Vegan Waffles Recipe

vegan waffles with strawberries and maple syrup in a bowl

There's something incredibly satisfying about the perfect waffle—crispy on the outside, fluffy on the inside, and a blank canvas for all your favourite toppings. But what if you’re vegan and looking for that same indulgent experience? Look no further! These vegan waffles are not only easy to make, but they’re also just as delicious as their traditional counterparts - this recipe is sure to become a staple in your breakfast repertoire.

In this vegan waffles recipe, I’ll cover everything from the best vegan substitutes for eggs in waffles to the difference between waffle and pancake batter, and even tips on finding the right waffle maker.

Let's dive into the delicious world of vegan waffles!

Are Waffles Usually Vegan?

Traditional waffles are usually made with eggs, dairy milk, and butter, which means most café and store-bought waffles are not vegan by default. Even when they look plant-based, ingredients like milk powder or whey are often added for texture and flavour.

This is why making vegan waffles at home is such a great option, as you have full control over the ingredients, and it’s surprisingly easy to recreate that classic crispy-on-the-outside, fluffy-on-the-inside texture without any animal products.

Why You'll Love These Vegan Waffles

These vegan waffles are light, fluffy, and perfect for any occasion. Whether you're hosting a brunch or just want a quick and easy vegan breakfast, this recipe ticks all the boxes. Plus, it's incredibly versatile—you can dress up your waffles with a variety of toppings, from fresh fruit to decadent syrups.

One of the best parts about this vegan waffles recipe is its simplicity. With just a handful of pantry staples, you can whip up a batch of waffles in no time. The batter comes together quickly, and with a reliable waffle iron, you'll have golden waffles ready to serve in minutes.

These waffles have become a regular weekend ritual in our house. The boys love choosing their own toppings, and it’s one of those breakfasts that feels special without being complicated. It’s also one of the first vegan baking recipes I recommend to families who are new to plant-based cooking, because it’s so forgiving and consistently works.

Ingredients for Vegan Waffles

To make these easy vegan waffles, you'll need the following ingredients:

Plain flour
Sugar
Baking powder
Salt
Plant-based milk (such as almond, soy, or oat)
Vegan butter
Vanilla extract

What is a Vegan Substitute for Eggs in Waffles?

One of the key challenges in making vegan waffles is finding the right egg substitute. Eggs play a crucial role in traditional waffle recipes by providing structure and moisture. However, there are plenty of vegan alternatives that work just as well.

In this recipe, we don’t need an egg substitute because the combination of baking powder and plant-based milk gives the waffles a light and fluffy texture. However, if you want to experiment with egg substitutes, options like flaxseed meal or chia seeds mixed with water can add extra binding and moisture. Both work well in creating a similar texture to that provided by eggs.

What's the Difference Between Waffle Batter and Pancake Batter?

You might be wondering if you can use vegan pancake batter in a waffle iron. While waffle and pancake batters are quite similar, there are a few key differences that set them apart.

Waffle batter tends to have more fat, which helps create that crispy exterior. In this vegan waffle recipe, the added vegan butter ensures the waffles come out with a perfect crunch. Additionally, waffle batter is typically thicker than pancake batter, which helps it hold its shape in the waffle iron.

The higher fat content and thicker consistency of waffle batter are what give waffles their signature texture. While you can technically use pancake batter to make waffles, the result will be a softer, less crispy waffle. For the best results, stick to a dedicated vegan waffle recipe like this one.

Finding the Right Waffle Maker

A good waffle maker is essential for making perfect waffles. When choosing a waffle maker, consider the size and shape of the waffles you want to make. Some waffle makers produce thick, Belgian-style waffles, while others make thinner, crispier waffles.

It's also important to look for a waffle maker with non-stick plates, which makes it easier to remove the waffles and clean the machine. Adjustable temperature settings are another great feature, allowing you to control how crispy your waffles get.

Can You Make Vegan Waffles Without a Waffle Maker?

If you don’t own a waffle maker, you can still use this batter to make delicious vegan waffles, or waffle-style pancakes, in a regular frying pan or even a sandwich press. Simply cook the batter as you would pancakes, then finish them in a hot sandwich press for a lightly crisped finish.

The texture won’t be quite as crisp as a traditional waffle iron, but it’s a great option if you’re short on equipment or cooking for kids on a busy morning.

Tips for Perfect Vegan Waffles

Use Fresh Ingredients: Baking powder can lose its effectiveness over time, so make sure yours is fresh for the fluffiest waffles.

Don’t Overmix: Overmixing the batter can lead to tough waffles. Mix just until the ingredients are combined.

Keep the Waffles Warm: If you’re making a large batch, keep the waffles warm in a low oven (around 90°C) until you're ready to serve.

Are Vegan Waffles Healthy?

Vegan waffles can be a very balanced breakfast when paired with the right toppings. While waffles are still a treat-style food, making them at home allows you to control sugar levels and choose healthier additions like fresh fruit, nut butters, and plant-based yoghurt.

For our family, we often serve these waffles with berries and a spoon of peanut butter or yoghurt to add fibre and protein, which helps keep the kids fuller for longer and avoids the sugar crash you often get from café-style waffles.

FAQ: Vegan Waffles

How many waffles does this recipe make?

This recipe yields approximately 18 standard-sized waffles, depending on the size of your waffle iron.

Can I freeze these waffles?

Absolutely! These vegan waffles freeze well. Just let them cool completely, then freeze them in a single layer on a baking sheet. Once frozen, transfer the waffles to a freezer-safe bag. To reheat, pop them in the toaster or oven until warmed through.

Can I make the batter ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the batter the night before and store it in the fridge. Just give it a good stir before using, as some of the ingredients may separate overnight.

What toppings go well with vegan waffles?

The options are endless! Fresh berries, sliced bananas, maple syrup, coconut whipped cream, or even a drizzle of vegan chocolate sauce are all fantastic choices.

If you’re looking to try something new, waffles and a crispy vegan chick’n product with maple syrup is a tasty combination that I highly recommend - a perfect sweet and savoury combination!

Can I make these waffles gluten-free?

Yes, you can substitute the plain flour with a good quality gluten-free all-purpose flour. The texture may be slightly softer, but they still cook up beautifully in a waffle iron.

Are vegan waffles good for kids?

These waffles are very kid-friendly and a great base for a balanced vegan breakfast when served with fruit and a source of protein like nut butter or yoghurt. They’re also a fun way to get kids involved in the kitchen.

Can I reheat waffles in the air fryer?

Absolutely. Reheat leftover waffles in the air fryer at 180°C for 3–4 minutes to restore their crisp edges without drying them out.

Serving and Storing Vegan Waffles

These vegan waffles are best served fresh, right off the waffle iron. However, if you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat them in the toaster or oven to bring back that crispiness.

If you're making a big batch, consider freezing the extra waffles for a quick breakfast option during the week. Simply reheat in the toaster, and they’ll be just as crispy as when they were first made.

If you’re building out a full vegan breakfast spread, these waffles pair beautifully with other family favourites like tofu scramble, chia puddings, or simple fruit-based breakfasts. On busy mornings, having a few freezer-friendly vegan breakfasts on hand makes life so much easier.

Vegan waffles are the perfect addition to your breakfast routine, offering a deliciously crispy outside with a fluffy inside, all while being completely plant-based. Whether you're craving something sweet or savoury, these waffles can be easily customised with your favourite toppings, from fresh berries to a drizzle of maple syrup. Popular vegan breakfast ideas often include hearty dishes like tofu scramble, chocolate chia pudding, and of course, these vegan waffles. They’re a versatile, crowd-pleasing option that will quickly become a go-to for your morning spread!

Making delicious vegan waffles at home is easier than you might think. With this simple recipe and a few helpful tips, you’ll be able to whip up a batch of waffles that are crispy on the outside, fluffy on the inside, and full of flavour. Whether you're a seasoned vegan or just exploring plant-based options, these waffles are sure to become a favourite in your kitchen.

So why not give them a try? Grab your waffle maker, mix up some batter, and enjoy a delightful vegan breakfast that the whole family will love!

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INGREDIENTS

Vegan Waffles Recipe

(recipe makes roughly 15 medium sized waffles)

2 cups plain flour
2 tbsp sugar
1 tbsp baking powder
½ tsp salt
2 cups plant-based milk (such as almond, soy, or oat)
¼ cup vegan butter melted
1 tsp vanilla extract

METHOD

In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt until well combined.
In another bowl, combine the plant-based milk, melted vegan butter, and vanilla extract.
Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and mix until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; a few lumps are okay.
Preheat your waffle iron according to the manufacturer's instructions. Lightly grease it with oil or cooking spray if needed.
Pour the batter into the preheated waffle iron, using about ½ to ⅔ cup of batter per waffle, depending on the size of your waffle iron. Cook until the waffles are golden brown and crisp.
Serve the waffles immediately with your favourite toppings, such as fresh fruit, maple syrup, vegan butter, or a dollop of coconut whipped cream.