Vanilla Buttermilk Blender Waffles

Waffles are always a treat for breakfast. I used to save them for lazy weekend mornings, since they seemed to take more time to put together than a batch of pancakes, but that all changed once I discovered that it was possible to make waffle batter in the blender. Using the blender, smooth waffle batter will come together in just seconds, so you can enjoy fresh waffles any time you’re in the mood. These Vanilla Buttermilk Blender Waffles are one of my favorites, a classic recipe that makes waffles with a crisp exterior and a soft, custardy interior.

The waffle batter is assembled in the blender, so you can measure out all your ingredients and add them directly to the blender pitcher. Once everything is inside, just blend to combine. I usually opt for low speed blending, then pause to scrape down the sides of the pitcher once or twice with a spatula, then finish off the batter with a few seconds at high speed to eliminate any lumps. Once it is ready, you can pour directly from the pitcher onto your preheated waffle iron!

The batter itself is very straightforward, with buttermilk, flour and eggs making up the base of it. There is a generous spoonful of baking powder to give the finished waffles a nice lift once they’re cooking, along with a big splash of vanilla extract. If you happen to have vanilla bean paste, I recommend using it in this recipe to bring in those beautiful little flecks of vanilla to go along with the floral vanilla aroma. The contrast of the creamy vanilla and tangy buttermilk is just right – and gets even more delicious once you add maple syrup to the finished waffles on your plate!

The yield for this recipe will vary based on the size of your waffle iron. It will make at least four waffles in any average-sized waffle maker. I like to use a Belgian-style waffle iron that produces waffles with deep pockets (for catching melting butter and syrup), but a flatter-style waffle maker can also be used. The waffles should be served shortly after cooking to best enjoy their crisp exterior and custardy, moist interiors. Serve them with softened butter and plenty of maple syrup!

Vanilla Buttermilk Blender Waffles
2 cups buttermilk
2 large eggs
2 cups all purpose flour
2 tsp baking powder
1/4 tsp salt
3 tbsp sugar
1 tbsp vanilla extract
1/4 cup butter, melted and cooled

Combine all ingredients in the blender pitcher and blend at low speed until batter is thick. Scrape down the sides of the blender with a spatula if necessary to ensure that no flour sticks to the walls of the blender, then blend for a few more seconds at high speed until batter is smooth.
Preheat waffle iron.
Pour batter onto waffle iron and cook (until crisp and golden) as directed by the manufacturer (usually about 3-4 minutes).

Makes 4-6 (depending on waffle iron)