Homemade waffles are one of the easiest “special” breakfasts you can make. The batter uses basic pantry ingredients, and the waffle iron does the work for you. The result is a classic plain waffle that is crisp on the outside, tender on the inside, and ready for whatever toppings your family loves, from butter and syrup to berries, whipped cream, or even pie filling.
This is a great base recipe to keep on hand for weekends, brunch, or breakfast-for-dinner.
This post contains affiliate links. As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases.
Why this recipe works
This recipe creates a classic, straightforward waffle with a golden exterior and a fluffy center. Pastry flour gives a slightly crisper waffle, but all-purpose flour works beautifully. Whole milk is recommended for the richest flavor and best texture. The key is mixing just until combined so the waffles cook up light, not tough.
Homemade Waffles Ingredients
Waffles are made with a few basic ingredients:
Flour (all-purpose or pastry) – Structure for the batter. Pastry flour yields a crispier waffle.
Eggs – Provide structure, lift, and tenderness.
Milk – Hydrates the batter and helps create a tender interior. Whole milk gives best results.
Oil or melted butter – Adds richness and helps the waffle release and crisp.
Baking powder – Leavening for a fluffy interior.
Sugar – Adds a touch of sweetness and helps browning.
Salt – Balances flavor and prevents bland waffles.
Vanilla – Adds warm flavor that pairs well with sweet toppings.
The Waffle Iron
One item you will need for this recipe is a waffle iron. You may want to use an electric waffle iron, they are simple to use and often have a ready light on them so you will know when it has heated up to the proper cooking temperature.
If you want to make those big large fluffy waffles you may want to invest in a Belgium waffle iron. Otherwise, a good old fashioned non-stick waffle iron will do. I have a model like Cuisinart WMR-CA Round Classic Waffle Maker. I like that it is small, compact, and it does the job.
Read the directions of your waffle maker. Newer waffle irons typically do not require non-stick spray; older models do.
Use tongs or other plastic tools to remove the waffle from the iron. This will keep your non-stick coating intact for years to come.
Don’t over-mix the batter. Stop mixing when all of the dry ingredients are wet. Stop when the waffles are still lumpy. Overmixing means the waffles will be tough.
Don’t constantly lift the lid while the waffle is cooking. Waffles typically take between 3 to 5 minutes. Your waffle maker may tell you when it is done. If you lift the lid continually, you will end up with a waffle with a crazy design.
Making waffles for the whole family? Keep them warm in a 250-degree warm oven while you finish making all of the waffles. The time in the oven can make them even crisper. Ideally, set them on a wire rack in a baking sheet before placing them in the oven.
Leftover waffles? Freeze on a flat sheet, when they are frozen store in an airtight bag or container. Reheat waffles later by placing them in a 300-degree oven for approximately five minutes. If they fit in your toaster, go ahead and toast them.
Melt butter ahead of time to drizzle over the waffles. It’s very difficult to spread cold butter evenly on a waffle.
Homemade Waffle Topping Ideas
Here are more delicious ways to top waffles instead of the usual butter and syrup:
Pie filling, you could place some cherry pie filling on the waffle and top with whipped cream.
Peanut butter, marshmallow cream, and sliced bananas for a fluff ‘n’ nutter inspired taste.
1/2cup vegetable oil (you may also use 1/4 cup vegetable oil and 1/4 cup melted butter)
2eggs
1teaspoon vanilla extract
1/4teaspoon almond extract
Instructions
Preheat waffle iron.
In a medium-sized bowl combine flour, sugar, salt, and baking powder. Stir dry ingredients together so all ingredients are mixed together.
In another bowl, combine milk, eggs, vegetable oil, vanilla, and almond extract. Whisk together wet ingredients until you have a uniform mixture.
Pour wet ingredients into dry ingredients. Mix until the flour blend is incorporated. Do not overmix.
Follow waffle iron instructions for cooking the waffle. If the batter is sticking to the waffle iron you may want to use a small amount of non-stick spray on the waffle iron.
Keep waffles warm 200 degree oven by placing on a wire rack resting on a baking sheet. By resting the waffles on a wire wrack the bottom of the waffles will not steam, and they will remain crisp.
We are a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for us to earn fees by linking to Amazon.com and affiliated sites.
Tip #6 Yes! I do this with waffles and pancakes all the time! I usually make big batches on Sunday so during the week, I simply throw them in the microwave and the kids love it! Great recipe.
I love waffles! I’m using this as my breakfast for dinner meal on Thursday. I’m sure that you add the eggs with the wet ingredients but it’s not in the description as to when to add.
Oh my, bananas, whipped cream, and bacon. That I am sure is an amazing combination. Add some peanut butter and I am sure Elvis Presley would love them.
. I like that it is small, compact, and it does the job.
Just perfect love it
This is nice. Can you try to copy the Oakridge Farm “Authentic Belgian waffles”?
I’m not the person who is good to cook and make delicious items. But the way you described here is making me try these things, even for once!
can you make the batter the night before?
I would not do it. The leavening agents in there will already have done their job.
Tip #6 Yes! I do this with waffles and pancakes all the time! I usually make big batches on Sunday so during the week, I simply throw them in the microwave and the kids love it! Great recipe.
These sound good for brake fast today! I think I have found my recipe. thank you!!!
I am glad you enjoyed this recipe.
Make this today. Absolutely loved them!!
I am glad you enjoyed them.
This is a great addition to my breakfast lineup!
Thank you. I hope you enjoy it.
We love weekend waffles in our house! A good base batter and you can add nearly anything!
Oh great idea. What add ins do you enjoy the most.
We’re just in the process of buying a waffle iron. Kiana has been bugging me to get one. So I’m finally giving in. Can’t wait to try your tips.
Goodness. Somehow I have three waffle irons 😉
Great tips. I love waffles any way they land on my plate!
I love waffles! I’m using this as my breakfast for dinner meal on Thursday. I’m sure that you add the eggs with the wet ingredients but it’s not in the description as to when to add.
Bananas, whipped cream and bacon….lots and lots of bacon.
Oh my, bananas, whipped cream, and bacon. That I am sure is an amazing combination. Add some peanut butter and I am sure Elvis Presley would love them.
What do you like to put on top of your waffles?
Fried chicken !
I don’t know why, but the two do go together very well.