Description
These waffles have become my go-to solution for busy weekday mornings when I need something substantial but don’t have time for elaborate cooking. They satisfy both kids who want something that tastes indulgent and adults who appreciate starting their day with quality nutrition. The beauty lies in their simplicity – you probably have most ingredients in your kitchen right now.
Ingredients
Base Ingredients:
- 1 cup cottage cheese (full-fat preferred for best texture)
- 3 large eggs
- ½ cup all-purpose flour
- 2 tablespoons melted butter or coconut oil
- 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup
- ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
Leavening & Flavor:
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon cinnamon (optional)
For Serving:
- Fresh berries
- Pure maple syrup
- Greek yogurt
- Chopped nuts
Smart Substitutions:
Replace all-purpose flour with almond flour for lower carbs, or use oat flour for gluten-free needs. Greek yogurt works beautifully instead of cottage cheese if you prefer smoother texture. For dairy-free versions, try cashew cream or thick coconut yogurt with plant-based milk.
Instructions
Preheat your waffle iron according to manufacturer instructions. This usually takes 3-5 minutes, giving you perfect timing to prepare the batter. Lightly grease the plates with cooking spray or brush with melted butter to prevent sticking.
In a blender or food processor, combine cottage cheese, eggs, melted butter, honey, and vanilla. Blend until completely smooth – this step is crucial for eliminating any lumpy texture. The mixture should look creamy and uniform, resembling thick pancake batter.
In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, salt, and cinnamon if using. This ensures even distribution of leavening agents, preventing pockets of baking powder that could create bitter spots.
Pour the cottage cheese mixture into the dry ingredients and fold gently until just combined. Don’t overmix – a few small lumps are perfectly fine. Let the batter rest for 2-3 minutes while your waffle iron finishes heating.
Pour the appropriate amount of batter for your waffle iron size (usually ½ to ¾ cup). Close the lid and cook until the steam significantly reduces and the waffle iron stops steaming vigorously. This typically takes 3-4 minutes but varies by machine.
Remove carefully with a fork or silicone-tipped tongs. These cottage cheese waffles are best served hot when the exterior is at peak crispiness. If serving multiple people, keep finished waffles warm in a 200°F oven on a wire rack.
Nutrition
- Calories: 185
- Fat: 8g
- Carbohydrates: 15g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 12g