There’s something magical about waffles—they’re crispy on the outside, fluffy on the inside, and perfect for any time of day. Now, imagine combining the classic waffle with the natural sweetness of bananas. That’s exactly what banana waffles bring to the table.
This recipe is easy to make, naturally sweetened by ripe bananas, and endlessly customizable. Whether you’re making breakfast for the family or a brunch spread for friends, banana waffles are sure to steal the show. Let’s get started!
Ingredients for Banana Waffles
Dry Ingredients
- 1 ¾ cups all-purpose flour (or whole wheat flour for a healthier option)
- 1 tablespoon baking powder
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon (optional but adds a warm flavor)
- 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
Wet Ingredients
- 1 medium ripe banana, mashed
- 2 large eggs
- 1 ⅓ cups milk (dairy or non-dairy, like almond milk)
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil or melted butter
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Want to mix things up? Check out our Cabbage and Sausage Recipe for another fun breakfast pairing!
Equipment Needed for Banana Waffles
- Waffle Iron: The key to those crispy, golden squares.
- Mixing Bowls: One for dry ingredients, one for wet.
- Whisk or Fork: For mixing the batter.
- Measuring Cups and Spoons: Precision is key for the perfect texture.
Step-by-Step Instructions for Banana Waffles
Follow these simple steps to make fluffy, golden banana waffles that will impress everyone at the breakfast table.
Step 1: Preheat the Waffle Iron
Start by preheating your waffle iron. This ensures the waffles cook evenly and crisp up perfectly. Lightly grease the iron with non-stick spray or a small amount of oil to prevent sticking.
Step 2: Prepare the Dry Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, salt, cinnamon, and sugar. Mixing these dry ingredients first ensures the leavening agents are evenly distributed for fluffy waffles.
Step 3: Mash and Mix Wet Ingredients
Peel the banana and mash it in a separate bowl until smooth. Add the eggs, milk, vegetable oil or melted butter, and vanilla extract. Whisk until everything is fully combined.
Step 4: Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures
Gradually pour the wet mixture into the bowl of dry ingredients. Use a whisk or spatula to gently stir until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can make the waffles dense. A few lumps are perfectly fine!
Step 5: Cook the Waffles
Scoop a portion of the batter (about ½ cup, depending on your waffle iron’s size) and pour it into the preheated waffle iron. Close the lid and cook for 3–5 minutes or until the waffles are golden brown and crispy on the edges.
Carefully remove the waffles with a fork or tongs and place them on a cooling rack to maintain crispiness.
Want to add more variety to your breakfast spread? Pair these waffles with our Spicy Cucumber Salad for a fresh and unexpected twist!
Tips for Making the Best Banana Waffles
Banana waffles are simple to make, but these tips will ensure they turn out perfectly every time.
Use Ripe Bananas
The riper the bananas, the better. Overripe bananas with brown spots are naturally sweeter and easier to mash, which enhances the flavor and texture of your waffles.
Don’t Overmix the Batter
When combining the wet and dry ingredients, stir gently until just combined. Overmixing can lead to dense waffles instead of the light, fluffy texture you want.
Let the Batter Rest
Allow the batter to sit for 5–10 minutes before cooking. This helps hydrate the flour and gives the leavening agents time to activate, resulting in a better rise and texture.
Preheat and Grease the Waffle Iron
Make sure your waffle iron is fully preheated before pouring in the batter. Lightly greasing the iron with non-stick spray or a brush of oil ensures the waffles don’t stick and cook evenly.
Keep Waffles Warm
If you’re making multiple batches, place the cooked waffles on a baking sheet in a 200°F oven. This keeps them warm and crispy while you finish the rest of the batter.
Customize with Add-Ins
Mix-ins like chocolate chips, chopped nuts, or a sprinkle of cinnamon can add an extra layer of flavor. Just fold them into the batter before cooking.
For more creative breakfast ideas, check out our Cabbage and Sausage Recipe to pair with your waffles.
Banana Waffle Variations
One of the best things about banana waffles is their versatility. You can customize the recipe to suit your tastes or dietary needs with these fun variations.
Chocolate Chip Banana Waffles
Fold a handful of chocolate chips into the batter for a sweet, indulgent twist. Dark or semi-sweet chocolate pairs beautifully with the natural sweetness of bananas.
Nutty Banana Waffles
Add a crunchy element by mixing in chopped walnuts, pecans, or almonds. For extra flavor, lightly toast the nuts before adding them to the batter.
Spiced Banana Waffles
Incorporate warm spices like cinnamon, nutmeg, or even a pinch of ginger into the dry ingredients. These spices complement the bananas and give the waffles a cozy, autumnal vibe.
Vegan Banana Waffles
Swap out the eggs and milk with plant-based alternatives. Use flaxseed meal mixed with water as an egg substitute and opt for almond or oat milk. These waffles turn out just as fluffy and flavorful.
Banana Protein Waffles
Boost the protein content by adding a scoop of vanilla protein powder to the dry ingredients. Adjust the liquid slightly if the batter becomes too thick.
Banana and Berry Waffles
Mix fresh or frozen blueberries, raspberries, or diced strawberries into the batter. The burst of fruity flavor pairs perfectly with the bananas.
Looking for more ways to elevate your breakfast game? Pair these variations with our Ground Beef Cabbage Recipe for a savory complement.
Storage and Reheating Tips
Banana waffles are perfect for meal prep, as they store and reheat wonderfully. Here’s how to keep them fresh and delicious:
Refrigeration
Allow the waffles to cool completely on a wire rack before storing them. This prevents condensation, which can make them soggy. Place the cooled waffles in an airtight container or resealable bag and refrigerate for up to 3–4 days.
Freezing
For longer storage, freeze the waffles. Lay them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze for about 1–2 hours. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container, separating each waffle with parchment paper to prevent sticking. Frozen banana waffles can last up to 3 months.
Reheating
- Toaster or Toaster Oven: This is the best method for keeping the waffles crispy. Toast refrigerated or frozen waffles for 2–3 minutes until warmed through.
- Oven: Preheat the oven to 350°F and place the waffles on a baking sheet. Bake for 5–8 minutes for evenly heated, crispy waffles.
- Microwave: If you’re short on time, microwave the waffles on high for 30–45 seconds. Note that this method may soften the texture.
Pro Tip: Always reheat frozen waffles directly from the freezer—there’s no need to thaw them first. This helps them maintain their texture and prevents sogginess.
Pair your reheated banana waffles with fresh toppings or sides like our Spicy Cucumber Salad for a refreshing twist.
Nutritional Information
Banana waffles are not just delicious—they’re also packed with wholesome ingredients that make them a satisfying breakfast choice. Here’s a breakdown of the nutritional content for one waffle (based on a recipe yielding four waffles):
Per Waffle:
- Calories: ~210
- Protein: ~6g
- Fat: ~8g
- Carbohydrates: ~28g
- Fiber: ~2g
- Sugar: ~8g
These values may vary depending on the specific ingredients used, such as type of milk or sweetener. For a lower-calorie option, use a sugar substitute or opt for non-dairy milk. To boost protein, consider adding a scoop of protein powder to the batter.
Looking to keep your breakfast balanced? Pair your waffles with a side of scrambled eggs or try our Cabbage and Sausage Recipe for a savory contrast.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Yes, waffle batter is typically thicker and contains more fat (like butter or oil) than pancake batter. This difference helps waffles develop their crispy exterior and fluffy interior.
Yes, but it’s best to fold fruit like blueberries or diced bananas into the batter rather than placing whole pieces directly onto the waffle maker. This prevents sticking and ensures even cooking.
Belgian waffles are thicker, with deeper pockets, and are made using a yeast-based batter or beaten egg whites for extra fluffiness. Regular waffles are thinner and have smaller pockets, ideal for holding syrup or spreads.
The key to crispy waffles is using a hot waffle iron, a good amount of fat in the batter, and cooking the waffles until the steam stops escaping. For extra crispiness, replace some milk with water or use cornstarch in the batter.
Yes, you can use pancake batter in a waffle maker, but the texture may differ. To make it more waffle-like, add a little more oil or butter to the batter.
The three most common types of waffles are Belgian waffles (thick with deep pockets), regular waffles (thinner with smaller pockets), and Liege waffles (made with a brioche-like dough and pearl sugar for a caramelized crust).
Yes, lightly spray the waffle maker with non-stick cooking spray like Pam before cooking. However, check your waffle maker’s manual, as some non-stick surfaces don’t require additional greasing.
Conclusion
Banana waffles are the perfect blend of comfort and flavor, offering a naturally sweet breakfast or brunch option that’s easy to make and incredibly satisfying. Whether you enjoy them with classic toppings like maple syrup and fresh fruit or go savory with eggs and bacon, these waffles are endlessly versatile.
With simple ingredients, a few key tips, and some creativity, you can customize this recipe to fit any occasion or dietary preference. Plus, they store and reheat beautifully, making them a great choice for meal prep.
So, grab those ripe bananas and your waffle iron, and get ready to whip up a breakfast that’ll have everyone asking for seconds. Don’t forget to experiment with the variations and share your favorite creations!
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