This Banana Waffle Recipe is your ultimate solution for those forgotten, overripe bananas sitting on your kitchen counter! Forget the usual banana bread; these waffles are a true game-changer. Imagine perfectly golden-brown waffles, boasting irresistibly crispy edges and a wonderfully soft, moist, cake-like interior. Each bite is infused with a delightful natural sweetness from the bananas and a warm, comforting hint of cinnamon. They’re incredibly easy to whip up and are guaranteed to become a cherished family favorite for breakfast, brunch, or even a delightful dessert.
Craving more delicious ways to start your day? Don’t miss our beloved Banana Pancakes or these incredibly tasty Gluten-Free Banana Pancakes next!
From the Author’s Kitchen
Banana Waffles You’ll Absolutely Crave Every Single Morning!
You might remember those incredibly popular chocolate chip waffles I shared a while back? Well, my kids are still absolutely obsessed, begging for them on repeat! They’re also huge fans of my comforting cinnamon pumpkin waffles with caramel syrup, especially during the autumn season. As a busy parent, I’ve mastered a simple strategy for tackling hectic mornings: I often make large batches of waffles, freeze the extras, and then just pop them into the toaster whenever we need a quick, warm, and delicious breakfast.
One particular day, I noticed a bunch of very brown, spotty bananas sitting patiently on the kitchen counter. They were beyond perfect for baking, but I wanted something different than the usual banana bread. That’s when a brilliant idea struck me: “What if I added one of these super ripe bananas to my regular waffle batter?” That simple thought quickly evolved into a dedicated mission to develop the absolute best banana waffle recipe—one that would truly stand out.
After numerous test runs, careful adjustments to the ingredients, and a lot of very happy taste-testers (my kids were definitely enthusiastic participants!), this recipe officially earned its place as a staple in our household. These banana waffles are wonderfully sweet, with a remarkably tender and fluffy interior that beautifully contrasts with a satisfyingly crispy exterior. The banana flavor is perfectly balanced—distinct and delicious without ever being overwhelming. They are so incredibly good, you’ll find yourself looking forward to every single bite!
Key Ingredients for the Perfect Banana Waffles
Crafting these utterly amazing banana waffles requires just a few straightforward, pantry-friendly ingredients. Here’s a detailed look at what you’ll need, along with some expert tips and potential swaps to ensure your waffles are nothing short of perfect:
| Ingredient | Swaps & Expert Tips |
|---|---|
| Overripe Bananas | These are absolutely the star ingredient! For the richest, sweetest, and most pronounced banana flavor in your waffles, always opt for bananas that are heavily spotted with brown or even mostly black. No ripe bananas on hand? No problem! You can quickly ripen them by baking unpeeled bananas at 350°F (175°C) for 7-8 minutes until their skins turn completely black. Let them cool, discard any liquid that seeps out, then mash them thoroughly until smooth. |
| All-Purpose Flour | This forms the essential structural base of our fluffy waffles. For a slightly nuttier flavor and a boost of fiber, you can easily substitute half of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour. If you need a gluten-free option, a high-quality 1:1 gluten-free baking blend works exceptionally well in this recipe, ensuring delicious results. |
| Baking Powder | This is a crucial leavening agent responsible for giving your waffles that desirable light and airy, fluffy texture. Always ensure your baking powder is fresh! To test its potency, simply mix a teaspoon into a small bowl of hot water. If it fizzes vigorously, it’s still active. If not, it’s definitely time to replace it for optimal lift. |
| Whole Milk | Provides essential moisture and contributes to the richness and tender crumb of the waffle batter. Whole milk will yield the most luxurious and creamy waffles. However, if you prefer a dairy-free option, unsweetened oat milk or almond milk can be used as a direct substitute. Just make sure it’s at room temperature for a smoother, lump-free batter. Any leftover milk can be used in our fantastic crepe recipe! |
| Unsalted Butter | Adds incredible flavor, richness, and contributes to those delightful crispy edges. It’s important to melt the butter and then allow it to cool slightly before incorporating it into the batter. For a dairy-free alternative, an equal amount of melted coconut oil or a neutral-flavored vegetable oil (like canola or grapeseed) will also work beautifully. |
| Ground Cinnamon | Adds a wonderfully warm, aromatic spice that perfectly complements and enhances the sweet banana flavor. Feel free to experiment and customize by adding other warm spices like a pinch of ground nutmeg, a dash of allspice, or even a “pumpkin pie spice” blend for a unique seasonal twist. |
| Large Eggs | Eggs play a vital role in binding all the ingredients together, adding richness, and contributing to the overall structure and tenderness of the waffles. Using room temperature eggs is highly recommended as they incorporate much more smoothly into the batter, leading to a more consistent and even texture. |
| Vanilla Extract | A touch of pure vanilla extract elevates and enhances all the other flavors in the waffles, adding a subtle layer of sweetness and aromatic depth. Always opt for pure vanilla extract for the best possible flavor profile. |
| Light Brown Sugar | Adds sweetness and a distinct, subtle molasses note that pairs exceptionally well with bananas, creating a more complex flavor. Light brown sugar, lightly packed, is ideal, but granulated sugar can also be used as a direct substitute if that’s what you have on hand. |
| Salt | Just a small amount of salt is essential for balancing the sweetness of the bananas and sugar, and it also plays a crucial role in bringing out the full depth of flavor in the waffles. Don’t skip it! |
Prepping all your ingredients and having them measured out before you begin mixing will make the entire waffle-making process much smoother, more efficient, and ultimately more enjoyable!
Mastering the Best Banana Waffle Recipe: A Detailed Step-by-Step Guide
Creating these irresistibly fluffy and flavorful banana waffles is surprisingly simple! Follow these easy-to-understand steps to achieve perfectly crispy yet tender waffles every single time.
- Prepare Wet Ingredients with Care (Temperature is Key!): For the smoothest batter and optimal results, it’s crucial that your wet ingredients are at room temperature. Start by thoroughly mashing 2 overripe bananas until they reach an applesauce-like consistency; this should yield approximately 2/3 cup. Set the mashed banana aside. Next, melt the butter and allow it to cool completely to room temperature. Gently warm your milk in the microwave for a few seconds, or simply let it sit out to naturally reach room temperature. For your eggs, you can quickly bring them to room temperature by placing them (still in their shells) under warm running water for about 5 minutes. This careful temperature consistency is vital as it prevents the butter from solidifying and the batter from becoming clumpy when combined.
- Combine Dry Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, meticulously whisk together the all-purpose flour, salt, baking powder, ground cinnamon, and the optional touch of ground nutmeg. Ensure these dry ingredients are very well combined to guarantee that the leavening agents and aromatic spices are evenly distributed throughout the batter, leading to consistent flavor and rise.
- Integrate Wet into Dry and Mix Gently: Now, add the light brown sugar, your prepared mashed bananas, room temperature milk, vanilla extract, and the room temperature eggs to the dry ingredient mixture. Begin to whisk these together until they are just barely combined. While continuously whisking, slowly drizzle in the melted and thoroughly cooled butter. Continue whisking until the batter appears smooth, but be extremely careful not to overmix! Overmixing develops the gluten in the flour too much, which can lead to tough, dense waffles instead of the desired light and fluffy texture. A few small lumps in the batter are perfectly normal and acceptable.
- Allow the Batter to Rest for Optimal Fluffiness: This step is often overlooked but is crucial for superior waffles. Let your prepared waffle batter sit undisturbed at room temperature for at least 10 minutes, or even up to 30 minutes. This resting period allows the flour to fully hydrate and the baking powder to begin its magic, resulting in significantly fluffier, more tender, and better-textured waffles. If you are preparing the batter in advance, you can refrigerate it overnight (see Note 3 below for make-ahead batter).
- Preheat and Cook Your Waffles to Perfection: While the batter rests, preheat your nonstick waffle maker according to the manufacturer’s specific instructions. A properly heated iron is absolutely essential for achieving those coveted crispy exteriors. Once heated and ready, lightly grease the waffle iron plates (if your particular model requires it – but always avoid cooking spray on nonstick surfaces as it can cause a sticky buildup over time). Pour approximately 1/3 cup of batter into each waffle cavity (adjust this amount based on the size and depth of your specific waffle iron). Cook until each waffle is beautifully golden brown, wonderfully crisped on both sides, and thoroughly cooked through in the center.
- Keep Waffles Crispy and Warm for Serving: As you cook successive batches of waffles, transfer the finished ones to a wire cooling rack that has been placed over a large baking pan. You can then put this entire setup in a preheated 200°F (95°C) oven to keep the waffles warm and, crucially, to prevent them from becoming soggy while you finish cooking the entire batch. Serve your hot and delicious banana waffles immediately with your choice of delightful toppings!
Quick Tip: How to Speed-Ripen Bananas
If your bananas aren’t quite brown and spotty enough but you’re hit with an immediate craving for these delicious waffles, here’s a fantastic trick: place unpeeled bananas on a parchment-lined baking tray and bake them in an oven preheated to 350°F (175°C) for approximately 7-8 minutes, flipping them halfway through. Their skins will turn black, indicating that they are perfectly softened and sweetened inside. Allow them to cool down, discard any accumulated liquid, and then mash them thoroughly for your waffle recipe.
Storage & Make-Ahead Tips for Your Banana Waffles
These delightful banana waffles are fantastic when enjoyed fresh, but they also lend themselves beautifully to make-ahead and meal-prep options, making busy mornings a breeze. Here’s how to store them effectively:
- Fridge (Cooked Waffles): Allow any leftover cooked waffles to cool completely to room temperature before storing. This crucial step prevents condensation from forming, which can lead to soggy waffles. Once cooled, store them in an airtight container or a resealable freezer bag in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply pop them into a toaster, toaster oven, or a regular oven preheated to 300°F (150°C) until they are thoroughly warm and crispy again.
- Freezer (Cooked Waffles for Longer Storage): For longer-term storage, fully cool the banana waffles after cooking. For the best results and to prevent sticking, arrange them in a single layer on a parchment-lined baking sheet and freeze them until they are solid (this typically takes 1-2 hours). Once frozen firm, transfer the individual waffles to a freezer-safe bag or container, making sure to remove as much air as possible to prevent freezer burn. They can be safely frozen for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply take them straight from the freezer and toast them until they are heated through and delightfully crispy. It’s like having freshly made waffles in minutes!
- Make-Ahead Batter (Overnight Option): For ultimate morning convenience, you can prepare the waffle batter the night before. Simply follow the mixing instructions, then cover the bowl tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate it overnight. The next morning, give the batter a gentle stir (being careful not to overmix!) and then cook as usual in your preheated waffle maker. Allowing the batter to rest overnight often enhances the flavors and can even lead to an even better, more developed texture.
What to Serve with Your Banana Waffles: Delicious Pairings & Toppings
While these sweet and flavorful banana waffles are absolutely delicious all on their own, a few complementary sides and delightful toppings can elevate your breakfast or brunch experience to an entirely new level. Here are some of our favorite pairings and serving suggestions:
Savory Sides
Perfectly Fluffy Scrambled Eggs
A classic savory breakfast companion, light and fluffy scrambled eggs add a wonderful protein element and perfectly balance the sweetness of the waffles.
Sweet Toppings
Homemade Whipped Cream
Light, airy, and incredibly easy to prepare from scratch, homemade whipped cream adds a luxurious, creamy, and delightful touch to any waffle creation.
Savory Sides
Crispy Baked Bacon
The irresistible salty crunch of perfectly baked bacon provides a fantastic contrast to the sweet, soft, and fluffy texture of your banana waffles.
Essential Toppings
Homemade Pancake Syrup
Elevate your waffle experience with a rich, velvety homemade syrup that is truly far superior in flavor and quality compared to any store-bought alternative.
Beyond these classic pairings, consider fresh berries (strawberries, blueberries, raspberries), a sprinkle of chopped nuts (pecans or walnuts), a dollop of Greek yogurt for tang, or even a handful of mini chocolate chips for an extra decadent and delightful treat!
The Ultimate Banana Waffle Recipe
By Chelsea Lords
This Banana Waffle Recipe is the perfect way to transform those overripe bananas into a delightful breakfast or brunch! These waffles are incredibly sweet, subtly spiced with warm cinnamon, and boast a perfect balance of irresistibly crispy golden edges and tender, fluffy interiors that melt in your mouth.
15 minutes
5 minutes
20 minutes
12 waffles
Print Recipe
Equipment
- Waffle iron
- Large mixing bowls (2)
- Whisk
- Measuring cups and spoons
Ingredients
- 2-1/4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon salt (fine sea salt recommended)
- 4 teaspoons baking powder
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg (optional)
- 2 tablespoons light brown sugar (lightly packed, or granulated sugar)
- 2/3 cup mashed overripe banana (from approximately 2 large bananas, see Note 1)
- 1 cup whole milk (room temperature)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (pure vanilla recommended)
- 4 large eggs (room temperature)
- 6 tablespoons unsalted butter (melted and cooled)
For Serving (Optional Toppings)
- Maple syrup (or homemade brown sugar syrup, see Note 2)
- Sliced fresh banana
- Homemade whipped cream
- Chocolate chips, chopped nuts, or fresh berries
Instructions
- Prepare Wet Ingredients: Mash 2 overripe bananas to yield 2/3 cup; set aside. Melt butter and let it cool. Warm milk slightly or ensure it’s at room temperature. Bring eggs to room temperature. This temperature consistency prevents clumping.
- Combine Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together flour, salt, baking powder, cinnamon, and optional nutmeg until well combined.
- Mix Wet into Dry: Add brown sugar, mashed bananas, milk, vanilla, and eggs to the dry mixture. Whisk until just combined. Slowly drizzle in the cooled melted butter while continuing to whisk until smooth. Do not overmix.
- Rest the Batter: Let the batter sit at room temperature for 10-30 minutes. This hydrates the flour and activates leavening agents for fluffier waffles.
- Cook Waffles: Preheat your nonstick waffle maker according to instructions. Lightly grease if needed. Pour about 1/3 cup batter per cavity and cook until golden brown, crispy, and cooked through.
- Serve or Keep Warm: Place cooked waffles on a wire rack over a baking pan in a 200°F (95°C) oven to keep warm and crisp while finishing the batch. Serve immediately with desired toppings.
Recipe Notes
Note 1: Quick Ripening Bananas: For the best flavor, use very ripe, brown-spotted bananas. If you need to ripen bananas quickly, bake them unpeeled on a parchment-lined tray at 350°F (175°C) for 7-8 minutes (flipping halfway) until the skins turn black. Let cool, then mash. Discard any liquid.
Note 2: Homemade Brown Sugar Syrup: For a decadent topping, combine 1/2 cup unsalted butter, 1 cup light brown sugar, 1/2 cup heavy cream, and a pinch of salt in a medium pot. Cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until butter melts and syrup slightly thickens (5-8 minutes). Remove from heat and stir in 1 tablespoon vanilla extract. Serve warm.
Note 3: Keeping Waffles Crispy: To prevent cooked waffles from getting soggy, always place them on a wire cooling rack set over a large baking pan. For warmth, place the pan in a 200°F (95°C) oven while you continue cooking the batch.
Storage & Meal Prep: These waffles are excellent for making ahead!
- Fridge Storage (Cooked Waffles): Cool completely, then store in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat in a toaster or oven.
- Freezer Storage (Cooked Waffles): Cool completely, then freeze flat on a tray until solid. Transfer to a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months. Reheat directly from frozen in a toaster for a quick meal.
- Make-Ahead Batter (Overnight): Prepare the batter, cover, and refrigerate overnight. Stir gently in the morning before cooking. This can actually enhance the flavor and texture.
Nutrition Information (Approximate)
Calories: 187 kcal |
Carbohydrates: 24.1 g |
Protein: 5.4 g |
Fat: 7.7 g |
Cholesterol: 77.7 mg |
Sodium: 132 mg |
Fiber: 1.1 g |
Sugar: 4.2 g
Nutrition information is automatically calculated and should be used as an approximation only. Individual results may vary.
Expert Tips for the Best Homemade Banana Waffles Every Time
To ensure your banana waffles turn out perfectly delicious, crispy, and fluffy every single time, keep these essential expert tips in mind. These small details can make a significant difference in the final result:
- Embrace Your Overripe Bananas: The browner and spottier your bananas are, the better! Overripe bananas are naturally much sweeter and boast a more concentrated and desirable banana flavor. Don’t ever throw them out; they are truly a hidden gem for baking and making these incredible waffles!
- Mash Bananas Thoroughly: For a smooth, consistent batter and to ensure that the delicious banana flavor is evenly distributed throughout each waffle, mash your bananas very well. A sturdy fork can do the job, but an electric mixer or a potato masher can make quick work of creating a lump-free, applesauce-like consistency.
- Always Use Room Temperature Ingredients: This is a golden rule for many baking and breakfast recipes, and waffles are no exception. Room temperature eggs, milk, and cooled melted butter combine much more smoothly and easily, creating a homogeneous batter without unwanted lumps. This smooth consistency ultimately results in a far better and more tender waffle texture.
- Do Not Overmix the Batter: When combining your dry and wet ingredients, mix them until they are just barely combined. A few small lumps in the batter are perfectly fine and even desirable; don’t strive for absolute smoothness. Overmixing develops the gluten in the flour too much, which will lead to tough, chewy waffles instead of the light, airy, and fluffy ones you’re aiming for.
- Allow the Batter to Rest: Giving your prepared batter at least 10-15 minutes (or even up to 30 minutes at room temperature, or overnight in the fridge) is a crucial step. This resting period allows the flour to fully hydrate and the leavening agents to begin activating. The result is a significantly lighter, fluffier, and more tender waffle. Give it a gentle stir before cooking if it’s been sitting for a while.
- Properly Preheat Your Waffle Iron: A hot waffle iron is absolutely essential for achieving that glorious crispy exterior and even browning. Do not rush this step. Wait patiently until your waffle iron indicates it’s fully preheated (often with a light or beep) before adding any batter.
- Avoid Cooking Spray on Nonstick Irons: While cooking spray might seem convenient, it can build up a sticky, gummy residue on nonstick waffle irons over time, making them less effective and harder to clean. Instead, opt to lightly brush a small amount of melted butter or a neutral oil (like canola or grapeseed) onto the waffle plates before each waffle.
- Consider Investing in a Quality Waffle Maker: A good quality waffle iron can make a noticeable difference in the consistency and quality of your results. Look for models with even heat distribution and, if possible, adjustable temperature settings for more control over how crispy you like your waffles.
- Keep Cooked Waffles Warm and Crispy: As you cook multiple waffles, transfer the finished ones to a wire rack that has been placed over a baking sheet. Then, place this entire setup in a warm oven (around 200°F / 95°C). This simple method keeps them from getting soggy and ensures that all your delicious waffles are warm and ready to be served simultaneously.
- Customize Your Flavors: While cinnamon is a wonderful companion to bananas, don’t hesitate to experiment! You can add other warm spices like nutmeg, allspice, or a touch of cardamom. For extra texture and flavor, try folding in mini chocolate chips, chopped toasted pecans or walnuts, or even fresh blueberries into the batter before cooking.
We truly hope you love this ultimate banana waffle recipe as much as our family does! It’s a delightful and comforting way to start your day, effortlessly transforming simple, overripe bananas into a breakfast sensation that everyone will adore. Happy cooking!