Pecan Waffles With Roasted Pecan and Banana Syrup

I have always loved pecan waffles and Emeril's version fits the bill. If I don't have pecans, I substitute ground oatmeal, which is great, too.

• Ready In: 25 mins
• Serves: 4

Ingredients

• 1 1⁄2 cups flour
• 1⁄3 cup ground pecans
• 1⁄3 sugar
• 1  tablespoon baking powder
• 1⁄4 teaspoon salt
• 2  egg yolks
• 1  teaspoon vanilla
• 1 3⁄4 cups milk
• 1⁄2 cup  melted butter, plus
• 2  tablespoons  melted butter
• 2  egg whites
• 1  cup pecan pieces
• 2  whole bananas, peeled and cut into 1/2 inch slices
• 2 1⁄2 cups maple syrup

Directions

1. In a mixing bowl combine flour, pecans, sugar, baking powder and salt.
2. In another bowl beat the egg yolks and vanilla slightly.
3. Beat the milk and 1/2 cup melted butter into the egg mixture.
4. Fold the flour mixture into the egg mixture.
5. Stir until combined yet still slightly lumpy.
6. In a small bowl beat the egg whites until stiff peaks form.
7. Gently fold beaten egg whites into batter, leaving little fluffs of egg whites.
8. Pour 1 cup batter onto grids of a preheated, lightly greased waffle iron.
9. Close lid quickly: do not open during baking.
10. Bake according to the manufacturer's directions for the waffle iron.
11. In a saute pan, melt the remaining 2 tablespoons butter.
12. Add the pecan pieces and saute until golden, about 2 to 3 minutes.
13. Add the banana slices and syrup and bring the liquid to a simmer.