When it comes to waffle toppings, syrup isn’t the only game in town! Try these tasty alternatives for a weekend treat you’ll never forget.
Waffles are a special occasion around our house. I especially love them topped with buttermilk syrup, crunchy pecans, and whipped cream.
When it comes to waffles, I would gladly have some any meal of the day! Even though it’s most popular as a breakfast food, there’s actually so many ways you can enjoy them beyond the usual maple syrup and butter.
Whether you’re craving something sweet or savory, here are 14 of the most delicious ways to top off your waffles.
1. Whipped Cream and Chocolate Syrup
A little spin on the usual syrup and butter is whipped cream and chocolate syrup waffles! You can even add some chopped nuts or cacao nibs for a little crunch and flavor. Definitely not the healthiest option out there but arguably one of the most delectable!
2. Peaches and Honey
Looking for something sweet but healthy? We’ve got you! Top your waffles off with some peach slices and drizzle over pure honey.
I love the combination of the tangy peaches and the smooth, sweet flavor of honey. Of course, you can also use a combination of different fruits like strawberries or bananas. As always, let your taste buds lead the way!
3. Ice Cream and Chopped Nuts
I don’t know about you but I’ll take any excuse I can to have a meal with ice cream! Top your waffle with a scoop of your favorite flavor and sprinkle over a good amount of chopped nuts. I recommend vanilla ice cream with pistachios. Yum!
4. Blueberries and Yogurt
If you’re not feeling the ice cream, yogurt is a great alternative. This antioxidant topping is sure to get you ready for the day ahead. Add in some blueberries and a freshly brewed cup of coffee and you’ve got yourself an excellent breakfast.
5. S’mores
Everybody loves s’mores, so why not try it with your waffles? Simply spread some marshmallow fluff on top, add crushed grahams, and some chocolate.
I like to go with melted chocolate but you can also do chocolate chips. Dark chocolate is a great alternative if you don’t want anything too sweet. Whichever you choose, this will definitely be a hit on the breakfast table!
6. Peanut Butter and Jelly
Peanut butter and jelly sandwich? Delicious. Peanut butter and jelly WAFFLE? Irresistible!
You can go with your favorite kind of peanut butter, whether it’s creamy, crunchy, sweet, or salty. As for the jelly, I love a good fig or guava jelly. It’s easy to make too so you can have fun and experiment with your very own jam at home.
7. Lemon Curd
This one is quite unique and one you may never consider, but hear me out! You can get this ready-made in a jar at the grocery or you can make your own. It only takes about 20 minutes to make and uses just four ingredients.
I love the sweet, acidic, lemony flavor it adds to my plain waffle. Trust me, once you’ve tried this, you’ll be addicted!
8. Buttermilk Syrup
Another topping you can make at home is buttermilk syrup. Ever since I tried this, I’ve been wondering why it isn’t more popular! Seriously, it’s delicious.
All you need is some butter, sugar, vanilla extract, and buttermilk and it takes just 10 minutes to prepare. Definitely worth a try!
9. Strawberry Syrup
Although traditional buttermilk syrup is certainly a classic, it’s not the only game in town! One of my favorite waffle combos is strawberry syrup, freshly sliced strawberries, pecans, and whipped cream.
But you can also explore a variety of syrup options. You can also choose from chocolate syrup, caramel syrup, blueberry syrup, or even an orange-maple syrup.
You’ll find many of these pre-made in the grocery store, but for an extra special treat, you can make them at home as well!
10. Cinnamon Sugar
Here’s a simple little something to add just the right amount of flavor and sweetness to your waffle. Cinnamon sugar!
Make sure to add it when your waffle is freshly cooked and still warm. You really can’t go wrong with this one.
11. Ham and Cheese
Now for something savory! I usually prefer savory over sweet toppings for my waffles and ham and cheese is definitely one of my favorites. It’s simple, it’s delicious, and everyone loves it. You can even turn it into a waffle sandwich.
12. Eggs Benedict
If you’re in the mood for something more decadent, why not go the extra mile and make a waffle version of the classic Eggs Benedict breakfast?
It will probably take a bit longer than other toppings because you’ll need to poach eggs and prepare a hollandaise sauce but it’s always worth it for something this delicious.
13. Chili Con Carne
A festive, Mexican twist on the humble waffle: Chili con carne!
Nothing beats a good home-made chili. Top your waffles with a cup of chili for a tasty, savory, and hearty meal. This one is great whether you have it for breakfast, lunch, or dinner and it’s filling too!
14. Tuna Salad
For a healthy savory topping option, try tuna salad. Place some lettuce leaves on your waffle and then top it off with your own homemade tuna salad and some Parmesan cheese.
I like to make mine with Japanese mayo, onions, and celery but you can always make your own version. This one is also great anytime of the day and you can customize it to make it even healthier!
DIY Waffle Bar
If you’re having some guests over for brunch or an afternoon snack, a waffle bar is a great way for them to have their very own customized waffle. The kids will enjoy building their own waffle too! Here are some tips for a great DIY waffle bar.
- Sort your toppings by flavor and texture so your guests know which part of the bar to go. Have the sweet toppings on one side and the savory ones on another. Also group together the solids and liquids.
- Prepare different sized waffles if you can. Smaller ones can be for the kids or if anyone wants to sample some toppings. If they really brought their appetite and your toppings are that good, they’ll also need bigger waffles!
- Add a good amount of topping options to your waffle bar depending on how many guests you have. More guests, more topping options!
14 Waffle Toppings for Breakfast, Lunch, or Dinner
Ingredients
Whipped Cream and Chocolate Syrup
Peaches and Honey
Ice Cream and Chopped Nuts
Blueberries and Yogurt
S’mores
Peanut Butter and Jelly
Lemon Curd
Buttermilk Syrup
Strawberry Syrup
Cinnamon Sugar
Ham and Cheese
Eggs Benedict
Chili Con Carne
Tuna Salad
Instructions
- Pick and choose your favorite waffle toppings. Or combine a few of your favorites for the ultimate breakfast!
- Organize all the required ingredients.
- Prep a delicious breakfast the whole family will enjoy!
