Easy Malted Waffles: A Deliciously Simple Breakfast Recipe
Who doesn’t love waffles? They’re a breakfast staple, a brunch superstar, and sometimes even a delightful dessert. But let’s be honest, making waffles from scratch can sometimes feel like a chore. This recipe for easy malted waffles changes all that. It’s simple, quick, and the addition of malted milk powder adds a subtle, nutty sweetness that elevates these waffles to a whole new level of deliciousness.
This recipe is perfect for busy mornings, weekend brunches, or any time you’re craving a comforting and satisfying meal. The malted milk powder not only enhances the flavor but also contributes to a beautifully browned, crispy exterior. Get ready to enjoy the best waffles you’ve ever made!
Why Malted Milk Powder?
Malted milk powder is the secret ingredient that takes these waffles from ordinary to extraordinary. It’s made from a combination of malted barley, wheat flour, and evaporated milk. The malting process breaks down starches into sugars, resulting in a slightly sweet and nutty flavor. Here’s why it works so well in waffles:
* **Flavor:** It adds a subtle, unique flavor that’s reminiscent of old-fashioned soda fountains and malt shops. It’s a comforting and nostalgic taste that pairs perfectly with the sweetness of waffles.
* **Texture:** Malted milk powder can contribute to a slightly lighter and more tender waffle.
* **Browning:** The sugars in malted milk powder help the waffles brown beautifully, creating a crispy and golden-brown exterior.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Before you start, gather these simple ingredients:
* **1 ½ cups all-purpose flour:** Provides the structure for the waffles.
* **2 tablespoons granulated sugar:** Adds sweetness and helps with browning.
* **2 tablespoons malted milk powder:** The star of the show! Use your favorite brand. (Carnation or Ovaltine are popular choices).
* **2 teaspoons baking powder:** Helps the waffles rise and become light and fluffy.
* **¼ teaspoon baking soda:** Reacts with the buttermilk to create even more lift.
* **½ teaspoon salt:** Enhances the flavors of the other ingredients.
* **1 ½ cups buttermilk:** Adds moisture and tanginess to the waffles. You can substitute with regular milk mixed with 1 ½ tablespoons of lemon juice or white vinegar, letting it sit for 5 minutes to curdle.
* **2 large eggs:** Bind the ingredients together and add richness.
* **6 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted:** Adds flavor and richness. You can also use vegetable oil, but butter provides a superior taste.
* **1 teaspoon vanilla extract:** Enhances the overall flavor.
Equipment You’ll Need
* **Waffle iron:** Essential for making waffles! Make sure it’s clean and preheated according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
* **Mixing bowls:** You’ll need two bowls – one for the dry ingredients and one for the wet ingredients.
* **Whisk:** For combining the dry and wet ingredients.
* **Measuring cups and spoons:** For accurate measurements.
* **Ladle or measuring cup with a spout:** For pouring the batter onto the waffle iron.
* **Spatula or fork:** For removing the waffles from the iron.
* **Wire rack (optional):** To keep the waffles crisp while you make the rest of the batch.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Now for the fun part – making the waffles! Follow these simple steps for perfect malted waffles every time:
**Step 1: Prepare the Dry Ingredients**
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, malted milk powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Make sure everything is evenly distributed.
**Step 2: Prepare the Wet Ingredients**
In a separate mixing bowl, whisk together the buttermilk, eggs, melted butter, and vanilla extract. Whisk until well combined.
**Step 3: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients**
Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and whisk until just combined. Be careful not to overmix. A few lumps are okay. Overmixing will develop the gluten in the flour, resulting in tough waffles. The batter should be thick but pourable.
**Step 4: Preheat and Prepare Your Waffle Iron**
Preheat your waffle iron according to the manufacturer’s instructions. Most waffle irons have an indicator light that will let you know when it’s ready. Lightly grease the waffle iron with cooking spray or melted butter. This will prevent the waffles from sticking.
**Step 5: Cook the Waffles**
Pour the appropriate amount of batter onto the preheated waffle iron. The amount of batter will depend on the size of your waffle iron. Consult your waffle iron’s manual for guidance. Close the waffle iron and cook until the waffles are golden brown and crispy. This usually takes 3-5 minutes, but it can vary depending on your waffle iron.
**Step 6: Remove and Serve**
Carefully remove the waffles from the waffle iron using a spatula or fork. Place the waffles on a wire rack to keep them crisp while you make the rest of the batch. Serve immediately with your favorite toppings.
Tips for Perfect Malted Waffles
* **Don’t overmix the batter:** Overmixing develops the gluten in the flour, resulting in tough waffles. Mix until just combined, leaving a few lumps.
* **Preheat your waffle iron thoroughly:** A hot waffle iron is essential for crispy waffles.
* **Grease your waffle iron:** This will prevent the waffles from sticking.
* **Don’t peek!** Resist the urge to open the waffle iron before the waffles are done. This can cause them to stick and not cook properly.
* **Use a wire rack:** Placing the waffles on a wire rack after cooking helps them stay crisp.
* **Adjust the batter consistency:** If the batter is too thick, add a little more buttermilk. If it’s too thin, add a little more flour. The batter should be thick but pourable.
Topping Ideas
The possibilities are endless when it comes to waffle toppings! Here are a few ideas to get you started:
* **Classic:** Butter and maple syrup
* **Fruity:** Fresh berries (strawberries, blueberries, raspberries), sliced bananas, peaches, or a fruit compote
* **Sweet:** Whipped cream, chocolate syrup, Nutella, sprinkles
* **Savory:** Fried chicken, bacon, avocado, a fried egg
* **Other:** Peanut butter, almond butter, honey, yogurt, granola
Variations
* **Chocolate Malted Waffles:** Add 2 tablespoons of cocoa powder to the dry ingredients.
* **Cinnamon Malted Waffles:** Add 1 teaspoon of ground cinnamon to the dry ingredients.
* **Nutty Malted Waffles:** Add ½ cup of chopped nuts (such as pecans, walnuts, or almonds) to the batter.
* **Gluten-Free Malted Waffles:** Use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend instead of regular all-purpose flour. Make sure the baking powder is also gluten-free.
* **Vegan Malted Waffles:** Substitute the buttermilk with plant-based milk (such as almond milk or soy milk) mixed with 1 ½ tablespoons of lemon juice or white vinegar. Use a vegan egg replacement (such as flax eggs or aquafaba). Use melted vegan butter or vegetable oil.
Make-Ahead and Storage Instructions
**Make-Ahead:**
You can prepare the waffle batter ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. Whisk the batter again before using, as it may separate slightly. Cooked waffles can also be made ahead of time and reheated.
**Storage:**
Store cooked waffles in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or in the freezer for up to 2 months. To prevent the waffles from sticking together in the freezer, place a piece of parchment paper between each waffle.
**Reheating:**
* **Toaster:** The easiest way to reheat waffles is in a toaster. Toast them until they are warm and crispy.
* **Oven:** Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the waffles on a baking sheet and bake for 5-10 minutes, or until they are warm and crispy.
* **Waffle Iron:** You can also reheat waffles in a waffle iron. Place the waffles in the preheated waffle iron and cook for 1-2 minutes, or until they are warm and crispy.
Nutritional Information (Approximate)
* Calories: 250-350 per waffle (depending on toppings)
* Fat: 10-15g
* Saturated Fat: 6-8g
* Cholesterol: 75-100mg
* Sodium: 300-400mg
* Carbohydrates: 30-40g
* Sugar: 10-15g
* Protein: 5-7g
*Note: This is an approximate nutritional estimate and will vary based on specific ingredients and portion sizes.*
Conclusion
These easy malted waffles are a delightful and satisfying breakfast treat that’s perfect for any occasion. The subtle malted flavor adds a unique twist to the classic waffle, making them a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. With simple ingredients and easy-to-follow instructions, you’ll be enjoying a batch of homemade waffles in no time. So, gather your ingredients, preheat your waffle iron, and get ready to experience the joy of perfectly crisp and delicious malted waffles!
Enjoy your homemade waffles! They’re especially good on a lazy weekend morning with a cup of coffee or tea. Consider this recipe your new go-to for a guaranteed delicious and easy waffle experience. Happy cooking!