Gingerbread Waffles with Hot Chocolate Sauce

Recipe View In a small saucepan, combine the molasses and 1/2 cup (1 stick) butter. Heat over medium-low heat until the butter is melted and the mixture is just about to boil (approximately 3-5 minutes). Remove from heat and allow to cool slightly.

Recipe View Whisk in the baking soda, milk, and egg until well combined.

Recipe View In a large bowl, sift together the flour, ginger, cinnamon, and salt. Create a well in the center of the dry ingredients.

Recipe View Pour the molasses mixture into the well and whisk until just smooth. Avoid overmixing.

Recipe View Preheat your waffle iron according to the manufacturer's instructions. Spray lightly with non-stick cooking spray.

Recipe View Pour the appropriate amount of batter onto the hot waffle iron and cook until golden brown and crisp, usually about 3-5 minutes, depending on your waffle iron.

Recipe View While the waffles are cooking, prepare the hot chocolate sauce: In a saucepan, whisk together the water, sugar, cornstarch, cocoa powder, and 1 teaspoon of salt.

Recipe View Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the mixture comes to a boil and thickens (about 5-7 minutes).

Recipe View Remove from heat and stir in the vanilla extract and 2 tablespoons of butter until smooth and glossy.

Recipe View Serve the gingerbread waffles hot, drizzled generously with the hot chocolate sauce. Garnish with whipped cream or a dusting of cocoa powder, if desired.