Waffles are a delightful breakfast treat that can brighten up any morning. Their crispy outer layer and fluffy interior make them irresistible. Whether you’re enjoying them on a cozy weekend or serving them at a brunch gathering, really great waffles are sure to please everyone at the table.
Why Make This Recipe
This waffle recipe stands out for its simplicity and versatility. It’s easy to follow, requires common ingredients, and can be customized with your favorite toppings. By making these waffles at home, you can control the ingredients and flavors, ensuring a delicious breakfast that meets your tastes. Plus, the option to let the batter rest overnight means you can prepare ahead!
How to Make Really Great Waffles
Ingredients:
- 2 1/4 cups flour (plain / all purpose)
- 2 1/2 tbsp caster sugar / superfine sugar (sub granulated / ordinary sugar)
- Pinch cooking / kosher salt
- 4 tsp baking powder
- 1 1/3 cups milk (full fat, slightly warmed)
- 1/2 tsp vanilla essence
- 4 large eggs
- 150g / 11 tbsp unsalted butter (melted and slightly cooled)
- Butter (softened, strongly recommended!)
- Maple syrup (strongly recommended! or honey)
- Icing sugar / powdered sugar (for dusting)
- Strawberries or other fruit
Directions:
Whisk dry: Place the flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt in a large mixing bowl. Whisk to mix well.
Whisk in wet: Add the milk, eggs, and vanilla to the dry ingredients. Whisk to combine. Then, add the melted butter and whisk until the batter is lump-free. The batter should be pourable but thick—slightly thinner than pancake batter.
Recommended resting: Cover the bowl and refrigerate the batter overnight, or for at least 2 hours. This helps create softer insides and better flavor. If you’re in a hurry, you can proceed to cooking immediately.
Preheat the waffle maker: Preheat your waffle maker according to the manufacturer’s instructions. A non-stick model usually doesn’t require oil, and there’s butter in the batter as well.
Cooking: Use a ladle to pour the batter onto the waffle iron, covering it just enough to avoid overflow. Cook until golden and crispy—this usually takes about 3 1/2 to 6 minutes, depending on your waffle maker.
Serving: Move the waffles onto plates and serve immediately with your desired toppings. Alternatively, you can place them on a rack and keep warm in a preheated oven at 70°C/150°F while you finish cooking the rest.
How to Serve Really Great Waffles
Serve your waffles warm, topped with softened butter, a generous drizzle of pure maple syrup, and a dusting of powdered sugar. Fresh strawberries or your favorite fruit can add a refreshing touch. You can also experiment with whipped cream, nuts, or chocolate chips for a more indulgent treat!
How to Store Really Great Waffles
If you have leftover waffles, let them cool completely. Store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. You can also freeze them for longer storage. Just place wax paper between each waffle and store them in a zip-lock bag. They can last in the freezer for about 2 months.
Tips to Make Really Great Waffles
- Make sure the waffle maker is properly heated before pouring in the batter. This ensures perfect crispiness.
- Don’t overfill the waffle maker; a little batter goes a long way.
- Experiment with substitutions like almond or oat milk if you’re looking for dairy-free options.
- If you like a richer flavor, you can add a bit of cinnamon or nutmeg to the dry ingredients.
Variation
You can add chocolate chips, crushed nuts, or even banana slices into the batter for a different flavor twist. For a savory version, try adding shredded cheese or herbs to the mix.
FAQs
Q: Can I make the batter ahead of time?
A: Yes! For the best results, refrigerate the batter overnight. This helps the flavors develop and creates a better texture.
Q: What can I use if I don’t have a waffle maker?
A: You can use a non-stick frying pan to make pancake-style waffles instead. Just pour in the batter, cook, and flip!
Q: Can I use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour?
A: Yes, you can substitute whole wheat flour, but note that the texture may be denser. You might need to adjust the liquid slightly.
Enjoy your delightful homemade waffles! They are perfect for any breakfast occasion or snack throughout the day.
Really Great Waffles
Ingredients
Dry Ingredients
- 2 ¼ cups flour (plain / all purpose)
- 2 ½ tablespoons caster sugar / superfine sugar can substitute with granulated / ordinary sugar
- Pinch cooking / kosher salt
- 4 teaspoons baking powder
Wet Ingredients
- 1 ⅓ cups milk (full fat, slightly warmed)
- ½ teaspoon vanilla essence
- 4 large eggs
- 150 grams unsalted butter (melted and slightly cooled)
Toppings (Optional)
- Butter (softened) strongly recommended
- Maple syrup strongly recommended! or honey
- Icing sugar / powdered sugar for dusting
- Strawberries or other fruit
Instructions
Preparation
- Place the flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt in a large mixing bowl. Whisk to mix well.
- Add the milk, eggs, and vanilla to the dry ingredients. Whisk to combine.
- Add the melted butter and whisk until the batter is lump-free. The batter should be pourable but thick—slightly thinner than pancake batter.
- Cover the bowl and refrigerate the batter overnight, or for at least 2 hours.
Cooking
- Preheat your waffle maker according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
- Use a ladle to pour the batter onto the waffle iron, covering it just enough to avoid overflow.
- Cook until golden and crispy, usually taking about 3 1/2 to 6 minutes, depending on your waffle maker.
Serving
- Move the waffles onto plates and serve immediately with your desired toppings.
- Alternatively, keep them warm in a preheated oven at 70°C/150°F while you finish cooking the rest.
