Buttermilk Oatmeal Waffles Recipe

Rolled oats: These provide a hearty texture and are the base of the recipe.

Buttermilk: Adds a tangy flavor and helps to tenderize the waffles.

All-purpose flour: Gives structure to the waffles.

Sugar: Adds a touch of sweetness.

Baking powder: Helps the waffles rise and become fluffy.

Baking soda: Works with the buttermilk to create a light texture.

Salt: Enhances the flavors of the other ingredients.

Eggs: Provide structure and richness.

Butter: Adds flavor and moisture to the waffles.

To ensure your waffles come out perfectly crispy on the outside and fluffy on the inside, make sure to let the oat mixture sit for the full 5 minutes. This allows the oats to fully absorb the buttermilk, resulting in a better texture. Additionally, avoid overmixing the batter once you combine the wet and dry ingredients; stir just until the flour is incorporated to prevent tough waffles.

• rolled oats - Substitute with quick oats: Quick oats can be used as they have a similar texture and will cook in the same time frame.

• buttermilk - Substitute with milk and lemon juice: Mix 2 cups of milk with 2 tablespoons of lemon juice or vinegar and let it sit for 5 minutes to curdle. This mimics the acidity and thickness of buttermilk.

• all-purpose flour - Substitute with whole wheat flour: Whole wheat flour provides a nuttier flavor and adds more fiber, making the waffles healthier.

• sugar - Substitute with honey: Honey adds natural sweetness and moisture to the waffles, though it may slightly alter the flavor.

• baking powder - Substitute with baking soda and cream of tartar: Use ¼ teaspoon of baking soda and ½ teaspoon of cream of tartar to replace 1 teaspoon of baking powder. This combination will provide the necessary leavening.

• baking soda - Substitute with baking powder: Use 4 times the amount of baking powder to replace baking soda, but be aware this may affect the taste slightly.

• salt - Substitute with sea salt: Sea salt can be used in the same quantity and will provide a similar flavor.

• beaten eggs - Substitute with flax eggs: Mix 2 tablespoons of ground flaxseed with 6 tablespoons of water and let it sit for 5 minutes. This mixture can replace 2 beaten eggs and is a good vegan alternative.

• melted butter - Substitute with coconut oil: Coconut oil can be used in the same quantity as melted butter and will add a slight coconut flavor to the waffles.

• Allow the waffles to cool completely on a wire rack to prevent them from becoming soggy.
• Once cooled, place the waffles in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze for about 1-2 hours until they are firm. This step ensures they don't stick together.
• Transfer the frozen waffles to a resealable plastic bag or an airtight container. Label the bag with the date to keep track of freshness.
• For added protection against freezer burn, you can wrap each waffle individually in plastic wrap before placing them in the bag or container.
• Store the waffles in the freezer for up to 2 months.

Reheating Instructions

• To reheat, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the frozen waffles on a baking sheet and bake for about 10 minutes or until they are heated through and crispy.
• Alternatively, you can reheat the waffles in a toaster or toaster oven on a medium setting until they are warm and crispy.
• For a quicker option, microwave the waffles on a microwave-safe plate for about 1-2 minutes, though this method may not retain the crispiness as well as the oven or toaster methods.

Tips for Best Results

• If you prefer a softer texture, you can reheat the waffles in the microwave and then finish them off in the toaster or oven for a few minutes to achieve a crispy exterior.
• Serve the reheated waffles with your favorite toppings such as fresh berries, maple syrup, whipped cream, or nut butter for a delightful breakfast or brunch experience.

• Oven Method:

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
  2. Place the waffles on a baking sheet in a single layer.
  3. Cover them loosely with aluminum foil to prevent them from drying out.
  4. Heat for about 10 minutes or until they are warmed through and slightly crispy.

• Toaster Method:

  1. If your waffles are not too thick, simply pop them into the toaster.
  2. Toast on a medium setting until they are heated through and crispy on the outside.
  3. Keep an eye on them to avoid burning.

• Microwave Method:

  1. Place the waffles on a microwave-safe plate.
  2. Cover them with a damp paper towel to retain moisture.
  3. Microwave on medium power for 30-60 seconds, checking halfway through to ensure they are evenly heated.

• Air Fryer Method:

  1. Preheat your air fryer to 350°F (175°C).
  2. Place the waffles in the air fryer basket in a single layer.
  3. Heat for 3-5 minutes, checking halfway through to ensure they are not overcooking.

• Stovetop Method:

  1. Heat a non-stick skillet over medium heat.
  2. Add a small amount of butter or oil to the skillet.
  3. Place the waffles in the skillet and heat for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until they are warmed through and slightly crispy.

• Waffle iron: A specialized appliance used to cook the waffle batter into crispy, golden waffles.

• Large bowl: Used to combine the oats and buttermilk, allowing them to sit and soften.

• Another bowl: Used to whisk together the dry ingredients like flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.

• Whisk: Essential for mixing the dry ingredients together and for incorporating the eggs and melted butter into the oat mixture.

• Measuring cups: Used to measure out the rolled oats, buttermilk, and flour accurately.

• Measuring spoons: Used to measure out the sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt precisely.

• Spatula: Useful for stirring the wet and dry ingredients together until just combined.

• Melted butter container: A small bowl or container to hold the melted butter before adding it to the mixture.

• Serving plate: To place the cooked waffles on once they are done and ready to be served.

• Toppings: Various containers or bowls to hold your favorite toppings like syrup, fruits, or whipped cream.

Pre-soak the oats: Combine rolled oats and buttermilk the night before and refrigerate. This saves time in the morning.

Measure dry ingredients ahead: Mix flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt in a bowl and store in an airtight container.

Use a blender: Blend the oat mixture for a smoother batter, reducing mixing time.

Preheat the waffle iron early: Turn on the waffle iron while preparing the batter to save time.

Melt butter in microwave: Quickly melt butter in the microwave instead of on the stove.