Are you craving those incredibly light and fluffy waffles you get at First Watch? Forget the weekend wait! This recipe lets you recreate the magic of their famous waffles right in your own kitchen. It's easier than you think, and the result is a delicious, golden-brown waffle that's perfect for any morning. This recipe is a fantastic addition to your collection of easy recipes and healthy meals, offering a quick dinner idea if you're feeling creative! Get ready for homemade cooking at its best!
Ingredients:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
- 4 teaspoons baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 3/4 cups buttermilk
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted and slightly cooled
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
Get Started:
- Preheat your waffle iron according to the manufacturer's instructions. Lightly grease the iron with cooking spray or butter.
Prepare the Batter:
- In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. This ensures even distribution of the leavening agents.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the buttermilk, melted butter, egg, and vanilla extract.
- Gently pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and whisk until just combined. Don't overmix; a few lumps are okay. Overmixing develops the gluten and can lead to tough waffles.
Cook the Waffles:
- Pour about 1 cup of batter onto the hot waffle iron (the amount will depend on the size of your iron).
- Cook for 3-5 minutes, or until golden brown and crispy. Check your waffle iron's instructions for exact cooking time.
- Carefully remove the waffle from the iron and serve immediately.
Tips for Perfect Waffles:
- Don't overmix the batter: Overmixing leads to tough waffles. Mix just until the ingredients are combined.
- Let the batter rest: Allowing the batter to rest for 5-10 minutes before cooking allows the gluten to relax, resulting in lighter, fluffier waffles.
- Adjust cooking time: Cooking time may vary depending on your waffle iron. Start checking for doneness around the 3-minute mark.
- Experiment with toppings: Get creative with your toppings! Fresh berries, whipped cream, chocolate chips, maple syrup – the possibilities are endless.
Variations:
- Buttermilk Substitute: If you don't have buttermilk, you can make a substitute by adding 1 tablespoon of white vinegar or lemon juice to 1 3/4 cups of milk. Let it sit for 5 minutes before using.
- Add-ins: Get creative! Fold in blueberries, chocolate chips, bananas, or nuts to the batter before cooking for delicious variations.
- Whole Wheat Waffles: Substitute half of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour for a healthier twist.
Nutritional Information (per waffle, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 200-250
- Fat: 8-10g
- Protein: 4-5g
- Carbohydrates: 30-35g
This recipe delivers a delicious and easy-to-make breakfast or brunch option. Enjoy the homemade goodness and the satisfaction of creating a restaurant-quality meal at home! It's a perfect addition to your list of best recipes, and a great way to impress your family and friends. Enjoy!