Lay’s IHOP Collaboration: Waffle-Inspired Chip Recipes You Can Make at Home
Are you ready to take your taste buds on a breakfast-inspired adventure? The collaboration between Lay’s and IHOP has resulted in a chip flavor that’s got everyone talking: the Lay’s IHOP Waffle flavored chips. Available exclusively at Walmart, these chips offer a unique sweet and savory experience reminiscent of a stack of fluffy waffles drenched in syrup. While enjoying them straight from the bag is undeniably satisfying, why not elevate these chips into something extraordinary? This article provides creative and delicious recipes that incorporate Lay’s IHOP Waffle chips, transforming them into appetizers, desserts, and even main courses.
Understanding the Flavor Profile
Before diving into the recipes, it’s essential to understand the flavor profile of the Lay’s IHOP Waffle chips. They’re not just your average salty snack. These chips boast a complex blend of sweet maple syrup notes, buttery waffle essence, and a subtle hint of salt. This combination makes them incredibly versatile for culinary experimentation. Think sweet and savory contrasts, textural surprises, and innovative flavor pairings.
Where to Find Them: Walmart Exclusive
The Lay’s IHOP Waffle chips are exclusively available at Walmart. This means you’ll need to make a trip to your local Walmart or visit their website to snag a bag (or several!). Given the limited-time nature of such collaborations, it’s advisable to grab them while you can to ensure you have enough for all these exciting recipes.
Recipe 1: Waffle Chip Crusted Chicken Tenders with Maple-Mustard Dip
This recipe elevates classic chicken tenders with a sweet and savory twist, perfect for a weeknight dinner or a fun appetizer.
**Ingredients:**
* 1. 5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into strips
* 1 bag Lay’s IHOP Waffle chips
* 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
* 2 large eggs, beaten
* 1 teaspoon paprika
* 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
* 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
* Salt to taste
* Vegetable oil, for frying
**For the Maple-Mustard Dip:**
* 1/2 cup mayonnaise
* 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
* 2 tablespoons maple syrup
* 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
* 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika
**Instructions:**
1. **Prepare the Chicken:** Pat the chicken strips dry with paper towels. Season with salt, paprika, garlic powder, and black pepper.
2. **Crush the Chips:** Place the Lay’s IHOP Waffle chips in a resealable bag and crush them into fine crumbs using a rolling pin or food processor. Transfer the crumbs to a shallow dish.
3. **Set Up the Breading Station:** In three separate shallow dishes, place the flour, beaten eggs, and crushed chips.
4. **Bread the Chicken:** Dredge each chicken strip in the flour, shaking off any excess. Then, dip it into the beaten eggs, ensuring it’s fully coated. Finally, press the chicken strip into the crushed chips, making sure it’s evenly coated on all sides.
5. **Fry the Chicken:** Heat about 1/2 inch of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, carefully place the breaded chicken strips into the skillet, being careful not to overcrowd it. Fry for 3-4 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through.
6. **Drain and Serve:** Remove the chicken tenders from the skillet and place them on a wire rack lined with paper towels to drain excess oil.
7. **Prepare the Maple-Mustard Dip:** In a small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, maple syrup, apple cider vinegar, and smoked paprika until smooth.
8. **Serve:** Serve the crispy waffle chip crusted chicken tenders hot with the maple-mustard dip for dipping.
**Tips and Variations:**
* For a healthier option, bake the chicken tenders instead of frying. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Place the breaded chicken tenders on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until cooked through, flipping halfway through.
* Add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the crushed chips for a spicy kick.
* Substitute chicken thighs for chicken breasts for a richer flavor.
* Serve with a side of coleslaw or sweet potato fries for a complete meal.
Recipe 2: Waffle Chip Sweet Potato Casserole Topping
Transform your classic sweet potato casserole into a waffle-inspired masterpiece with a crunchy and sweet topping.
**Ingredients:**
* 4 cups cooked and mashed sweet potatoes
* 1/2 cup brown sugar
* 1/4 cup butter, melted
* 1/4 cup milk
* 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
* 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
* 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
* 1 bag Lay’s IHOP Waffle chips, crushed
* 1/4 cup chopped pecans (optional)
* 2 tablespoons butter, cold and cubed
**Instructions:**
1. **Preheat Oven:** Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. **Prepare the Sweet Potato Mixture:** In a large bowl, combine the mashed sweet potatoes, brown sugar, melted butter, milk, vanilla extract, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Mix well until smooth.
3. **Transfer to Baking Dish:** Pour the sweet potato mixture into a greased 8×8 inch baking dish.
4. **Prepare the Waffle Chip Topping:** In a separate bowl, combine the crushed Lay’s IHOP Waffle chips, chopped pecans (if using), and cold cubed butter. Use your fingers to crumble the mixture until it resembles coarse crumbs.
5. **Sprinkle Topping:** Sprinkle the waffle chip topping evenly over the sweet potato mixture.
6. **Bake:** Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the topping is golden brown and the casserole is heated through.
7. **Serve:** Let the casserole cool slightly before serving.
**Tips and Variations:**
* Add a tablespoon of orange zest to the sweet potato mixture for a brighter flavor.
* Use marshmallow fluff instead of brown sugar in the sweet potato mixture for a sweeter casserole.
* Substitute walnuts or almonds for pecans in the topping.
* For a richer topping, add a tablespoon of maple syrup to the waffle chip mixture.
Recipe 3: Waffle Chip and Chocolate Bark
This easy-to-make bark is the perfect sweet treat for any occasion, combining the salty-sweet flavor of the waffle chips with rich chocolate.
**Ingredients:**
* 12 ounces semi-sweet chocolate chips
* 1/2 cup Lay’s IHOP Waffle chips, roughly chopped
* 1/4 cup chopped pretzels
* 2 tablespoons sprinkles (optional)
**Instructions:**
1. **Melt the Chocolate:** Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. In a heatproof bowl set over a saucepan of simmering water (or in the microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring in between), melt the chocolate chips until smooth.
2. **Spread the Chocolate:** Pour the melted chocolate onto the prepared baking sheet and spread it into an even layer.
3. **Add Toppings:** Sprinkle the chopped Lay’s IHOP Waffle chips, pretzels, and sprinkles (if using) evenly over the melted chocolate.
4. **Chill:** Place the baking sheet in the refrigerator and chill for at least 30 minutes, or until the chocolate is firm.
5. **Break into Pieces:** Once the chocolate is firm, break it into pieces and serve.
**Tips and Variations:**
* Use different types of chocolate, such as milk chocolate or dark chocolate, for a different flavor profile.
* Add other toppings, such as chopped nuts, dried fruit, or mini marshmallows.
* Drizzle melted white chocolate over the bark for a decorative touch.
* For a peppermint twist, add a few drops of peppermint extract to the melted chocolate and sprinkle crushed candy canes on top.
Recipe 4: Waffle Chip Parfait with Yogurt and Berries
Start your day with a delicious and nutritious parfait that combines the sweet and savory flavors of the waffle chips with creamy yogurt and fresh berries.
**Ingredients:**
* 1 cup Greek yogurt
* 1/2 cup mixed berries (strawberries, blueberries, raspberries)
* 1/4 cup Lay’s IHOP Waffle chips, crushed
* 1 tablespoon honey (optional)
**Instructions:**
1. **Layer Ingredients:** In a glass or parfait dish, layer the Greek yogurt, mixed berries, and crushed Lay’s IHOP Waffle chips. Repeat the layers until the glass is full.
2. **Drizzle with Honey (Optional):** If desired, drizzle with honey for added sweetness.
3. **Serve:** Serve immediately.
**Tips and Variations:**
* Use different types of yogurt, such as vanilla yogurt or fruit-flavored yogurt.
* Add other fruits, such as bananas, peaches, or mangoes.
* Substitute granola for the waffle chips for a different texture.
* Add a sprinkle of chia seeds or flax seeds for added nutrients.
Recipe 5: Waffle Chip and Peanut Butter Energy Bites
These no-bake energy bites are a quick and easy snack that’s perfect for on-the-go.
**Ingredients:**
* 1 cup rolled oats
* 1/2 cup peanut butter
* 1/4 cup honey
* 1/4 cup Lay’s IHOP Waffle chips, crushed
* 2 tablespoons chia seeds
* 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
**Instructions:**
1. **Combine Ingredients:** In a large bowl, combine the rolled oats, peanut butter, honey, crushed Lay’s IHOP Waffle chips, chia seeds, and vanilla extract. Mix well until everything is evenly combined.
2. **Roll into Balls:** Roll the mixture into bite-sized balls.
3. **Chill:** Place the energy bites in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to firm up.
4. **Serve:** Serve chilled.
**Tips and Variations:**
* Use different types of nut butter, such as almond butter or cashew butter.
* Add other ingredients, such as chocolate chips, dried cranberries, or chopped nuts.
* Substitute maple syrup for honey for a vegan option.
* Roll the energy bites in shredded coconut or cocoa powder for a decorative touch.
Recipe 6: Waffle Chip Trail Mix
Create your own customized trail mix with the addition of Lay’s IHOP Waffle chips for a sweet and savory snack.
**Ingredients:**
* 1 cup mixed nuts (almonds, cashews, peanuts)
* 1/2 cup dried cranberries
* 1/2 cup chocolate chips
* 1/2 cup pretzels
* 1/2 cup Lay’s IHOP Waffle chips, broken into pieces
**Instructions:**
1. **Combine Ingredients:** In a large bowl, combine the mixed nuts, dried cranberries, chocolate chips, pretzels, and Lay’s IHOP Waffle chips.
2. **Mix Well:** Mix well until everything is evenly distributed.
3. **Store:** Store in an airtight container.
4. **Serve:** Enjoy as a snack on the go.
**Tips and Variations:**
* Add other ingredients, such as sunflower seeds, pumpkin seeds, or granola.
* Use different types of chocolate, such as white chocolate or dark chocolate.
* Add a sprinkle of cinnamon or chili powder for a flavor boost.
* Adjust the proportions of each ingredient to your liking.
Recipe 7: Waffle Chip-Crusted French Toast
Give your French toast a sweet and crunchy makeover with a waffle chip crust.
**Ingredients:**
* 6 slices of bread (challah, brioche, or Texas toast work well)
* 2 large eggs
* 1/2 cup milk
* 1/4 teaspoon cinnamon
* 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
* 1/4 cup Lay’s IHOP Waffle chips, finely crushed
* 2 tablespoons butter
* Maple syrup, for serving
**Instructions:**
1. **Prepare the Egg Mixture:** In a shallow dish, whisk together the eggs, milk, cinnamon, and vanilla extract.
2. **Crush the Chips:** Place the Lay’s IHOP Waffle chips in a resealable bag and crush them into fine crumbs using a rolling pin or food processor. Transfer the crumbs to a shallow dish.
3. **Dredge the Bread:** Dip each slice of bread into the egg mixture, making sure to coat both sides. Then, press the bread into the crushed chips, coating both sides evenly.
4. **Cook the French Toast:** Melt the butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Cook the French toast for 2-3 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through.
5. **Serve:** Serve hot with maple syrup.
**Tips and Variations:**
* Add a tablespoon of orange zest to the egg mixture for a brighter flavor.
* Use almond milk instead of regular milk for a dairy-free option.
* Add a sprinkle of powdered sugar to the French toast before serving.
* Top with fresh berries or whipped cream for a decadent treat.
Recipe 8: Waffle Chip Ice Cream Topping
Elevate your ice cream sundae with a sprinkle of crushed waffle chips for added flavor and texture.
**Ingredients:**
* Your favorite ice cream
* Lay’s IHOP Waffle chips, crushed
* Optional toppings: chocolate sauce, caramel sauce, whipped cream, sprinkles, cherries
**Instructions:**
1. **Scoop Ice Cream:** Scoop your favorite ice cream into a bowl or cone.
2. **Sprinkle with Chips:** Sprinkle the crushed Lay’s IHOP Waffle chips over the ice cream.
3. **Add Optional Toppings:** Add your favorite toppings, such as chocolate sauce, caramel sauce, whipped cream, sprinkles, and cherries.
4. **Serve:** Serve immediately.
**Tips and Variations:**
* Warm the waffle chips slightly in the microwave for a softer texture.
* Drizzle melted chocolate over the chips for a chocolatey twist.
* Use different flavors of ice cream to complement the waffle chip flavor.
* Create a waffle chip sundae bar with a variety of toppings for a fun and interactive dessert.
Recipe 9: Waffle Chip-Stuffed Dates
A sweet and savory treat that’s surprisingly satisfying.
**Ingredients:**
* 10 Medjool dates, pitted
* 1/4 cup cream cheese, softened
* 2 tablespoons Lay’s IHOP Waffle chips, finely crushed
* Optional: chopped walnuts or pecans
**Instructions:**
1. **Prepare the Dates:** Gently open each pitted date.
2. **Mix the Filling:** In a small bowl, combine the softened cream cheese and crushed Lay’s IHOP Waffle chips. If desired, add chopped nuts.
3. **Stuff the Dates:** Spoon a small amount of the cream cheese mixture into each date.
4. **Serve:** Serve immediately or chill for later.
**Tips and Variations:**
* Use goat cheese instead of cream cheese for a tangier flavor.
* Drizzle with honey or maple syrup for added sweetness.
* Add a sprinkle of sea salt for a salty-sweet combination.
* Toast the walnuts or pecans before chopping for a richer flavor.
Recipe 10: Savory Waffle Chip Dip
Transform the sweet waffle chips into a savory dip by balancing flavors with cream cheese and spices.
**Ingredients:**
* 8 oz cream cheese, softened
* 1/4 cup sour cream
* 1/4 cup Lay’s IHOP Waffle chips, finely crushed
* 2 tablespoons chopped green onions
* 1 tablespoon chopped fresh cilantro
* 1 teaspoon lime juice
* 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
* 1/4 teaspoon chili powder
* Salt and pepper to taste
**Instructions:**
1. **Combine Ingredients:** In a medium bowl, beat together the softened cream cheese and sour cream until smooth and creamy.
2. **Add Flavor:** Stir in the crushed Lay’s IHOP Waffle chips, green onions, cilantro, lime juice, garlic powder, and chili powder.
3. **Season:** Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. **Chill:** Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
5. **Serve:** Serve with vegetables, crackers, or tortilla chips.
**Tips and Variations:**
* Add a pinch of cayenne pepper for a spicy kick.
* Use Greek yogurt instead of sour cream for a healthier option.
* Add a squeeze of sriracha for extra heat.
* Garnish with extra green onions or cilantro before serving.
Conclusion
The Lay’s IHOP Waffle chips offer a unique and exciting flavor profile that can be incorporated into a variety of delicious recipes. From sweet treats like chocolate bark and parfaits to savory dishes like chicken tenders and sweet potato casserole, the possibilities are endless. So, grab a bag of these limited-edition chips at Walmart and get creative in the kitchen. These recipes are just a starting point – feel free to experiment and create your own waffle chip-inspired culinary masterpieces! Remember to share your creations on social media and tag Lay’s and IHOP to show off your innovative ideas.