lumps are okay: Gently incorporating the wet ingredients into the dry ones until just combined helps prevent overmixing, which can result in tough waffles.

Fold the bananas into the batter: Folding the bananas into the batter ensures even distribution and prevents overmixing, which can lead to dense waffles.

Beat the egg whites at medium speed until frothy: This step initiates the process of incorporating air into the egg whites, which is essential for achieving a light and fluffy texture in the waffles.

Increase the speed to high and beat until firm peaks form: Beating the egg whites to firm peaks creates a stable foam that will help leaven the waffle batter, resulting in a light and airy texture.

Add the sugar and beat until the whites are stiff and glossy: Incorporating sugar into the beaten egg whites stabilizes the foam and adds sweetness to the waffles.

Fold the egg whites into the batter until no streaks remain: Gently folding the beaten egg whites into the batter ensures that the airiness is evenly distributed, resulting in light and fluffy waffles.

Oil or butter the waffle iron: Greasing the waffle iron prevents the waffles from sticking and helps achieve a crisp exterior.

Pour 1 1/4 cups of batter into the iron and bake until the waffle is golden, about 6 minutes, depending on the iron: This step involves cooking the waffles in the preheated waffle iron until they reach a golden brown color and a crisp texture.

Transfer the waffle to an oven rack to keep warm: Keeping the waffles warm in the oven ensures that they remain hot and crisp while the remaining batter is being cooked.

Continue to cook the remaining batter in 3 batches: Cooking the waffles in batches allows for even cooking and consistent results.

Separate the waffles and serve with the toasted pecans and maple syrup: This step involves serving the waffles with the toasted pecans and maple syrup, enhancing their flavor and presentation.

How To Make Banana Waffles with Pecans

May it be for breakfast or snacks, relish in the light and a crisp banana-nut combo of banana waffles served with toasted pecans and maple syrup.

Preparation: 15 minutes

Cooking: 30 minutes

Total: 45 minutes

Serves:

Ingredients

½cuppecans
1½cupsall purpose flour
½cupyellow cornmeal
1tbspbaking powder
¼tspsalt
1¼cupsmilk
6ozunsalted butter
3large eggs
2large ripe bananas
¼cupsugar
maple syrup

Instructions

Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F. Spread the pecans on a pie plate and bake for 10 minutes, or until golden.
Let cool, then coarsely chop. Lower the oven temperature to 225 degrees F.
Preheat waffle iron. In a large bowl, whisk the flour with the cornmeal, baking powder, and salt.
In a small bowl, combine the milk, melted butter, and egg yolks.
Stir the liquid into the dry ingredients just until moistened. Fold the bananas into the batter.
In a clean bowl, beat the egg whites at medium speed until frothy. Increase the speed to high and beat until firm peaks form.
Add the sugar and beat until the whites are stiff and glossy. Fold the whites into the batter until no streaks remain.
Oil or butter the waffle iron. Pour 1¼ cups of batter into the iron and bake until the waffle is golden, about 6 minutes, depending on the iron.
Transfer the waffle to an oven rack to keep warm. Continue to cook the remaining batter in 3.
Separate the waffles and serve with the toasted pecans and maple syrup

Nutrition

Calories: 211.11kcal
Fat: 12.62g
Saturated Fat: 6.35g
Trans Fat: 0.35g
Monounsaturated Fat: 4.03g
Polyunsaturated Fat: 1.31g
Carbohydrates: 21.47g
Fiber: 1.25g
Sugar: 6.44g
Protein: 3.90g
Cholesterol: 59.64mg
Sodium: 127.87mg
Calcium: 97.83mg
Potassium: 133.81mg
Iron: 1.15mg
Vitamin A: 97.63µg
Vitamin C: 1.51mg

Expert Advice for Perfecting Your Waffle-Making Skills

When folding in the egg whites into the batter, be gentle and take your time. This will help to keep the air in the egg whites, making your waffles light and fluffy. Overmixing can deflate the egg whites, resulting in denser waffles.

Time-Saving Tips for Preparing Banana Pecan Waffles

Prepare the ingredients: Gather and measure all the ingredients before starting to cook to streamline the process.

Use ripe bananas: Using ripe bananas will make it easier to mash and incorporate into the batter.

Preheat the waffle iron: Preheat the waffle iron while preparing the batter to save time during the cooking process.

Organize your workspace: Keep your workspace organized and clean to work efficiently while making the waffles.

Make extra: Consider making extra waffles and freezing them for a quick breakfast option on busy mornings.

Use a non-stick waffle iron: Using a non-stick waffle iron will make it easier to remove the waffles and clean up afterward.

Batch cooking: Cook multiple waffles at once to expedite the process and save time.

Plan ahead: Plan the waffle-making process ahead of time to ensure a smooth and efficient cooking experience.

Substitute Ingredients For Banana Waffles with Pecans Recipe

pecans - Substitute with walnuts: Walnuts have a similar rich, nutty flavor and crunchy texture, making them a great alternative to pecans in waffles.
all purpose flour - Substitute with whole wheat flour: Whole wheat flour adds a nutty flavor and extra nutrients to the waffles, making them a healthier option.
yellow cornmeal - Substitute with polenta: Polenta has a similar coarse texture and adds a slightly sweet and earthy flavor to the waffles.
baking powder - Substitute with baking soda: Baking soda can be used as a substitute for baking powder by adding an acidic ingredient such as buttermilk or yogurt to activate it.
milk - Substitute with almond milk: Almond milk adds a subtle nutty flavor and works well as a dairy-free alternative in waffle recipes.
unsalted butter - Substitute with coconut oil: Coconut oil adds a hint of coconut flavor and works well as a dairy-free alternative in waffle recipes.
eggs - Substitute with flax eggs: Flax eggs can be used as a vegan substitute for eggs in waffle recipes, providing a similar binding and moisture-retaining function.
bananas - Substitute with applesauce: Applesauce can be used as a natural sweetener and moisture enhancer in waffle recipes, similar to mashed bananas.
sugar - Substitute with honey: Honey adds a natural sweetness and subtle floral flavor to the waffles, making it a healthier alternative to granulated sugar.

Plating Ideas for a Delightful Waffle Experience

Elevate the waffles: Place the waffle on the plate with a slight angle for a dynamic presentation. This creates visual interest and adds a modern touch to the classic dish.
Garnish with toasted pecans: Sprinkle the toasted pecans over the waffle in an artful manner. The warm, nutty aroma will entice the senses and add a delightful crunch to each bite.
Drizzle with maple syrup: Carefully drizzle the maple syrup in a zigzag pattern over the waffle, ensuring even coverage. This adds a touch of sweetness and enhances the overall flavor profile.
Accompany with fresh fruit: Place a small cluster of fresh, vibrant berries or sliced bananas on the side of the waffle. This not only adds a pop of color but also provides a refreshing contrast to the warm waffle.
Dust with powdered sugar: Lightly dust the waffle with a fine sprinkle of powdered sugar using a sieve. This delicate touch adds a hint of elegance and a touch of sweetness to the presentation.
Serve on a warm plate: Present the waffle on a pre-warmed plate to maintain its temperature and ensure a delightful dining experience from the first to the last bite.
Accompany with a dollop of whipped cream: Place a small dollop of freshly whipped cream on the side of the waffle for a luxurious finishing touch. The creamy texture complements the waffle's richness.

Storing and Freezing Banana Pecan Waffles for Later Enjoyment

Allow the waffles to cool completely before storing or freezing. This will prevent them from becoming soggy or sticking together.
To store leftover waffles in the refrigerator, place them in an airtight container or resealable plastic bag. They will keep for up to 3-4 days in the fridge.
For longer storage, freeze the waffles. Arrange them in a single layer on a baking sheet and place them in the freezer until they are frozen solid, about 2 hours.
Once frozen, transfer the waffles to a freezer-safe container or resealable plastic bag. Place a piece of parchment paper or wax paper between each waffle to prevent them from sticking together.
Label the container or bag with the date and contents for easy reference.
Frozen banana pecan waffles will keep for up to 2-3 months in the freezer.
To reheat frozen waffles, you can use a toaster, toaster oven, or conventional oven. Toast them until they are heated through and crispy on the outside.
If using a conventional oven, preheat it to 350°F (175°C) and place the frozen waffles on a baking sheet. Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until heated through and crispy.
Avoid microwaving the waffles, as this can make them soggy and lose their crispy texture.
For best results, consume the reheated waffles immediately while they are still warm and crispy. Serve with your favorite toppings, such as maple syrup, fresh bananas, or whipped cream.

How To Reheat Leftover Banana Pecan Waffles

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the leftover waffles on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for 5-7 minutes, or until they are heated through and crispy on the outside. This method helps to restore the crispiness of the waffles while keeping the inside soft and fluffy.
If you prefer a quicker method, you can use a toaster or a toaster oven. Simply place the waffles in the toaster and heat them until they are warmed through and crispy. This method is fast and easy, but be careful not to overheat the waffles, as they can become too crispy and dry.
For a softer texture, you can microwave the leftover waffles. Place them on a microwave-safe plate and heat them on high for 30-45 seconds, or until they are heated through. If you want to add some extra moisture, you can place a damp paper towel over the waffles before microwaving them.
If you want to add some extra flavor to your leftover waffles, you can try reheating them in a skillet with some butter or coconut oil. Melt a small amount of butter or oil in a skillet over medium heat, then add the waffles and cook for 1-2 minutes on each side, or until they are heated through and crispy.
For a decadent treat, you can also try making waffle sandwiches with your leftover waffles. Spread some peanut butter, Nutella, or your favorite jam between two waffles, then heat them in a skillet or in the oven until the filling is warm and gooey.

Fascinating Trivia About Banana Pecan Waffles

The waffle iron was invented by Cornelius Swartwout in 1869.

Is Making Banana Pecan Waffles at Home Cost-Effective?

This banana pecan waffles recipe is moderately cost-effective for a household. The use of common pantry ingredients and affordable fruits like bananas makes it budget-friendly. The addition of pecans may slightly increase the cost, but the overall expense is reasonable. The approximate cost for a household of 4 people is around $10-$15, depending on the availability and current market prices of the ingredients. The overall verdict rating for this recipe is 8/10, considering the balance between cost, flavor, and nutritional value.

Are Banana Pecan Waffles Healthy or Unhealthy?

The banana pecan waffles recipe, while delicious, is not particularly healthy due to several factors:

The recipe uses all-purpose flour and cornmeal, which are refined carbohydrates lacking in fiber and nutrients compared to whole grain alternatives
The high amount of butter (6 oz) contributes to the dish's high saturated fat content
The addition of sugar and maple syrup increases the overall sugar content of the waffles

However, the recipe does include some nutritious ingredients, such as:

Bananas, which provide potassium, vitamin C, and dietary fiber
Pecans, which offer healthy fats, protein, and minerals like magnesium and zinc
Eggs, which are a good source of protein, vitamins, and minerals

To make this recipe healthier, consider the following modifications:

Replace all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour or a gluten-free alternative like oat flour to increase the fiber content and nutritional value
Reduce the amount of butter by half and replace it with a healthier fat source, such as coconut oil or Greek yogurt
Decrease the sugar content by omitting the added sugar and relying on the natural sweetness of the ripe bananas
Serve the waffles with fresh fruit toppings instead of maple syrup to reduce the added sugar intake
Incorporate additional nutrient-dense ingredients, such as ground flaxseed or chia seeds, to boost the fiber and omega-3 content

By making these adjustments, you can create a more balanced and nutritious breakfast option that still satisfies your taste buds.

Editor's Take on the Deliciousness of Banana Pecan Waffles

This banana pecan waffles recipe offers a delightful combination of flavors and textures. The addition of toasted pecans brings a delightful crunch and nuttiness to the waffles, while the ripe bananas add natural sweetness and moistness. The use of cornmeal in the batter provides a subtle, yet pleasing, texture. The incorporation of beaten egg whites results in a light and airy waffle that is sure to impress. Overall, this recipe is a wonderful choice for a special weekend breakfast or brunch, and the addition of maple syrup complements the flavors perfectly.

Enhance Your Banana Waffles with Pecans Recipe with These Unique Side Dishes:

Roasted Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes with a hint of roasted garlic, perfect for pairing with the banana pecan waffles

Grilled Pineapple Slices: Juicy grilled pineapple slices with a caramelized exterior, adding a sweet and tangy contrast to the waffles

Bacon and Cheddar Stuffed Mushrooms: Savory mushrooms stuffed with crispy bacon and melted cheddar cheese, a delicious accompaniment to the banana pecan waffles

Discover Similar Recipes to Banana Pecan Waffles

Creamy Tomato Basil Soup: This creamy tomato basil soup is the perfect comfort food for a cozy night in. The combination of ripe tomatoes and fresh basil creates a rich and flavorful soup that will warm you up from the inside out.

Grilled Lemon Herb Chicken: Grilled lemon herb chicken is a light and refreshing dish that is perfect for a summer barbecue. The zesty lemon and aromatic herbs create a delicious marinade that infuses the chicken with flavor and keeps it juicy and tender.

Mango Coconut Chia Pudding: Mango coconut chia pudding is a tropical and refreshing dessert that is perfect for a hot summer day. The sweet mango and creamy coconut milk create a luscious pudding that is both healthy and indulgent.

Appetizer and Dessert Pairings for Banana Pecan Waffles

Appetizers:

Stuffed Mushrooms: Create a savory and indulgent appetizer by stuffing mushrooms with a flavorful mixture of cheese, herbs, and breadcrumbs. The earthy flavor of the mushrooms pairs perfectly with the rich and creamy filling, making it a crowd-pleasing option for any gathering.

Bruschetta: Elevate your appetizer game with a classic bruschetta topped with a vibrant and fresh tomato and basil mixture. The combination of crispy bread and juicy tomatoes creates a burst of flavor in every bite, making it a refreshing and light option to start off any meal.

Desserts:

Chocolate Mousse: Indulge in a rich and creamy chocolate mousse, topped with a dollop of whipped cream and a sprinkle of cocoa powder. The smooth texture and decadent flavor will satisfy any chocolate lover's cravings.

Apple Crisp: Enjoy the warm and comforting flavors of a homemade apple crisp, with tender baked apples and a crispy oat topping. Serve it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for the perfect balance of sweetness and warmth.

Why trust this Banana Waffles with Pecans Recipe:

This recipe guarantees a delightful breakfast experience with its perfect balance of banana and pecan flavors. The combination of all purpose flour and yellow cornmeal adds a unique texture, while the addition of ripe bananas ensures a moist and flavorful waffle. The use of unsalted butter and milk enhances the richness, and the incorporation of egg whites creates a fluffy and airy texture. The toasty pecans and maple syrup provide a satisfying crunch and sweetness, making this recipe a trustworthy choice for a delightful breakfast treat.

Want to share your experience making Banana Waffles with Pecans or discuss variations on this delightful recipe? Join the conversation in the Recipe Sharing forum and let's talk about your favorite ways to enjoy this tasty breakfast treat!

FAQ:

Can I use a different type of nut instead of pecans?

Yes, you can definitely substitute pecans with other nuts such as walnuts, almonds, or even hazelnuts to add a different flavor and texture to your waffles.

Can I make the batter ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator?

Absolutely! You can prepare the batter ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. Just give it a good stir before using it to ensure the ingredients are well combined.

Can I use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour?

Yes, you can use whole wheat flour as a healthier alternative. Just keep in mind that whole wheat flour tends to absorb more liquid, so you may need to adjust the amount of milk in the recipe accordingly.

Can I freeze the leftover waffles?

Yes, you can freeze the leftover waffles by placing them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freezing until firm. Once frozen, transfer them to a resealable plastic bag or airtight container. When ready to eat, simply reheat them in a toaster or oven until warmed through.

Can I omit the cornmeal from the recipe?

While the cornmeal adds a nice crunch and texture to the waffles, you can omit it if you prefer. Just increase the amount of all-purpose flour to compensate for the omitted cornmeal.