Island Escape: Waffles with Toasted Coconut and Pineapple

1.Preheat your waffle iron according to the manufacturer's instructions.

2.In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt until well combined.

3.In another bowl, beat the eggs and then add the milk, melted butter, and vanilla extract. Mix until smooth.

4.Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and stir until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; a few lumps are okay.

5.Gently fold in the crushed pineapple and toasted coconut into the batter until evenly distributed.

6.Lightly grease the waffle iron with cooking spray or a little melted butter.

7.Pour an appropriate amount of batter onto the preheated waffle iron, close the lid, and cook until the waffles are golden brown and crisp, about 4-5 minutes. Repeat with the remaining batter.

8.While the waffles are cooking, prepare the rum syrup by combining the maple syrup, dark rum, and ground cinnamon in a small saucepan over low heat. Stir until warmed through and well mixed.

9.Serve the waffles warm, drizzled with the rum syrup and topped with additional toasted coconut and pineapple if desired.