These Banana Oatmeal Waffles are fluffy, fruity, and just plain fun! Made with ripe bananas and rolled oats, they are a tasty twist on the classic waffle.
Perfect for breakfast or a weekend treat, they warm up well in the toaster too! I love adding a drizzle of honey and some fresh fruit on top to make them extra special. Yum!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Rolled Oats: They create a hearty texture in the waffles. If you’re gluten-free, look for certified gluten-free oats. You can also use quick oats, but they may result in a softer waffle.
Whole Wheat Flour: This adds fiber and a nutty flavor. You can swap it with all-purpose flour or a gluten-free blend if needed. For added protein, try using almond flour instead.
Bananas: Ripe bananas are key for sweetness and moisture. If you’re out of bananas, 1/2 cup of applesauce works well as a substitute, providing similar moisture.
Milk: Use any milk you prefer, including almond, soy, or oat milk for a dairy-free option. If you want a richer flavor, coconut milk works beautifully here.
Sweeteners: Maple syrup adds a nice flavor. Honey is a great alternative. For a low-sugar option, consider using mashed dates blended with the wet ingredients.
How Can You Make the Perfect Waffle Texture?
A good waffle texture comes from not overmixing the batter. Here’s how to achieve fluffy waffles:
- Mix wet and dry ingredients until just combined; lumps are okay!
- Let the batter rest for about 5 minutes. This helps the oats absorb the liquid, making the waffles fluffier.
- Cook until golden brown, as undercooking may result in a soggy waffle.
- Keep cooked waffles warm in a low oven (200°F) while you finish cooking the rest.
With these tips, you’ll enjoy waffles that are crispy on the outside and fluffy on the inside! Happy cooking!
How to Make Delicious Banana Oatmeal Waffles
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- For the Waffles:
- 1 cup rolled oats
- 1 cup whole wheat flour (or all-purpose flour)
- 2 tsp baking powder
- 1/2 tsp baking soda
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon
- 2 ripe bananas, mashed
- 2 large eggs
- 1 1/4 cups milk (dairy or plant-based)
- 2 tbsp maple syrup or honey
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 2 tbsp melted coconut oil or vegetable oil
- Cooking spray or additional oil for waffle iron
- Fresh banana slices, for topping
- Maple syrup, for serving
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe should take about 10 minutes to prep and around 15-20 minutes to cook, depending on your waffle iron and how many waffles you make. So, in total, plan for about 30-40 minutes to have a delicious breakfast ready to serve!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Waffle Iron:
Start by preheating your waffle iron according to the manufacturer’s instructions. Don’t forget to lightly grease it with cooking spray or oil so the waffles don’t stick.
2. Combine the Dry Ingredients:
In a large bowl, mix together the rolled oats, whole wheat flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and ground cinnamon. This will create a nice base for your waffles.
3. Mix the Wet Ingredients:
In another bowl, whisk together the mashed bananas, eggs, milk, maple syrup (or honey), vanilla extract, and melted oil until everything is well combined and smooth.
4. Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients:
Pour the wet ingredients into the dry mixture and gently stir until just combined. It’s okay if there are a few lumps; don’t overmix! Let the batter sit for about 5 minutes so the oats can soak up some liquid, which helps with the texture.
5. Cook the Waffles:
Once the batter is ready, pour an appropriate amount onto your preheated waffle iron (generally about 1/2 to 3/4 cup, but check your iron’s instructions). Close the lid and cook until the waffles are golden brown and crispy, which usually takes about 4 to 6 minutes.
6. Keep Warm While Cooking the Rest:
Carefully remove your first waffle and keep it warm by placing it on a plate in a low oven (around 200°F) while you continue cooking the remaining batter.
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Ready to dig in? Serve the waffles topped with fresh banana slices and a generous drizzle of maple syrup. If you like, sprinkle a little cinnamon sugar on top to make them even more delightful.
Enjoy your hearty, naturally sweet Banana Oatmeal Waffles—they’re perfect for a nutritious breakfast or brunch!
Can I Use Instant Oats Instead of Rolled Oats?
Yes, you can use instant oats, but keep in mind that the texture might be slightly different. The waffles may turn out softer, so be cautious not to overmix the batter.
How Can I Store Leftover Waffles?
To store leftovers, place them in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. You can also freeze them by layering them with parchment paper in a freezer bag. To reheat, simply pop them in a toaster or an oven until heated through.
Can I Make These Waffles Vegan?
Absolutely! To make them vegan, substitute the eggs with a flax or chia egg (1 tbsp flaxseed meal or chia seeds mixed with 2.5 tbsp water), and use a plant-based milk. Maple syrup or agave can replace honey, making it a delicious vegan option!
What Can I Use Instead of Banana?
If you’re out of bananas, you can substitute them with an equivalent amount of unsweetened applesauce or pureed pumpkin for a similar moisture and sweetness. Just keep in mind that the flavor will change a bit!
