Chocolate Waffles

Updated on October 12, 2023

Recipe Overview

• Total Time: 25 minutes (5 minutes prep | 20 minutes cook)

• Servings: 6-8 waffles (adjust based on waffle iron size)

• Rating: 4.0/5 (from 158 reviews)

• Comments: 28 comments

Recipe Highlights

These chocolate waffles blend deep, luxurious notes from unsweetened cocoa powder with the warm, caramelized sweetness of dark brown sugar, creating a decadent treat that transcends breakfast. The batter’s balanced richness satisfies chocolate lovers while remaining versatile enough for casual mornings or indulgent dessert moments. Top with fresh berries, lightly sweetened whipped cream, or a chocolate drizzle for an elevated finish.

Ingredients

For the batter:

• 2 cups all-purpose flour

• ½ cup dark brown sugar (packed)

• ¼ cup unsweetened cocoa powder

• 2 tsp baking powder

• ½ tsp fine sea salt

• 2 large eggs (room temperature)

• 1¾ cups whole milk (or buttermilk for tangier texture)

• ½ cup unsalted butter (melted and cooled)

• 1 tsp vanilla extract

• ¼ cup water (optional, for adjusting batter consistency)

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare Dry Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, dark brown sugar, unsweetened cocoa powder, baking powder, and salt until fully incorporated and free of lumps. Ensure no dry ingredients remain in the center of the bowl.

Step 2: Mix Wet Ingredients

In a separate bowl, crack the eggs and whisk until smooth. Add the milk, melted butter, and vanilla extract, stirring gently to combine. Avoid overmixing the wet ingredients to preserve texture.

Step 3: Combine Batter

Create a well in the center of the dry ingredients. Pour the wet mixture into the well and fold gently with a spatula until just combined—do not overmix (some lumps are acceptable; overmixing leads to dense waffles). If the batter is too thick, add a splash of water or milk to reach a smooth, pourable consistency.

Step 4: Cook the Waffles

Preheat your waffle iron according to the manufacturer’s instructions (typically 3-5 minutes). Lightly grease the iron plates with butter or non-stick cooking spray. Pour ½–⅔ cup of batter onto the center of the iron, closing the lid and cooking for 20 minutes (adjust time based on your iron’s heat output). The waffles are ready when they’re golden brown and steam no longer escapes from the iron.

Step 5: Store and Reheat

Cool waffles on a wire rack for 5 minutes. For long-term storage, wrap tightly in plastic wrap and place in a freezer-safe bag or container; freeze for up to 2 weeks.

To serve: Preheat an oven to 375°F (190°C), or use a toaster/toaster oven. Place frozen waffles on a baking sheet or directly in the toaster and heat until crisp and warmed through (5–7 minutes in the oven; 2–3 minutes in a toaster).

Tips & Variations

• Batter Storage: Prepare the batter up to 24 hours in advance. Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Let it rest at room temperature for 10 minutes before cooking.

• Toppings:

• Fresh berries: Strawberries, blueberries, or raspberries add brightness and texture.

• Whipped cream: Lightly sweeten with 1 tsp powdered sugar and ½ tsp vanilla extract for a velvety contrast.

• Chocolate drizzle: Warm dark chocolate sauce (or melted chocolate chips) over the waffles for extra indulgence.

• Variations: Add ¼ cup mini chocolate chips to the batter for pockets of melty chocolate, or swap dark brown sugar for light brown sugar for a milder sweetness.

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