Saffron Crusted Brioche Waffles with Spiced Apple Compote and Caramelized Pecans

Ingredients:

For the Waffles:

• 1 1/2 cups (190g) brioche flour
• 1/4 cup (60g) granulated sugar
• 2 teaspoons kosher salt
• 1/4 teaspoon saffron threads, soaked in 2 tablespoons hot water
• 1/2 cup (115g) whole milk, at room temperature
• 1 large egg
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted

For the Apple Compote:

• 2 Golden Delicious apples, peeled and thinly sliced
• 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
• 1 tablespoon brown sugar
• 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
• Salt to taste

For the Caramelized Pecans:

• 1 cup (120g) pecan halves
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 1 tablespoon light brown sugar
• Pinch of flaky sea salt

Instructions:

1. Preheat your waffle iron and a non-stick skillet to medium-high heat.
2. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, granulated sugar, and salt. Add the saffron mixture and whisk until combined.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together the milk, egg, and melted butter. Pour this wet mixture into the dry ingredients and stir until just combined. Do not overmix.
4. Pour about 1/4 cup of the batter onto the center of your waffle iron and cook for 3-5 minutes or until golden brown. Repeat with remaining batter, greasing the waffle iron as needed.
5. While the waffles are cooking, melt the butter in a non-stick skillet over medium heat. Add the sliced apples and cook for about 5 minutes on each side or until tender and lightly caramelized. Stir in the brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt to taste.
6. In a small saucepan, combine the pecan halves, butter, and brown sugar. Cook over medium heat, stirring frequently, until the pecans are golden brown and fragrant. Remove from heat and sprinkle with flaky sea salt.
7. To serve, place a few waffles on a plate or in a waffle cone, top with a generous spoonful of spiced apple compote, and finish with caramelized pecans. Serve immediately and enjoy!