01 -
In a large bowl, sift together the all-purpose flour, unsweetened cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt until evenly combined.
02 -
In a separate bowl, whisk the egg yolks with the packed light brown sugar until smooth. Gradually incorporate the buttermilk, vegetable oil, and vanilla extract.
03 -
Pour the wet mixture into the dry ingredients and stir until just combined. Fold in the melted unsalted butter and chocolate chips until evenly distributed.
04 -
Using a clean mixer bowl, whip the egg whites until soft peaks form. Gently fold the whipped egg whites into the batter with a spatula, being careful not to overmix to maintain airiness.
05 -
Heat the waffle iron according to the manufacturer's instructions and lightly spray the grates with cooking spray to prevent sticking.
06 -
Pour approximately 60 ml of batter onto each waffle grate. Close the iron and cook for about 5 minutes or until waffles are crisp and cooked through. Repeat with remaining batter.
07 -
Plate the waffles and serve immediately with desired toppings such as fresh berries, vanilla ice cream, confectioners' sugar, chocolate sauce, or whipped cream.