Making waffles without a waffle iron? Absolutely! With this easy method, you can enjoy crispy, golden waffles right from your stovetop.
Whether you don’t own a waffle maker or just want a quick alternative, this recipe will show you how to make perfect waffles in a pan with simple ingredients.
Pan-made waffles have a slightly different texture but are just as delicious as traditional ones. They are fluffy on the inside, slightly crispy on the outside, and incredibly versatile.
Plus, they require minimal equipment, making them ideal for quick breakfasts or special weekend treats.
Ingredients
- 1 1/2 cups (190g) all-purpose flour
- 1 tbsp sugar
- 1 1/2 tsp baking powder
- 1/2 tsp baking soda
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1 cup (240ml) milk
- 1 egg
- 2 tbsp melted butter or oil
- 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Mix the Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
- Prepare the Wet Ingredients: In another bowl, beat the egg and mix in the milk, melted butter, and vanilla extract.
- Combine the Mixtures: Gradually add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients, stirring gently until combined. Do not overmix; a few lumps are okay.
- Heat the Pan: Place a non-stick or lightly greased pan over medium heat.
- Cook the Waffles: Pour about 1/4 cup of batter into the pan, spreading slightly into a circular shape. Cook for 2-3 minutes until bubbles form on the surface.
- Flip and Cook: Carefully flip with a spatula and cook for another 2-3 minutes until golden brown.
- Repeat and Serve: Continue until all batter is used. Serve warm with your favorite toppings.
Tips for Perfect Waffles
- Use a non-stick pan to prevent sticking.
- Keep the heat at medium to avoid burning.
- Let the batter rest for a few minutes before cooking for fluffier waffles.
- Don’t overmix; a slightly lumpy batter results in lighter waffles.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Too Much Mixing: Overmixing results in dense waffles.
- High Heat: Cooking on high heat can burn the outside while leaving the inside raw.
- Skipping Grease: Even non-stick pans benefit from a light coating of butter or oil.
- Pouring Too Much Batter: A thin layer cooks better and more evenly.
Topping and Serving Suggestions
- Classic: Butter and maple syrup
- Fruity: Fresh berries and whipped cream
- Chocolate Lover’s: Chocolate chips and Nutella
- Healthy: Greek yogurt and honey
- Savory: Cheese and scrambled eggs
Now you know how to make delicious waffles in a pan without a waffle iron! This easy recipe allows you to enjoy homemade waffles anytime with minimal equipment. Experiment with different toppings to make your breakfast even more exciting. Give it a try and enjoy a simple yet satisfying meal!
FAQs
- Can I make the batter ahead of time? Yes! Store it in the fridge for up to 24 hours and stir before use.
- Why are my waffles not fluffy? Avoid overmixing the batter, and let it rest before cooking.
- Can I make these waffles dairy-free? Yes, substitute milk with almond or oat milk and use oil instead of butter.
- Can I freeze these waffles? Absolutely! Let them cool, then store them in an airtight container. Reheat in a toaster or oven.
- What pan works best? A non-stick or cast-iron skillet works great for even cooking.
- Can I make waffles without eggs? Yes! Use a flaxseed egg (1 tbsp ground flaxseed + 3 tbsp water) or a store-bought egg replacer.
- How can I make my waffles crispier? Use less batter per waffle and cook on slightly higher heat to achieve a crispy texture.
- Can I add mix-ins like chocolate chips or fruit? Yes, but add them after pouring the batter into the pan to prevent them from sinking.
- How do I prevent my waffles from sticking? Always grease the pan lightly with butter or oil, even if using a non-stick surface.
- Can I make these waffles gluten-free? Yes! Use a gluten-free flour blend that contains xanthan gum for the best texture.