Peanut Butter and Banana Waffles

There’s something undeniably comforting about homemade waffles, especially when they combine the rich flavors of peanut butter and bananas. These peanut butter and banana waffles make any morning a celebration, filling your kitchen with warmth and inviting aromas. They’re crisp on the outside and soft and fluffy inside, with the creamy nuttiness of peanut butter melding seamlessly with sweet bananas.

Enjoy these indulgent waffles fresh off the iron, topped with maple syrup, chopped nuts or fresh berries. They’re a versatile and satisfying start to your day, sure to become a staple of cozy weekend mornings.

Peanut Butter Waffles Ingredients    

• All-purpose flour: This staple flour provides the structure for the waffles, creating a stable base that holds the ingredients together.
• Sugar: A modest amount of sugar sweetens the batter and aids in browning the waffles for a golden finish.
• Baking powder: This leavening agent helps the waffles rise, resulting in a light and fluffy texture.
• Salt: It enhances the overall flavor, balancing the sweetness and ensuring that the waffles are not bland.
• Creamy peanut butter: Peanut butter adds a rich, nutty flavor and contributes to the moistness of the waffles. You can use store-bought or homemade peanut butter. 
• Canola oil: This oil adds moisture to the batter, ensuring that the waffles are tender on the inside.
• Eggs: Eggs provide structure and help bind the ingredients together, contributing to the waffles’ fluffy texture.
• 2% milk: The milk adds moisture to the batter and helps achieve a smooth, pourable consistency.
• Mashed ripe bananas: They add natural sweetness and a hint of banana flavor, making the waffles tender and moist.
• Maple syrup, optional: It’s a must-have topping that adds a touch of sweetness and complements the flavors of the waffles.

Directions    

Step 1: Prepare the batter

In a large bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, sugar, baking powder and salt until well combined. In a separate bowl, place the creamy peanut butter and gradually whisk in the canola oil until smooth. Add the eggs and milk to the peanut butter mixture, whisking until fully incorporated. Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and stir just until moistened. Gently fold in the mashed ripe bananas until they are evenly distributed throughout the batter.

Step 2: Cook the waffles

Preheat your waffle maker according to the manufacturer’s instructions. Once heated, lightly grease the waffle plates if necessary. Pour the batter onto the preheated waffle maker, using enough to fill but not overflow the grids. Cook the waffles until golden brown and crisp, following the waffle maker’s guidelines for timing. Carefully remove the waffles and serve immediately with maple syrup if desired.

Peanut Butter Waffles Variations 

• Add chocolate chips: Stir in 1/2 cup of chocolate chips to the batter for a sweet, chocolatey twist.
• Use whole wheat flour: Substitute half the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour for a heartier waffle.
• Make it gluten-free: Replace the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend to cater to gluten-sensitive eaters.
• Try almond butter: Swap the creamy peanut butter with almond butter for a different nutty flavor.

How to Store Peanut Butter Waffles

To store any leftover waffles, let them cool completely on a wire rack to prevent them from becoming soggy. Once cooled, place the waffles in an airtight container or wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and store them in the refrigerator for up to three days.  

Can you freeze peanut butter waffles? 

For longer storage, you can freeze the waffles in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer them to a resealable freezer bag once frozen; they can be kept in the freezer for up to two months.

How do you reheat peanut butter waffles? 

To reheat waffles, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the waffles on a baking sheet in a single layer and bake for about 10 minutes or until they’re heated through and crispy. Alternatively, you can use a toaster; simply pop the waffles in and toast them on a low setting until warm and crispy.

Peanut Butter Waffles Tips    

What are some other breakfast or brunch recipes that go well with peanut butter waffles? 

For a well-rounded breakfast or brunch, pair your waffles with complementary dishes such as fruit salad, scrambled eggs or crispy bacon. For a creamy and crunchy element, serve a yogurt parfait. 

What are some topping ideas for peanut butter and banana waffles?

Enhance the banana flavor by adding fresh sliced bananas on top. Sprinkle chopped nuts such as peanuts, almonds or walnuts for added crunch and nutty flavor. Melt some chocolate chips on the hot waffles for a sweet and decadent touch, or drizzle honey or maple syrup for a classic sweet topping that complements the peanut butter. Add a dollop of whipped cream for a light and airy contrast to the waffles.

How do I prevent my waffles from sticking to the waffle maker?

To prevent your waffles from sticking to the waffle maker, make sure to properly preheat the waffle maker according to the manufacturer’s instructions. Lightly grease the waffle plates with a cooking spray or a bit of oil before pouring in the batter. Avoid overfilling the waffle maker to prevent batter from spilling over and sticking. Wait for the waffles to cook completely before attempting to open the waffle maker. Opening it too soon can cause the waffles to tear and stick. Regularly clean your waffle maker to remove any residue that might cause sticking in future batches.