Crisp and buttery on the outside, fluffy on the inside, this easy waffle recipe is perfection. Included are loads of options for sweet or savory waffles, plus all the toppings you could ever desire.
I like sweet waffles, savory waffles, snack waffles (handheld Ham and Cheese Waffles, I’m looking at you). If you can waffle it, I will probably love it.
Homemade Waffles
Want to know a secret? I almost never order waffles at a restaurant. That’s how picky I am about my waffles.
I know exactly how I like my waffles and restaurant waffles are never as good as the homemade waffles from my own kitchen.
I take my waffle enthusiasm too seriously to waste a meal on waffles that are anything less than spectacular. Rest assured, I’d never share a waffle recipe with you that I didn’t absolutely adore. My standards are just too high.
Easy Waffles
Considering how deep my love for waffles runs, it’s high time I shared with you my ultimate list of best waffle recipes.
I’ve been making waffles a long time and I’ve discovered that, while everyone has their own preferences, there are a few things that all great waffles have in common.
The ultimate waffle recipe is crispy on the outside (but never oily or greasy!) with a soft fluffy interior. The best waffles won’t fall apart when you lift them from the iron, they won’t bend in half, and they also won’t get tough and dense as they cool.
Rest assured that when I say this is the best waffle recipe ever, I don’t make that claim lightly. Part of the reason this recipe is the best is simply because it’s as easy as can be.
These are a few of my all-time favorite waffle recipes, ranging from savory to sweet and everything in between.
Waffle Ideas
Want the best ever classic Homemade Waffles Recipe? Scroll straight to the bottom of this post and print the recipe.
This is our go-to recipe and it’s also the base for countless sweet and savory waffle combinations here on the website. This recipe is from my Weekday Lunches & Breakfasts Cookbook and it’s a huge favorite with everyone who tries it.
A lightly sweet waffle topped with a pat of butter and drizzled with maple syrup makes any morning beautiful. When in doubt, you can’t go wrong with a Whole Wheat Waffle covered in your favorite waffle toppings.
Few things make me smile like a plate of Blueberry Waffles. My blueberry waffle recipe features what I think is the exact right ratio of berries to batter, and never disappoints.
Waffles from Scratch
You’ll need the following ingredients to make perfect waffles every time:
- all-purpose flour
- kosher salt
- baking powder
- sugar
- milk
- eggs
- vanilla extract
Waffle Recipe
- Combine the flour, salt, baking powder, and sugar in a large mixing bowl.
- Add the milk and the eggs. Whisk to combine. (I LOVE my dough whisk for making pancakes and waffles!)
- Pour the melted butter and the vanilla into the batter and stir until mostly smooth. Take care not to over-stir the batter. Let the batter rest for at least 10-15 minutes while heating the waffle iron.
- Heat the waffle maker. (This is my favorite Belgian waffle maker!) Pour batter onto the hot waffle iron and cook according to the manufacturer’s directions. Serve warm or let cool completely before storing.
If you’re lucky enough to have leftover waffles, completely cooled waffles may be frozen in zipclose bags. Reheat from frozen in the toaster, microwave, or on a rack in the oven.
Gluten Free Waffles
Light and fluffy waffles that are crisp on the outside and tender inside are a year-round favorite in our house. My family has been making waffles along with my grandma’s waffle sauce since long before I was born. I was happy to discover that both the waffles and the sauce freeze beautifully, making this a dream of a make-ahead breakfast.
The added starches in the gluten-free version of this recipe make them extra crispy on the outside. I might be guilty of loving the gluten-free recipe even more than the original, but truly they are both delicious.
Savory Waffles
While I love a sweet waffle, I sometimes think savory waffles don’t get nearly the amount of attention they deserve. Whether I’m serving them for breakfast, brunch or dinner, they always disappear almost as fast as I can get them on the table.
Cheddar Bacon Green Chile Waffles are the ultimate cheesy waffle with southwestern flavors. The green chiles add a little spice to the savory, cheesy waffle batter with pieces of bacon providing smokiness and even more flavor.
Speaking of southwestern flavors, Cornbread Waffles topped with chili and cheese are simply divine. We love this meal anytime of day and it’s become one of our favorite ways to enjoy homemade chili!
Cheddar Chive Waffles are yet another “must try” waffle on my list of best waffle recipes. Served with a fried egg and sausage gravy, they’re a hearty and delicious comfort food meal.
A few years ago I started making Pumpkin Spice Waffles inspired by the pumpkin muffins my family has loved for years. They’re lightly spiced and sweet and perfect served with a hot cup of coffee, especially on a cool crisp autumn morning (or anytime you need to be transported to fall!).
If you like banana bread as much as the members of my household, then Banana Waffles are for you. We enjoy them on their own or topped with slices of fresh bananas, chopped nuts, and maple syrup.
Some mornings you can’t choose between homemade waffles and homemade donuts, and I believe you shouldn’t have to. Enter Maple Glazed Doughnut Waffles. They’re the ideal sweet indulgence for breakfast (or any time of day).
Whole Wheat Zucchini Waffles , Buckwheat Waffles and Gluten Free Buttermilk Waffles are even more homemade waffle recipes I enjoy on the sweeter side.
Waffle Toppings
One of the joys of making waffles is the many different ways that you can top these waffles! The same waffle recipe may taste entirely different depending on what you choose to top them with and that, for me, is part of the fun.
I’ve been making my grandmother’s Homemade Waffle Sauce for years and it’ll always have a special place in my heart (and in my kitchen). This sauce is delicious on a waffle on its own or alongside fruit and nuts.
Have you tried my Kahlua Cream Sauce yet? I first made it to pour over a Challah Bread Pudding and immediately knew it would also be perfect on waffles.
Buttermilk Syrup, Brown Sugar Butter Syrup , Strawberry Simple Syrup, and Vanilla Bean Whipped Cream are more topping ideas that I love on my waffles.
I also love just about any variation of fresh sliced fruit and chopped walnuts or pecans on top of my waffles!
On savory waffles, I love toppings like chili, cheese, sour cream, and even guacamole. A fried egg or a helping of warm savory sausage gravy is a welcome sight served next to a stack of savory waffles.
Can’t get enough waffle recipe ideas? Strawberry Shortcake Waffles with Maple Whipped Cream from Well Plated and these Peanut Butter and Banana Stuffed Almond Crusted Waffles by The Noshery are what breakfast dreams are made of.
For a classic sweet side, toss together this almost effortless Rainbow Fruit Salad.
Kitchen Tip: I LOVE my double Belgian waffle iron for making loads of waffles in no time at all!
Perfect Every Time Homemade Waffles
Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour*
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt
- 1½ tablespoons baking powder
- 1 tablespoon sugar
- 1⅔ cups milk
- 2 eggs
- ⅓ cup butter, melted
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
*Gluten-Free Alternative
- 1⅓ cups brown rice flour
- ⅔ cup tapioca starch
- ¼ cup potato starch
Instructions
- Combine the flour, salt, baking powder, and sugar in a large mixing bowl.
- Add the milk and the eggs. Whisk to combine. (I LOVE my dough whisk for making pancakes and waffles!)
- Pour the melted butter and the vanilla into the batter and stir until mostly smooth. Take care not to over-stir the batter. Let the batter rest for at least 10-15 minutes while heating the waffle iron.
- Heat the waffle iron. (This is my favorite waffle iron!) Pour batter onto the hot waffle iron and cook according to the manufacturer’s directions. Serve warm or let cool completely before storing.
Notes
Nutrition
{originally published 8/9/19 – recipe notes and photos updated 11/27/23}
Wb says
We like belgian waffles on occasion and typically use recipes with buttermilk, however, this recipe turned out beautifully and was tasty. We’d make this again. Thanks for the recipe!
Mary Younkin says
I’m so glad that you enjoyed the waffles!
Dawn says
I made 2 batches of your waffles last night. One wheat and one gluten free – exactly as written. And they turned out great! So buttery and yummy with maple syrup! They toasted up very nicely this morning, crispy on the outside and soft in the middle. I’ll be making a ton more this weekend to freeze. I can’t wait to try the donut waffles. Thank you!
Mary Younkin says
I’m so happy to hear that you love them, Dawn!
Diane Castillo says
Love the gluten free waffle recipe. I usually buy the frozen gluten free waffles from the store. It would be more economical to make my own. I will look into purchasing a waffle iron. By the way, my favorite topping is strawberry cream cheese and fresh berries
Mary Younkin says
I’m so happy that you love the waffles too, Diane!
Cynthia Arthur says
I have tried your perfect every time waffle recipe several times, and when I do the batter, it’s always very thick. I mean very very thick. Should it be baking soda, instead of baking powder?? Any other suggestions.
Mary Younkin says
Hi Cynthia! Baking soda vs baking powder won’t affect the thickness of the batter. However, if you are scooping the flour and shaking the cup to level it off, that will definitely add a significant amount more flour to the recipe. I would recommend spooning the flour into the measuring cup (or alternatively very gently scooping it to avoid packing it in the there) and then leveling it off with a knife. The batter should be pretty thick, but still pourable.
Cynthia Arthur says
OK, well they are not pourable. It is sooo thick. I’m not leveling the flour. Next time I’m going to try baking soda instead of baking powder.
Mikey says
Baking soda won’t change the thickness at all. Baking soda and baking powder are only leavening ingredients. As a matter of fact, baking soda only works if there’s an acidic (sour) ingredient in the recipe as well, such as lemon juice, vinegar, buttermilk, etc… Baking powder on the other hand works if there’s heat. This recipe does not have sour ingredients, so it will definitely need baking powder to rise.
Mia says
Quick and easy to mix up. Only got 4 and a quarter waffles with my Belgian waffle maker, which I think is standard sized. Will definitely make again. Thanks!
LS Mortensen says
These waffles were super easy to make and SO delicious! I’ll definitely make them again!
Mary Younkin says
I’m happy to hear that you’re enjoying the waffles!
Jessica says
Hi what’s the white cream on the waffle
Kerrie says
If you’re not leveling the flour, odds are, you are using way too much flour. Spoon the flour into your measuring cup and then level it with a knife. I’ve made this recipe several times now. It’s a very thick batter. I kind of half pour half scoop the batter onto the iron.
Kerrie says
Wonderful recipe! I have made this several times and have made a few tweaks! I use buttermilk instead of regular, brown sugar in place of regular sugar, and I add about 1/4 cup of heavy cream. My five year old will gobble these up and ask for more! Thank you for ending my search for the perfect homemade waffle!
Mary Younkin says
I’m thrilled that you are enjoying the waffles, Kerrie!
Tatbat says
Guess what? I love this recipe sooo much I’m making them for breakfast right now!
3rd time making them, too.
Mary Younkin says
That’s awesome! I’m thrilled that you love the waffles.
[email protected] says
Ohm Holy God. I would just like the recipe. I dint need to know everything you think about it. Or feel about it
Mary Younkin says
Hi hon, maybe take a moment to breathe? The recipe and the full ingredient list is always provided at the bottom of the page, as is standard with every free recipe website these days. Just scroll down to the bottom of the post, if that’s all you need. And if you aren’t interested in scrolling through the post, feel free to make use of the handy “jump to recipe” button at the top of the post. In the past, when I’ve tried providing the recipe at the top of the page, the number of people asking questions about the recipe multiplied exponentially, as most never scrolled down to see where things had already been answered. I do my best to provide as much information as possible to avoid the multitude of questions that tend to be inevitable for many recipes, this also helps tell Google and other search engines that all relevant information has been provided – sometimes even more than some people might need/want.
JSL says
Best waffle recipe I’ve ever run across! Light and fluffy or dark and crispy – delicious!
Mary Younkin says
I’m thrilled that you like them.
Susan Schlais says
I’ve used this recipe a handful of times & shared it countless times.. my son used it for his surprise bday breakfast for his wife, and she now uses & shares it as well.
There was only 1 time they didn’t come out perfect- turns out my Belgium waffle iton was the cause (RIP iron-youre missed).
Mary Younkin says
I’m so glad that you are enjoying the waffles, Susan.
3Am Vibes says
Great!!!! >-< my friend tried the same recipe and she completely butchered it!!! she came to me complaining and hooteting and hollering about it the other day and i told her ' you forgot the flour!!' she cut me off and there goes 10 years of friendship bye bye !!! XD lmao whatevs im better without her lousy baking skills
but in all actuality they were SCRUMPAFIDDDILYDELICIOUS. MMM I LOVE HOW TENDER AND BUTTERY THEY WERE it was almost like there was butter in jt
Mary Younkin says
I’m thrilled that you loved the waffles!
Alayney says
Like one of the other commenters above said, I WANTED to like these waffles! I must just not like waffles (and I really want to) because I am SO NOT thrilled. I tried this and one other recipe in my new waffle maker and I’m really disappointed. Like I said, it MUST be me. I have always loved waffles but have only ever had the store bought out-of-a-box kind. Well, I don’t eat out of boxes anymore … Anyway, so sad. 🙁
Mary Younkin says
Hi Alayney, I am sorry to hear that these waffles weren’t your thing. If you would like to provide more details on what specifically didn’t work for your tastes, I may be able to figure out if there was an issue in making the waffles. (i.e. too dense, there may have been a bit too much flour added) I’d love to find a way for you to love waffles as much as we do!
Ivy Kay says
These waffles are AMAZING!!! Such a success for my family in the early morning! I added a little bit of homemade vanilla syrup and it executed these waffles perfectly. I totally recommend trying out!
Mary Younkin says
I’m so glad that you like the waffles, Ivy!
Meredith says
I love these waffles! They are so light and fluffy. I will definitely make these again!
Mary Younkin says
I’m glad you like the waffles, Meredith.
Jennifer says
These are delicious. Instead of 1 2/3 milk, I did 1 c milk and 2/3 sparkling water to add more air bubbles and used orange extract instead of vanilla because I have vanilla sugar. Amazing, thank you so much for sharing.
Mary Younkin says
I’ve never heard of adding sparkling water. I’m glad you loved enjoyed the waffles!
Kristi says
This was delicious! Made as written and came out beautiful and fluffy. I had blueberries in the freezer, so we had them with butter and blueberry sauce.
The best part is that we’ll have more in the freezer. It’s 16 degrees below zero right now, so I’ll just set the leftovers out in the screened porch (which we are temporarily calling the blast chiller) for a bit to chill.
Mary Younkin says
I’m thrilled that you enjoyed the waffles, Kristi. (Stay warm!)
Katya says
hi, can you make this at night and cook in the morning?
Mary Younkin says
I’ve never tried that, Katya.