Cast Iron Waffles Recipe for Crispy, Fluffy Breakfast Treats

There’s something truly magical about waffles made in a cast iron skillet. The rustic charm of cast iron combined with the golden, crispy texture of waffles creates a breakfast experience that’s both comforting and indulgent.

Whether you’re cooking up a weekend brunch or simply craving a nostalgic treat, this cast iron waffles recipe offers a delightful twist on the classic waffle-making process. The cast iron gives the waffles a perfectly crisp exterior while maintaining a tender, fluffy inside.

Plus, it’s incredibly versatile and easy to use once you get the hang of it.

If you’ve ever wondered how to get those unbeatable crispy edges without a fancy waffle iron, this recipe is for you. Plus, the recipe below is straightforward, uses common pantry ingredients, and makes waffles that pair wonderfully with sweet or savory toppings.

Let’s dive into this delicious journey of making perfect cast iron waffles that will impress your family and friends every time!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe stands out because it harnesses the power of your trusty cast iron skillet to create waffles with an unbeatable texture. Unlike traditional waffle irons, the skillet lets you control the heat perfectly and get an even, golden crust all around.

Another reason to love this recipe is how adaptable it is. You can easily tweak the basic batter to add flavors like cinnamon, vanilla, or even savory herbs.

It’s also a great way to make waffles without investing in a waffle maker, saving space and money in your kitchen.

Finally, the cast iron’s natural seasoning enhances the flavor subtly, and the waffles come out fluffy on the inside with a satisfyingly crisp outside. This recipe is simple, reliable, and guaranteed to become a staple in your breakfast rotation.

Ingredients

• 1 ¾ cups all-purpose flour
• 2 tablespoons sugar
• 1 tablespoon baking powder
• ½ teaspoon salt
• 1 ¾ cups milk (whole or 2% for best texture)
• 2 large eggs
• ½ cup unsalted butter, melted and slightly cooled
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• Optional: ½ teaspoon cinnamon or nutmeg for warm spices

Equipment

• 10 to 12-inch cast iron skillet (well-seasoned)
• Mixing bowls
• Whisk
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Spatula
• Cooling rack (optional, for keeping waffles crisp)

Instructions

1. Preheat your cast iron skillet over medium heat. It’s important that the skillet is hot but not smoking. A well-preheated skillet ensures the waffles get crispy.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, salt, and optional spices until well combined.
3. In another bowl, beat the eggs. Then add the milk, melted butter, and vanilla extract. Whisk thoroughly to combine all wet ingredients.
4. Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and stir just until combined. Be careful not to overmix; a few lumps are okay.
5. Grease your cast iron skillet lightly with a small amount of butter or oil using a paper towel to avoid sticking. You want just a thin layer.
6. Pour about ½ cup of batter into the skillet and quickly spread it out evenly to form a circle roughly 6-7 inches in diameter. Don’t overcrowd the skillet if you want to make more than one waffle at a time — it’s best to do one at a time.
7. Cook for 3-4 minutes on the first side until bubbles start appearing on the surface and the edges look set and golden brown. Use a spatula to carefully flip the waffle.
8. Cook the other side for another 2-3 minutes until golden and crisp. Adjust heat if the waffle is browning too fast or too slow.
9. Transfer waffles to a cooling rack if you want to keep them crisp while you make the rest, or serve immediately.
10. Repeat the process with the remaining batter, greasing the skillet as needed.

Tips & Variations

Make sure your skillet is well-seasoned to prevent waffles from sticking and to develop that rich flavor from cast iron cooking!

Tip 1: If you prefer extra crispy waffles, you can add a tablespoon of cornstarch to the dry ingredients. This helps create a crisper crust.

Tip 2: For a healthier twist, substitute half of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour. Your waffles will be nuttier and more filling.

Variation 1: Add fresh blueberries, chopped nuts, or chocolate chips to the batter just before cooking for a fun twist.

Variation 2: For savory waffles, omit the sugar and vanilla and add shredded cheese, chopped herbs, or cooked bacon bits to the batter.

Tip 3: Waffles can be kept warm in a low oven (around 200°F) on a rack, but they’re best enjoyed fresh.

Nutrition Facts

Serving Suggestions

Cast iron waffles are incredibly versatile. Here are some of our favorite ways to serve them:

• Classic maple syrup and a pat of butter for that traditional brunch vibe.
• Fresh berries, whipped cream, and a dusting of powdered sugar for a fruity treat.
• Top with fried chicken and hot sauce for a savory-sweet Southern-style meal.
• Spread with nut butter and sliced bananas for a protein-packed breakfast.
• Drizzle with honey and sprinkle with toasted nuts for extra crunch.

For more delicious breakfast ideas, check out our Veg Grilled Sandwich Recipes That Are Quick and Delicious or explore healthy meal options like Backpacking Dehydrated Vegan Meal Recipes for Easy Camping.

Conclusion

Making waffles in a cast iron skillet is a delightful way to enjoy a crispy, golden breakfast without needing a specialized waffle maker. This recipe is approachable for cooks of all skill levels and offers plenty of room for customization.

From sweet additions like cinnamon and chocolate chips to savory twists with herbs and cheese, cast iron waffles can be tailored to suit any craving.

Beyond breakfast, these waffles can also serve as a creative base for brunch, snacks, or even dinner ideas. Plus, the satisfaction of cooking with cast iron adds an element of rustic charm to your kitchen routine.

Be sure to keep your skillet well-seasoned and enjoy the crispy, fluffy results that come from this simple yet tasty recipe. Don’t forget to explore other tasty recipes on our site such as Chinese Vegetarian Nasi Lemak Recipe Made Easy and Delicious and Best Vegan Pepper Jack Cheese Slice Recipe for Melty Flavor to round out your meal planning.

Happy cooking!

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