Classic Buttermilk Waffle Recipe

Preheat

Preheat your waffle iron according to manufacturer instructions so it's hot when batter is ready. If it has heat settings, set to medium-high (for crisp exterior, tender interior).

In a large mixing bowl, whisk together 2 cups all-purpose flour, 2 tablespoons granulated sugar, 2 teaspoons baking powder, 1/2 teaspoon baking soda, and 1/2 teaspoon fine salt until evenly combined.

In a separate medium bowl or large liquid measuring cup, whisk together 2 cups buttermilk and 2 large eggs until smooth and slightly frothy.

Whisk in 6 tablespoons melted (and slightly cooled) unsalted butter and 1 teaspoon vanilla extract into the buttermilk-egg mixture until homogenous.

Make a well in the center of the dry ingredients. Pour the wet ingredients into the dry. Using a flexible spatula, gently fold the mixture until just combined. It's okay if there are a few small lumps — overmixing develops gluten and will make waffles tough.

Let the batter rest for 5–10 minutes at room temperature. This rest hydrates the flour and helps create a tender interior and slightly crisper exterior.

Lightly brush or spray the preheated waffle iron with a thin coat of vegetable oil or nonstick spray (about 1 teaspoon total; adjust as needed for your iron).

Use a ladle or measuring cup to portion batter onto the center of the hot waffle iron. For a standard Belgian waffle iron, use about 3/4 to 1 cup batter; for a classic (thinner) waffle iron, use 1/3 to 1/2 cup. Do not overfill — batter will spread.

Close the waffle iron and cook until waffles are golden brown and crisp. Cooking time varies by appliance: generally 3–5 minutes for Belgian irons, 2–4 minutes for thinner irons. Avoid opening early; rely on the waffle iron's ready indicator or visual cues (steam mostly stopped and surface is browned).

Carefully remove the cooked waffle with a fork or tongs and transfer to a wire rack in a warm oven (set to 200°F / 95°C) if making multiple waffles to keep them crisp. Stacking waffles directly on a plate traps steam and softens them.

Serve waffles immediately topped with butter, real maple syrup, fresh berries or fruit, and/or whipped cream as desired.

To reheat leftover waffles: place on a baking sheet in a 375°F (190°C) oven for 6–8 minutes or toast in a toaster until heated through and crisp.