How to Make The Best Gluten-Free Waffles

Today, I’m sharing a delicious gluten-free waffle recipe, along with creative variations and plant-based substitutions. I’ll cover some common mistakes to avoid and share tips for making the perfect waffle every time. Whether you stick to the basics or experiment with fun toppings and mix-ins, there are endless ways to customize these waffles to suit everyone in your family.

Homemade gluten-free waffles are a wonderful option for anyone avoiding gluten, and with a few simple additions, they can be transformed into something extraordinary.

Whether you prefer a sweet, fruit-filled waffle or one with savory flavors, the possibilities are endless. With a few tips and the right ingredients, you’ll be making waffle breakfasts to remember!

The Basics: How to Make Homemade Gluten-Free Waffles

This gluten-free waffle recipe uses a basic 1:1 gluten-free flour blend, making the batter easy to prepare and foolproof every time. With just one bowl and a few simple ingredients, you can have light, fluffy waffles ready in minutes.

Mistakes to Avoid for Perfect Gluten-Free Waffles

Even with the simplest recipes, there are a few common mistakes that can lead to disappointing results. Here are some things to watch out for:

Overmixing the Batter

Overmixing is one of the most common mistakes when making waffles. Mixing too much activates the gluten-free flour and makes the waffles dense and chewy. Stir until combined, leaving a few small lumps in the batter is perfectly fine.

Incorrect Batter Consistency

Your waffle batter should be thick but pourable. If it’s too thick, your waffles will turn out heavy and dry. If it’s too runny, you might end up with waffles that spread out too thin and don’t crisp up. If needed add a little extra milk or flour to get the right consistency.

Not Preheating the Waffle Iron

For crispy waffles, your waffle iron needs to be hot before you pour in the batter. A cold waffle iron will give you soggy waffles, so don’t skip the preheating step. Here are some of the best waffle irons to check out.

3 Tips for Amazing Gluten-Free Waffles

Here are my top 3 tips for achieving perfect, crispy, and delicious gluten-free waffles every time:

Use Room Temperature Ingredients

Let your eggs and milk come to room temperature before mixing. This helps the ingredients blend more smoothly, preventing clumps and helping achieve a lighter texture.

Don’t Skip the Resting Time 

Letting the gluten-free batter rest for about 10 minutes before cooking gives the ingredients a chance to hydrate fully. This leads to a smoother batter and lighter waffles. Before cooking give the batter a quick stir. If it’s too thick after resting, add a little splash of milk to loosen it up.

Mix-ins 

Do not add too many or the waffles won’t cook evenly and may even fall apart. For this recipe (4 waffles) add about 1/2 cup of your favorite mix-ins.

How to Make Your Waffles Plant-Based

If you’re looking for a plant-based version of these gluten-free waffles, here are a few easy substitutions:

Egg Substitute: Here is a list of egg substitutes you can choose from.

Milk Substitute: Replace the dairy milk with a plant-based option such as almond, oat, coconut, rice, or soy milk. Coconut milk will add a rich flavor, while almond or oat milk keeps things light.

Oil Substitute: You can swap the olive oil with melted coconut oil for a tropical flair, or use avocado oil. Be sure the oil is melted if it’s solid at room temperature.

4 Health Benefits of Gluten-Free Waffles

Gluten-free waffles can be a great choice for people with celiac disease, gluten sensitivity, or those looking for allergy-friendly recipes. Here are some health benefits:

1. Digestive Health: If you have gluten intolerance, a gluten-free diet can help reduce digestive discomfort, bloating, and inflammation.
2. More Nutrients: Boost your waffles with nutrient-rich mix-ins such as nuts, seeds, buckwheat, or coconut flakes to boost them nutritionally.
3. Plant-Based Power: When you make your waffles plant-based, you get more plant-derived nutrients, fiber, and healthy fats. Plus, plant-based waffles tend to be lower in cholesterol and saturated fats compared to traditional ones.
4. Sugar Free: This recipe is made with pure maple syrup, thus avoiding refined sugar.

9 Fun Ideas to Spice Gluten-Free Waffles

1. Spices & Flavorings

• Cinnamon: Add 1/2 to 1 teaspoon of cinnamon to the dry ingredients for a warm, comforting flavor.
• Nutmeg: A pinch of nutmeg complements the cinnamon and gives a cozy vibe.
• Vanilla Extract: Increase the vanilla extract to 1 teaspoon for a richer, aromatic flavor.
• Almond Extract: A few drops of almond extract can give your waffles a unique flavor.

2. Add-ins for Texture

• Shredded Coconut: Add 1/4 cup of unsweetened shredded coconut to the batter for some chewiness and a tropical twist.
• Chopped Nuts: Walnuts, pecans, or almonds (about 1/4 cup) give the waffles a satisfying crunch.
• Seeds: Flaxseeds, chia seeds, or hemp seeds can add a nutritional boost and a slight crunch to the waffles.
• Chocolate Chips: For a more indulgent waffle, stir in 1/4 cup of chocolate chips. You can even try white chocolate chips.

3. Savory Add-ins

If you’re craving savory waffles, try these:

• Cheese: Add 1/4 to 1/2 cup of grated cheese (cheddar, mozzarella, or parmesan) to the batter.
• Herbs: Fresh or dried herbs like thyme, rosemary, or chives can give your waffles a savory twist.
• Bacon or Sausage: Crumbled cooked bacon or breakfast sausage can add a rich, savory element. Use about 1/4 cup crumbled bacon or sausage.
• Garlic Powder or Onion Powder: A small sprinkle (1/4 to 1/2 teaspoon) of garlic or onion powder can add an unexpected savory flavor.

4. Creative Toppings (Beyond Fruit)

• Nut Butters: Top with peanut butter, almond butter or cashew butter for extra protein and richness. You can even swirl some into the batter for a peanut buttery waffle.
• Caramelized Banana or Apple: Sauté banana slices or apple slices in a little butter and brown sugar until they’re golden and tender. They’ll make a delicious topping.
• Maple Cinnamon Butter: Mix softened butter with maple syrup and a pinch of cinnamon for a sweet and creamy topping.
• Whipped Cream: Make a dairy-free whipped cream using coconut cream or a store-bought non-dairy option. Add a little vanilla or cinnamon for extra flavor.
• Nutella or Chocolate Sauce: Drizzle Nutella or a homemade chocolate sauce over the top for an indulgent treat.
• Coconut Whipped Cream & Toasted Coconut: For a tropical twist, top waffles with coconut whipped cream and toasted coconut flakes.

5. Add-ins for Sweetness

• Pureed Pumpkin: Add 1/4 cup of pureed pumpkin to the wet ingredients for a fall-inspired waffle with a smooth texture. Add a pinch of cinnamon and nutmeg for extra flavor.
• Honey: Use honey instead of maple syrup to bring a natural sweetness and slight floral flavor.

6. Fruit Infusions

• You can add fruit directly to the batter for flavor and texture:
• Blueberries: Fresh or frozen, fold 1/4 cup of blueberries into the batter.
• Raspberries or Strawberries: Fresh berries, chopped, can give the waffles a burst of freshness.
• Banana: Add 1/2 mashed banana to the batter for natural sweetness and moisture.

7. Doughnut Style

Transform your waffles into something reminiscent of doughnuts:

• Cinnamon Sugar Coating: Once your waffles are cooked, brush them with melted butter and dust them with cinnamon sugar for a sweet, doughnut-like exterior.
• Glazed Waffles: Drizzle a simple glaze (powdered sugar + milk or water + vanilla) over the waffles to give them a sweet, glossy finish.

8. Make Waffle Sandwiches

After cooking the waffles, you can create a sandwich. Here are a few ideas:

• Nut Butter + Banana: Spread peanut butter or almond butter on one waffle, top with sliced bananas, and place another waffle on top.
• Egg and Avocado: For a savory option, top a waffle with a fried egg, avocado, and a drizzle of hot sauce.
• Smoked Salmon & Cream Cheese: If you’re feeling fancy, try a smoked salmon and cream cheese waffle sandwich with a sprinkle of capers and fresh dill.

9. Bonus: Fun Variations

• Chocolate Waffles: Add 2 tablespoons of cocoa powder to the dry ingredients, or add chocolate chips or a drizzle of melted chocolate on top.
• Cinnamon Roll Waffles: Swirl a cinnamon-sugar mixture into the batter, and top with a cream cheese glaze or icing.

These ideas can help you customize the basic recipe and turn your waffles into a breakfast or brunch that is far from ordinary!

How to Store Leftover Waffles: Keep Your Leftovers Fresh and Crispy!

• Cool First: Let waffles cool to room temperature to prevent sogginess.
• Refrigeration: Store in an airtight container or wrap in plastic wrap and place in a resealable bag. They last 2-3 days.
• Freezing: Flash-freeze waffles on a baking sheet for 1 hour. Once frozen, transfer to a freezer bag or airtight container. Label with date; waffles last up to 1–2 months in the freezer.
• Reheating: Toaster, quick and crispy. Oven, bake at 350°F for 5–10 minutes

More Gluten-Free Breakfast Ideas to Explore

Gluten-Free Sausage & Veggie Breakfast Muffin

Nutella Overnight Oats With Graham Crackers

Gluten Free Strawberry Buttermilk Cake

Gluten Free Pop Tarts

Gluten Free French Toast Breakfast Casserole

Dutch Baby With Blueberry Compote & Feta

Or, check out our 9 wholesome chia pudding recipes

Recipe Review: Gluten-Free Waffle With Variations

Every time I make these waffles, and I have to say, they are light and fluffy. Even though they’re gluten-free, they had that perfect crispiness on the outside and a tender, airy interior. The simple combination of ingredients allows for endless customization, livening up a dull breakfast.

For toppings, I went with classic maple syrup and fresh berries, but I could also see these waffles paired with caramelized bananas, a dollop of coconut whipped cream, or  for a savory option, add toppings like sautéed mushrooms, avocado, feta or crumbled crispy bacon. Enjoy!