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There’s a certain joy that comes from waking up to the smell of something extraordinary wafting through the kitchen. Picture this: you pull open the waffle iron to reveal a stunning red velvet masterpiece, the steam curling up around you like a warm hug. These Red Velvet Waffles are not just breakfast; they’re a little celebration on your plate. Topped with a luscious cream cheese glaze, they’re the kind of indulgence that transforms a regular morning into something special—perfect for holidays, brunches, or just because!

Whether it’s Valentine’s Day or a cozy family gathering, these waffles are bound to impress. The rich cocoa flavor melds beautifully with that signature tang, making every bite feel like a decadent dessert. And don’t worry about the fuss; this recipe is straightforward and approachable, ensuring that even on busy mornings, you can create something truly remarkable. Let’s dive into this delightful dish and bring a splash of color and joy to your breakfast table!

Why are Red Velvet Waffles so special?

Eye-Catching Presentation: The vibrant red hue makes these waffles a stunning highlight on any breakfast table, guaranteed to impress guests and loved ones.
Decadent Flavor: Combining rich cocoa notes with a tangy cream cheese glaze takes your morning meal to the next level.
Easy to Make: With just a few simple steps, anyone can whip up these delightful waffles without hassle.
Versatile Serving Options: Enjoy them as breakfast, dessert, or a festive treat—perfect for any occasion!
Perfectly Pairs: Elevate these waffles by serving them with fresh berries or crispy bacon, creating a delicious, well-rounded meal!

Red Velvet Waffles Ingredients

For the Waffles

Bisquick Mix – A base ingredient for structure and fluffiness; feel free to substitute with your favorite homemade pancake mix.
Brown Sugar – Adds sweetness and a hint of molasses flavor; light or dark brown sugar both work well here.
Cocoa Powder – Provides rich chocolate flavor and enhances the red hue; use unsweetened cocoa for best results.
Buttermilk – Gives a tangy flavor and tender texture; can substitute with regular milk mixed with 1 tbsp of vinegar or lemon juice.
Whole Milk – Helps achieve the right consistency in the batter; can be replaced with any milk of choice.
Red Gel Food Coloring – Essential for the iconic red color; gel offers a vibrant hue—avoid using too much liquid dye.
Egg – Acts as a binder and helps the waffles rise beautifully.
Melted Butter – Adds richness and moisture to the batter; can be replaced with oil for a lighter version.
Vanilla Extract – Enhances overall flavor; ensure it is pure vanilla for the best taste.

For the Cream Cheese Glaze

Cream Cheese – The base for the glaze, providing that signature tangy flavor; use softened cream cheese for a smooth texture.
Powdered Sugar – Sweetens the glaze, creating a fluffy texture; adjust the amount to suit your desired sweetness.
Milk (for Glaze) – Thin out the glaze to the desired consistency; add gradually to achieve your perfect pourable texture.

These ingredients come together to create delightful Red Velvet Waffles that are not only visually stunning but also a delicious way to brighten up your breakfast!

How to Make Red Velvet Waffles

Prepare Glaze: Beat softened cream cheese until smooth. Add powdered sugar gradually and mix well, then stir in milk and vanilla extract until you reach a pourable consistency.
Preheat Waffle Iron: Set your waffle iron according to the manufacturer’s instructions, making sure it’s hot enough to give that delightful crispiness.
Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together Bisquick mix, brown sugar, and cocoa powder until well combined. This will be the base of your delicious waffle mix.
Combine Wet Ingredients: In another bowl, whisk together buttermilk, whole milk, red gel food coloring, egg, melted butter, and vanilla extract until smooth and well integrated.
Combine Mixtures: Pour the wet ingredients into the dry mixture, stirring gently until just combined. Avoid overmixing to keep your waffles light and fluffy!
Cook Waffles: Pour about 3/4 cup of batter onto the preheated waffle iron. Close the lid and cook for 4-5 minutes, or until the waffles are golden brown and release easily.
Serve: Drizzle the warm waffles generously with the cream cheese glaze. Feel free to add fresh berries, whipped cream, or a sprinkle of powdered sugar on top for that extra flair!

Optional: Add mini chocolate chips into the batter for a delicious twist.

Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.

Red Velvet Waffles Variations

Customize your Red Velvet Waffles and make every morning a delightful surprise!

Dairy-Free: Use almond or oat milk in place of buttermilk and whole milk for a lactose-free version.
Gluten-Free: Swap out Bisquick mix for a gluten-free pancake mix to cater to dietary needs without sacrificing flavor.
Chocolate Chip Delight: Fold in semi-sweet or dark chocolate chips for an extra layer of sweetness and texture.
Nutty Twist: Add chopped walnuts or pecans to the batter for a crunchy contrast to the fluffiness of the waffles.
Berry Bliss: Top with fresh strawberries or raspberries for a fruity explosion that complements the rich cocoa flavor.
Spicy Kick: Incorporate a pinch of cayenne pepper or cinnamon into the batter for a subtle warmth that enhances the overall taste.
Vegan: Replace eggs with flaxseed meal (1 tbsp flaxseed + 3 tbsp water) and use a plant-based butter alternative for a complete vegan option.
Layered Cake Style: Stack the waffles with layers of glaze and whipped cream or berries in between for a show-stopping brunch presentation.

Tips for the Best Red Velvet Waffles

Don’t Skimp on Mixing: Combine dry and wet ingredients gently to avoid overmixing; this keeps your Red Velvet Waffles light and fluffy.
Optimal Waffle Iron Temp: Ensure your waffle iron is preheated adequately to achieve a crispy exterior and prevent sticking.
Perfect Glaze Consistency: Start with a small amount of milk in the cream cheese glaze; add more gradually until you reach your desired pourable texture.
Use Quality Ingredients: Invest in pure vanilla extract and unsweetened cocoa powder for the best flavor experience in your waffles.
Experiment with Toppings: Don’t hesitate to add fun toppings like fresh berries or chocolate chips to elevate your waffle experience!

Storage Tips for Red Velvet Waffles

Fridge: Store leftover Red Velvet Waffles in an airtight container for up to 2 days to maintain freshness and flavor.

Freezer: For longer storage, freeze waffles individually wrapped in plastic wrap and placed in a zip-top bag for up to 2 months.

Reheating: Reheat frozen waffles directly from the freezer in a toaster or toaster oven for best results, until warmed through and crispy.

Serving Suggestions: Consider pairing reheated waffles with fresh fruit or additional cream cheese glaze to revive their delightful flavor.

What to Serve with Red Velvet Waffles?

Elevate your breakfast spread with delightful accompaniments that will complement the luscious flavors of these vibrant waffles.

Crispy Bacon: The savory saltiness of crispy bacon balances the sweet, rich pancakes, creating a perfect harmony of flavors.
Fresh Berries: Strawberries or blueberries add a refreshing burst of sweetness, brightening up your plate with color and juicy flavor. Pairing them with the cream cheese glaze creates an extra layer of indulgence.
Whipped Cream: Light and airy, whipped cream adds a delightful texture and a touch of sweetness, making each bite feel like dessert. Dollop it generously for an elegant finish!
Maple Syrup: The classic pairing with waffles, warm maple syrup drizzled over the top enhances the flavors of the red velvet without overshadowing them.
Vanilla Ice Cream: For a decadent dessert twist, serve your waffles with a scoop of vanilla ice cream. The creamy coldness against the warm waffles is heavenly!
Fruit Salad: A colorful mix of seasonal fruits presents freshness and tang, cutting through the richness of the waffles, and it’s a burst of sunshine on your breakfast table.
Mimosas: Toast your special breakfast occasion with a light and bubbly mimosa. The citrus notes of orange juice elevate the sweetness, making for a joyful drink pairing.
Chocolate Sauce: For the chocolate lovers, a drizzle of chocolate sauce over the cream cheese glaze creates a rich, dessert-like treat that is simply irresistible.

Each of these pairings brings something unique to your breakfast or brunch, making these Red Velvet Waffles not just a meal, but a delightful experience!

Make Ahead Options

These Red Velvet Waffles are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time during hectic mornings! You can prepare the batter up to 24 hours in advance by combining the dry and wet ingredients separately. Just refrigerate the wet mixture and the dry ingredients in separate airtight containers. When you’re ready to cook, simply combine the mixtures, and pour the batter into the preheated waffle iron. For the cream cheese glaze, you can make it ahead and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days; just give it a quick stir before serving. This meal prep approach not only saves time but ensures that your waffles are just as delicious, allowing you to delight in a scrumptious breakfast with minimal effort!

Red Velvet Waffles Recipe FAQs

How do I select ripe ingredients for Red Velvet Waffles?
Absolutely! For optimal flavor, choose fresh buttermilk that is within its expiration date. If you’re using eggs, opt for large eggs with clean shells. When it comes to cocoa powder, unsweetened varieties are essential for the rich taste. As for the red gel food coloring, ensure it’s from a reputable brand to achieve that vibrant hue without unsightly clumps.

How should I store leftover Red Velvet Waffles?
After enjoying your delicious waffles, let any leftovers cool down to room temperature. Store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. For longer storage, wrap each waffle individually in plastic wrap and then place them in a resealable freezer bag. They can be frozen for up to 2 months—just pop them in the toaster for a quick reheat!

Can I freeze the Red Velvet Waffles? If so, how?
Definitely! To freeze the waffles, begin by allowing them to cool completely. Next, stack them with parchment paper in between each waffle to prevent sticking. Wrap the stack tightly in plastic wrap, then place it in a zip-top freezer bag. Make sure to remove as much air as possible before sealing. These frozen delights can stay fresh up to 2 months! When you’re ready to enjoy, reheat them directly from the freezer in a toaster until they’re warmed through and crispy.

What should I do if my waffles stick to the waffle iron?
Very! If your waffles stick, it might be due to the waffle iron not being preheated enough or insufficient greasing. Ensure your waffle iron is fully heated according to the manufacturer’s instructions before pouring in the batter. Applying a light spray of cooking oil or brushing melted butter on the iron’s surface can help to keep the waffles from sticking. If your waffles still stick, consider checking the batter consistency; a thicker batter can sometimes help with sticking issues.

Are there any dietary considerations for Red Velvet Waffles?
For sure! If you’re catering to allergies, these waffles contain gluten, dairy, and eggs—so they may not be suitable for those with Gluten Intolerance, Dairy allergies, or Egg Allergies. For alternatives, you can try using gluten-free pancake mix in place of Bisquick and substitute flax eggs for regular eggs. Dairy-free milk and a dairy-free cream cheese can also be used for the glaze, ensuring that everyone can enjoy this delightful treat!