Step 1

In a large bowl, mix together the warm milk, warm cider and yeast. Stir and set aside to proof, about 10 minutes. Brown the butter, set aside to cool. Once yeast has started to bubble and foam, whisk in the pumpkin, cooled browned butter, vanilla and eggs until smooth. Fold in the whole wheat white flour, cinnamon, nutmeg and salt until just combined.

Step 2

Cover with plastic wrap or a damp towel and let rise at least 1 hour at room temp or overnight in the fridge.

Step 3

Heat oven to 350 degrees F. Line cookie sheet with foil or silicone baking mat.

Step 4

In small bowl, mix together the maple syrup, brown sugar and 1 tablespoon of bourbon (optional) with a whisk. Add pecans, and stir to coat evenly. Transfer nuts to cookie sheet. Bake 15 to 20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until toasted. Cool 10 minutes.

Step 5

Whip the butter with a hand mixer or stand mixer until fluffy, about 3 minutes. Using a rubber spatula, fold the cooled pecans into the whipped butter. Either transfer to a serving bowl and serve immediately, or cover and refrigerate, use within 2 weeks.

Step 6

Add the maple syrup, apple cider and cinnamon to a medium size sauce pot. Bring to a boil over high heat. Simmer for 10-15 minutes or until the mixture has reduced by half and is syrupy. Remove from the heat and stir in the butter. Keep warm until ready to serve or store in a glass jar and warm over the stove before serving with the waffles.

Step 7

In the morning, heat a medium size skillet over medium heat, add the butter. Add the apples, brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg and salt. Cook, stirring occasionally for about 10 minutes or until the apples are caramelized. During the last minute add the vanilla and cook another minute. Remove from heat and set aside, but keep warm.

Step 8

Remove the waffle batter from the fridge and stir lightly. Preheat waffle iron. Brush hot iron with melted butter and pour in 1/3 cup to 1/2 cup batter into the preheated waffle iron. Close and cook to desired doneness. Serve warm with warmed cider syrup, toasted pecan butter and spiced apples... make sure to add lots of butter and syrup!