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Red velvet waffles make a striking and delicious twist on a classic breakfast favorite. They bring a touch of elegance to weekend mornings or brunch without demanding too much effort. The subtle cocoa flavor paired with that vibrant red hue makes them a standout at the table, perfect for celebrating something special or simply treating yourself.
I started making these when I wanted a festive breakfast for a small gathering and since then they have become a regular request in my house.
Ingredients
- All-purpose flour: forms the structure of the waffles — choose a fresh bag from a reliable brand for best rise
- Salt: enhances all other flavors so don't skip it and prefer fine salt for even mixing
- Baking powder: ensures the waffles are light and fluffy, check the expiration date because old baking powder loses effectiveness
- Granulated sugar: adds sweetness and helps with browning use pure white sugar for a clean flavor profile
- Unsweetened cocoa powder: gives that subtle chocolate depth opt for natural cocoa instead of Dutch-processed for more tangy brightness in flavor
- Eggs: provide richness and help bind the batter farm fresh eggs make the waffles taste extra wholesome
- Milk: adds moisture and lightness whole milk is best but any milk will work
- Vegetable oil: keeps the waffles tender and moist choose a neutral oil like canola or sunflower for a clean taste
- Lorann Red Velvet Bakery Emulsion or red food coloring: creates that signature red velvet color the emulsion adds subtle complexity but food coloring works well too if you want simplicity
Instructions
- Preheat The Waffle Maker:
- Preheat your waffle maker according to the manufacturer's instructions. This is important for an even crisp exterior. I like to give mine at least 10 minutes to ensure it's hot all the way through.
- Whisk The Dry Ingredients:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, salt, baking powder, granulated sugar, and unsweetened cocoa powder. Whisk thoroughly until the mixture is uniform. This evenly distributes the rising agents and flavor elements so your waffles cook and taste consistent.
- Mix The Wet Ingredients:
- In a separate bowl, beat the eggs lightly to break them up. Add the milk, vegetable oil, and Lorann Red Velvet Bakery Emulsion or red food coloring. Mix these until they come together into a smooth liquid. The emulsion needs a good stir to blend well.
- Combine Wet And Dry Mixtures:
- Gradually pour the wet mixture into the bowl with dry ingredients. Stir gently with a spatula or whisk just until combined. Do not overmix because that can develop gluten and make your waffles tough. Some lumps are okay here.
- Cook The Waffles:
- Pour enough batter onto the preheated waffle maker to cover the surface but not overflow. Close the lid and cook until the waffles are crispy on the outside and cooked through. Cooking time varies by waffle maker but typically it takes about 5 minutes for each waffle. Use a timer if you can for consistency.
- Serve And Enjoy:
- Carefully remove the waffles, being gentle to keep their shape. Serve warm with your favorite toppings like whipped cream, fresh berries, or chocolate syrup.
I remember serving these on Valentine's Day and watching everyone's faces light up when they saw the color and tasted the depth.
Storage Tips
These waffles freeze well. Let them cool completely and store in an airtight container or freezer bag for up to a month. Reheat in a toaster or oven straight from frozen for a quick treat. Avoid stacking hot waffles before storing to keep their crispness alive.
Ingredient Swaps
If you do not have Lorann Red Velvet Emulsion, red food coloring does the job but lean towards gel colors for a richer hue without watering down the batter. Milk can be replaced with almond milk or oat milk for a dairy-free version. Vegetable oil can be swapped for melted coconut oil for a hint of tropical flavor.
Serving Ideas
Serve with fresh berries and a drizzle of maple syrup for a classic balance. Top with mascarpone or cream cheese frosting for a rich indulgence. Add chopped nuts or chocolate chips to the batter before cooking for extra texture and flavor.
Enjoy your vibrant red velvet waffles as a delightful treat that brings color and flavor to your breakfast table.
Frequently Asked Recipe Questions
- → What gives red velvet waffles their distinct color?
The vibrant red hue comes from red food coloring or red velvet bakery emulsion blended into the batter, enhancing both color and subtle flavor.
- → Can I substitute the red velvet emulsion with regular food coloring?
Yes, regular red food coloring can replace the emulsion. Adjust the amount to achieve your preferred intensity without altering texture.
- → How do I achieve crispy edges and a fluffy center?
Preheating the waffle maker properly and using the correct batter consistency helps ensure crisp edges while keeping the inside tender.
- → What toppings pair well with red velvet waffles?
Whipped cream, fresh berries, chocolate syrup, or a sprinkle of powdered sugar complement the rich flavor beautifully.
- → Can I prepare the batter in advance?
It's best to cook waffles shortly after mixing for optimal texture, but the batter can be refrigerated for up to a few hours if needed.