Kids Waffle Recipe

Preheat and prepare

Preheat your waffle iron according to manufacturer instructions. Lightly grease with a little melted butter or nonstick spray so waffles don't stick.

Dry ingredients

In a medium bowl whisk together the all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, baking powder, and salt until well combined and no lumps remain.

Wet ingredients

In a separate bowl, beat the large egg lightly, then whisk in the milk, melted butter, and vanilla extract until combined.

Make batter

Pour the wet mixture into the dry ingredients and stir gently just until combined. Small lumps are okay — do not overmix or the waffles will be tough. Let the batter rest 3–5 minutes while the waffle iron finishes preheating.

Cook bacon on stovetop (crispy)

Place a large skillet over medium heat. Add the bacon slices in a single layer (work in two batches if needed). Cook 3–4 minutes per side for thin-cut bacon, or until golden and crispy. Transfer cooked bacon to a plate lined with paper towels to drain.

Alternative: oven method

For easier hands-off cooking, preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Lay bacon on a rimmed baking sheet lined with foil and a rack if available. Bake 12–18 minutes depending on thickness, until crisp. Drain on paper towels.

Keep warm

Keep the cooked bacon warm by placing it on a baking sheet in a low oven (about 200°F / 95°C) while you cook waffles, or tent with foil.

When the waffle iron is hot, pour an appropriate amount of batter into the center (usually 1/3 to 1/2 cup depending on your waffle iron size). Spread slightly toward edges but avoid overfilling. Close the lid and cook according to manufacturer instructions until steam subsides and the waffle is golden and crisp, usually 3–5 minutes.

Transfer the cooked waffle to a wire rack in a single layer to keep it crisp while you cook remaining waffles. Repeat with the remaining batter, re-greasing the iron as needed.

Place a waffle on each child's plate. Top each waffle with 2 slices of cooked bacon (or as desired). Add a small pat of unsalted butter on top and drizzle with maple syrup. Sprinkle powdered sugar or scatter fresh berries if using.

Serve immediately while waffles and bacon are warm. Leftover waffles can be cooled and reheated in a toaster or oven; store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.