How to Make Chocolate Chip Waffles

Jump to Recipe

Chocolate chip waffles turn a simple morning into something special. The blend of warm, crisp golden waffle and molten chocolate makes these a comforting dish everyone craves. Whether you’re feeding a hungry crowd or just want to treat yourself, this recipe will guide you through every detail—from batter basics to pro-serving tips.

Why Make Chocolate Chip Waffles?

There’s always a place for plain waffles. But adding chocolate chips makes the ordinary extraordinary. They melt into soft pockets nestled within the fluffy crumb, providing delightful contrast to the crunch of the crust. Best of all, the recipe is easy. You’ll find no complicated techniques or fancy equipment here; if you have a bowl, a whisk, and a waffle iron, you’re set.

These waffles work equally well for laid-back weekend brunches, quick weekday breakfasts, or midnight snacks. They’re family-friendly, endlessly customizable, and the perfect canvas for your favorite toppings.

Ingredients

Every step starts with good ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need for classic, flavorful waffles that hold up to heaps of chocolate chips and whatever toppings you choose.

Tip: Mini chocolate chips disperse more evenly, but regular chips work fine.

Making the Waffle Batter

The foundation of great chocolate chip waffles is a smooth, lump-free batter. Here’s a method that ensures light, tender waffles every time:

• Combine dry ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk the flour, baking powder, baking soda, sugar, and salt. Mixing them first prevents small clumps and helps distribute the leavening evenly so every bite rises and crisps right.

• Blend wet ingredients: In another bowl, whisk buttermilk, eggs, and vanilla. Slowly stream in the warm melted butter, whisking constantly. This adds richness and moisture, making the waffles tender. Let the mixture rest for two minutes.

• Mix wet and dry until just combined: Pour wet ingredients into the dry bowl. Stir gently with a spatula until only a few small streaks of flour remain. Over-mixing leads to chewy waffles, so fold lightly.

• Add chocolate chips: Sprinkle chocolate chips over the batter. Fold in gently to avoid overworking. If using add-ins (like crushed walnuts or banana slices), fold those in now.

• Rest the batter: Let the batter sit for 10-15 minutes at room temperature. This rest lets the gluten relax and the leavening agents start working, resulting in waffles that are fluffy and light inside yet crisp on the exterior.

Cooking the Waffles

Now it’s time to cook. Prepping your waffle iron and portioning the batter prevents sticking and promotes even browning.

• Preheat the waffle iron: Plug in and let it fully heat up. Many models have a light that signals readiness.

• Grease the iron: Even if your appliance claims to be non-stick, spray or brush the hot surface lightly with oil or cooking spray. This ensures the waffles lift out without breaking.

• Portion the batter: Pour enough batter to almost cover the lower grid—usually around 1/2 to 3/4 cup, depending on the size of your iron. Spread it out using the back of a spoon.

• Add a few extra chips (optional): For extra chocolate in every bite, sprinkle a few chips on top before closing the lid.

• Cook: Close the lid and let the waffle cook according to your iron’s instructions, usually 3–5 minutes, until golden brown and crisp.

• Remove and repeat: Use a fork or tongs to gently lift the waffle onto a plate. If making a large batch, keep cooked waffles in a 200°F oven right on the rack so they stay warm and crisp.

Tips for the Best Chocolate Chip Waffles

A few simple steps elevate your waffles from good to unforgettable:

• Don’t skip the batter rest: Allowing the batter to relax makes a big difference in texture.

• Room temperature ingredients work best: Cold eggs or buttermilk can re-solidify melted butter, which may cause streaks or lumps in the batter.

• Prevent sticking: Even non-stick waffle irons can let batter stick, especially when chocolate chips are involved. Always reapply spray or oil between batches.

• Freeze leftovers: Store in a single layer on a baking sheet to prevent sticking, then transfer to bags. Reheat in a toaster or hot oven to restore crispness.

Topping and Serving Suggestions

The real fun comes in serving. Chocolate chip waffles love a variety of toppings and pair perfectly with both sweet and fresh accompaniments.

Classic Toppings

• Maple syrup (adds warmth and extra sweetness)
• Whipped cream (silky and light)
• Sliced bananas or fresh berries
• Extra mini chocolate chips
• Honey or fruit sauces (strawberry, blueberry, or raspberry)
• Chopped toasted nuts
• A dusting of powdered sugar

Creative Spins

• Spread peanut butter for a rich, savory complement.
• Drizzle caramel or hot fudge for dessert-style indulgence.
• Add a scoop of vanilla or chocolate ice cream for a decadent brunch treat.

Suggested Sides

While these waffles can stand alone, pairing them with a few simple sides rounds out breakfast or brunch.

• Scrambled or fried eggs
• Fresh fruit salad
• Crispy bacon or breakfast sausage
• Greek yogurt for a tangy balance

Storing and Reheating

Chocolate chip waffles store and reheat beautifully. Whether you make a double batch intentionally or just have a couple left, here’s how to keep them fresh:

Short-Term Storage

• Refrigerate: Let waffles cool completely. Place in an airtight container, separating layers with parchment paper. Store for up to three days.

Freezing

• Freeze: Arrange cooled waffles in a single layer on a baking sheet. Freeze until solid, then transfer to freezer-safe bags. Keep for up to three months.

Reheating

• Toaster: Place waffles directly in the toaster for a crispy finish.
• Oven: Preheat to 350°F. Warm the waffles on a baking sheet for 5–10 minutes.

Skip the microwave; it makes waffles soggy instead of restoring their lovely crunch.

Troubleshooting and FAQ

Why did my waffles turn out tough?
Likely from over-mixing. Stir the batter just until combined.

Can I substitute regular milk for buttermilk?
Yes, buttermilk yields a lighter, tangier result. To mimic, add 1 tablespoon lemon juice or vinegar to each cup of milk and let sit five minutes.

How do I make my waffles extra crispy?
Make sure your iron is fully preheated and resist the urge to open it early. Keeping finished waffles in a warm oven also helps.

What if I don’t have a waffle iron?
Try the batter as pancakes on a hot griddle. You won’t get the classic grid pattern, but you’ll still have the flavor.

Chocolate chip waffles are pure comfort, offering everything you want in a breakfast treat—crisp on the outside, tender inside, and dotted with gooey chocolate. With easy prep, flexible options, and family-friendly appeal, they’re sure to become a favorite at your table. Whether you stick to the classic recipe or branch out with mix-ins and creative toppings, each batch promises satisfaction and a little indulgence with every bite.

Chocolate Chip Waffles

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

4.8 from 7 votes

---

Course: Breakfast / Cuisine: American

Prep Time 15 minutes

Cooking Time 15 minutes

Servings 4 servings

Calories 828 cal

Fluffy chocolate chip waffles with crispy edges make a terrific family breakfast. Melty chocolate chips in every bite will have you craving them again and again.

Ingredients

• 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
• 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 1/2 cups buttermilk
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar
• 1 tablespoon baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
• 2 large eggs
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted and slightly cooled

Instructions

1. In a large bowl, whisk the flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt until well combined.
2. In a separate medium bowl, whisk the buttermilk, eggs, melted butter, and vanilla extract until smooth.
3. Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and stir by hand until about halfway combined. Stir in the chocolate chips until just combined. Be careful not to overmix - a few lumps are okay.
4. Let the waffle batter rest for 5-10 minutes. Preheat the waffle iron according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
5. Lightly grease the waffle iron if needed and pour over about 1/2 cup of batter (or per the waffle iron’s instructions). Cook until golden brown and crisp.
6. Transfer the cooked waffles to a plate. If making a larger batch, keep them warm on a baking sheet in a 200-degree Fahrenheit oven.
7. Serve warm with whipped cream, syrup, or extra chocolate chips. Enjoy!