Fluffy Strawberry Waffles: The Ultimate Easy Recipe for Perfect Breakfast & Brunch

Fluffy and easy strawberry waffles are made with ripe strawberries for the best flavor possible! They will be your new go-to favorite for weekday mornings or weekend brunches. These delectable homemade waffles offer a delightful balance of crispy edges and a tender, soft interior, bursting with the sweet, vibrant taste of fresh strawberries.

About These Homemade Strawberry Waffles

Prepare to elevate your breakfast and brunch game with these incredible fluffy strawberry waffles! This recipe promises waffles that are irresistibly crispy and beautifully golden on the outside, while maintaining a wonderfully tender and soft interior. What truly sets them apart is the abundance of fresh, ripe strawberries folded into every bite, infusing them with a naturally sweet and tangy flavor that’s simply divine.

We adore making this recipe because it’s incredibly versatile. It’s straightforward enough for a sleepy weekday morning when you need a quick yet satisfying meal, but also elegant enough to impress guests at a leisurely weekend brunch. Imagine the delight of serving these vibrant waffles alongside your favorite savory breakfast items or a refreshing mimosa. The taste of warm, crisp waffles bursting with fresh strawberry flavor is truly a highlight, instantly evoking feelings of summer and sweet indulgence. They pair effortlessly with a variety of toppings, from classic maple syrup to a dollop of fresh whipped cream and beyond.

Key Ingredients for Delicious Strawberry Waffles

Crafting the perfect strawberry waffle starts with high-quality ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need and why each component is essential for achieving that delightful flavor and texture:

• All-Purpose Flour: This forms the structural base of our waffles, giving them their characteristic chewiness and stability. For those with dietary restrictions, a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend works perfectly as a substitute, ensuring everyone can enjoy these delicious treats.
• Granulated Sugar: Just enough to sweeten the batter without overwhelming the natural sweetness of the strawberries. It also contributes to the beautiful golden-brown crust of the waffles as it caramelizes during cooking.
• Baking Powder: This is the magical leavening agent responsible for those wonderfully light and fluffy interiors. It reacts with the wet ingredients to create air pockets, giving the waffles their signature airy texture.
• Salt: A pinch of fine kosher salt is crucial for balancing the sweetness and enhancing all the other flavors in the batter. It ensures a well-rounded taste that isn’t overly sweet. If you use salted butter, remember to omit the extra salt.
• Ground Cinnamon: This warm, aromatic spice adds a subtle depth of flavor that beautifully complements the fresh strawberries. It creates a comforting scent and taste that makes these waffles even more inviting.
• Unsalted Butter: Melted butter adds richness, moisture, and a tender crumb to the waffles. Always opt for unsalted butter to control the overall salt content in your recipe. If only salted butter is available, simply adjust or omit the additional salt called for.
• Whole Milk: Whole milk contributes to the richness and creaminess of the batter, resulting in a more indulgent waffle. While whole milk is recommended, you can also experiment with other types like 2% milk or even a non-dairy alternative like almond or oat milk for a slightly different flavor profile.
• Large Eggs: Fresh large eggs act as a binder, helping to emulsify the batter and provide structure. They also add richness and contribute to the golden color of the cooked waffles. Ensure your eggs are at room temperature for better incorporation into the batter.
• Vanilla Extract: A high-quality vanilla extract is a must for elevating the overall flavor. It adds a subtle warmth and aromatic sweetness that perfectly rounds out the strawberry and cinnamon notes. We highly recommend making your own homemade vanilla extract, or for a store-bought option, try Madagascar Bourbon Pure Vanilla Extract from Nielsen Massey.
• Fresh Strawberries: The star of the show! Fresh, ripe strawberries are absolutely essential for the best possible flavor and texture. Their natural sweetness and slight tartness provide a burst of fruity goodness in every bite. While fresh is ideal, you can also use roasted strawberries for a more intense, caramelized flavor. If using frozen, make sure they are thawed and drained well.

Essential Equipment for Homemade Waffles

Having the right tools on hand will make your waffle-making process smooth and enjoyable. Here’s a quick list of the kitchen essentials you’ll need:

• Cutting Board and Chef’s Knife: Essential for safely and efficiently chopping your fresh strawberries into bite-sized pieces. A sharp knife makes all the difference!
• Mixing Bowls: You’ll need at least two—one large bowl for your dry ingredients and a medium bowl for your wet ingredients. Keeping them separate initially ensures proper mixing and activation of leavening agents.
• Whisk and Wooden Spoon: A whisk is perfect for combining the dry ingredients and ensuring a lump-free wet mixture. A wooden spoon or spatula will come in handy for gently folding in the strawberries and avoiding overmixing the batter.
• Waffle Iron: This is the star appliance! Whether you have a classic square waffle maker or a Belgian style iron that produces thicker, deeper pockets, make sure it’s clean and ready to go. The type of waffle iron you use will dictate the shape and thickness of your final waffles.

How to Make Delicious Strawberry Waffles

Making these fluffy strawberry waffles is a simple process that yields incredibly delicious results. Follow these steps for perfect waffles every time:

1. Combine Dry Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, baking powder, fine kosher salt, and ground cinnamon. Use a whisk to thoroughly blend these dry ingredients together. This step is important to ensure that the leavening agent (baking powder) and spices are evenly distributed throughout the batter, which will result in consistently fluffy waffles. Set this bowl aside while you prepare the wet ingredients.

2. Combine Wet Ingredients

First, prepare your butter. Place the unsalted butter and a few tablespoons of milk in a small, microwave-safe bowl. Microwave on high for about 15-20 seconds, or until the butter is completely melted. Stir gently to combine the melted butter and milk. In a separate medium-sized bowl, pour in the remaining milk and the melted butter mixture. Whisk these together until fully incorporated. Next, add the large eggs and high-quality vanilla extract. Continue to whisk well until all the wet ingredients are thoroughly combined and smooth. This creates a homogeneous mixture that will seamlessly integrate with your dry ingredients.

3. Make the Waffle Batter

Now it’s time to bring everything together. Pour the wet ingredients mixture into the large bowl containing your dry ingredients. Using your whisk or a wooden spoon, gently mix until just combined. It is perfectly normal, and even desirable, for there to be a few small lumps in the batter; avoid overmixing at all costs! Overmixing develops the gluten in the flour, which can lead to tough, dense waffles instead of the light and fluffy ones we’re aiming for. Finally, gently fold in the chopped fresh strawberries until they are just evenly distributed throughout the batter. Again, be careful not to overmix. Let the batter rest at room temperature for 5-10 minutes while your waffle iron preheats; this allows the flour to fully hydrate and the baking powder to activate.

4. Cook the Waffles to Perfection

While your batter is resting, preheat your waffle iron according to the manufacturer’s instructions. A properly preheated waffle iron is key to achieving that desirable crispy exterior. Once hot, lightly grease your waffle iron with cooking spray or a brush of melted butter if it’s not non-stick. Pour or ladle the strawberry waffle batter onto the hot waffle iron, filling it to about two-thirds full to allow for expansion. Close the lid and cook according to your waffle iron’s specific cooking times, typically until golden brown and steam is no longer escaping. Serve your homemade strawberry waffles immediately while warm, piled high with your favorite toppings!

Tips and Tricks for Perfect Strawberry Waffles

Achieving perfectly fluffy and crispy strawberry waffles is easier than you think with these expert tips:

• Do Not Overmix the Batter: This is perhaps the most crucial tip for any waffle or pancake recipe. Overmixing develops the gluten in the flour, which results in tough, chewy waffles instead of light, airy ones. Mix just until the wet and dry ingredients are combined, and a few lumps are perfectly acceptable.
• Preheat Your Waffle Maker Thoroughly: Patience is key! Ensure your waffle iron is fully preheated before adding any batter. A hot iron ensures instant crisping of the exterior and even cooking throughout, preventing soggy waffles.
• Cool Waffles Correctly for Maximum Crispness: Once cooked, resist the urge to stack hot waffles directly on top of each other. The trapped heat and steam will quickly make them soft and soggy. Instead, transfer cooked waffles to a wire rack in a single layer to cool slightly, allowing air to circulate. If you’re cooking multiple batches, you can keep finished waffles warm and crispy in a 200˚F (93˚C) oven on a baking sheet.
• Rest the Batter: After mixing, let your waffle batter sit at room temperature for 5-10 minutes. This resting period allows the flour to fully hydrate, resulting in a more tender crumb, and gives the baking powder a chance to begin its work, contributing to an even fluffier texture.
• Grease Your Waffle Iron (If Needed): Even if your waffle iron boasts a non-stick coating, a light brushing of oil or a quick spray with non-stick cooking spray can prevent sticking and ensure a beautiful, golden crust. This is especially important for the first waffle or if your iron isn’t perfectly seasoned.

Delicious Variations to Try

While these strawberry waffles are fantastic on their own, don’t be afraid to get creative and experiment with different additions:

• Add Chocolate Chips: For a truly indulgent treat, stir in 1/2 cup of mini or regular chocolate chips along with the strawberries. Dark, milk, or white chocolate chips all work wonderfully, turning these into delightful chocolate strawberry waffles!
• Incorporate More Berries: If you’re a berry lover, enhance the fruity factor by adding a sprinkle of fresh blueberries or raspberries to the batter just before closing the waffle iron. A mixed berry waffle offers a wonderful medley of flavors.
• Introduce Citrus Zest: A teaspoon of fresh lemon or orange zest can brighten the flavor profile of the waffles, adding a fragrant, tangy note that pairs beautifully with strawberries.
• Nutty Waffles: Fold in 1/4 cup of finely chopped nuts like pecans, walnuts, or almonds for added texture and a subtle, earthy flavor. Toasting the nuts lightly beforehand can enhance their aroma.
• Spice It Up: Beyond cinnamon, consider adding a pinch of ground cardamom or nutmeg to the dry ingredients for an even warmer, more complex spice profile.

More classic breakfast recipes to make: Banana Bread Muffins | Breakfast Pork Belly Sandwich | Blueberry French Toast Casserole | Turkish Eggs

Should Waffle Batter Be Thicker or Thinner?

Waffle batter should always be on the thicker side compared to pancake batter, but it shouldn’t be as dense as muffin batter. The ideal consistency is thick enough to hold its shape when scooped, but still pourable. A thicker batter ensures that your waffles will be wonderfully fluffy on the inside with that desirable crispy exterior. If your batter seems too thin, you can add a tablespoon or two more of flour; if it’s too thick, a splash of milk will help reach the right consistency.

How to Keep Your Waffles Crispy

The key to preventing your homemade waffles from getting soggy is managing moisture. As you cook each waffle, instead of stacking them, place them in a single layer on a wire rack set over a baking sheet. This allows air to circulate around them, preventing steam from accumulating and making them soft. You can keep them warm and crispy in a preheated oven set to 200˚F (93˚C) while you finish cooking the remaining batter. If your waffles aren’t as crispy as you’d like initially, you can achieve extra crispiness by placing them on a wire rack in a hotter oven (around 300˚F or 150˚C) for a few minutes before serving.

Can I Make These Strawberry Waffles Gluten-Free?

Absolutely! This recipe is very adaptable to gluten-free dietary needs. Simply swap the all-purpose flour for a high-quality 1:1 gluten-free flour blend. These blends are specifically designed to mimic the texture and baking properties of regular wheat flour, ensuring your gluten-free strawberry waffles are just as delicious, fluffy, and crispy as the traditional version. Always check the labels to ensure your baking powder and other ingredients are also certified gluten-free.

Can I Use Frozen Strawberries?

While fresh strawberries yield the best flavor and texture, you can use frozen strawberries in a pinch. If using frozen, make sure to thaw them completely and drain any excess liquid. Pat them dry with a paper towel before folding them into the batter. This step is crucial to prevent your batter from becoming too watery, which can result in less crispy waffles. Keep in mind that frozen strawberries might not have the same vibrant burst of flavor as fresh ones, but they will still be delicious!

What Kind of Waffle Iron Is Best?

The “best” waffle iron largely depends on your preference for waffle style. A classic American waffle iron produces thinner waffles with smaller indentations, great for soaking up syrup. A Belgian waffle iron, on the other hand, creates thicker waffles with deeper pockets, perfect for holding generous amounts of toppings like whipped cream and fruit. Both types will work beautifully for this recipe. Ensure your waffle iron is well-maintained and adequately preheated for optimal results.

Can I Make the Batter Ahead of Time?

You can prepare the dry ingredients and wet ingredients separately the night before and store them in airtight containers in the refrigerator. In the morning, simply combine the two mixtures, fold in the strawberries, and cook as directed. Alternatively, you can mix the complete batter (without strawberries) and store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 1-2 days. Adding the strawberries just before cooking is recommended to prevent them from breaking down too much or coloring the batter excessively. Be aware that batter with baking powder might lose some leavening power over time, so give it a gentle stir before cooking.

Need some inspiration for breakfast? Check out my breakfast recipes page!

What to Serve with Strawberry Waffles

These versatile strawberry waffles are a perfect canvas for a wide array of toppings and pairings, making them ideal for any breakfast or brunch spread. Here are some of our absolute favorite ways to enjoy them:

• Maple Syrup: A classic for a reason! The rich, sweet notes of pure maple syrup perfectly complement the fresh strawberries.
• Whipped Cream: A dollop of light and airy whipped cream adds a touch of indulgence and creamy texture that melts deliciously on warm waffles.
• Strawberry Coulis: For an extra burst of concentrated strawberry flavor, drizzle with a homemade strawberry coulis. This simple 4-ingredient sauce is incredibly easy to make and takes your waffles to the next level.
• Powdered Sugar: A simple dusting of powdered sugar adds an elegant finish and a subtle touch of sweetness, letting the natural strawberry flavor shine.
• Fresh Strawberries (or any fresh berries!): Pile on more fresh berries for a vibrant and healthy addition. Blueberries, raspberries, or blackberries would also be fantastic.
• A Sprig of Fresh Mint: A little sprig of fresh mint not only adds a beautiful garnish but also offers a refreshing aromatic counterpoint to the sweet strawberries.
• Chocolate Sauce: For an irresistible dessert-like experience, a generous drizzle of chocolate sauce turns these into a chocolate-covered strawberry delight – YUM!
• Strawberry Filling (aka Strawberry Compote!): A warm, chunky strawberry compote spooned over the waffles adds even more fruity goodness and a lovely textural contrast.

Complete your breakfast or brunch experience by pairing these waffles with a refreshing glass of fresh pineapple ginger juice or a festive strawberry mimosa!

For your next brunch gathering, why not elevate the spread even further? Add these delightful strawberry waffles and our banana chocolate chip waffles to a grand breakfast charcuterie board for an unforgettable presentation.

How to Store and Reheat Strawberry Waffles

One of the best things about homemade waffles is that they store beautifully, allowing you to enjoy them days or even weeks later!

Store. If you have leftover strawberry waffles, ensure they cool completely on a wire rack before storing. Once cooled, wrap them tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil, then place them in an airtight container. Stored this way, they will keep fresh in the refrigerator for up to 3 to 4 days.

Reheat. For the best texture, we recommend reheating chilled waffles in a toaster oven or a regular toaster for 1 to 2 minutes, or until they are heated through and the edges are crisp again. This method brings back that delightful crunch. While you can reheat them in the microwave for about 30 seconds, be aware that they will lose their crispy edges and become softer.

Freeze. For longer storage, waffles freeze exceptionally well. Allow them to cool completely. Wrap each waffle individually in plastic wrap, then place the wrapped waffles in a single layer in a resealable freezer-safe bag or an airtight container. They will maintain their quality in the freezer for up to 2 months. This is perfect for meal prepping quick breakfasts!

Thaw. When you’re ready to enjoy a frozen waffle, you can thaw it in the microwave for about 30 seconds to soften it slightly. Then, transfer it to a toaster oven or regular toaster and cook until golden and crispy again, ensuring you get those perfect crisp edges and a soft, warm center.

More Delightful Strawberry Recipes to Try

If you’re as big a fan of strawberries as we are, you’ll love these other fantastic recipes that celebrate this wonderful fruit:

• Strawberry Cheesecake Mousse: This light and fluffy dessert is a dream, offering all the flavors of cheesecake in an easy, no-bake, summery treat.
• Chocolate Covered Strawberry Brownies: Experience the ultimate combination of rich chocolate and sweet strawberries in a convenient, handheld brownie format.
• Strawberry Simple Syrup: Incredibly easy to make, this versatile syrup can elevate anything from tea and coffee to cocktails and mocktails with a burst of fresh strawberry essence.

We truly hope you enjoy making these fluffy and flavorful strawberry waffles! If you do try this recipe, please consider giving it a star rating on the recipe card below and/or leaving a comment sharing your experience! Your feedback is incredibly valuable, and we love hearing about your kitchen adventures. We also make an effort to respond to every single comment.

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