Best Homemade Waffle Recipe

Waffles are a type of breakfast food that has been around for centuries. They are usually made with thin layers of batter, separated by a patterned grid. When cooked, fluffy waffles become warm and crisp on the outside while still fluffy and soft on the inside.

There are so many ways you can make waffles, but we have cracked the code to make the best homemade waffles! Why? It uses shortening, which gives a fluffy texture to the waffles, and buttermilk which helps keep the waffles moist. Plus, it uses a combination of baking soda, baking powder, and salt to make sure your fluffy waffles are perfectly fluffy and flavorful.

Enjoy fluffy waffles for breakfast, along with some butter, syrup, and fresh fruit. You can also top them with whipped cream and chocolate chips for a sweet treat!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to make - With simple ingredients and straightforward instructions, this homemade waffle recipe is a breeze!
• It’s fluffy and flavorful - The combination of buttermilk and shortening helps create fluffy yet flavorful waffles that are sure to be a hit with the family.
• Versatile - You can enjoy fluffy waffles with whatever toppings you like, from butter and syrup to whipped cream and chocolate chips!

Ingredients You’ll Need

• All Purpose Flour - This dry ingredient creates structure in the waffles allowing them to hold their textured shape.
• Baking Soda & Salt - The baking soda helps create a chemical reaction that adds tiny air bubbles to the waffles, making them fluffy, while the salt helps activate the baking soda.
• Egg - The egg adds structure to the waffle and helps bind all of the ingredients together.
• Granulated Sugar - Gives the base of the waffles a hint of sweetness.
• Butter - Works alongside the shortening to create a moist texture and buttery flavor.
• Vegetable Shortening - Adds a moist, dense, and rich texture to the waffle while still keeping them light and fluffy.
• Half and Half - Gives the batter a rich creaminess.
• Buttermilk - The acid in the buttermilk gives the waffles a more tender crumb.
• Vanilla Extract - Adds an extra layer of fragrant vanilla flavor to the waffles.

How To Make The Best Fluffy Waffles

Mix the dry ingredients: To a medium-sized mixing bowl, add the flour, salt, and baking soda and whisk until fully combined.

Mix the wet ingredients: To another mixing bowl, add the egg, and lightly beat. Then, add the

granulated sugar, butter, and shortening. Using an electric mixer, beat until completely smooth. Add half & half, buttermilk, and vanilla extract. Mix until well combined.

Assemble the waffle batter: Slowly add the dry ingredients into the wet folding gently. It is ok to have some lumps in the batter, so do not overmix. Let the batter rest for 20 minutes to bind the ingredients together.

Cook your waffles: Preheat your waffle maker until ready. Spray the waffle maker with non-stick cooking spray, then add ½ cup of batter. Cook for 3-4 minutes or until the waffle is golden brown on both sides. Repeat with the remaining batter.

Garnish and enjoy: Serve the waffles warm for breakfast or brunch with your favorite toppings. Enjoy!

Recipe Tips

• The batter needs to rest for 20 minutes before being cooked. For even better texture, let the waffle batter rest in the fridge overnight.
• When mixing the batter, it's important to make sure you do not overmix, as this will create a tough, dense texture.
• For fluffy waffles, be sure to mix the shortening into the batter until it is completely smooth and fluffy.
• The cooking time for a waffle depends on the individual waffle maker. The waffle is done cooking when it is golden brown on the outside and cooked through on the inside.

Variations

• You can replace the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour for a more nutrient-dense waffle.
• Feel free to add any spices you like! Cinnamon, nutmeg, and cardamom make great additions.
• For an added flavor, you can replace some of the buttermilk with mashed banana.
• Add cocoa powder to the dry ingredients to create a chocolate waffle.
• Topping ideas: Add butter, syrup, powdered sugar, nut butter, maple glaze, chopped nuts, chocolate sauce, peanut butter, caramel sauce, or your favorite fruit to top the waffles.

Storing & Freezing

Storing: Leftover waffles can be stored in an airtight container for up to 3 days.

Freezing: Waffles can be frozen for up to 3 months. Place the waffles in a single layer on a parchment-lined baking sheet and freeze until solid. Once frozen, place them in an airtight container or resealable bag and store in the freezer.
Reheating: The best way to reheat waffles is in the toaster or an oven. If using the oven, preheat to 350°F and bake for about 5-7 minutes or until heated through.

FAQ

Pair these fluffy waffles with Sausage Egg Muffins or Breakfast Casserole for a full and complete breakfast or brunch!

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