Preheat your waffle iron thoroughly. This is important to get beautiful golden-brown waffles that don't stick.
Mix the applesauce, plant-based milk, vanilla extract, orange zest, and 2 tablespoons of neutral oil in a bowl until smooth.
Add the whole wheat rice flour, cinnamon, salt, and baking powder. Stir until you have a smooth batter. Let the batter rest for 5 minutes so that the rice flour can absorb the moisture well.
Lightly grease the waffle iron with a little neutral oil.
Scoop a portion of batter into the waffle iron and bake the waffles until golden brown and slightly crispy.
Repeat until the batter is finished and let the waffles cool briefly on a wire rack. This way they stay at their best.
Serve them plain, with some extra applesauce, fresh fruit, or nuts on top.
Tips
- Let the batter rest for 5 minutes before you start baking. This gives a better structure.
- If your waffles are too dry or the batter is too thick, add a small splash of extra plant-based milk.
- Preferably use unsweetened applesauce if you want to keep them healthy and naturally sweet.
- Finish with extra applesauce, fresh fruit, nuts, or a spoonful of yogurt for a festive touch.
- No rice flour at home? Buckwheat flour works too, but it gives a stronger flavor.
- For extra flavor, you can also add ginger, lemon zest, or finely chopped nuts.
- Storage tips
I keep these waffles in the fridge for up to 3 days in an airtight container.
They will keep in the freezer for up to 3 months in a well-sealed freezer bag or container. - I prefer reheating them in the toaster or briefly in the oven, so they become nice and crispy again.