Buttermilk Waffles
Who doesn’t love waking up to the enticing aroma of freshly made waffles? Buttermilk waffles, in particular, have a unique tanginess that elevates the traditional breakfast treat to a whole new level of deliciousness. Perfectly golden, fluffy, and crisp on the outside, these waffles are the ultimate breakfast indulgence. Whether you’re serving them up for a special occasion or a cozy weekend brunch, these buttermilk waffles are sure to impress. Let’s dive into the reasons why you should make them, what you’ll need, and how to whip up a batch that will have everyone coming back for seconds!
Top Reasons to Make Buttermilk Waffles
- Flavorful: The buttermilk adds a rich, tangy flavor that complements your favorite toppings.
- Textural Contrast: The combination of a crispy exterior and a fluffy interior creates a delightful bite.
- Quick & Easy: With simple ingredients and a straightforward process, you can have delicious waffles in no time.
- Customizable: Top them with fruits, syrups, or whipped cream to suit your taste preferences.
- Freezer-Friendly: Make a big batch and freeze extras for busy mornings!
What We’re Using
- 1 cup all-purpose flour: The base for our waffles, giving them structure and a light texture.
- 1/2 cup cornstarch: This helps create a crispier exterior, making each bite satisfying.
- 1 tsp baking soda: A leavening agent that works with the buttermilk to create fluffiness.
- 1 tsp baking powder: Provides extra lift to ensure your waffles are light and airy.
- 1 tsp kosher salt: Enhances the flavors of the other ingredients.
- 1/4 cup canola oil: Adds moisture and richness to the batter.
- 1 cup buttermilk: The star ingredient, giving the waffles their signature tang.
- 1 egg: Binds the ingredients together and adds richness.
- 1 tbsp sugar: A touch of sweetness to balance the flavors.
- 1 tsp vanilla extract: Adds a lovely aroma and depth of flavor.
Equipment & Tools
- Waffle Iron: Essential for cooking the waffles to perfection.
- Mixing Bowls: For combining your dry and wet ingredients.
- Whisk: To ensure your batter is well combined and smooth.
- Measuring Cups & Spoons: For precise measurements of each ingredient.
- Spatula: Useful for pouring the batter onto the waffle iron.
From Start to Finish: Buttermilk Waffles

Step 1: Preheat the Waffle Iron
Begin by preheating your waffle iron according to the manufacturer’s instructions. This ensures that your waffles will cook evenly and develop that beautiful golden-brown color.
Step 2: Combine Dry Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, cornstarch, baking soda, baking powder, and kosher salt. This step is crucial as it ensures that the leavening agents are evenly distributed throughout the flour.
Step 3: Mix Wet Ingredients
In a separate bowl, combine the buttermilk, canola oil, egg, sugar, and vanilla extract. Whisk these ingredients together until they are well blended. The oil will help keep the waffles moist while the buttermilk contributes to their unique flavor.
Step 4: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients
Pour the wet mixture into the bowl with the dry ingredients. Gently fold the mixtures together using a spatula. Be careful not to overmix; it’s okay if there are a few lumps in the batter. Overmixing can lead to tough waffles.
Step 5: Cook the Waffles
Once the waffle iron is ready, lightly grease it with a non-stick cooking spray or a brush of oil. Pour an appropriate amount of batter onto the heated waffle iron (this will depend on the size of your iron) and close the lid. Cook according to your waffle iron’s instructions, usually about 3-5 minutes, until golden brown.
Step 6: Serve & Enjoy
Carefully remove the waffles from the iron and serve immediately. Top them with your favorite toppings such as maple syrup, fresh fruit, or whipped cream for an extra indulgent treat.
No-Store Runs Needed

- Most ingredients are pantry staples, meaning you can whip these up whenever the craving strikes.
- Buttermilk can be easily made at home by adding vinegar or lemon juice to milk.
- Canola oil can be substituted with other neutral oils you might have on hand.
- The recipe is flexible; feel free to adjust sweetness or flavors based on your preferences.
Watch Outs & How to Fix
While making buttermilk waffles is fairly straightforward, here are some tips to avoid common pitfalls:
- Overmixing: This can lead to dense waffles. Mix just until the ingredients are combined.
- Underheating the Waffle Iron: Make sure your waffle iron is fully preheated to avoid soggy waffles.
- Not Greasing the Iron: If your waffles stick, ensure you grease the iron before pouring in the batter.
- Thick Batter: If your batter seems too thick, add a splash of milk or water to thin it out.
Save for Later: Storage Tips
If you happen to have leftover buttermilk waffles, you can easily store them for later:
- Freezing: Place the cooled waffles in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container.
- Reheating: To enjoy later, pop the frozen waffles in a toaster or oven until heated through and crisp.
- Refrigeration: Store any leftover waffles in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Top Questions & Answers
Can I use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour?
Yes, you can substitute whole wheat flour for all-purpose flour, but the texture might be denser. Consider using a 50/50 mix for a lighter result.
What can I use instead of buttermilk?
If you don’t have buttermilk, you can make a substitute by mixing 1 cup of milk with 1 tablespoon of vinegar or lemon juice. Let it sit for about 5 minutes before using.
Can I add chocolate chips or fruits to the batter?
Absolutely! Chocolate chips, blueberries, or banana slices can be folded into the batter for a fun twist on the classic buttermilk waffles.
How do I make my waffles extra crispy?
For extra crispy waffles, try adding a bit more cornstarch to the batter and ensure your waffle iron is very hot before cooking.
Serve with These
- Maple Syrup: A classic choice that never disappoints.
- Fresh Fruit: Strawberries, blueberries, or banana slices add freshness and color.
- Whipped Cream: Light and fluffy, it takes your waffles to the next level.
- Nut Butter: Almond or peanut butter for a protein-packed topping.
Bring It Home
Buttermilk waffles are not just a breakfast item; they are a delightful way to start your day with a smile. With their fluffy interiors and crispy exteriors, they offer a perfect canvas for endless toppings and flavors. Whether you’re enjoying them on a lazy Sunday morning or serving them at a brunch gathering, these waffles are sure to be a hit. So grab your ingredients, fire up that waffle iron, and treat yourself to a plateful of buttermilk goodness! You won’t regret it!

Buttermilk Waffles
Ingredients
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup cornstarch
- 1 tsp baking soda
- 1 tsp baking powder
- 1 tsp kosher salt
- 1/4 cup canola oil
- 1 cup buttermilk
- 1 egg
- 1 tbsp sugar
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
Instructions
Buttermilk Waffles
- Preheat your waffle iron according to the manufacturer's instructions to ensure even cooking and a golden-brown color.
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, cornstarch, baking soda, baking powder, and kosher salt until evenly combined.
- In a separate bowl, combine the buttermilk, canola oil, egg, sugar, and vanilla extract. Whisk until well blended and smooth.
- Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and gently fold together using a spatula. Do not overmix; a few lumps are fine.
- Lightly grease the waffle iron with non-stick spray or oil. Pour the batter onto the iron and close the lid. Cook for 3-5 minutes or until waffles are golden brown.
- Carefully remove the waffles and serve immediately with your favorite toppings like maple syrup, fresh fruit, or whipped cream.
Equipment
- Waffle Iron
- Mixing Bowls
- Whisk
- Measuring Cups & Spoons
- Spatula
Notes
- Do not overmix the batter to keep waffles light and fluffy.
- Make sure your waffle iron is fully preheated for crispy waffles.
- Leftover waffles freeze well; reheat in toaster or oven for best results.

