Gluten-Free Waffles

Waffles may seem tricky to make—especially gluten-free waffles. But losing the gluten only means the batter is extra tender. Getting the proper structure or texture is tricky in some gluten-free baking recipes, but when it comes to gluten-free waffles, the shape and size are foolproof since waffles sizzle away in an iron. They turn out light on the inside and crispy on the outside.

This recipe is almost identical to the traditional method for making waffles, except you’ll use gluten-free flour mix and xanthan gum (if the mix doesn’t include it). That means these gluten-free waffles are easy to make, even if you’re new to gluten-free baking. Top these waffles with a pat of butter, maple syrup and your favorite fruit, or make a batch and store them for quick breakfasts (they reheat well in the toaster!).

Ingredients for Gluten-Free Waffles

Jonathan Melendez for Taste Recipes

• Gluten-free baking flour: This recipe is similar to a traditional waffle recipe, except for the gluten-free flour. Use your favorite store-bought brand or homemade gluten-free flour mix. Make sure to pick one with xanthan gum (or stir in 1/2 teaspoon, if the mix doesn’t contain any).
• Sugar: You only need a little sugar to lend sweetness to the batter.
• Leavening agents: This recipe calls for baking powder and baking soda, which provide extra lift to achieve a feather-light texture. The baking soda also helps with browning on the outside.
• Salt: A pinch of salt rounds out the flavor in the batter.
• Eggs: Whisking eggs into the batter adds rich flavor and substantial body, enabling the waffles to rise high. Always use room-temperature eggs for baking; they combine more easily with the other ingredients.
• Milk: We suggest 2% milk in this recipe, but you can swap whole milk, skim milk or your favorite non-dairy milk alternatives.
• Canola oil: Oil adds richness without changing the flavor of the batter.
• Vanilla extract: Look for a quality brand of vanilla extract for the best flavor.
• Butter and maple syrup: Serve gluten-free waffles with a pat of butter (dairy-based or vegan) and a good drizzle of real maple syrup.

Directions

Step 1: Make the batter

In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda and salt. In a separate small bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, oil and vanilla extract until well-blended. Whisk the wet ingredients and dry ingredients together until just moistened. Let the batter sit at room temperature for 5 to 10 minutes.

Editor’s Tip: It might be tempting to skip that last step, but don’t. Resting the batter allows the flour to absorb liquid and fully hydrate, resulting in a super-tender texture. It also gives time for the leavening agents to work, meaning your waffles will be extra light and airy.

Step 5: Make the waffles

Preheat the waffle maker and grease it with cooking spray. Bake the waffles according to the manufacturer’s directions until they’re golden brown on both sides. Serve them with butter and maple syrup as desired.

Jonathan Melendez for Taste Recipes

Gluten-Free Waffles Variations

• Add some mix-ins: Chopped walnuts or other nuts, chocolate chips or butterscotch chips and blueberries are all tasty additions to the batter.
• Top with fruit: Scatter fresh berries, bananas, pineapple or kiwi over the waffles.
• Add a shower of sugar: Gild the lily by sifting powdered sugar over the waffles before serving them.
• Try other toppings: Maple syrup is classic, but don’t let it monopolize your waffles. Jam, marmalade and other fruit preserves make great alternative toppings, especially with a generous sprinkling of fresh fruit. Or, spread your waffles with peanut butter and jelly or a slathering of Nutella.

How to Store Gluten-Free Waffles

Let the waffles cool completely, then store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for three to four days.

Can you freeze gluten-free waffles?

As you can guess from the robust section of frozen waffles at the grocery store, waffles freeze very well. Let them cool completely, then transfer them to a freezer bag. Layer a piece of parchment paper between each waffle so they don’t stick together. You can defrost them in the refrigerator before eating them, or reheat them directly from frozen.

How do you reheat gluten-free waffles?

We like to reheat waffles in a toaster or toaster oven, both of which nicely crisp up the exterior.

Gluten-Free Waffles Tips

Jonathan Melendez for Taste Recipes

Can you make the gluten-free waffle mix ahead of time?

You can easily make the gluten-free waffle mix ahead of time! Whisk the dry ingredients together and store them in an airtight container until you’re ready to make waffles. (I sometimes pack dry waffle mix in a zip-top bag in my suitcase to make waffles while traveling.) The dry mix will last for at least a month.

What else can you serve with gluten-free waffles?

Gluten-free waffles match any gluten-free breakfast items, from simple scrambled or fried eggs to elaborate quiches or egg casseroles. We often serve them with a protein, like sausage, bacon or a vegetarian meat alternative.