Sweet, tangy, and utterly irresistible, these Strawberry Waffles are a breakfast dream come true! Fluffy on the inside, perfectly crisp on the outside, and drizzled with homemade strawberry syrup, this recipe transforms an ordinary morning into a celebration of everything you love about strawberries—in every single bite.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Fresh Strawberry Flavor: Real strawberries (fresh or frozen!) infuse both the syrup and the waffle batter with pure, natural sweetness in every bite.
- Fluffy & Crisp Texture: These waffles strike that magical balance between soft, airy centers and delightfully crisp golden edges.
- Make-Ahead Friendly: Both the waffles and syrup keep beautifully, so you can savor Strawberry Waffles even on busy mornings.
- Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a lazy brunch, a special birthday, or just because, this recipe adds a pop of color and joy to your table.
Ingredients You’ll Need
You don’t need a long grocery list for these Strawberry Waffles—just a handful of kitchen staples and a few strawberries! Every ingredient has a delicious role to play, from creating an ultra-fluffy batter, to crafting the sweet, rosy syrup that makes these waffles one-of-a-kind.
- Fresh or Frozen Strawberries: The heart and soul of the flavor; they’re simmered for the syrup and can top your waffles for extra berry love.
- All Purpose Flour: Provides the perfect foundation for sturdy yet tender waffles.
- Granulated Sugar: Sweetens both the syrup and the waffles for a balance you’ll crave.
- Unsalted Butter: Adds rich flavor and moisture—don’t skip that final swirl in the syrup!
- Freeze Dried Strawberry Powder: Intensifies the strawberry flavor and lends a gorgeous blush to your waffles.
- Baking Powder & Baking Soda: The powerful duo that ensures each waffle turns out sky-high and feather-light.
- Whole Milk: Gives the batter richness and a silky consistency.
- Eggs: Bring structure and that classic waffle fluff.
- Vanilla Extract: A dash of pure comfort that pairs beautifully with strawberries.
- Red Food Coloring (optional): A splash for vivid pink waffles (totally fun, but not essential).
- Kosher Salt: Just a touch to balance out the sweetness.
- Homemade Whipped Cream & Extra Strawberries (for serving): The only way to finish these beauties!
Variations
The best part about Strawberry Waffles? They’re incredibly flexible! Whether you need a gluten-free swap or want to jazz things up with different flavors, you can easily customize this recipe to suit your family’s taste and dietary needs.
- Gluten-Free Strawberry Waffles: Swap in your favorite 1:1 gluten-free flour mix—your waffles will still be perfectly fluffy.
- Dairy-Free Version: Use plant-based milk and vegan butter for a deliciously dairy-free result.
- Blueberry Twist: Substitute freeze-dried blueberry powder for strawberry and top with blueberry syrup for a fun flavor swap.
- Chocolate Lovers’ Treat: Add mini chocolate chips to the batter for a decadent chocolate-strawberry vibe!
How to Make Strawberry Waffles
Step 1: Simmer the Strawberries for Syrup
Start by adding your strawberries and water to a saucepan over low heat. Let them gently bubble away for around 15-20 minutes—you’ll see them soften, their color fading as the water turns a deep, fragrant red. This is where all that big, bold berry flavor begins!
Step 2: Strain and Reduce the Syrup
Pour the strawberry mixture through a fine mesh strainer, pressing gently to extract every last drop of that gorgeous berry liquid. Discard the leftover strawberries, then return the liquid to the stove, cooking until reduced by half. Stir in the sugar and let it simmer just a few more minutes until thickened, finishing with a swirl of butter for a silky shine. Let it cool before pouring into a jar—you’ll want to drizzle this on everything!
Step 3: Mix the Dry Waffle Ingredients
In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, granulated sugar, strawberry powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. This blends all the essentials for fluffy, strawberry-perfumed waffles from the very first scoop.
Step 4: Whisk the Wet Ingredients
In a separate bowl, combine the milk, eggs, melted butter, and vanilla. Whisk until smooth and creamy—if you’re after a rosy blush, now’s the time for a few drops of red food coloring! The color will make your Strawberry Waffles extra fun, especially for special occasions.
Step 5: Combine and Cook
Pour the wet mixture into the dry and mix until just combined—don’t overmix, or your waffles can turn tough. The batter should be thick but scoopable. Preheat your waffle maker, then add the batter according to your machine’s instructions (usually 3/4 cup for standard machines). Cook until the waffles are golden, puffed, and crisp at the edges. Repeat with the remaining batter, keeping finished waffles warm in the oven if you’d like them extra crispy.
Step 6: Top and Serve
Now for the grand finale! Layer your Strawberry Waffles with clouds of homemade whipped cream, a flurry of sliced fresh strawberries, and an irresistible drizzle of your homemade strawberry syrup. Dig in while they’re hot and enjoy a breakfast that’s every bit as beautiful as it is delicious!
Pro Tips for Making Strawberry Waffles
- Batter Consistency Matters: If your waffle batter feels a bit too thick, add milk one tablespoon at a time—a pourable batter yields lighter, crisper waffles!
- Freeze Dried Strawberry Powder Perfection: For the most intense flavor and color, go with a high-quality freeze dried strawberry powder (and be generous if you love a bolder berry flavor).
- Keep Them Crispy: Place cooked waffles on a wire rack set inside a baking sheet and keep in a 200°F oven until serving; this keeps air circulating and prevents sogginess.
- Make the Syrup Ahead: The strawberry syrup stores beautifully and actually tastes even better after a day or two, so feel free to prepare it in advance for easy breakfast magic.
How to Serve Strawberry Waffles
Garnishes
No Strawberry Waffles are complete without a lush crown of homemade whipped cream, a handful of fresh sliced strawberries, and a generous drizzle of that ruby-red strawberry syrup. For an extra gourmet touch, try a sprinkle of powdered sugar or a dusting of more freeze dried strawberry powder!
Side Dishes
Pair your Strawberry Waffles with crispy bacon or savory breakfast sausage for a classic sweet-and-savory combo. A side of scrambled eggs or a bright fruit salad keeps the meal light, balanced, and deliciously satisfying for brunches or family breakfasts.
Creative Ways to Present
Try stacking mini waffles into a delightful tower, weaving in whipped cream and strawberries between each layer for a show-stopping brunch centerpiece. Or cut your waffles into heart shapes with a cookie cutter for Valentine’s Day, baby showers, or any festive morning when you want to add extra cheer!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once completely cool, leftover Strawberry Waffles keep well in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Layer parchment or wax paper between each waffle to prevent sticking, so you can enjoy a fresh-tasting treat even days later!
Freezing
These waffles are freezer all-stars! Just separate each with parchment or wax paper, wrap tightly, and store in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. This way, you can whip up a batch and have Strawberry Waffles at your fingertips for busy mornings or impromptu brunch cravings.
Reheating
No soggy waffles here—reheat in a preheated 350°F oven for 5-10 minutes for that just-made crisp, or pop them in the toaster for speedy, golden results. Both options bring back that irresistible texture and fresh-from-the-iron magic.
FAQs
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Can I use frozen strawberries for the syrup?
Absolutely! Frozen strawberries work just as beautifully as fresh—simply add them straight from the freezer; there’s no need to thaw. They’ll release their juices as they simmer, yielding a deliciously vibrant syrup.
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What if I can’t find freeze dried strawberry powder?
If strawberry powder isn’t available, you can pulse freeze dried strawberries in a blender or food processor until finely powdered. It’s easy to make at home, and the flavor is amazing!
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Can I make the batter ahead of time?
Waffle batter is best cooked right after mixing to maximize fluffiness, but you can prep the dry and wet ingredients separately a day ahead and combine them just before cooking for quick morning assembly.
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How do I prevent my waffles from getting soggy?
To keep Strawberry Waffles crisp, let them rest on a wire rack (not a plate!) after cooking and store any extras in a single layer, which allows air to circulate and preserves that magical crunch.
Final Thoughts
If you’re looking for a bright, berry-filled way to elevate your mornings, these Strawberry Waffles are pure joy on a plate. Whether you serve them at a special brunch or just as a treat-yourself breakfast, one bite will have everyone asking for seconds—so don’t be surprised when these become a cherished family favorite!
PrintStrawberry Waffles Recipe
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 6 6-inch waffles 1x
- Category: Breakfast/Brunch
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Delight in these fluffy and flavorful Strawberry Waffles topped with homemade strawberry syrup and whipped cream. A perfect treat for breakfast or brunch!
Ingredients
Strawberry Syrup
- 1 cup strawberries, fresh or frozen
- 1 cup water
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
Waffles
- 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup freeze-dried strawberry powder
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/4 teaspoon kosher salt
- 2 cups whole milk
- 2 large eggs, room temperature
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2–3 drops red food coloring, optional
Serve With
- homemade whipped cream
- fresh strawberries
Instructions
- Strawberry Syrup – Place strawberries and water in a saucepan, simmer for 15-20 minutes until soft. Strain, boil the liquid, add sugar, simmer until thickened. Remove from heat, stir in butter, cool.
- Waffles – Whisk dry ingredients. Whisk wet ingredients separately, combine. Add food coloring if desired. Cook in preheated waffle maker. Keep warm in oven.
Notes
- Store leftover waffles in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Freeze waffles individually wrapped for up to 3 months.
- Reheat in the oven or toaster until warm and crispy.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 waffle
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 20g
- Sodium: 300mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 55g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 7g
- Cholesterol: 85mg