Buttermilk Waffles

There’s an art to making buttermilk waffles. The texture is key—you want a fluffy, custardy (but not too gooey!) interior and brown, crispy edges. In terms of taste, you want a slightly tangy flavor (that’s where the buttermilk comes in). And while you can tweak these waffles any way you want by adding sugar to the batter, drizzling them with fudge sauce or piling them with poached eggs and salmon, there’s something about sticking to a classic buttermilk waffle recipe that just feels right. Pair these waffles with a mug of coffee, the newspaper and your couch, and you’ve got the makings of an ideal Sunday morning.

Ingredients for Buttermilk Waffle Recipe

• All-purpose flour: As opposed to other types of flour, all-purpose flour gives waffles their light but chewy texture.
• Baking soda and baking powder: Using both baking soda and baking powder helps waffles rise and brown.
• Salt: Salt helps balance all the flavors in this recipe.
• Eggs: Make sure your eggs are at room temperature before using; otherwise, they won’t blend as well.
• Buttermilk: The moisture comes from acidic buttermilk.
• Canola oil: Canola oil provides a more even browning than, say, butter.
• (Optional) Toppings: We love adding fresh strawberries (or any fresh berries, really), strawberry syrup and whipped cream to these waffles.

Directions

Step 1: Combine the ingredients

In a large bowl, combine the flour, baking powder, baking soda and salt. In another bowl, beat the eggs; add buttermilk and oil. Stir into the dry ingredients until just combined.

Step 2: Bake

Bake in a preheated waffle maker according to the manufacturer’s directions until golden brown. If desired, serve with sliced fresh strawberries, syrup and whipped cream.

Editor’s Tip: If you’re in need of a new waffle maker, check out our guide to the best new waffle makers on the market.

Buttermilk Waffle Recipe Variations

• Add brown sugar: Adding a tablespoon of brown sugar to the batter will significantly sweeten these waffles.
• Top with different spreads: We’re big fans of putting chocolate-hazelnut spread, peanut butter or cream cheese on buttermilk waffles.
• Drizzle with sauces: Add homemade fudge sauce, honey or caramel sauce to your waffles.
• Make them savory: A poached egg, some smoked salmon and a sprinkling of chives turns these waffles into a savory breakfast.
• Add nuts: Pecans add a deliciously nutty flavor to buttermilk waffles.

How to Store Buttermilk Waffles

Let your waffles cool to room temperature and put them in an airtight container before sticking them in the fridge. When you’re ready to eat, rewarm the waffles in an oven or toaster until they’re heated through.

Can you freeze buttermilk waffles?

Yes, you can freeze buttermilk waffles. After you’ve cooked them (and they’ve cooled off), place them in an airtight container; they’ll last in the freezer this way for at least two months.

Buttermilk Waffle Recipe Tips

Why are my waffles soggy?

This is likely happening because your waffle maker isn’t hot enough. Make sure the waffle maker is piping hot before adding your batter. You can test the heat by dropping a small amount of batter on the maker; it should sizzle immediately.

Can I make these waffles vegan?

Yes, you can make these vegan by using flax eggs and vegan buttermilk.

What should I serve with buttermilk waffles?

Aside from any toppings you’d like to add, we’d recommend serving these waffles with a side of fresh fruit and scrambled eggs—and plenty of hot coffee and orange juice, of course.