Crisp and Fluffy Buttermilk Waffles

These crisp and fluffy buttermilk waffles are everything you want in a homemade breakfast: golden and crispy on the outside, light and tender on the inside, and full of rich, buttery flavor. If you’ve been searching for the best buttermilk waffles, this easy recipe delivers that perfect balance of crunch and fluff every single time.

My classic Waffle Recipe is a reader favorite too! Or try these Bisquick Waffles and skip measuring the dry ingredients.

Ingredients You Need

See recipe card below this post for ingredient quantities and full instructions.

• All-purpose flour – All-purpose flour is the best for making light and crispy waffles, but you could use cake flour or pastry flour instead. 1:1 all-purpose gluten-free flour is ideal when catering to those with gluten sensitivities.
• Granulated sugar – Light brown sugar is another option.
• Large eggs – Bring to room temperature for better mixing. Here’s the best way to crack an egg!
• Buttermilk – This tangy buttermilk cuts through some of the sweetness and also adds moisture, richness, and flavor! Milk can be used instead, but the difference is noticeable. (As long as you have buttermilk, use the extra to make Southern Style Chess Pie!)
• Unsalted butter – Allow your melted butter to cool slightly before adding it to the waffle batter. Vegetable oil or melted coconut oil could also be used.
• Vanilla – Always use pure vanilla extract.
• Leavening ingredients – You will need both baking soda and baking powder.
• Cooking spray – Or additional melted butter for greasing the waffle iron.

Variations

• Make chocolate waffles by adding 1/2 cup of cocoa powder to the batter. You may need to adjust the liquids in this recipe when making this variation as cocoa powder absorbs moisture.
• Add some warmth to these buttermilk waffles by including 1/2 teaspoon of ground cinnamon in the batter.
• Consider add-ins, such as chocolate chips, chopped nuts, and fruit (fresh or frozen blueberries, chopped strawberries, or mashed bananas).
• Use whole milk instead of buttermilk, or make buttermilk from scratch by mixing whole milk with 1 tablespoon of white vinegar or lemon juice.

How to Make Crisp and Fluffy Buttermilk Waffles

These easy waffles come together by mixing the ingredients in a bowl and cooking in a waffle iron.

1. Start the waffle batter: Whisk the dry ingredients together in a mixing bowl.

2. Mix the wet ingredients: In a separate bowl, combine the beaten eggs with the rest fo the wet ingredients.

3. Finish the batter: Pour the wet ingredients into the bowl of dry ingredients, and gently stir just until combined. It’s okay if there are a few lumps in the batter!

4. Cook the waffles: Lightly grease the waffle iron, and pour an appropriate amount of batter into the center of the waffle iron. Close the lid, and cook for 5-7 minutes or until the waffles are golden brown and crispy.

Serving Suggestions

There are so many delicious ways to top buttermilk waffles! Here are a few of our favorites:

• Chocolate syrup, maple syrup, or honey
• Whipped cream or vanilla ice cream
• Fresh strawberries, blueberries, or raspberries
• Sliced bananas
• Cinnamon sugar 
• Peanut butter
• Chocolate chips
• Chopped nuts
• Caramel sauce or dulce de leche

How to Store Buttermilk Waffles

• Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
• Freezer: Freeze in a single layer, then transfer to a freezer bag for up to 2 months.
• Reheating: Toast in a toaster or oven for the crispiest results.

Frequently Asked Questions