Red Velvet Waffles Maple

I'd been wanting to make something special for Valentine's Day breakfast, but honestly I kept putting it off until the night before. That deep burgundy batter hitting the hot waffle iron sent up the most incredible chocolate vanilla aroma that had everyone wandering into the kitchen before dawn. Something about these waffles turning that perfect ruby red makes even a regular Tuesday morning feel like a celebration.

My sister came over last weekend and we ended up making a double batch because the first one disappeared so fast. We stood around the counter eating them straight off the iron, barely waiting for the maple syrup to soak in before taking another bite. There's something about serving these warm and slightly crisp that makes people forget all about table manners and just enjoy the moment.

Ingredients

• 2 cups all-purpose flour: The foundation that gives these waffles their structure and perfect crumb
• 2 tbsp unsweetened cocoa powder: Just enough to add depth without making these taste like dessert
• 2 tbsp granulated sugar: A subtle sweetness that balances the tangy buttermilk beautifully
• 2 tsp baking powder: This is what creates those lovely fluffy pockets inside each waffle
• 1/2 tsp baking soda: Works with the buttermilk to create extra lift and tenderness
• 1/2 tsp salt: Enhances all the flavors and keeps them from tasting flat
• 2 large eggs: Essential for structure and helping the waffles rise properly
• 1 3/4 cups buttermilk: The secret ingredient that makes these waffles tender and adds a slight tang
• 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted: Adds richness and helps create that crispy exterior we love
• 1 tsp vanilla extract: Rounds out all the flavors and makes everything taste homemade
• 1 tbsp red food coloring: Creates that signature red velvet color that makes these so special

Instructions

Get your waffle iron ready:

Preheat according to manufacturer instructions so it's nice and hot when your batter is ready

Mix the dry ingredients together:

Whisk flour, cocoa powder, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt in a large bowl until well combined

Combine the wet ingredients:

Beat eggs in a separate bowl then add buttermilk, melted butter, vanilla, and red food coloring until smooth

Bring everything together:

Pour wet ingredients into dry and stir until just combined, leaving some small lumps for the best texture

Cook until golden crisp:

Lightly grease the waffle iron and pour about 1/2 to 2/3 cup batter per waffle, cooking 3 to 5 minutes until crisp

Serve them warm:

Top immediately with maple syrup, whipped cream, and fresh berries if you're feeling fancy

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These became my go-to birthday breakfast request after I made them for my roommate's morning celebration. There's something about cutting into that vibrant red interior and seeing the steam rise that makes breakfast feel like an event, not just a meal.

Making Buttermilk Work For You

I've learned that buttermilk is absolutely worth buying for these waffles, but if you're in a pinch, regular milk mixed with a splash of vinegar works surprisingly well. The acidity in buttermilk reacts with the baking soda to create the most tender crumb you've ever tasted in a waffle.

Getting The Color Right

The red food coloring amount listed gives you that classic red velvet hue, but I've discovered that gel food coloring creates a more vibrant shade with less liquid. Don't worry if the batter looks too red at first, it bakes into that perfect ruby color we all love.

Serving Suggestions That Work

While maple syrup is the traditional pairing, I've found that a drizzle of warm cream cheese frosting takes these completely over the top in the best way possible. Fresh berries add brightness and cut through the richness beautifully.

• Try adding chocolate chips to the batter for double chocolate indulgence
• Keep leftover waffles in the toaster oven at 300°F to stay crisp while you cook the rest
• These freeze beautifully and reheat in the toaster for busy weekday mornings

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There's nothing quite like standing at the stove while these cook, that warm vanilla cocoa scent filling the kitchen and knowing something wonderful is about to happen.

Recipe Questions & Answers

→ What makes these waffles red velvet?

The distinct red hue comes from red food coloring combined with unsweetened cocoa powder, lending a subtle chocolate flavor and vibrant color.

→ Can I substitute buttermilk in the batter?

Yes, you can replace buttermilk with regular milk plus lemon juice or vinegar to mimic its acidity and texture.

→ How do I achieve crispy waffles?

Ensure your waffle iron is preheated well and cook the batter until golden brown and crisp, usually 3–5 minutes.

→ Can I add mix-ins to the batter?

Chocolate chips can be added for extra richness without altering the texture significantly.

→ What toppings complement these waffles?

Maple syrup is classic, but whipped cream and fresh berries add freshness and creaminess to balance the flavors.

→ Are these waffles suitable for vegetarians?

Yes, the ingredients used cater to a vegetarian diet with no meat or fish products included.