Toasty Plum Pecan Waffles with Fresh Plums and Maple Syrup

3/4 cup pecans, roughly chopped

1 1 /2 cups flour

1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder

1/4 teaspoon salt

3 tablespoons brown sugar

1 1/2 cups milk

2 large eggs

1 teaspoon vanilla extract

3 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted

1 cup fresh plums, any variety, diced (about 1/2-inch dice)

Additional fresh plums for slicing

Preheat waffle iron.

Spread pecan pieces on a sheet pan in a single layer and toast in a 325-degree oven just until they are lightly browned and aromatic. Spread on parchment or wax paper to cool.

In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, salt and brown sugar, just to combine.

In a separate bowl, whisk together milk, eggs and vanilla. Pour half of the liquid mixture into the dry ingredients and whisk; repeat with remaining half. Do not overmix.

Stir in melted butter, then fold in diced plums and 1/2 cup toasted pecans. Spoon batter onto preheated waffle iron and cook until golden.
Serve with maple syrup and garnish with fresh sliced plums and remaining toasted pecans pieces.
(Makes 6 waffles)