If you're looking for a breakfast treat that’s both vegan and gluten-free, waffles may not be the first thing that comes to mind.

But don’t worry, Lykkers, we’ve got you covered!

With just a few simple swaps, you can whip up delicious, fluffy waffles that everyone can enjoy, whether they have dietary restrictions or not.

In this article, we’ll walk through some easy, tasty vegan and gluten-free waffle recipes, and give you tips on how to customize them to your liking. Let’s dive in!

The Base Ingredients

To create the perfect vegan and gluten-free waffles, you need to start with the basics. Traditional waffles rely on eggs, milk, and wheat flour, but we’re going to swap these for plant-based, gluten-free alternatives.

For the flour: You can use a variety of gluten-free flours. A popular choice is a gluten-free all-purpose blend, but other options like almond flour, oat flour, or even buckwheat flour can work just as well. Keep in mind that some flours might alter the texture slightly, but experimenting with different blends can yield fun results!

For the milk: Plant-based milk like almond, soy, or oat milk is a perfect substitute for dairy milk. These plant-based milks not only mimic the texture of regular milk but also add their subtle flavors.

For the eggs: In vegan baking, eggs are often replaced by ingredients like flaxseed meal, applesauce, or mashed bananas. Flaxseed meal is the go-to egg replacer for waffles. Simply mix one tablespoon of flaxseed meal with three tablespoons of water and let it sit for a few minutes to thicken. This mix will help bind your batter and give the waffles the structure they need.

Classic Vegan and Gluten-Free Waffles Recipe

Here’s a simple recipe to get you started on your waffle journey:

Ingredients:

- 1 ½ cups gluten-free all-purpose flour

- 1 tbsp flaxseed meal mixed with 3 tbsp water (flax egg)

- 1 ½ cups almond milk (or any plant-based milk)

- 2 tbsp coconut oil (melted)

- 2 tbsp maple syrup (for sweetness)

- 1 tsp vanilla extract

- 1 tsp baking powder

- A pinch of salt

Instructions:

1. Preheat your waffle iron and grease it with a little coconut oil.

2. In a small bowl, prepare your flax egg and set it aside.

3. In a large bowl, whisk together the gluten-free flour, baking powder, and salt.

4. In another bowl, mix the almond milk, melted coconut oil, maple syrup, and vanilla extract.

5. Add the flax egg to the wet ingredients and stir until combined.

6. Gradually add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients and stir until you have a smooth batter.

7. Pour the batter onto the waffle iron and cook according to the waffle maker’s instructions until golden brown and crispy.

8. Serve with your favorite toppings like fresh berries, bananas, and a drizzle of maple syrup.

Creative Variations

Once you’ve mastered the classic waffle recipe, you can get creative with flavors and toppings! Here are a few ideas to inspire you:

Cinnamon Apple Waffles: Add a teaspoon of cinnamon and finely chopped apples to the batter for a warm, cozy twist. Top with more apple slices and a sprinkle of cinnamon sugar.

Chocolate Chip Waffles: Stir in some vegan chocolate chips for a decadent breakfast treat. Serve with a drizzle of melted chocolate and some coconut whipped cream.

Savory Herb Waffles: Who says waffles have to be sweet? Try adding some chopped fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme, and serve them with avocado, sautéed spinach, and a sprinkle of vegan cheese for a savory brunch option.

Tips for Perfect Waffles

- Don’t overmix the batter! Gluten-free flours can become dense if overworked, so stir just until combined.

- Preheat your waffle iron to ensure the waffles cook evenly and get that crisp exterior.

- Grease the waffle iron between batches to prevent sticking, especially when using oil-free.

Wrapping It Up

Vegan and gluten-free waffles are an inclusive and delicious option for breakfast or brunch. Whether you’re serving someone with dietary restrictions or just want to try something new, these waffles are sure to satisfy. With a few simple substitutions and a little creativity, you can make fluffy, crispy waffles that everyone at the table will love.

4 Vegan Waffle Recipes you simply must try

Video by Mina Rome