In this house, we are divided concerning the age old debate of pancakes versus waffles. These amazingly easy 3 ingredient pumpkin waffles in the air fryer, however, will make a believer out of anyone! They’re the perfect choice for your fall breakfast or brunch.
Seriously, how can you go wrong with a 3 ingredient recipe? These waffles are packed with fall flavors thanks to pumpkin and cinnamon, and are so simple to make.
The air fryer does a nice job of getting browned edges on your waffles, and eliminates the need for a separate waffle iron. Though, do note that you’ll need a waffle mold if you want them to actually look like waffles.
Top them with maple syrup, candied pecans, whipped cream, or whatever else you like. You could even use these waffles as the base for an ice cream sandwich, filled with pumpkin or caramel ice cream!
You’ll also need ½ cup of water to make the mix (but that doesn’t really count as an official ingredient)!
Special Equipment Note: You’ll need a silicone waffle mold that fits in your air fryer basket. Any shape is fine, so feel free to choose your favorites. They can also be used for chocolate, Jell-O, or crafts, so you don’t feel like it’s something you’ll never use again!
Note that you’ll only make one side “waffled” with these molds; the other side will be flat.
Ingredient Tips and Substitutions
You need to use a complete pancake mix which should state “just add water.” You can definitely use other pancake or waffle mixes for this recipe, but note that most others call for eggs and oil so it will be a 5 ingredient recipe instead
Make sure to use pumpkin puree and not pumpkin pie filling. While the pie filling could work (you could omit the pie spice in this case), I find it adds too much sugar when paired with the box mix
If you don’t like pumpkin pie spice, you could also use cinnamon, or another warm spice such a ginger, cloves, or allspice
Optional Mix Ins: You can add chocolate chips or roasted chopped nuts into your batter for some different variations!
Step By Step Instructions
Preheat your air fryer to 325°F (or the closest setting your specific air fryer has)
In a mixing bowl, combine the pancake mix, pumpkin puree, pumpkin spice, and ½ cup of water. Mix until just combined (it should be a thicky, rather sticky batter)
If your molds are not nonstick, I recommend spraying them with nonstick spray to allow for easier release. Once ready, spread your batter into the waffle molds until they’re about halfway filled (or just covering the square pattern on the bottom)
Place the filled waffle molds into the preheated air fryer basket and cook at 325°F for 5 minutes, or until the top is lightly browned and the waffles are cooked through. Then, cool for around 3-5 minutes. This will make it easier to remove the waffles, both because it won’t burn your hands, and because this helps the waffles release without sticking
When you’re ready to unmold, pull the edges away from the waffle to ensure they’re not stuck. Then, gently push against the waffled side of the mold over a plate until the waffle releases. Cook additional batches as needed (depending on the size of your air fryer, your molds, and how many you want to make)
Serve warm with butter, maple syrup, or other toppings as desired!
Yes, you can use fresh pumpkin puree instead of canned. Simply cook, puree, and cool fresh pumpkin before using it in the recipe.
Ensure the consistency is similar to canned pumpkin.
What Other Spices Can I Add For More Flavor?
To enhance the flavor, you can add other warm spices like cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves, or ginger to the waffle batter.
Adjust the quantities to your taste preferences.
Can I Make These Waffles Gluten Free?
Absolutely! To make these waffles gluten free, you’ll want to substitute a gluten free complete pancake mix. Simple Mills makes one, but they can be difficult to find. Alternatively, you can get a normal gluten free pancake or waffle mix and add eggs, milk, and oil as needed.
Also, make sure to verify that all other ingredients are gluten free as well.
How Do I Store Leftover Waffles?
To store leftover waffles, allow them to cool completely, then place them in an airtight container or a resealable plastic bag. Store them in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheat them in the air fryer or a toaster for a few minutes to warm and re-crisp them.
Can I Make a Larger Batch For a Group?
Certainly! You can scale up the recipe to make a larger batch of pumpkin waffles. Simply adjust the ingredient quantities accordingly, and make multiple batches if necessary.
You can cook as many waffles at a time as fit in your air fryer’s basket or rack in a single layer. This will vary based on the size of your air fryer, as well as the size of your specific molds.
Are These Waffles Suitable For Freezing?
Yes, you can freeze these waffles for later enjoyment. Let them cool completely, then place them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until firm. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container with parchment paper in between to prevent sticking.
They can be stored in the freezer for up to 2-3 months. Reheat them in the air fryer directly from frozen until warmed through.
Can You Cook Waffles in the Air Fryer?
Yes, you can absolutely cook waffles in the air fryer. You simply need a silicone or other type of oven safe waffle mold that fits in your air fryer’s basket or rack.
Frozen waffles may also be cooked in the air fryer, and don’t require any special equipment, as they’re already fully formed.
Recipe Pro Tips
If you use nonstick spray on your molds, note that it tends to make the pumpkin color much more vibrant orange
These 3 ingredient waffles are not crispy like a traditional waffle. They’re more similar to a thick pancake in texture. To achieve the crisp edges, you’d need to add the egg and oil called for in waffle instructions (which, you very much can if you prefer). This recipe is simply an easy alternative requiring fewer ingredients at the expense of the crust
This recipe may also be cooked in a waffle iron if preferred (and if you have one). Just follow your specific waffle iron’s directions!
Storage and Reheating Tips
Once cooled, store leftover waffles in an airtight container or zippered bag in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. You may also freeze them on a baking sheet, then place in a bag (to prevent sticking) and store up to 3 months
To reheat, air fry waffles for 2-3 minutes at 325°F to warm and re-crisp them. From frozen, add an additional 1-2 minutes. Note that exact time will vary based on the size and thickness of your specific waffles
I love the ease of these 3 ingredient pumpkin waffles in the air fryer. Sure, they’re not quite like traditional waffles from the iron, but they’re still delicious! Honestly, a little crunch is something I’m willing to give up for something that’s so simple to make.
Top them up with butter, syrup, and some toasted pecans for the perfect bite! They’re also perfect for a brunch board with all sorts of different types of waffles and toppings.
Waffles store and freeze well, and your air fryer is equally good for reheating them. So, feel free to make a batch in advance and then just pop them in for a quick warm up for an easy breakfast.
If you’re looking for other flavors to try, check out my beautiful Beetroot Waffles in the Air Fryer as well!
Pumpkin Waffles in the Air Fryer: Easy 3 Ingredient Recipe
These 3 ingredient pumpkin waffles cook up quickly in your air fryer. This low fat option is perfect for breakfast or brunch, and freezes well for batch cooking too!
Preheat your air fryer to 325°F (or the closest setting your specific air fryer has)
In a mixing bowl, combine the pancake mix, pumpkin puree, pumpkin spice, and ½ cup of water. Mix until just combined (it should be a thicky, rather sticky batter)
1 Cup complete pancake mix, ½ Cup canned pumpkin, 1 Tsp pumpkin pie spice, ½ Cup water
If your molds are not nonstick, I recommend spraying them with nonstick spray to allow for easier release. Once ready, spread your batter into the waffle molds until they’re about halfway filled (or just covering the square pattern on the bottom)
Place the filled waffle molds into the preheated air fryer basket and cook at 325°F for 5 minutes, or until the top is lightly browned and the waffles are cooked through. Then, cool for around 3-5 minutes. This will make it easier to remove the waffles, both because it won’t burn your hands, and I find this helps the waffles release without sticking
When you’re ready to unmold, pull the edges away from the waffle to ensure they’re not stuck. Then, gently push against the waffled side of the mold over a plate until the waffle releases. Cook additional batches as needed (depending on the size of your air fryer, your molds, and how many you want to make)
Serve warm with butter, maple syrup, or other toppings as desired!
Notes
Note that you need to use a complete pancake mix which should state “just add water.” You can use other pancake or waffle mixes for this recipe, but note that most others call for eggs and oil so it will be a 5 ingredient recipe instead!
Make sure to use pumpkin puree and not pumpkin pie filling. While the pie filling could work (you could omit the pie spice in this case), I find it adds too much sugar when paired with the box mix
If you don’t like pumpkin pie spice, you could also use cinnamon, or another warm spice such a ginger, cloves, or allspice
Optional Mix Ins: You can add chocolate chips or roasted chopped nuts into your batter for some different variations!
If you use nonstick spray on your molds, note that it tends to make the pumpkin color much more vibrant orange
These 3 ingredient waffles are not crispy like a traditional waffle. They’re more similar to a thick pancake in texture. To achieve the crisp edges, you’d need to add the egg and oil called for in waffle instructions (which, you very much can if you prefer). This recipe is simply an easy alternative requiring fewer ingredients at the expense of the crust
Once cooled, store leftover waffles in an airtight container or zippered bag in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. You may also freeze them on a baking sheet, then place in a bag (to prevent sticking) and store up to 3 months
To reheat, air fry waffles for 2-3 minutes at 325°F to warm and re-crisp them. From frozen, add an additional 1-2 minutes. Note that exact time will vary based on the size and thickness of your specific waffles
Exact nutritional values will vary based on brand and flavor of ingredients, any toppings or sides added, and quantity consumed, so please consider this a guideline only
I enjoy trying new recipes, creating my own, and dabbling with new techniques all the time. My husband loves to protest when I make him my guinea pig, but it’s all for the love of food!
My cooking philosophy is that great tasting food doesn't have to be complicated or time consuming to make. I'm a home cook with over 20 years of experience feeding myself and others. I've learned from a variety of different people, things I've learned online, and some trial and error as well.
I enjoy cooking a variety of foods, from convenience to comfort foods, as well as international cuisine. You can rest assured that all of my recipes have been actually made, thoroughly tested, and most importantly: tasted! I want you to enjoy my food as much as I do!
