Have you ever craved something both indulgent and special for breakfast? Let me introduce you to these glorious Red Velvet Waffles with Cream Cheese Glaze. Picture a classic red velvet cake, but in a warm, crispy-on-the-outside, fluffy-on-the-inside waffle form. Paired with a creamy, tangy glaze, they’re pure morning magic!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Decadently Different: These waffles bring a unique flair to your breakfast table, standing out from the usual pancake and waffle line-up.
- Perfect for Special Occasions: Whether it’s brunch with friends or a romantic breakfast, these waffles are sure to impress and delight.
- Flavor Explosion: The combination of cocoa and buttermilk in the waffles is beautifully complemented by the tangy, sweet cream cheese glaze.
- Customizable: You can play with the toppings and additional ingredients to suit your style and health needs.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gather your ingredients, my friend, because we’re about to embark on a delightful culinary journey. Each ingredient here plays a crucial role in creating the perfect balance of flavor and texture for your Red Velvet Waffles with Cream Cheese Glaze.
- All-purpose flour: Provides the base structure for the waffles, holding everything together.
- Cocoa powder: Adds that classic chocolatey note integral to any true red velvet recipe.
- Buttermilk: Introduces tanginess and keeps the waffles moist and tender.
- Red food coloring: Gives these waffles their iconic crimson hue, making them as beautiful as they are tasty.
- Cream cheese: When transformed into a glaze, it crowns the waffles with creamy delight.
Variations
Don’t shy away from making these waffles your own! Though they’re irresistible as-is, you can make simple tweaks based on your preferences or dietary needs.
- Gluten-Free Option: Swap out the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend to accommodate gluten sensitivities without compromising on taste.
- Natural Dye: Use beet juice or red beet powder instead of food coloring for a health-conscious alternative with a similar vibrant look.
How to Make Red Velvet Waffles with Cream Cheese Glaze
Step 1: Prepare the Glaze
Start by whipping the cream cheese and butter together in a large bowl until they blend into a smooth, creamy mixture. Gradually beat in the confectioners’ sugar, followed by vanilla and milk, until you achieve a silky glaze. Set this aside—it’s the crowning glory for your waffles!
Step 2: Mix the Waffle Batter
Next, focus on the dry ingredients. Whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, cocoa, and salt in a large mixing bowl. In another bowl, combine buttermilk, melted butter, eggs, vanilla, and apple cider vinegar, then stir in your brilliant red food coloring. Merge the dry and wet ingredients, stirring until the mixture is smooth and homogenous.
Step 3: Cook the Waffles
With your waffle iron preheated, give it a quick spray with nonstick cooking spray. Pour about a cup of your red velvet batter into the center, close the lid, and let the magic happen. In about 3 minutes, you’ll have a perfectly cooked, deep red waffle ready to pair with your cream cheese glaze.
Pro Tips for Making Red Velvet Waffles with Cream Cheese Glaze
- Waffle Iron Prep: Always preheat your waffle iron fully before adding the batter for evenly cooked waffles with a crisp exterior.
- Batter Consistency: Aim for a smooth batter without lumps to ensure a light and fluffy waffle consistency.
- Glaze Thickness: If your glaze is a tad thin, add more confectioners’ sugar until the desired thickness is achieved, perfect for drizzling.
- Substituting for Red: If you prefer natural coloring, opt for red beet powder to keep the vibrant hue without artificial dyes.
How to Serve Red Velvet Waffles with Cream Cheese Glaze
Garnishes
For an extra touch of elegance, sprinkle on some powdered sugar or chopped pecans. A dollop of whipped cream or fresh strawberries can also elevate the visual appeal and complement the flavors perfectly.
Side Dishes
These waffles shine on their own but pair beautifully with crispy bacon or a side of fresh fruit to balance the sweetness. A piping hot cup of coffee or a frothy cappuccino also makes a superb accompaniment.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve the waffles stacked high with a drizzle of glaze cascading artfully down the sides. Alternatively, cut the waffles into heart shapes for a romantic touch, perfect for Valentine’s Day or an anniversary breakfast in bed.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Place any leftover waffles in an airtight container and store them in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The cream cheese glaze should also be refrigerated separately to maintain its freshness.
Freezing
The good news is these waffles freeze wonderfully! Wrap each waffle individually in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag for up to 2 months. Don’t forget to label them with the date!
Reheating
Reheat frozen waffles in a toaster or preheated oven until they are warm and crisp. Avoid the microwave as it tends to make them soggy. Serve with freshly warmed glaze for that just-made taste.
FAQs
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Can I make the glaze ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the cream cheese glaze a day in advance. Store it in the refrigerator in an airtight container. When ready to use, allow it to come to room temperature and whisk to smooth it out.
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What can I substitute for buttermilk?
If you don’t have buttermilk, you can make a substitute by adding 1 tablespoon of vinegar or lemon juice to a cup of milk and letting it sit for 5-10 minutes.
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How can I ensure my waffles are crispy?
For the crispiest waffles, make sure the waffle iron is fully preheated before cooking and avoid stacking the waffles when they are done as this creates steam which can soften them.
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Can I skip the food coloring?
Absolutely! The color is mostly for visual appeal. If you prefer not to use food coloring, you can skip it or use a natural alternative like beet juice or powder.
Final Thoughts
Whether you are preparing a special breakfast or simply looking to brighten your morning routine, these Red Velvet Waffles with Cream Cheese Glaze are sure to deliver joy and deliciousness with every bite. So grab your ingredients, fire up that waffle maker, and treat yourself to something truly delightful—you deserve it!
PrintRed Velvet Waffles with Cream Cheese Glaze Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Breakfast / Brunch
- Method: Cooking Technique (Waffles / Griddling)
- Cuisine: American
Description
These vibrant Red Velvet Waffles are perfectly crispy on the outside and tender on the inside, topped with a luscious cream cheese glaze and optional chopped pecans for added texture and flavor. A delightful brunch or dessert treat with striking color and rich flavor.
Ingredients
Waffles
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/4 cup sugar
- 1 tbsp plus 1 tsp baking powder
- 2 tbsp cocoa powder
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1 3/4 cups buttermilk
- 1/3 cup melted and cooled butter
- 2 large eggs
- 2 tsp vanilla extract
- 1/2 tsp apple cider vinegar
- 2 tbsp red food coloring
Glaze
- 4 oz cream cheese, softened
- 4 tbsp butter, softened
- 1 1/2 cups confectioners sugar
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup whole milk
Instructions
- Prepare the Glaze: In a large bowl, whip the softened cream cheese and butter together with a hand mixer until smooth. Carefully beat in the confectioners’ sugar, then add vanilla extract and milk. Beat until the glaze is smooth. Set aside.
- Mix the Dry Ingredients: Whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, cocoa powder, and salt in a large bowl. Set aside.
- Combine Wet Ingredients: In a separate medium bowl, beat the buttermilk, melted butter, eggs, vanilla extract, and apple cider vinegar until smooth. Stir in the red food coloring.
- Make the Batter: Pour the wet mixture into the dry ingredients and whisk until smooth and well combined.
- Cook the Waffles: Preheat your waffle iron according to manufacturer instructions. Spray with nonstick spray. Pour about 1 cup of batter onto the waffle grid and close. Cook for approximately 3 minutes or until deep red and crispy on the outside.
- Repeat: Continue with remaining batter, keeping cooked waffles warm if desired.
- Serve: Top each waffle with the cream cheese glaze and, if desired, chopped pecans for added crunch.
Notes
- For a healthier alternative, substitute red beet powder for the red food coloring.
- Ensure the waffle iron is properly preheated for best results.
- The glaze can be prepared ahead and refrigerated, then brought to room temperature before serving.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 waffle with glaze
- Calories: 480 kcal
- Sugar: 28 g
- Sodium: 460 mg
- Fat: 25 g
- Saturated Fat: 14 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 55 g
- Fiber: 2 g
- Protein: 8 g
- Cholesterol: 80 mg
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