If you’ve been hunting for a waffles recipe gluten free that doesn’t taste like cardboard or fall apart in the iron, this is the one. I’ve tested dozens of gluten free batters and doughs, but none came close to the soft, chewy, golden crisp texture that this yeast dough delivers. I made a batch last weekend for brunch and no one at the table guessed it was gluten free and that’s the goal.
Ingredients for This Waffles Recipe Gluten Free
For the Dough:
- 270g gluten free cake flour blend (make sure it includes starch and xanthan gum)
- 40g fine sugar
- 2g salt
- 60g beaten egg
- 83g milk (or dairy free substitute like almond or oat milk)
- 10g fresh yeast or 4.5g dry yeast
- 35g butter (or plant based alternative)
Optional Fillings:
- Chocolate chips
- Custard
- Red bean paste
Topping:
120g chocolate glaze (melted dark or milk chocolate)
Step by Step: How to Make This Waffles Recipe Gluten Free
1: Mix and Knead the Dough
- In a large bowl, combine the flour, sugar, and salt.
- Add the beaten egg, milk, and yeast. Mix with a wooden spoon or dough hook until a sticky dough forms.
- Add the softened butter and knead until fully incorporated. Dough will be slightly tacky but should hold its shape.
- If the dough feels too dry, add a tablespoon of milk. If too wet, add 1 tablespoon flour at a time.
2: First Rise and Shape
- Cover the dough and let it rise in a warm place for about 60 minutes or until doubled in size.
- After rising, punch out the air and divide into six even portions.
- Flatten each piece and place your filling of choice in the center. Fold and seal to form a ball.
3: Cook in Waffle Maker
Preheat your waffle maker to medium high.
Place one ball in the center of the iron. Press down gently and cook for 2-3 minutes or until golden brown.
Repeat with remaining dough. Let the waffles cool on a wire rack to maintain their crisp texture.
4: Add the Topping
- Melt chocolate until smooth and glossy. Dip the top of each waffle and let the excess drip off.
- Set on parchment paper to dry. You can also add sprinkles, crushed nuts, or shaved chocolate.
Make Ahead and Storage Tips
- Refrigerate dough: After the first kneading, you can refrigerate the dough overnight and cook in the morning.
- Freeze cooked waffles: Let them cool, then store in airtight bags. Reheat in a toaster or oven.
- Avoid glazing too early: Add chocolate just before serving to avoid soggy texture.
Why Yeast Works Wonders in a Waffles Recipe Gluten Free
Most people assume gluten free waffles need baking powder to rise quickly, but switching to yeast opens up a new world of texture. This waffles recipe gluten free proves that a slow rise builds not only height, but deep flavor and incredible softness inside.
- Chewier interior: Yeast gives a pillowy, bread like structure you cannot achieve with baking powder
- Less dryness: The longer hydration process gives a moist, tender crumb
- Better reheating: Yeast waffles stay soft longer and reheat like they were just made
