A Nostalgic Breakfast Tradition
Growing up, weekend breakfasts in my family were always a grand affair. The kitchen buzzed with the aroma of sizzling bacon, freshly brewed coffee, and the sweet promise of something special on the griddle. These breakfasts were more than just meals; they were events that brought us together, moments filled with laughter, storytelling, and the comfort of home.
One morning, inspired by a family birthday celebration the night before, I decided to transform a classic treat into a breakfast delight. The result? Red Velvet Waffles. It was an instant hit, and soon became a family tradition, one that my kids now eagerly anticipate. As I flip these vibrant waffles, I’m reminded of how food is more than sustenance; it’s a way to bring loved ones together, to create lasting memories around the table. Let me share this beloved recipe with you, so you too can enjoy these warm moments with your family.
The Appeal of Red Velvet Waffles
Red velvet as a flavor has always held a certain allure. Its rich, cocoa-infused taste paired with a striking red hue adds an element of luxury and celebration to any dish. When transformed into waffles, it’s not just about the taste, but also about the experience. The soft, fluffy texture juxtaposed with a slightly crispy exterior makes each bite a delight.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Simple Ingredients: Using a red velvet cake mix simplifies preparation without sacrificing taste. This ensures you have more time to enjoy breakfast with your family rather than spending hours in the kitchen.
- Rich and Decadent: The combination of red velvet waffles with a creamy cheese topping makes for a breakfast that feels both luxurious and comforting. It’s like having dessert for breakfast, but in the best possible way.
- Family-Friendly: These waffles are not only a treat for adults but are also loved by kids, making them perfect for a family gathering or a special occasion breakfast. The vibrant color and delightful taste appeal to everyone.
- Quick to Prepare: With just 10 minutes of prep time and 15 minutes of cooking, you’ll have a delightful breakfast ready in no time. This makes it perfect for those mornings when you want something special but don’t want to spend hours preparing it.
- Versatile: Whether you’re serving it as a breakfast dish or a dessert, these waffles can be paired with a variety of toppings and sides for a customized meal.
The Recipe
Ingredients:
- 1 (13.25oz) red velvet cake mix + water, oil, and eggs as per box instructions
- 4 oz cream cheese (softened)
- 4 tablespoons butter (softened)
- 1½ cups powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2-4 tablespoons milk
Directions:
Red Velvet Waffles:
Preheat Your Waffle Iron: Plug in your waffle iron and let it heat up. A hot waffle iron ensures a crispy outside and fluffy inside. Once heated, spray generously with non-stick spray to prevent sticking.
Prepare the Batter: In a large mixing bowl, combine the red velvet cake mix with the ingredients listed on the box (typically eggs, oil, and water). Stir until the batter is smooth and lump-free. For extra richness, consider swapping water for milk or buttermilk.
Cook the Waffles: Pour the batter into the center of the preheated waffle iron. Use about ½ to ¾ cup of batter per waffle, depending on the size of your waffle maker. Close the lid and cook according to the manufacturer’s instructions, usually 3-5 minutes, or until the waffles are set and slightly crispy on the edges.
Remove and Repeat: Carefully remove the waffle using tongs or a fork. Repeat with the remaining batter, making sure to re-spray the waffle iron as needed.
Cream Cheese Topping:
Mix the Cream Cheese and Butter: In a mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and butter together with a hand mixer until smooth and fluffy, about 2 minutes.
Add Sugar and Vanilla: Gradually mix in the powdered sugar and vanilla extract, beating until fully combined. The mixture will be thick at this stage.
Adjust Consistency: Slowly add the milk, a little at a time, whisking until you reach your desired consistency. If you want a thicker glaze, use less milk; for a thinner drizzle, add a little more.
Serve: Drizzle the glaze over warm red velvet waffles and let it melt into every delicious bite!
Time:
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
Kitchen Tools You’ll Need
- Waffle Iron: A good quality waffle iron is essential for making perfect waffles with a crispy exterior and fluffy interior.
- Mixing Bowls: You’ll need a couple of mixing bowls, one for the waffle batter and one for the cream cheese topping.
- Hand Mixer: To ensure your cream cheese topping is smooth and creamy, a hand mixer is very helpful.
- Measuring Cups and Spoons: Accurate measurements are key to achieving the right texture and flavor.
- Tongs or Fork for Removing Waffles: To safely remove the hot waffles from the iron.
- Spatula: For scraping down the sides of bowls and ensuring all the batter or topping is used.
The Benefits of Each Ingredient
- Red Velvet Cake Mix: The foundation of this recipe, providing that rich, cocoa-infused flavor and distinctive red color that makes these waffles stand out. The convenience of a boxed mix also ensures consistent results every time.
- Cream Cheese: Adds a tangy creaminess to the topping, balancing the sweetness of the waffles. Its smooth texture and rich flavor make it a perfect companion to the red velvet waffles.
- Butter: Enhances the topping with a smooth texture and rich flavor, adding a layer of indulgence.
- Powdered Sugar: Sweetens the topping without making it gritty, ensuring a smooth, luscious finish that complements the waffles.
- Vanilla Extract: Enhances the flavor profile of the cream cheese topping, adding a hint of warmth and depth that pairs beautifully with the cocoa notes in the waffles.
- Milk: Adjusts the consistency of the topping, making it either a thick glaze or a thin drizzle, depending on your preference. It also adds a bit of creaminess to the overall flavor.
What to Serve With This Dish
Red Velvet Waffles are a versatile dish that can be enjoyed in various ways. Here are some suggestions for what to serve with them:
- Fresh Berries: The tartness of fresh strawberries, raspberries, or blueberries complements the sweetness of the waffles, adding a burst of freshness and color to your plate.
- Bacon or Sausage: For a savory contrast, serve with crispy bacon or savory sausage links. Check out my Savory Breakfast Sausage Recipe for a homemade touch that complements the sweetness of the waffles perfectly.
- Whipped Cream: Add a dollop of homemade whipped cream for an extra indulgent treat. The lightness of the cream cuts through the richness of the waffles, making each bite heavenly.
- Maple Syrup: Drizzle a little maple syrup for a classic touch that pairs beautifully with the cream cheese topping. The combination of maple and cocoa is always a winner.
Storage & Leftover Tips
If you find yourself with leftover waffles, don’t worry—they store well and make for a quick breakfast on busy mornings.
- Refrigeration: Place leftover waffles in an airtight container and store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This keeps them fresh and ready to be reheated.
- Freezing: For longer storage, freeze the waffles in a single layer on a baking sheet. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer bag. They’ll keep for up to 3 months. This method prevents them from sticking together, making it easy to grab just what you need.
- Reheating: To reheat, pop the waffles in a toaster or toaster oven for a few minutes until heated through and crispy. Avoid the microwave as it can make them soggy. The toaster method ensures they regain their crispness.
Creating Traditions and Memories
Creating Red Velvet Waffles is more than just making breakfast; it’s about sharing a moment with your loved ones, creating traditions, and enjoying the comfort of home-cooked meals. Whether it’s a lazy weekend morning or a special occasion, these waffles are sure to bring smiles to your table. The vibrant red color and rich, chocolatey flavor make them perfect for celebrations, whether it’s a birthday, Valentine’s Day, or just because.
In my family, these waffles have become synonymous with love and togetherness. They’re a symbol of how food can bring us closer and how traditions can be passed down from one generation to the next. As you prepare these waffles, think about starting your own family tradition, one that your children and grandchildren will cherish.
So, go ahead, and give them a try; your family will thank you. Happy cooking!
For more delightful breakfast ideas, don’t forget to explore my Fluffy Buttermilk Pancakes recipe and discover how easy it is to make every morning special. Each recipe is a chance to create memories, to savor the simple joys of life, and to share love through food.
Red Velvet Waffles
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Plug in your waffle iron and let it heat up. Spray generously with non-stick spray to prevent sticking.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the red velvet cake mix with the ingredients listed on the box. Stir until smooth.
- Pour the batter into the center of the preheated waffle iron and cook according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
- Carefully remove the waffle using tongs or a fork. Repeat with the remaining batter, re-spraying as needed.
- In a mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and butter together until smooth and fluffy.
- Gradually mix in the powdered sugar and vanilla extract, beating until fully combined.
- Slowly add the milk, a little at a time, whisking until you reach your desired consistency.
- Drizzle the glaze over warm red velvet waffles and let it melt into every delicious bite!