Cozy, spiced, and bright—these Pumpkin-Orange Spice Waffles with Grand Marnier Syrup are the ultimate autumn breakfast.
Pumpkin-Orange Spice Waffles with Grand Marnier Syrup: Autumn on a Plate
This recipe was inspired by the brunches my dad made for me every other Sunday. French toast was often on the menu, and sometimes he would add a splash of orange juice and even a little orange liqueur like Grand Marnier to the soak. You’d think as a kid I wouldn’t like that flavor, but paired with the orange it was so unique—and I really loved it. That memory of that french toast mis what inspired me to create these Pumpkin-Orange Spice Waffles with Grand Marnier Syrup, I wanted to capture that same citrusy warmth while layering in cozy fall flavors. Pumpkin and orange felt like the perfect match, and the Grand Marnier shows up in both the batter and the syrup for a double hit of flavor. If you’d rather skip the liqueur, you can substitute orange juice instead. Top with plant-based butter and a drizzle of warmed up maple syrup. I think warming the syrup makes all the difference!
Why You’ll Love This Waffle Recipe
- Full of fall flavor. Pumpkin, orange zest, and warm spices give these waffles a cozy seasonal twist.
- A nostalgic touch. Grand Marnier (or any orange liqueur) brings a citrusy warmth, both in the batter and the syrup.
- Simple ingredients. Made with pantry staples and a few fall favorites.
- Perfect for brunch. They look impressive but come together in about 35 minutes.
- Customizable. Leave out the liqueur if you prefer, or swap in extra orange juice for a non-alcoholic version.
Ingredient Highlight: Pumpkin Purée
Pumpkin purée is the star that gives these waffles their rich flavor and tender texture. Beyond its classic fall vibe, pumpkin adds natural sweetness along with fiber and vitamins like A and C. Paired with warm spices and citrus, it brings a cozy depth that makes each bite taste like autumn. Plus, it’s an easy way to sneak a little extra nutrition into your breakfast without even trying.
Madly Delicious Must-Know Tips & Questions
Batter rests for a reason. Letting the waffle batter sit 5–10 minutes helps the texture set and makes for fluffier waffles.
Not super crispy. These waffles lean soft and tender rather than crisp, but the flavor is all autumn.
Don’t skip warming the syrup. Even plain maple syrup tastes better lightly warmed—especially with the orange and pumpkin flavors.
Can I leave out the Grand Marnier?
Yes—sub with more orange juice or plant-based milk. You’ll still get plenty of citrusy flavor.
Can I freeze these waffles?
Yes. Cool completely, freeze in a single layer, then reheat in a toaster or oven.
How do I serve them?
Try with plant-based butter, candied nuts, orange zest, or a dusting of powdered sugar.
Let’s Dish About Grand Marnier: Did You Know?
Grand Marnier has been around since the 1800s, created in France by blending Cognac with distilled essence of bitter orange. It was originally considered a high-end liqueur, often reserved for special occasions and fine desserts. Today it’s a staple in both cocktails and cooking, famous for elevating classics like crêpes Suzette, soufflés, and even simple baked goods with its citrus-meets-Cognac flavor.
Love the idea of pumpkin and citrus together? Then try my Pumpkin-Orange Spice Waffles with Grand Marnier Syrup!
They’re festive, full of flavor, and perfect for brunch or a weekend treat. Don’t forget to tag me on Instagram @madly__delicious with #MadlyDelicious so I can see your version!
More Autumn Recipes
Savory Onion and Apple Galette
Vietnamese Spiced Butternut Squash Bisque
Pumpkin-Orange Spice Waffles with Grand Marnier Syrup
Equipment
- Waffle maker (round 10" Belgian waffle iron or similar)
- 2 mixing bowls (one large, one medium)
- ½ cup measuring cup (for portioning batter)
Ingredients
Dry Ingredients
- 1½ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tbsp cornstarch
- 1 tbsp baking powder
- 2 tsp pumpkin pie spice
- ¾ tsp salt
- ¼ cup sugar (half white and half brown works nicely)
Wet Ingredients
- 1 ¼ cup canned pumpkin purée
- ½ cup plain, unsweetened plant-based milk of choice
- Zest of 1 orange
- ¼ cup orange juice (fresh-squeezed if possible, ~1–2 oranges)
- 2 tbsp Grand Marnier or other orange liqueur (if using, or substitute with more orange juice)
- ¼ cup plant-based butter, melted
- ½ cup plain, unsweetened plant-based yogurt
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
Grand Marnier Syrup (Optional)
- ⅓ cup pure maple syrup
- 2 tbsp Grand Marnier
Instructions
- Mix the dry ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour, 1 tbsp cornstarch, 1 tbsp baking powder, 2 tsp pumpkin pie spice, ¾ tsp salt, and ¼ cup sugar (half white, half brown if using both).
- Combine the wet ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together 1 ¼ cups canned pumpkin purée, ½ cup plain unsweetened plant-based milk, the zest of 1 orange, ¼ cup fresh orange juice, 2 tbsp Grand Marnier or other orange liqueur (if using, or substitute with more orange juice), ¼ cup melted plant-based butter, ½ cup plant-based yogurt, and 1 tsp vanilla extract until smooth.
- Bring it together: Pour the dry ingredients directly into the wet ingredients and whisk until just combined. Do not overmix—the batter should be thick.
- Rest the batter: Let the waffle batter sit for about 10 minutes to allow the flavors to meld and help the waffles cook up fluffier.
- Preheat the waffle maker: Plug in your waffle iron and let it preheat while the batter is resting.
- Cook the waffles: Lightly grease the waffle maker. Scoop about ½ cup of batter onto the center, spread out just before the edges, and cook for 3–5 minutes or until golden brown. Repeat with remaining batter.
- Make the syrup: In a small saucepan, warm ⅓ cup pure maple syrup with 2 tbsp Grand Marnier over low heat until combined and fragrant.
- Serve: Plate the waffles warm, drizzle with Grand Marnier syrup, and enjoy immediately.Tip: warm the syrup up slightly before serving!