Crispy Homemade Buttermilk Waffles

These crispy homemade buttermilk waffles are golden on the outside and light and fluffy on the inside, made with simple pantry ingredients and rich brown butter for extra flavor. This easy waffle recipe uses cornstarch for a perfectly crisp texture and buttermilk for a tender crumb. Ready in under 30 minutes, these homemade waffles are perfect for breakfast or brunch and pair beautifully with maple syrup, fresh fruit, or whipped cream. If you’re looking for a classic waffle recipe with a crispy exterior and soft center, this from-scratch buttermilk waffle recipe delivers consistent, bakery-style results every time.

Ingredients

• ¾ cup all-purpose flour
• ¼ cup cornstarch
• 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
• ½ teaspoon baking powder
• ¼ teaspoon baking soda
• ½ teaspoon salt
• 6 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 1 cup buttermilk
• 1 large egg
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

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Instructions

1. Mix the dry ingredients
   In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, cornstarch, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt until evenly combined.
2. Brown the butter
   Melt the butter in a small saucepan over medium heat. Once melted, it will begin to foam. Continue cooking, swirling the pan occasionally, until the milk solids turn a deep golden brown with a nutty aroma. Immediately remove from heat and pour into a heatproof bowl to cool slightly.
3. Combine the wet ingredients
   Add the buttermilk, egg, and vanilla extract to the warm brown butter. Whisk until smooth and fully blended.
4. Make the batter
   Pour the wet mixture into the dry ingredients. Gently whisk just until combined and mostly smooth. Avoid overmixing. Let the batter rest for 15–30 minutes to improve texture.
5. Cook the waffles
   Preheat a standard waffle maker (not Belgian style). Lightly grease if necessary. Pour the appropriate amount of batter into the waffle iron and cook according to the manufacturer’s instructions until golden brown and crisp.
6. Serve
   Serve immediately with butter and maple syrup. To keep waffles crisp, place them in a single layer on a wire rack rather than stacking.

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Tips

• Cornstarch helps create extra crisp waffles—don’t skip it.
• Browning the butter adds a deep, nutty flavor; watch closely to prevent burning.
• Resting the batter allows the flour to hydrate and improves texture.
• Keep cooked waffles warm in a 95°C (200°F) oven directly on the rack.

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Variations and Substitutions

• Substitute melted regular butter if you prefer a milder flavor.
• Replace vanilla with almond extract for a subtle twist.
• Add cinnamon or nutmeg for warm spice notes.
• Fold in blueberries or chocolate chips just before cooking.
• If you don’t have buttermilk, use 1 cup milk mixed with 1 tablespoon lemon juice or vinegar.

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FAQs

Why use cornstarch in waffles?
Cornstarch reduces gluten formation, resulting in a lighter and crispier texture.

Can I make the batter ahead of time?
It’s best used fresh, but you can refrigerate it for up to 24 hours. Stir gently before using.

How do I keep waffles crispy?
Place them on a wire rack instead of stacking. Avoid covering them, as steam softens the crust.

Can these waffles be frozen?
Yes. Cool completely, freeze in a single layer, then store in freezer bags. Reheat in a toaster or oven.

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Serving Suggestions

• Serve with maple syrup and fresh berries.
• Top with whipped cream and sliced bananas.
• Add crispy bacon or breakfast sausage for a sweet-savory pairing.
• Drizzle with honey or dust with powdered sugar for a simple finish.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Extra crispy exterior with a soft, fluffy interior.
• Rich, nutty flavor from browned butter.
• Simple pantry ingredients.
• Perfect for weekend breakfast or brunch.
• Easy to customize with your favorite toppings.