Homemade waffles are a snap if you have a waffle maker and this simple recipe! It takes a little practice but soon you'll be making fancy waffle breakfasts in minutes!
I remember sampling some truly outstanding waffles on a “Trends Walk” trip in Brooklyn, NY, years ago. We explored a variety of waffle styles and, of course, made a stop at the legendary Waffles & Dinges food truck—still a benchmark for texture and flavor in my mind.
I find it surprisingly difficult to get the right texture when ordering waffles out—too often they’re soft, pale, or steamed rather than crisp. My children, however, love breakfast at several local spots in Philadelphia. I’m admittedly picky, so I’m rarely impressed.
On our most recent visit, I ordered waffles myself. I could see one of the two cooks working the waffle iron through the kitchen pass, so I assumed mine would arrive fresh, hot, and crunchy. My daughter also ordered waffles—and as anyone in the business knows, when there’s only one waffle maker and two orders…
Homemade Waffles
Waffles trace their origins to medieval Europe, where flat cakes were cooked between two metal plates over an open fire. These early irons, often decorated with religious symbols or heraldic designs, produced wafers—thin, crisp cakes that were more about portability and ritual than indulgence.
Waffles evolved into a leavened batter, enriched with eggs and dairy, particularly in Belgium, the Netherlands, and northern France. As sugar became more accessible through trade, waffles went from simple sustenance to delicious snacks at street markets and festivals.
The waffle continued to evolve as it traveled, taking on regional identities—from yeast-raised, deeply pocketed Belgian styles to thinner, crisper versions found across Europe. In the United States, waffles gained popularity in the 19th century with the introduction of cast-iron waffle makers and later electric irons, becoming a breakfast staple rather than a street food. Today waffles are enjoyed throughout the day, often served with fried chicken for lunch or dinner and even as an ice cream sandwich dessert.
Preparing Breakfast Waffles
Prep Time: 20 min
Cooking Time: 15 min
Yield: 4 portions
Ingredients
1 ea Egg whisked
1/2 C AP flour
1/2 tsp Baking powder
1/2 tsp Granulated Sugar
1 tsp Butter, lightly salted, melted
1/2 C Milk
1/4 tsp Vanilla
(optional)
1 C Chocolate chips, blueberries, walnuts, bananas, etc...
How to Prepare Breakfast Waffles
Step 1
Crack the egg into a bowl, add the flour & whisk gently until there are no lumps. Add the remaining ingredients, lightly whisk to incorporate.
Step 2
Heat a waffle maker or waffle griddle pan, add a very small amount of butter or spray and ladle batter into the pan-the amount you ladle will dictate the size of the waffle-be careful not to overfill!
It's ok to use a little less batter-
When there are bubbles in the waffles, carefully flip using a plastic spatula. Repeat, keeping the waffles warm to enjoy.
If you are using a waffle maker, there is usually a light which goes on when the waffles are perfectly cooked.
Best serve fresh and hot with maple syrup, butter, fresh fruit etc...
