Where the heck did Summer go? I feel like I blinked and all of a sudden, it's October. Rather than dwell on the fact that this year is racing by, lets celebrate with all things pumpkin!
Since moving to California, I really miss seeing the seasons change. We have no turning leaves or crisp Fall air (unless you can count fog?). We do, however, have plenty of pumpkins! It may be sunny and 70 outside, and I may still be spending my weekends out at the beach, but in my kitchen - it's full on FALL!
I love using pumpkins in baked goods. Not only does it add flavor, it can also be a substitute for oil or butter in a recipe. Delicious fall flavors AND low fat? Yes, please!
Waffles are one of those decadent, once in a blue moon special indulgent breakfast or brunch items. Normally, these are loaded with sugar and high in fat. If you are like me, you love waffles and want to be able to eat them whenever you damn well please. Enter: Protein Waffles.
We have two secret substitutions in these waffles: protein powder (instead of flour) and pumpkin purée (instead of butter). These waffles SCREAM fall and are so easy to make its stupid. They are still crispy on the outside and soft and chewy in the inside. These are a perfect post-morning-workout treat. Each waffle packs 11 GRAMS of protein and less than 3 grams of fat!
Do yourself a favor and make a double batch of these waffles and freeze whatever you don't eat so that you can have these any day of the week!
Pumpkin Protein Waffles
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 5-10 minutes
Servings: 6 waffles
Ingredients:
- 2 scoops (1/2 cup) whey protein powder, vanilla
- 1/2 cup brown rice flour
- 2 tsp baking powder
- 1/2 tsp pumpkin pie spice
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1 cup pumpkin puree
- 2 eggs
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- Optional topping: pure maple syrup
Directions:
- Preheat waffle iron according to manufacturer's directions.
- Combine all ingredients in a blender (except the syrup), incorporating into a batter.
- Ladle recommended amount of batter onto waffle iron. Close top and cook until waffle is golden brown and removes easily from waffle iron, about 2-4 minutes. Continue making waffles with remaining batter. Serve immediately.
Nutritional Information (2 waffles):
250 calories - 22 g Protein, 30 g Carbohydrates, 4.7 g Fat