There’s something undeniably joyful about waking up to the tantalizing scent of bacon wafting through the house. Just last weekend, I crafted a breakfast that blended two beloved brunch staples: the fluffiness of waffles and the savory goodness of crispy bacon. This dish quickly became a crowd-pleaser at our family gathering, as everyone marveled at how the salty richness of the bacon paired perfectly with the light, airy waffles.
Imagine biting into a warm, golden waffle, the crispy edges giving way to a soft middle, all while bits of savory bacon provide delightful bursts of flavor. This recipe requires just a handful of pantry staples and can be whipped up in a matter of minutes. Whether you’re planning a leisurely Sunday brunch or need a quick morning meal that feels special, these bacon waffles are the perfect solution. Let’s dive into this scrumptious recipe that promises to make your mornings a whole lot better!
Why Will You Love These Bacon Waffles?
Indulging in these bacon waffles is an experience you won’t forget!
- Savory & Sweet Harmony: The crispy bacon beautifully complements the fluffy waffles, creating a balanced flavor profile.
- Quick & Easy: In under 30 minutes, you’ll have a delicious breakfast that requires minimal prep.
- Family Favorite: With their delightful taste, these waffles can turn any breakfast into a special occasion!
- Versatile Toppings: Whether drizzled with maple syrup, topped with fresh fruit, or slathered with yogurt, the options are endless.
- Perfect Texture: The crispy edges contrast perfectly with the airy, soft center—every bite is a dream come true!
Get ready to transform your breakfast routine with these irresistible bacon waffles!
Bacon Waffle Ingredients
• Want to create delicious bacon waffles? Here’s what you’ll need!
- Bacon: – Use thick-cut bacon for extra crispiness; it adds savory bursts of flavor.
- All-Purpose Flour: – This forms the base of your waffles; swap with whole wheat flour for added nutrition.
- Sugar: – A touch of sweetness balances the savory bacon; use brown sugar for a deeper flavor.
- Baking Powder: – Essential for fluffy waffles; make sure it’s fresh for the best rise.
- Salt: – Enhances the overall taste; don’t skip this crucial ingredient, even in a sweet recipe.
- Milk: – Moistens the batter and adds richness; opt for almond or oat milk for a dairy-free version.
- Unsalted Butter: – Guarantees rich, buttery flavor; feel free to substitute with melted coconut oil for a dairy-free twist.
- Large Eggs (room temp): – Bind the ingredients together; for a vegan option, try a flax egg for similar results.
How to Make Bacon Waffles
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Cook Bacon: Start by frying the thick-cut bacon in a skillet over medium heat until crispy, about 5-7 minutes. Drain excess grease on paper towels and let cool slightly before chopping into small pieces.
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Prepare Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt until well combined. This mixture will create the perfect fluffy texture.
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Whisk Wet Ingredients: In a separate bowl, mix together the milk, melted unsalted butter, and large eggs until you have a smooth blend. Ensure your butter isn’t too hot to avoid scrambling the eggs!
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Combine Mixtures: Gently fold the wet ingredients into the dry mixture until just combined—don’t worry if there are a few lumps. Finally, add the chopped bacon and mix until evenly distributed.
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Preheat Waffle Iron: Preheat your waffle iron according to the manufacturer’s instructions. Grease it lightly with cooking spray for easy release.
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Cook Waffles: Pour the batter into the preheated waffle iron, using the recommended amount (about 1/2 cup per waffle). Cook until golden brown and crisp, approximately 4-5 minutes, depending on your waffle iron.
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Serve Warm: Carefully remove the waffles and let them cool slightly. Serve immediately with maple syrup, fresh fruit, or your favorite toppings!
Optional: Top with a dollop of whipped cream for an extra indulgent treat!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
How to Store and Freeze Bacon Waffles
- Room Temperature: Allow cooked bacon waffles to cool completely before storing at room temperature for up to 2 hours. Keep them covered with a clean kitchen towel to prevent drying out.
- Fridge: Store leftover waffles in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, pop them in a toaster or microwave until warmed through.
- Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the cooled waffles in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer bag for up to 2 months. Reheat directly from frozen in a toaster or oven.
- Reheating: To keep them crispy, reheat bacon waffles in a toaster for a few minutes or place them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes.
Expert Tips for Bacon Waffles
- Perfectly Crispy Bacon: Cook the bacon until it’s nice and crispy; this ensures maximum flavor in your bacon waffles. Avoid undercooking it for soggy results.
- Don’t Overmix: Gently stir the batter until just combined. Overmixing can lead to dense waffles—lumps are okay!
- Use Fresh Baking Powder: Check your baking powder for freshness; stale leavening agents can result in flat waffles.
- Preheat Waffle Iron: Always preheat your waffle iron for evenly cooked, crispy bacon waffles; a hot iron is key!
- Innovative Toppings: Explore toppings beyond syrup! Sautéed apples or a dollop of yogurt add a delicious twist to your waffles.
Make Ahead Options
These bacon waffles are perfect for busy mornings! You can cook and cool the waffles up to 3 days in advance, making them ideal for meal prep. Once made, simply store the waffles in an airtight container in the refrigerator. When you’re ready to serve, reheat them in a toaster or oven for that delightful crispness. Additionally, you can prepare the dry ingredients (flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt) and store them in a sealed bag for up to 1 week. This way, when cravings hit, you can whip up a fresh batch in no time, ensuring that breakfast is just as delicious as if it were made from scratch!
What to Serve with Bacon Waffles?
Enhancing your breakfast table is all about delightful pairings that amplify the bacon waffle experience.
- Maple Syrup: The classic companion; its sweetness perfectly balances the savory bacon and adds a touch of warmth.
- Fresh Berries: Strawberries or blueberries add a refreshing burst of flavor and color, brightening up every bite. Their natural sweetness is a delightful contrast!
- Whipped Cream: A dollop or a generous swirl elevates your waffles to an indulgent dessert-like treat, perfect for special occasions. Add some cocoa powder for a chocolaty touch!
- Sautéed Apples: Warm, cinnamon-spiced apples bring a cozy seasonal vibe, adding a sweet and spiced layer to the waffles. Perfect for fall mornings!
- Greek Yogurt: A creamy, tangy touch that lends a healthy balance; the richness of yogurt complements waffle texture beautifully.
- Savory Egg Dish: Serve alongside scrambled eggs or an egg benedict for a complete breakfast feast. The flavors meld wonderfully with bacon.
With these delightful items, your bacon waffle breakfast will be both scrumptious and memorable!
Bacon Waffle Variations
Unleash your creativity with these tasty twists on bacon waffles!
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Cheesy Bacon Waffles: Stir in shredded cheddar cheese for a melty, savory delight with every bite. The gooey richness pairs beautifully with crisp bacon.
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Spicy Maple Bacon Waffles: Drizzle with spicy maple syrup for a sweet and fiery kick. This unique flavor pairing will have your taste buds dancing!
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Herbed Bacon Waffles: Add fresh herbs like chives or rosemary to the batter for an aromatic twist. These add a delightful freshness that elevates the savory profile.
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Cornmeal Bacon Waffles: Replace a portion of the all-purpose flour with cornmeal for a crispy texture. The cornmeal adds a lovely crunch and a hint of sweetness.
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Banana Bacon Waffles: Mash a ripe banana into the batter for extra moisture and sweetness. The combo of banana and bacon is surprisingly delicious, combining savory and sweet!
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Pumpkin Spice Bacon Waffles: Mix in pumpkin puree and pumpkin spice for a cozy seasonal vibe. This autumn twist is perfect for holiday breakfast gatherings.
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Chocolate Bacon Waffles: Add chocolate chips to the batter for a decadent treat. The rich chocolate complements the salty bacon in a mouthwatering way.
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Savory Veggie Bacon Waffles: Toss in finely diced veggies like bell peppers or spinach for added nutrition and flavor, creating a wholesome breakfast option. The veggies add color and freshness that balances the richness of the bacon.
Bacon Waffles Recipe FAQs
Can I use any type of bacon for these waffles?
Absolutely! While I recommend thick-cut bacon for extra crispiness and flavor, you can use standard bacon or even turkey bacon if you’re looking for a lighter option. Just make sure to cook it until crispy for the best results.
How should I store leftover bacon waffles?
To store cooked bacon waffles, let them cool completely before placing them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will stay fresh for up to 3 days. Reheat in a toaster or microwave until warm.
Can I freeze bacon waffles?
Yes! To freeze, first cool the cooked waffles completely. Then, place them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze for 1-2 hours. Once frozen, transfer the waffles to a freezer bag; they can be stored for up to 2 months. To reheat, simply toast them directly from the freezer or warm them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes.
What can I use instead of milk for dairy-free bacon waffles?
If you want to make your bacon waffles dairy-free, you can substitute the milk with non-dairy alternatives like almond milk, oat milk, or soy milk. These options add richness without compromising the taste.
What can I do if my waffles come out soggy?
If your waffles are soggy, it may be due to undercooked bacon or not preheating the waffle iron properly. Make sure the bacon is crispy and your waffle iron is hot before pouring in the batter. Additionally, try not to overmix your batter to ensure that it remains fluffy.
Can I add other ingredients to the batter?
The more the merrier! Feel free to fold in extras like chocolate chips, diced fruits, or even nuts for added flavor and texture. Just keep in mind that adding too many ingredients can impact the batter’s cooking time and texture.
Savor the Crunch: Irresistible Bacon Waffles Recipe
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Cook Bacon: Fry the bacon in a skillet over medium heat for 5-7 minutes until crispy, then drain grease and chop.
- Prepare Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt until combined.
- Whisk Wet Ingredients: In a separate bowl, mix milk, melted butter, and eggs until smooth.
- Combine Mixtures: Fold wet ingredients into dry mixture until just combined, then add chopped bacon.
- Preheat Waffle Iron: Preheat your waffle iron and grease lightly with cooking spray.
- Cook Waffles: Pour about 1/2 cup batter into the iron, cook for 4-5 minutes until golden brown.
- Serve Warm: Remove waffles and serve immediately with toppings of your choice.