Experience the deliciousness of homemade Mini Waffles with this easy and versatile recipe! Perfect for breakfast, brunch, or a sweet treat, these mini waffles are sure to become a favorite. My mini waffle maker is my favorite kitchen gadget right now! It doesn't just make the best regular waffles; it also creates amazing Waffle Brownies!
Why You'll Love My Waffle Recipe
This mini waffle maker recipe is great because it's super easy to use. You only need simple ingredients and a few steps to make yummy waffles. Plus, you can change it up with different toppings like Nutella, Biscoff cookie butter, syrup, or fruit, so everyone can have their favorite.
Another cool thing is how handy it is. You can mix the batter ahead of time and keep it in the fridge. This means you can quickly make fresh waffles in the morning or anytime, really. If you don't use all the batter at once, it's okay to store it for a few days and use it later.
You can also have fun trying out different toppings each time, making every waffle feel like a new treat. And making waffles at home is nice because you know exactly what's going into them, making mealtime a bit more special.
In short, this recipe is easy, flexible, and perfect for any time you want something tasty and homemade. The maple syrup can be swapped out for out Strawberry Syrup, Raspberry Sauce or our amazing Mixed Berry Compote!
Ingredients In Mini Waffles
- Egg: Provides structure and richness, binding the ingredients together for a cohesive batter.
- Whole Milk: Introduces moisture and creaminess, ensuring the waffles have a soft, tender interior.
- Sugar: Sweetens the batter, enhancing the overall taste.
- Salt: Balances the sweetness and highlights the flavors of the other ingredients.
- Light Olive Oil or Melted Butter: Adds necessary fats for a tender crumb and a crispy edge. Olive oil yields a lighter texture, while butter brings a depth of flavor.
- Vanilla Extract: Imparts a warm, comforting aroma and flavor, complementing the sweetness of the batter.
- All-purpose Flour: The structural backbone, it gives the waffles their form and substance.
- Baking Powder: A leavening agent, it makes the batter rise, creating fluffy and airy waffles.
- Sweet Spreads and Sugars: Nutella, powdered sugar, butter, and maple syrup offer a range of sweet topping choices to cater to different tastes.
- Creamy Delights: Cream and ice cream add a luxurious texture and cool contrast to the warm waffles.
- Fresh Fruit: Strawberries provide a refreshing, tart balance and enhance the visual appeal of the dish.
- These ingredients collectively form the basis for a versatile waffle batter that can be tailored with a variety of toppings to match any flavor preference, making breakfast or any meal a delightful experience.
These ingredients collectively form the basis for a versatile waffle batter that can be tailored with a variety of toppings to match any flavor preference, making breakfast or any meal a delightful experience.
How To Make Mini Waffle Maker Waffles
Combine All Ingredients Together: Instead of separating wet and dry ingredients, add the egg, whole milk, sugar, salt, light olive oil (or melted butter), vanilla extract, all-purpose flour, and baking powder to a large mixing bowl all at once. This method simplifies the mixing process and ensures that all components are evenly incorporated.
Mix Until Just Combined: Using a hand whisk, gently mix the ingredients together until they are just combined. It's important not to overmix the batter; a few small lumps remaining are perfectly fine and won't negatively affect the texture of your waffles. Overmixing can lead to gluten development, making the waffles tough rather than light and fluffy.
Let the Batter Rest: This step is crucial for the texture of your mini waffles. Allow the batter to rest for at least an hour at room temperature, or for optimal results, cover and refrigerate it overnight. Resting gives time for the flour to absorb the liquid and for the gluten strands to relax, leading to softer, more tender waffles.
Preheat the Mini Waffle Maker: Turn on your mini waffle maker ahead of time so it's hot and ready to go. Most models have a light that will indicate when the maker is properly preheated.
Grease It Up: Before adding your batter, lightly spray or brush the mini waffle maker plates with oil. This step ensures your waffles won't stick and will be easy to remove once cooked.
Pour the Batter: Scoop or pour the batter into the center of the lower plate of your waffle maker. There's no need to spread the batter as closing the lid will evenly distribute it over the cooking surface.
Cooking Time: Close the lid gently but don't lock it, allowing room for the steam to escape. The cooking time will vary based on your waffle maker and how crispy you like your waffles. Generally, it takes a few minutes until they're golden and crisp. I like to cook mine for 7 minutes.
Serve Warm: Once cooked to your liking, remove the waffles carefully from the mini waffle maker with mini non stick tongs and serve them immediately with your preferred toppings.
Mix sliced strawberries with powdered sugar, then let them chill in the refrigerator. In about 10 minutes, the sugar draws out the strawberries' natural juices, creating a sweet, syrupy coating that's perfect for topping off your waffles.
Handy Suggestions
Make Ahead: For convenience, the mini waffles can be made in advance. Simply reheat them in a toaster for a quick breakfast or snack.
Batter Storage: Leftover batter can be kept in the refrigerator for up to three days. This allows you to make fresh waffles on demand without the need for prep.
Experiment with Toppings: The beauty of mini waffles is their versatility. Try a variety of toppings like maple syrup, Nutella, fresh fruits, or even ice cream to discover your favorite combinations.
By following these detailed steps, you'll be able to create delicious mini waffles that are perfect for any occasion, whether it's a special morning treat or a delightful dessert.
My Top Tip
To make sure your mini waffles turn out flawlessly every time, there's one tip that stands above the rest: Rest the Batter. This crucial step significantly impacts the batter's texture, flavor, and overall quality of the waffles.
Importance of Hydration
Hydration: Resting allows the flour to fully soak up the milk, leading to a batter with a smooth and uniform consistency. This hydration is essential for achieving the ideal texture in your waffles.
Gluten Relaxation
Gluten Relaxation: Mixing the batter activates gluten. By resting, you give this gluten time to relax, which means your waffles will be tender and soft instead of tough and chewy.
Flavor Enhancement
Flavor Development: The resting period also allows the flavors to blend together more fully. Ingredients like vanilla extract infuse the batter with a deeper, more cohesive flavor profile.
Improved Cooking Results
Improved Texture: A rested batter leads to better result, with crispy edges and fluffy centers. The consistency of the batter also improves, making it easier to pour and spread on the waffle iron.
By emphasizing the importance of batter resting, you will get the best outcome for your mini waffles, making this simple yet effective tip the cornerstone of the recipe.
Serving Suggestions
Mini waffles are not only delicious but also incredibly fun to serve with their endless topping possibilities and combinations. Whether you’re in the mood for something sweet, savory, or somewhere in between, there's a serving suggestion for every occasion.
Maple Syrup and Butter: A timeless combination that never fails to satisfy. The rich, creamy butter melts over the warm waffles, perfectly complemented by the sweet and sticky maple syrup.
Powdered Sugar and Fresh Fruit: Dust your mini waffles with powdered sugar and top with fresh berries like strawberries or blueberries for a light and refreshing option.
Nutella or Biscoff Spread: For a decadent treat, spread a layer of Nutella or Biscoff spread over your waffles. Add sliced bananas or strawberries for an extra burst of flavor.
Bacon and Egg: Top your mini waffles with a crispy piece of bacon and a soft-cooked egg for a savory breakfast option. A drizzle of maple syrup can add a sweet and savory dimension.
Avocado and Tomato: For a healthier twist, top your waffles with sliced avocado and cherry tomatoes, seasoned with salt, pepper, and a drizzle of olive oil.
Ice Cream and Chocolate Sauce: Serve your mini waffles with a scoop of vanilla ice cream and a generous drizzle of chocolate hot fudge sauce for a delightful dessert.
Whipped Cream and Berry Compote: Top your waffles with whipped cream and homemade berry compote for a sweet and tangy treat.
DIY Waffle Bar: Set up a waffle bar with various toppings like chocolate chips, sprinkles, whipped cream, and syrups, allowing kids (and adults!) to customize their own waffles.
Pumpkin Spice: In the fall, add a dollop of pumpkin spice spread or cream cheese and a sprinkle of cinnamon for a seasonal delight.
Holiday Themed: Around the holidays, use gingerbread spread or peppermint whipped cream for a festive touch.
More Ice Cream Flavor Suggestions
- Peanut Butter Ice Cream
- Tim Tam Slam Ice Cream Recipe
- Snickers Ice Cream (No Churn)
- Nutella Brownie Ice Cream Cake
Common Questions
Yes, you can use skim milk instead of whole milk. While whole milk contributes to the richness and tender texture of the waffles, skim milk can be a lighter alternative. Just keep in mind that the waffles might not be as rich in flavor.
Absolutely! You can stir in chocolate chips, blueberries, or your favorite add-ins to the batter before cooking. Just make sure to add them after the batter has rested and right before you're ready to cook the waffles.
Resting the batter is highly recommended as it allows the flour to hydrate and the gluten to relax, resulting in softer, fluffier waffles. However, if you're pressed for time, you can still make the waffles without resting the batter; they might just be a bit denser.
To keep them warm while making a large batch, preheat your oven to a low temperature (around 200°F or 90°C) and place the cooked waffles on a baking sheet in the oven. This will keep them warm and crisp until you're ready to serve.
Yes, they freeze wonderfully. Let them cool completely, then place them in a single layer on a baking sheet to freeze. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer bag or container. Reheat in a toaster or oven for a quick and convenient breakfast.
Yes, you can prepare the batter ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This makes it easy to whip up fresh batch whenever you like. Just give the batter a gentle stir before using it.
Mini Waffle Maker Waffles Recipe
INGREDIENTS
Waffle Batter
- 1 egg large
- 1 cup whole milk
- 1 tablespoon sugar
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ cup olive oil use light olive oil or butter
- 1 tablespoon vanilla extract or essence
- 1¾ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
Macerated Strawberries
- 1 cup strawberries sliced
- 2 teaspoon powdered sugar
Garnish Choices
- powdered sugar
- Nutella
- butter
- maple syrup
- Biscoff spread
- dollop cream
- vanilla ice cream
- strawberries
INSTRUCTIONS
Waffle Batter
- In a large bowl, whisk together all batter ingredients until smooth. If a few small lumps remain, that ok.
- Allow the batter to rest for at least 1 hour, or preferably overnight in the refrigerator, to ensure a tender interior.
- Preheat your mini waffle maker. Once heated, lightly oil the plates.
- Scoop a large cookie scoop of batter onto the center of the waffle plate and gently close the lid without locking it. This allows the batter to spread evenly without overflowing.
- Cook for 5-7 minutes, adjusting the time based on your preference for color and crispiness.
- Serve warm with your choice of garnishes.
Macerated Strawberries
- In a bowl, combine the sliced strawberries with the powdered sugar. Stir the mixture gently but thoroughly to ensure all strawberry slices are evenly coated with the sugar.
- Place the bowl of sugared strawberries in the refrigerator. Let them sit for at least 10 minutes. During this time, the sugar will draw out the juices from the strawberries, creating a delicious, sweet syrup.
- Once the syrup has begun to form and the strawberries are nicely macerated, take them out of the refrigerator. They are now ready to be served alongside or on top of your freshly made mini waffles.
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