Sweet Potato Waffles

Pierce sweet potatoes all over with a fork; place on a microwaveable plate and microwave on High until just tender, about 10 minutes. Cover with a kitchen towel and let rest for 5 minutes. Peel the sweet potatoes, discarding skins; place the flesh in a medium bowl and mash with a fork (you should have about 1 1/2 cups). Let cool for 5 minutes.

Process oats in a blender until finely ground, about 30 seconds. Add baking powder, pumpkin pie spice and salt; process until combined, about 10 seconds. Add the sweet potatoes, eggs, buttermilk, oil, orange zest and vanilla; process until combined, about 30 seconds, stopping to scrape down the sides of the blender as needed (the batter will be thick but pourable).

Preheat a waffle iron to high; coat with cooking spray. Spoon on about 3/4 cup batter; cook until golden brown and crispy, about 5 minutes. Repeat the process with cooking spray and the remaining batter. Serve with maple syrup and pecans, if desired.