Waffles With Strawberries & Cacao Nibs Recipe

Flour: The base of the waffle batter, providing structure and texture.

Sugar: Adds sweetness to the batter, balancing the flavors.

Baking powder: A leavening agent that helps the waffles rise and become fluffy.

Salt: Enhances the overall flavor of the waffles.

Eggs: Bind the ingredients together and add richness to the batter.

Milk: Provides moisture and helps create a smooth batter.

Vegetable oil: Adds fat to the batter, making the waffles tender and moist.

Vanilla extract: Adds a sweet and aromatic flavor to the batter.

Strawberries: Fresh fruit topping that adds sweetness and a burst of flavor.

Cacao nibs: Provide a crunchy texture and a slightly bitter chocolate flavor.

When mixing the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients, be careful not to overmix the batter. Overmixing can lead to tough and dense waffles. Instead, stir until the ingredients are just combined, even if there are a few lumps remaining. This will ensure your waffles are light and fluffy.

• all-purpose flour - Substitute with whole wheat flour: Adds more fiber and nutrients, though it may make the waffles denser.

• sugar - Substitute with honey: Provides a natural sweetness and adds a slight floral flavor.

• baking powder - Substitute with baking soda and cream of tartar: Use ¼ teaspoon baking soda and ½ teaspoon cream of tartar for each teaspoon of baking powder to achieve the same leavening effect.

• salt - Substitute with sea salt: Offers a slightly different mineral content and flavor profile.

• eggs - Substitute with flax eggs: Mix 1 tablespoon ground flaxseed with 3 tablespoon water per egg; this is a good vegan alternative.

• milk - Substitute with almond milk: A dairy-free option that works well in most baking recipes.

• vegetable oil - Substitute with coconut oil: Adds a subtle coconut flavor and is a healthier fat option.

• vanilla extract - Substitute with almond extract: Provides a different but pleasant nutty flavor.

• sliced strawberries - Substitute with blueberries: Offers a different berry flavor and similar nutritional benefits.

• cacao nibs - Substitute with dark chocolate chips: Adds a similar chocolate flavor with a bit more sweetness.

• Allow the waffles to cool completely on a wire rack. This prevents them from becoming soggy when stored.
• Place the cooled waffles in a single layer on a baking sheet. If you need to stack them, place a piece of parchment paper between each layer to prevent sticking.
• Transfer the waffles to an airtight container or a resealable plastic bag. Make sure to remove as much air as possible to maintain freshness.
• Store the container or bag in the refrigerator if you plan to eat the waffles within a few days. They will stay fresh for up to 3 days.
• For longer storage, place the waffles in the freezer. They can be frozen for up to 3 months without losing their texture or flavor.
• When ready to eat, reheat the waffles directly from the freezer. You can use a toaster, toaster oven, or conventional oven. Toast until they are crispy and heated through.
• Avoid microwaving the waffles as it can make them rubbery. Instead, opt for a method that will restore their crispiness.
• If you have leftover strawberries and cacao nibs, store them separately in airtight containers. The strawberries should be kept in the refrigerator and consumed within a couple of days. The cacao nibs can be stored at room temperature in a cool, dry place.
• When serving the reheated waffles, top them with fresh strawberries and cacao nibs to maintain the original taste and texture.

• Oven Method: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the leftover waffles on a baking sheet in a single layer. Cover them lightly with aluminum foil to prevent them from drying out. Heat for about 10 minutes or until they are warmed through and slightly crispy. Top with fresh strawberries and cacao nibs before serving.

• Toaster Method: If you prefer a quick and easy method, pop the waffles into a toaster. Toast on a medium setting until they are heated through and crispy. This method works best if the waffles are not too thick. Add your strawberries and cacao nibs after toasting.

• Microwave Method: Place the waffles on a microwave-safe plate. Cover them with a damp paper towel to keep them from drying out. Microwave on medium power for about 1-2 minutes, checking halfway through. This method is the quickest but may result in softer waffles. Top with strawberries and cacao nibs after reheating.

• Air Fryer Method: Preheat your air fryer to 350°F (175°C). Place the waffles in the air fryer basket in a single layer. Heat for about 3-5 minutes, or until they are crispy and warmed through. This method gives a nice, crispy texture. Add strawberries and cacao nibs before serving.

• Skillet Method: Heat a non-stick skillet over medium heat. Add a small amount of butter or oil to the skillet. Place the waffles in the skillet and heat for about 2-3 minutes on each side, or until they are warmed through and slightly crispy. Top with strawberries and cacao nibs after reheating.

• Waffle iron: This is essential for cooking the waffle batter into perfectly golden brown waffles.

• Mixing bowl: You'll need a large one to combine the dry ingredients and another to mix the wet ingredients.

• Whisk: Useful for thoroughly mixing the dry ingredients and for beating the eggs.

• Measuring cups: Necessary for accurately measuring the flour, milk, and vegetable oil.

• Measuring spoons: Important for measuring smaller quantities like sugar, baking powder, salt, and vanilla extract.

• Spatula: Handy for folding the wet and dry ingredients together without overmixing.

• Knife: Needed for slicing the strawberries.

• Cutting board: Provides a safe surface for slicing the strawberries.

• Serving plate: To serve the finished waffles topped with strawberries and cacao nibs.

Prepare ingredients in advance: Measure and mix the dry ingredients the night before to save time in the morning.

Use a blender: Blend the wet ingredients together for a smoother batter and quicker mixing.

Preheat waffle iron early: Turn on the waffle iron before you start mixing to ensure it's ready when you are.

Batch cook waffles: Make extra waffles and freeze them. Reheat in the toaster for a quick breakfast.

Prep toppings ahead: Slice strawberries and portion out cacao nibs in advance to streamline the final steps.