There’s something irresistibly comforting about a plate of warm, golden Vegan Waffles—crispy on the outside and tender inside, ready to soak up your favorite sweet or savory toppings. This recipe is a staple in my home, not only because it’s dairy-free and egg-free, but also for how easy it is to whip up on a lazy weekend morning or for an impromptu brunch with friends. Whether you’re already vegan or simply craving a plant-based breakfast treat, these waffles are a game-changer you’ll want on repeat.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Every ingredient in this Vegan Waffles recipe has a purpose, from creating the perfect lift and crunch to delivering deep flavor and a beautiful color. Gather these basics, and you’re halfway to breakfast bliss—no fancy substitutes necessary, just honest ingredients you probably already have on hand.
- All-purpose flour: This gives the waffles structure, making them fluffy yet sturdy enough to hold all the toppings you dream up.
- Sugar: A hint of sweetness ensures your waffles are delicious on their own, even before the syrup shows up.
- Baking powder: The secret to those glorious golden pockets and a lofty, tender crumb.
- Baking soda: Reacts with the acid to boost lift and create a beautifully browned finish.
- Salt: Just a pinch balances out flavor and enhances everything else.
- Unsweetened almond milk (or other plant milk): Makes the batter luscious and replaces dairy without missing a beat.
- Apple cider vinegar: When mixed with plant milk, it works magic to create a tangy “buttermilk” for extra tenderness.
- Melted coconut oil or vegetable oil: Adds moisture and helps crisp up the exterior to classic waffle perfection.
- Vanilla extract: Rounds out the flavors, adding depth and a subtle aroma you’ll fall for every time.
How to Make Vegan Waffles
Step 1: Mix Your Dry Ingredients
In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Make sure everything is thoroughly combined so the leavening agents get dispersed evenly—that’s your ticket to foolproof, fluffy waffles.
Step 2: Create Vegan “Buttermilk”
Combine the unsweetened almond milk and apple cider vinegar in a separate bowl or large measuring cup. Let it sit for five minutes; you’ll notice it thickens and becomes a little tangy—just like classic buttermilk. This not only lends a pleasant flavor but also helps the waffles rise and become extra light.
Step 3: Mix Wet and Dry Ingredients
Stir the melted coconut oil and vanilla extract into your plant-based “buttermilk.” Now, pour this liquid gold into your bowl of dry ingredients. Stir gently, just until combined. Lumps are totally fine here—overmixing is the enemy of tender Vegan Waffles, so resist the urge!
Step 4: Preheat and Grease the Waffle Iron
Heat up your waffle iron according to manufacturer’s instructions. If yours isn’t non-stick or just to be safe, lightly grease it with oil or a dab of vegan butter. A hot iron is essential for that coveted golden crust. Trust me, preheating is worth the wait.
Step 5: Cook to Golden Perfection
Pour the batter into the preheated, greased waffle iron (the exact amount depends on your machine—usually about 1/2 to 3/4 cup per waffle). Close the lid and cook according to your waffle maker’s instructions, usually 4–5 minutes, until the Vegan Waffles emerge deeply golden and crisp at the edges.
Step 6: Serve and Savor
As soon as your waffles are done, transfer them to a plate and serve right away for maximum crispiness. Top with maple syrup, fresh berries, or whatever your heart desires. Waffles wait for no one—enjoy them piping hot!
How to Serve Vegan Waffles
Garnishes
The fun doesn’t stop once the Vegan Waffles come out of the iron! Classic garnishes like real maple syrup and a sprinkle of powdered sugar always make them shine, but I love going big with a pile of fresh berries, sliced bananas, toasted nuts, or a dollop of coconut whipped cream. Want to lean savory? Try a drizzle of tahini or even a sprinkle of everything bagel seasoning!
Side Dishes
Vegan Waffles are a blank slate for brunch plates. Pair them with crispy tempeh bacon, a colorful fruit salad, or a quick tofu scramble for that ultimate breakfast spread. And if you’re feeling a bit fancy, a homemade fruit compote or cinnamon-sautéed apples make the meal truly unforgettable.
Creative Ways to Present
If you’re hosting friends or family, stack the crispy waffles high on a platter, alternating with layers of fruit and swirls of dairy-free yogurt. Cut them into quarters for a brunch grazing board, or set up a “waffle bar” with bowls of toppings like jams, nut butters, cacao nibs, and dairy-free chocolate chips—so everyone can build their custom masterpiece.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you find yourself with extra Vegan Waffles (rare, but a delightful problem to have), let them cool completely on a wire rack before transferring to an airtight container. They’ll keep in the refrigerator for up to three days, ready for toasting and topping whenever hunger strikes.
Freezing
To make busy mornings a breeze, freeze leftover waffles! Just arrange them in a single layer on a baking sheet, freeze until solid, then stack with parchment paper in a freezer bag. They won’t stick together, and you can grab just what you need straight from the freezer for quick, delicious breakfasts.
Reheating
The best way to revive the crispiness of Vegan Waffles is in the toaster or a toaster oven. Pop them in straight from the fridge or freezer, and in a few minutes, they’re every bit as golden and satisfying as when freshly made. Avoid reheating in the microwave, as they’ll lose their beautiful texture.
FAQs
Can I make Vegan Waffles gluten-free?
Absolutely! Substitute a good quality 1-to-1 gluten-free flour blend for the all-purpose flour. Make sure your baking powder is gluten-free as well, and you’ll be set for a delicious gluten-free brunch.
Why do I need apple cider vinegar in the recipe?
The vinegar reacts with the baking soda to mimic the chemical magic of buttermilk, creating lift and the perfect fluffiness. You won’t taste any vinegar—it just helps the waffles rise and have that dreamy, light texture.
Can I use another plant-based milk instead of almond milk?
Yes! Oat milk, soy milk, or cashew milk will all work beautifully in this recipe. Each type Breakfast.
What should I do if my waffles aren’t crispy?
If you love extra crispy Vegan Waffles, ladle in a little less batter per waffle and cook slightly longer. For the ultimate crunch, replace 1/4 cup of flour with cornstarch as noted—that trick never fails.
Can I double the recipe?
Definitely! This recipe doubles easily for a crowd. Make sure not to overfill your waffle iron and, if batch-cooking, keep finished waffles warm in a low oven directly on an oven rack to maintain that fabulous crispiness.
Final Thoughts
Whether you’re a seasoned plant-based pro or just want to add a little more delicious variety to your breakfasts, these Vegan Waffles are a go-to you’ll treasure. They’re easy, endlessly customizable, and downright crave-worthy. Try them out this weekend and let these waffles bring a new level of joy to your table!
PrintVegan Waffles Recipe
Light and crispy vegan waffles that are perfect for a delightful breakfast. These waffles are dairy-free and plant-based, making them a delicious and guilt-free morning treat.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 waffles 1x
- Category: Breakfast
- Method: Waffle Iron
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegan
Ingredients
Dry Ingredients:
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 tablespoons sugar
- 2 teaspoons baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
Wet Ingredients:
- 1 1/4 cups unsweetened almond milk (or other plant milk)
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
- 1/4 cup melted coconut oil or vegetable oil
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
- Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
- Wet Ingredients: In a separate bowl or measuring cup, mix the almond milk and apple cider vinegar. Let sit for 5 minutes to create a vegan “buttermilk.” Add the melted coconut oil and vanilla extract to the wet mixture, then pour into the dry ingredients.
- Cooking: Preheat your waffle iron and lightly grease if needed. Pour batter into the preheated waffle iron and cook according to the manufacturer’s instructions until golden and crisp.
- Serving: Serve immediately with maple syrup, fruit, or your favorite toppings.
Notes
- For a crispier texture, replace 1/4 cup of flour with cornstarch.
- Leftover waffles freeze well—just reheat in a toaster.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 waffle
- Calories: 260
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 270mg
- Fat: 11g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 0mg