Description
Mini Waffle Bites
Ingredients:
1/2 cup milk
1 egg
2 tablespoons melted butter
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 cup all-purpose flour
1/2 teaspoon baking powder
1/4 teaspoon salt
2 tablespoons sugar
1/4 cup caramel sauce (for serving)
Instructions:
Preheat and grease the waffle maker.
Combine milk, egg, butter, and vanilla.
In another bowl, whisk flour, baking powder, sugar, and salt.
Mix wet and dry ingredients until well blended.
Pour into waffle maker and cook until crispy.
Drizzle caramel sauce over the warm waffles!
#CaramelWaffleBliss
Step-by-Step Guide
Follow these detailed instructions for perfect mini waffle bites every time.
- Plug in your mini waffle maker to preheat on a medium setting. Lightly grease the plates with non-stick spray or a brush of oil.
- In a medium bowl, vigorously whisk together the milk, egg, melted (and slightly cooled) butter, and vanilla extract until fully combined and slightly frothy.
- In a separate, larger bowl, thoroughly whisk the all-purpose flour, baking powder, sugar, and salt. This ensures the leavening agent is evenly distributed.
- Create a well in the center of the dry ingredients. Pour the wet mixture into the well. Gently fold the ingredients together with a spatula until just combined. A few small lumps are okay; overmixing leads to tough waffles.
- Using a tablespoon or small cookie scoop, portion the batter onto the center of the hot, greased waffle plates. Close the lid and cook for 3-5 minutes, or until steam stops escaping and the waffles are golden brown and crisp.
- Use a silicone or wooden utensil to carefully remove the hot waffle bites. Immediately drizzle with warm caramel sauce for the best experience.
Serving Suggestions
While delicious with just caramel, these versatile bites can be served in many ways. For a dessert platter, offer small bowls of chocolate sauce, whipped cream, and fresh berries for dipping. For a fun breakfast, stack them on skewers with fruit like banana chunks and strawberries. You can also toss them in a bowl with a dusting of powdered sugar and cinnamon for a churro-inspired treat.
How-to Summary
To make mini waffle bites: preheat and grease your waffle maker. Whisk wet ingredients (milk, egg, butter, vanilla) in one bowl. Whisk dry ingredients (flour, baking powder, salt, sugar) in another. Combine wet and dry, mixing gently. Scoop batter onto the hot iron and cook until golden and crisp. Serve warm with caramel sauce.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make the batter ahead of time? It’s best used immediately. For advance prep, mix the dry and wet ingredients separately and combine just before cooking.
My waffles aren’t crispy. What went wrong? This is often due to undercooking or too much batter, which traps steam. Ensure your iron is fully preheated and use a modest amount of batter per bite.
Can I use a different sauce? Absolutely! Chocolate syrup, maple syrup, fruit compote, or even a cream cheese glaze are excellent alternatives to caramel.
How do I store and reheat leftovers? Store cooled waffle bites in an airtight container at room temperature for a day or freeze them. Reheat in a toaster or air fryer to restore crispiness.
Can I add mix-ins to the batter? Yes! Fold in up to 1/4 cup of mini chocolate chips, blueberries, or finely chopped nuts after combining the wet and dry ingredients.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Overmixing the batter: This develops gluten, resulting in dense, chewy waffles. Mix until just combined.
- Not preheating the iron: A cold start leads to uneven cooking and poor browning. Always allow it to fully heat.
- Using cold ingredients: For a better blend and rise, use room-temperature milk and egg.
- Overfilling the waffle plates: Excess batter will spill out and make cleanup difficult. Start with a small test portion.
- Opening the lid too soon: Peeking releases steam and can cause the waffle to tear. Wait until steam significantly reduces.
Conclusion
These mini waffle bites are the perfect fusion of a comforting breakfast and a decadent dessert. Their small size makes them ideal for sharing, snacking, or party platters. By following the step-by-step guide and avoiding common pitfalls, you’ll achieve crispy, golden bites every time. Get creative with your toppings and enjoy this simple, delightful treat that’s sure to bring a moment of caramel bliss to any day.
