Buttermilk Waffles

There’s nothing quite like the smell of freshly made buttermilk waffles wafting through the kitchen on a lazy morning. These Golden Crisp Buttermilk Waffles are everything you want in a classic breakfast—crunchy on the outside, soft and fluffy on the inside, and packed with a rich, buttery flavor. The slight tang from the buttermilk balances the sweetness, making every bite absolutely irresistible.

Top these waffles with a generous drizzle of maple syrup, fresh berries, or a dusting of powdered sugar for the ultimate breakfast treat. Whether you’re making a cozy family breakfast or impressing guests at brunch, this waffle recipe will have everyone reaching for seconds.

Full Recipe:

Ingredients:

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• ½ teaspoon baking soda
• ½ teaspoon salt
• 2 large eggs
• 2 cups buttermilk
• ½ cup unsalted butter, melted
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Directions:

1. Preheat the waffle iron according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
3. In another bowl, beat the eggs, then add the buttermilk, melted butter, and vanilla extract. Mix well.
4. Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and stir until just combined. Do not overmix; a few lumps are fine.
5. Lightly grease the waffle iron with nonstick spray or butter. Pour the batter into the preheated waffle iron, using the recommended amount per your waffle maker’s instructions.
6. Cook until golden brown and crispy, about 3-5 minutes.
7. Remove and keep warm while cooking the remaining waffles.
8. Serve warm with butter, maple syrup, fresh fruits, or whipped cream.

Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cooking Time: 20 minutes | Total Time: 30 minutes

Kcal: 330 kcal per waffle | Servings: 4

History and Origin

Waffles date back centuries, with early versions appearing in medieval Europe. The classic buttermilk waffle, however, is an American favorite, known for its crispy edges and fluffy interior. Buttermilk has been a staple ingredient in Southern cooking, traditionally used to add a slight tang and tenderness to baked goods, including waffles. The acidity in buttermilk reacts with baking soda, creating a light and airy texture that sets these waffles apart.

Why Use Buttermilk in Waffles?

Buttermilk is a key ingredient in this recipe, offering several benefits:

• Flavor: Adds a subtle tanginess that enhances the sweetness of the waffle.
• Texture: The acidity helps break down gluten, resulting in a softer and fluffier waffle.
• Golden Brown Color: Reacts with baking soda to produce a beautiful golden crust.

Tips for the Best Buttermilk Waffles

1. Do Not Overmix the Batter – Overmixing will develop gluten, leading to tough waffles. A few lumps are okay.
2. Let the Batter Rest – Allowing the batter to rest for about 5 minutes helps activate the leavening agents, creating extra fluffiness.
3. Preheat the Waffle Iron – A hot waffle iron ensures even cooking and a crisp exterior.
4. Use Real Buttermilk – If you don’t have buttermilk, mix 1 cup of milk with 1 tablespoon of lemon juice or vinegar and let it sit for 10 minutes.
5. Keep Waffles Warm – Place cooked waffles on a wire rack in a 200°F (93°C) oven to stay crispy while you finish the batch.

Serving Suggestions

• Classic Style: Butter and maple syrup.
• Berry Delight: Fresh strawberries, blueberries, and whipped cream.
• Nutty & Sweet: Chopped pecans or walnuts with a drizzle of honey.
• Savory Twist: Top with crispy bacon and a fried egg.

Storage and Reheating

• Refrigeration: Store leftover waffles in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Freezing: Let waffles cool completely, then freeze in a single layer before transferring to a freezer bag for up to 3 months.
• Reheating: Warm in a toaster or oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5-7 minutes to restore crispiness.

What Makes Buttermilk Waffles Special?

1. Perfect Texture – The acidity in buttermilk tenderizes the batter, creating waffles that are both crispy on the outside and soft on the inside.
2. Rich Flavor – The slightly tangy taste of buttermilk adds depth and balances the sweetness of syrup or toppings.
3. Beautiful Golden Color – The reaction between baking soda and buttermilk helps the waffles develop a perfect golden-brown crust.

How to Make the Best Buttermilk Waffles

Want restaurant-quality waffles at home? Here are some essential tips:

• Use Fresh Buttermilk – The fresher the buttermilk, the better the reaction with the leavening agents, resulting in fluffier waffles.
• Preheat Your Waffle Iron – A properly preheated waffle iron ensures an even cook and a crispy exterior.
• Don’t Overmix the Batter – Stir until just combined; a few lumps are fine. Overmixing can make the waffles dense and chewy.
• Let the Batter Rest – Letting the batter sit for 5-10 minutes before cooking helps activate the leavening agents, leading to a better texture.
• Keep Waffles Warm in the Oven – Place cooked waffles in a 200°F (93°C) oven on a wire rack to keep them crispy while you make the rest.

Delicious Topping Ideas

Classic buttermilk waffles are versatile and can be served in many delicious ways:

Sweet Toppings:

• Maple Syrup & Butter – The ultimate classic combination.
• Fresh Fruits – Strawberries, blueberries, bananas, or raspberries.
• Whipped Cream & Chocolate Chips – A kid-friendly favorite!
• Nutella & Sliced Almonds – For a rich and indulgent treat.

Savory Toppings:

• Crispy Bacon & Fried Egg – A balance of salty and sweet.
• Fried Chicken & Honey – A Southern classic.
• Avocado & Feta Cheese – A creamy, tangy twist.

How to Store & Reheat Waffles

If you have leftover waffles, don’t let them go to waste!

Refrigeration: Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Freezing: Freeze cooked waffles in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer them to a freezer bag for up to 3 months.
Reheating: Pop them in the toaster or oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5-7 minutes to restore crispiness.

Fun Facts About Waffles

🥞 Did you know? The word “waffle” comes from the Dutch word wafel, which means “honeycomb cake.”
🥞 The largest waffle ever made weighed 110 pounds (50 kg) and was cooked in Belgium in 2013.
🥞 In the United States, National Waffle Day is celebrated on August 24th!

Variations of Buttermilk Waffles

Looking to experiment? Try these fun variations:

• Chocolate Chip Waffles – Add mini chocolate chips to the batter for a sweet surprise.
• Pumpkin Spice Waffles – Mix in pumpkin puree and cinnamon for a fall twist.
• Protein Waffles – Substitute part of the flour with protein powder for a healthier option.
• Coconut Waffles – Stir shredded coconut into the batter for a tropical flavor.
• Whole Wheat Waffles – Use whole wheat flour for added fiber and nutrition.

Pairing Ideas

A waffle breakfast isn’t complete without the perfect side dishes!

🥓 Bacon or Sausages – A classic pairing that adds a savory balance.
🍊 Fresh Orange Juice or Coffee – A refreshing or bold complement to waffles.
🍳 Scrambled Eggs or Omelets – To make it a full breakfast plate.