Red Velvet Waffles with Cream Cheese Glaze Recipe

Red Velvet Waffles with Cream Cheese Glaze are the kind of breakfast that turns any morning into a special occasion. Imagine the classic, tangy-sweet flavors of red velvet cake all cozied up inside fluffy waffles, then topped off with a luscious, velvety glaze that melts right over the warm, crisp squares. Whether you’re surprising your family on a holiday or treating yourself just because, these waffles add a pop of color and excitement to your table, making every bite feel like a little celebration.

this Recipe

Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of Red Velvet Waffles with Cream Cheese Glaze lies in the way everyday pantry staples combine to make something truly unforgettable. Each ingredient here has a purpose, turning out waffles that are soft, flavorful, and visually stunning, all draped in the creamiest of glazes.

• All-purpose flour: Forms the sturdy, tender base of your waffles for perfect texture.
• Unsweetened cocoa powder: Adds a hint of deep, chocolatey richness that’s signature to red velvet.
• Baking powder: Ensures your waffles rise and become irresistibly fluffy.
• Baking soda: Works alongside buttermilk for optimal lift and that classic tang.
• Salt: Just a pinch balances all those sweet and rich flavors.
• Granulated sugar: Sweetens the batter without overwhelming the subtle cocoa taste.
• Eggs: Bind everything together and contribute to a light, airy crumb.
• Buttermilk: Brings signature tang and moisture, creating truly tender waffles.
• Unsalted butter, melted: Adds rich flavor and helps crisp up those lovely waffle edges.
• Vanilla extract: Deepens the flavor profile and enhances all the chocolatey notes.
• Red food coloring: Delivers that iconic, eye-catching hue that makes these waffles stand out.
• Cream cheese, softened: The base of your cream cheese glaze, bringing that luxurious, tangy finish.
• Powdered sugar: Melts easily into the glaze for smooth, sweet perfection.
• Milk: Adjusts the glaze to the perfect pourable consistency — add more or less as you like.
• Vanilla extract (for glaze): Rounds out your glaze with warmth and a hint of sweetness.

How to Make Red Velvet Waffles with Cream Cheese Glaze

Step 1: Preheat and Prep

Start by heating up your waffle iron. This ensures your red velvet waffles cook evenly and develop those coveted crispy edges. Give the plates a light brush with oil or butter to prevent sticking and get perfectly golden results.

Step 2: Combine Dry Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and sugar. This step evenly distributes all the rising agents and cocoa, so every waffle comes out just right with no pockets of dry flour.

Step 3: Mix Wet Ingredients

In another bowl, whisk up the eggs, buttermilk, melted butter, vanilla, and that vibrant red food coloring. This multitasking mixture brings richness, flavor, and that gorgeous color all in one go.

Step 4: Make the Waffle Batter

Pour your wet ingredients into the bowl of dry ingredients. Use a spatula to gently mix everything just until it’s combined. Some lumps are perfectly fine here! Over-mixing leads to tough waffles, so go easy and your Red Velvet Waffles with Cream Cheese Glaze will turn out tender and fluffy.

Step 5: Cook the Waffles

Spoon the batter onto your heated waffle iron according to its instructions, gently spreading to the edges. Close the lid and cook for 3–5 minutes, or until the waffles are puffed, cooked through, and slightly crisp. Take a moment to appreciate that dreamy aroma filling your kitchen!

Step 6: Prepare the Cream Cheese Glaze

While the waffles are cooking, beat your softened cream cheese in a mixing bowl until smooth. Add powdered sugar, milk, and a splash of vanilla, then keep beating until the glaze is creamy and pourable. If it seems too thick, add a bit more milk until you reach your desired texture.

Step 7: Glaze and Serve

As soon as your red velvet waffles are done, stack them high on a plate and generously drizzle over the cream cheese glaze while they’re warm. This lets the glaze melt into all those nooks and crannies, creating an unforgettable breakfast treat.

How to Serve Red Velvet Waffles with Cream Cheese Glaze

Garnishes

Take your Red Velvet Waffles with Cream Cheese Glaze to the next level by showering them with fresh berries, a sprinkle of cocoa powder, or even chocolate shavings for a dazzling, brunch-worthy finish. A few mint leaves add a burst of color and a touch of freshness to every bite.

Side Dishes

Pair these vibrant waffles with crispy bacon, maple-glazed sausage, or even a creamy fruit salad on the side. The slightly tangy glaze is a perfect match for savory breakfast staples, balancing out the sweet and rich flavors with each forkful.

Creative Ways to Present

If you really want to impress, stack mini waffles into a gorgeous tower for special gatherings or use a drizzle of extra glaze to “paint” a design on each plate. Serving these waffles as dessert with a scoop of vanilla ice cream is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you happen to have extra Red Velvet Waffles with Cream Cheese Glaze (lucky you!), let them cool completely, then wrap them in foil or seal in an airtight container. Store them in the refrigerator for up to three days, keeping the glaze separate to preserve the waffle’s texture.

Freezing

For longer storage, place cooled waffles in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid, then transfer to a freezer bag. They’ll keep beautifully for up to two months. Store the glaze in a freezer-safe container separately and thaw in the fridge when ready to use.

Reheating

To restore crispiness, reheat waffles straight from the fridge or freezer in a toaster or oven rather than the microwave. Warm the cream cheese glaze gently in the microwave or over a double boiler, stirring occasionally until smooth and pourable.

FAQs

Can I make these waffles without red food coloring?

Absolutely! While the iconic color is half the fun, you can skip the food coloring for cocoa waffles that taste just as delicious. You might lose the signature look, but the flavor still shines.

Is there a dairy-free alternative for the cream cheese glaze?

You can use a dairy-free cream cheese and plant-based milk to whip up an almost identical glaze. Your Red Velvet Waffles with Cream Cheese Glaze will still have that dreamy tang and creamy texture.

How do I keep waffles warm while making multiple batches?

Set your oven to 200°F and lay finished waffles directly on the rack (not stacked) until you’re ready to serve. This keeps them crisp on the outside and warm on the inside.

Can I use a pancake griddle instead of a waffle iron?

Technically, you could make pancakes with this batter, but you’ll miss out on those delightfully crisp ridges and deep pockets. For full-on Red Velvet Waffles with Cream Cheese Glaze magic, a waffle iron works best!

What if my glaze is too thick or too thin?

If it’s too thick, simply whisk in a splash more milk. Too thin? Add a spoonful of powdered sugar at a time. Adjust to your perfect drizzling consistency and enjoy!

Final Thoughts

Whether you’re planning a special morning or just want to make breakfast a little more joyful, Red Velvet Waffles with Cream Cheese Glaze are bound to bring smiles all around. They’re bright, decadent, and impossibly delicious — give them a try and let them become a new tradition at your breakfast table!

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