Fruit Waffles with Pineapple Maple Syrup

Skip the plain bottle of maple syrup and make this fruity version instead. Pineapple juice thickened with cornstarch and stirred together with real maple syrup creates a glossy, pourable topping that clings to waffles instead of running off the edges.

The fruit does all the decorating. Pineapple chunks, mandarin orange segments, and raisins get spooned over the top, turning basic waffles into something that looks and tastes like a tropical brunch plate. The warm syrup softens the fruit just enough without cooking it down.

This is really a topping recipe, not a waffle recipe, so use your favorite waffle base or even frozen waffles. The syrup is the star.

Kitchen Tips

• Whisk the cornstarch into the reserved pineapple juice before adding the maple syrup. Adding cornstarch directly to hot liquid creates lumps.
• Cook the syrup just until it thickens and turns glossy. Overcooking makes it gummy as it cools.
• Drain the canned fruit well. Extra liquid thins the syrup and makes the waffles soggy.

Variations

• Add sliced bananas or fresh strawberries for more fruit variety.
• Stir a pinch of cinnamon into the syrup while it cooks for a warm spice note.
• Use this syrup over pancakes, French toast, or vanilla ice cream.