Homemade Mini Waffles
Today I’m sharing the perfect basic mini waffle recipe that you can enjoy as is or customize to your heart’s content. You can add finely chopped berries during the summer, mashed banana for added sweetness, peanut butter for a boost of protein and fat, or freshly grated carrots if you want to get more veggies into your child’s diet! These adorable little waffles are great for entertaining – at a brunch, party, or any special event. Make in large batches and serve with a variety of toppings to please a crowd. You should totally try these mini pancakes and mini banana muffins too!
Ingredients
I am highlighting just the ones that need further explanation. The complete list is in the recipe card below.
Rolled Oats – I personally love the texture and heartiness oats adds to waffles. It also thickens the batter, resulting in waffles that are soft on the inside and lightly crispy on the outside. You can also use all purpose flour or white whole wheat flour. You can use whole wheat flour but the texture will be more dense. Milk – Use whole fat milk as our babies and kids need fat for optimal brain development. If there’s an allergy, here are my top two non-dairy alternatives. Egg – use room temperature for lighter, fluffier waffles! Maple syrup – for a hint of sweetness. You can leave out if desired, see “tips for success” section below
Step-by-Step Instructions
Tips for Success
For babies and toddlers, leave maple syrup out completely as it is recommended to avoid added sugars until 2 years of age. You can use date syrup or top with various sweet toppings as suggested below. Let batter sit for at 5-10 minutes to make sure the flour and oats soak up the liquid making the batter thicken. This will also allow the gluten to expand a little, resulting in a more tender texture. Be sure to preheat your waffle maker. If you don’t, the exterior won’t crisp up properly. Cool in a single layer. Never stack the waffles on top of each other as you wait for them all to be made. The heat and steam from them will cause the waffles to get too soft. If you wish, you can keep them warm in the oven while you wait for the rest to finish cooking.
Serving Suggestions
Because these mini waffles are not very sweet, you can enjoy with either sweet or savory toppings! Here are some great options to try:
Fresh fruit – sliced or pureed Homemade Date Syrup Homemade unsweetened applesauce Yogurt Ricotta – here are the best cheese for babies and toddlers Cream cheese frosting – this healthy version isn’t just for cakes! Maple syrup Melted butter Thinned out peanut, nut, or seed butter Dips like Beetroot chickpea dip, Pumpkin seed spinach hummus
Waffle Maker Suggestions
This mini waffle maker is just so perfect! The only complaint I have is that it takes longer to make a full batch, but I do end up with the most adorably sized waffles so I guess it’s a price worth paying ;). If you don’t own a mini waffle maker, that’s ok! Just use less batter and cook according to your waffle iron’s instructions.
Storage
Cool leftover waffles on a wire rack completely after cooking. Then store in an airtight container in the fridge for 2-3 days. To freeze, lay them on a cookie sheet and flash freeze. This allows you to easily remove from the freezer one at a time. Check out my how to safely store leftovers post for details! When ready to heat, pop them into the toaster or toaster oven. These can also be enjoyed cold – perfect for lunch box or school snack.
How to Reheat
The best way to reheat mini waffles depends on your personal preference and the equipment you have available. Here are the top methods:
Oven – preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake for 3-5 minutes in a baking sheet. Bake for 3-5 minutes, or until the waffles are heated through. Toaster – toast on low to medium setting until heated through and crispy on the outside, about 1-2 minutes. Microwave – place on a microwave-safe plate and microwave on high for 15-30 seconds. Air fryer – preheat to 350°F and place the waffles in the basket. Cook for 2-4 minutes, or until the waffles are warmed through.
More Waffles to Try
