Oh, let me tell you about my absolute favorite weekend breakfast treat: Strawberry Shortcake Waffles! This isn’t just any breakfast; it’s a delightful way to start the day or even celebrate a special occasion. I stumbled upon this gem during a particularly sweet summer when strawberries were at their peak. The first time I made them, my kitchen filled with the mouthwatering aroma of freshly baked waffles, mingling beautifully with the scent of ripe strawberries. The smiles around the breakfast table told me I had hit the jackpot!
What’s not to love about fluffy waffles topped with sweet, juicy strawberries and a dollop of whipped cream? It’s like a dessert disguised as breakfast! Whether it’s for a lazy Sunday brunch or a special holiday breakfast, these Strawberry Shortcake Waffles always impress. So, grab your mixing bowl and let’s get cooking!
What’s in Strawberry Shortcake Waffles?
Waffle Batter: The heart of our dish! I usually use all-purpose flour, but feel free to experiment with whole wheat for a healthier twist. I personally have a flicker of nostalgia for Aunt Millie’s flour—it always gives my baked goods a touch of magic!
Fresh Strawberries: Bright, juicy strawberries are essential! The sweeter, the better. If you can, look for local strawberries; the flavor is out of this world.
Sugar: A touch of granulated sugar enhances the flavor of the strawberries and adds just the right amount of sweetness to the waffle batter.
Milk: I love using whole milk for that rich, moist texture, but almond or oat milk can do the trick if you’re looking for a dairy-free option.
Baking Powder: This little magic ingredient helps the waffles rise and become fluffy.
Whipped Cream: You can’t have strawberry shortcake without whipped cream! I prefer homemade whipped cream – just a little heavy whipping cream and sugar, whipped until soft peaks form. But store-bought works when I’m in a hurry, too!
Is Strawberry Shortcake Waffles Good for You?
You might think, “Well, it’s waffles and whipped cream… it can’t be healthy!” But there are some redeeming qualities!
Fresh Strawberries: Packed with vitamin C and antioxidants, strawberries are great for your skin and immune system. Plus, they add a natural sweetness, which means you can cut back on added sugars.
Whole Grain Option: If you choose to make your waffles with whole wheat flour, you’ll get added fiber, which is great for digestion and can help keep you feeling full longer.
Of course, the whipped cream and sugar can crank up the calories, so it’s good to indulge in moderation. But, hey, life’s too short not to enjoy a sweet breakfast treat every now and then, right?
Ingredients List
– 2 cups all-purpose flour (or whole wheat flour)
– 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
– 1 tablespoon baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 2 large eggs
– 1 3/4 cups milk (whole, almond, or oat)
– 1/2 cup melted butter (or coconut oil)
– 2 cups fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
– Whipped cream for topping
This recipe serves about 4-6 people, perfect for a cozy breakfast clan!
How to Make Strawberry Shortcake Waffles?
1. Preheat your waffle iron according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
3. In another bowl, beat the eggs, milk, and melted butter until well combined.
4. Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and stir just until combined. Don’t over-mix; a few lumps are okay!
5. If your waffle iron is ready, ladle the batter onto the iron, covering it lightly without overflowing (about 3/4 full typically works). Close the lid and cook until golden brown and crispy, usually about 3-5 minutes depending on your waffle iron.
6. As your waffles are cooking, prep your strawberries—toss them with a bit of sugar if you want them extra sweet and let them sit for about 10-15 minutes.
7. Once your waffles are done, stack them up, top with a generous portion of strawberries, and don’t skimp on that whipped cream!
Sweet Tips for Your Waffles
– To keep your waffles crispy, place them on a baking sheet in a warm oven (around 200°F) while you cook the rest.
– Switch it up! Try adding chocolate chips or nuts to the batter for different flavor twists.
– If you have leftover waffles (which is rare, but hey!), they freeze beautifully and can be popped in the toaster for a quick breakfast later on.
I hope you give these Strawberry Shortcake Waffles a whirl! They’re sure to bring joy to your morning routine and make you feel like a chef in your own kitchen. Don’t forget to share your creations and any modifications you try. Happy cooking!