When Breakfast Feels Like a Hug: The Magic of Buttermilk Belgian Waffles
Let’s be honest — some breakfasts are just… breakfast. Others are a whole event. And nothing says “slow morning joy” quite like a stack of buttermilk Belgian waffles with strawberries. They’re golden, crispy on the outside, light and fluffy on the inside, and when you top them with fresh strawberries and whipped cream? Pure morning bliss.
Whether you’re treating yourself to a relaxing weekend or hosting a cozy brunch, this classic combo never fails to delight.
Why Buttermilk Makes a Better Waffle
Buttermilk isn’t just there for tradition or flavor — it serves a real purpose in this recipe.
Here’s why it matters:
| Reason | Benefit |
|---|---|
| Acidic nature | Reacts with baking soda for fluffier waffles |
| Tenderizer | Breaks down gluten to create a softer texture |
| Flavor enhancer | Adds subtle tang that balances sweetness |
So if you’ve ever wondered what makes Belgian waffles taste better at that one café you love? It’s probably buttermilk.
Belgian vs. Regular Waffles — What’s the Difference?
Let’s clear this up: Belgian waffles aren’t just bigger. They’re better. Here’s why:
- Thicker and fluffier thanks to deeper waffle iron grids
- Crispier on the outside, tender on the inside
- Perfect for holding toppings like fruit, syrup, whipped cream, or even chocolate drizzle
If you’ve got a Belgian waffle maker, now’s the time to pull it out. If not, a regular one still works — you’ll just get a slightly flatter, but still delicious, version.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Most of these are pantry staples, which means you’re already halfway there. Here’s the breakdown:
🧁 Waffle Batter:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
- 2 teaspoons baking powder
- ½ teaspoon baking soda
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 2 large eggs
- 2 cups buttermilk
- ½ cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
🍓 Strawberry Topping:
- 2 cups fresh strawberries, sliced
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon sugar (optional, depending on sweetness)
🥄 Optional Extras:
- Whipped cream
- Maple syrup or honey
- Fresh mint for garnish
Step-by-Step Instructions: How to Make Buttermilk Belgian Waffles with Strawberries
Ready to make breakfast magic? Here’s how.
1. Prep the Strawberries
Start with this so the berries can macerate (aka soften and get juicy).
- Slice strawberries into halves or quarters.
- Add lemon juice and sugar.
- Stir and set aside while you make the waffles.
This simple step transforms strawberries into a saucy, naturally sweet topping.
2. Make the Batter
- In one bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
- In another bowl, whisk eggs, then add buttermilk, melted butter, and vanilla.
- Pour wet into dry and stir just until combined — a few lumps are okay. Tip: Overmixing = tough waffles. Let it stay a little imperfect.
3. Heat the Waffle Iron
Preheat your waffle iron according to manufacturer instructions. Brush lightly with butter or spray with nonstick oil.
4. Cook the Waffles
- Pour about ⅔ to 1 cup of batter into the center of the iron (adjust based on size).
- Close and cook until golden brown and crisp, usually 4–5 minutes.
- Remove carefully and keep warm on a wire rack in a 200°F oven.
Repeat until all the batter is used.
5. Top and Serve
Plate the waffles, spoon over those juicy strawberries, and top with whipped cream or syrup. A few mint leaves make it look like you really know what you’re doing.
Make-Ahead Tips
Mornings can be hectic. Here’s how to keep it chill:
🔄 Waffles:
- Refrigerate: Store in an airtight container for 3 days.
- Freeze: Cool completely, wrap individually, and freeze for up to 2 months.
- Reheat: Pop into toaster or oven to restore crispness.
🍓 Strawberries:
- Prep up to 24 hours in advance. Store covered in the fridge.
This means your dream breakfast is just a reheat away.
Variations to Try
Once you’ve mastered the classic, have fun with it! These waffles love to play dress-up.
🍫 Chocolate Chip Waffles
Add ½ cup mini chocolate chips to the batter.
🍌 Banana Walnut
Fold in 1 mashed banana and ⅓ cup chopped walnuts.
🍯 Honey Greek Yogurt
Top waffles with a dollop of Greek yogurt and a drizzle of honey instead of syrup.
🧇 Savory Twist
Omit sugar and vanilla in the batter, then top with fried eggs, bacon, or avocado for a savory version.
Best Drinks to Pair With Your Waffles
No great breakfast is complete without something to sip on. Here’s what we recommend:
| Drink | Why It Works |
|---|---|
| Fresh orange juice | Bright, citrusy contrast to the sweet waffles |
| Cold brew coffee | Balances the richness |
| Matcha latte | Adds earthy balance |
| Sparkling water with lemon | Refreshing cleanse between bites |
For a fancy brunch, maybe even a mimosa or sparkling cider.
Why This Recipe Works for Everyone
What makes this recipe special isn’t just the fluffy waffles or the sweet strawberries — it’s that it fits any kind of breakfast mood.
- Kids love it because: whipped cream + waffles = happy faces
- Adults love it because: it’s satisfying without being heavy
- Brunch hosts love it because: it’s easy to scale and looks impressive
- Busy folks love it because: it freezes and reheats beautifully
There’s a reason waffles are beloved around the world — they’re comforting, customizable, and always welcome.
Nutrition Snapshot (Per Serving – 2 Waffles + Strawberries)
| Nutrient | Approx. Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 320 kcal |
| Fat | 14g |
| Saturated Fat | 8g |
| Carbohydrates | 40g |
| Fiber | 3g |
| Sugar | 10g |
| Protein | 7g |
| Sodium | 360mg |
Note: Exact values will vary based on toppings and waffle iron size.
FAQs – You Asked, We Answered
❓ Can I use milk instead of buttermilk?
You can, but the texture and flavor will be slightly different. To DIY buttermilk, add 1 tablespoon lemon juice or vinegar to 1 cup milk and let sit for 5–10 minutes.
❓ Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes! Just use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend and double-check that your baking powder is gluten-free.
❓ Can I make it vegan?
You can try! Use plant-based milk + lemon (for “buttermilk”), melted vegan butter or oil, and an egg replacer (like flax eggs). Texture may vary slightly.
❓ Can I use frozen strawberries?
Absolutely. Just thaw and drain excess water before using. You can also warm them slightly in a pan for a syrupy topping.
When Waffles Become a Morning Ritual
There’s something inherently joyful about breakfast when it includes a golden waffle topped with glistening red strawberries. It slows time down, fills the house with warmth, and gives you something to look forward to — even before the coffee kicks in.
So the next time you want to make your morning a little more special (or impress a certain someone), these buttermilk Belgian waffles with strawberries are the move.
They’re simple. They’re elegant. And they taste like love on a plate.
🧇 Hungry for More?
Browse more comforting brunch recipes and cozy breakfast ideas in our food section — where every bite is made with flavor and heart.
