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Cozy Leftover Stuffing Waffles with Cranberry Maple Syrup

leftover stuffing waffles - featured image

Transform leftover stuffing into crispy, golden waffles with a sweet-tart cranberry maple syrup. This quick and easy recipe turns holiday leftovers into a cozy, crowd-pleasing meal in under 15 minutes.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 cups (about 400g) leftover stuffing (day-old works best)
  • 2 large eggs, room temperature
  • 2–3 tablespoons (30–45 ml) chicken or vegetable broth (only if stuffing seems dry)
  • Butter or non-stick spray for greasing the waffle iron
  • 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)
  • 1/2 cup (120 ml) pure maple syrup
  • 1/4 cup (60g) leftover cranberry sauce (whole berry or jellied)
  • 1 teaspoon orange zest (optional)
  • 1/4 teaspoon cinnamon
  • 1/2 cup cooked sausage or bacon, crumbled (optional)
  • 1/4 cup (30g) shredded cheddar cheese (optional)
  • 1/2 teaspoon each sage or thyme (optional, if stuffing is mild)
  • Sour cream or Greek yogurt for topping (optional)

Instructions

  1. Preheat your waffle iron to medium-high heat. Spray both plates generously with non-stick spray or brush with melted butter.
  2. In a medium mixing bowl, combine 2 cups leftover stuffing and 2 large eggs. Mix with a fork until combined. If the mixture seems dry, add 1 tablespoon of broth at a time until it holds together when pressed.
  3. Optional: Fold in cooked sausage, bacon, shredded cheese, or herbs if desired.
  4. In a small saucepan, combine 1/2 cup maple syrup, 1/4 cup cranberry sauce, 1 teaspoon orange zest, and 1/4 teaspoon cinnamon. Warm over low heat, whisking occasionally, until smooth and warm (about 3-4 minutes). Do not boil. Set aside and keep warm.
  5. Scoop about 1/2 to 3/4 cup of the stuffing mixture onto the center of the preheated waffle iron. Spread slightly with a spatula, but not all the way to the edges. Close the lid gently.
  6. Cook for 4-6 minutes until golden brown and firm to the touch. The edges should be crispy. If pale or soft, cook for another 1-2 minutes.
  7. Carefully remove the waffle using a silicone spatula. Transfer to a plate or wire rack. Keep warm in a 200°F (95°C) oven if making multiple.
  8. Serve immediately, drizzled with warm cranberry maple syrup and garnished with fresh parsley if desired.

Notes

For best results, use stuffing that is not too wet or too dry. Let the stuffing mixture rest for 5 minutes after mixing in eggs to help it hold together. Don’t overmix to keep some bread pieces intact for crispy edges. The syrup can be made ahead and kept warm on low heat. Waffles freeze well for up to 3 months; reheat in a toaster or toaster oven.

Nutrition

Keywords: leftover stuffing waffles, cranberry maple syrup, holiday leftovers, savory waffles, easy brunch recipe, comfort food