When it comes to toppings for waffles why stop at maple syrup? With a little imagination the possibilities are endless (and delicious!). Whether you are hosting a special brunch featuring a waffle bar or you simply love waffles and want to venture to new topping territory, we've got some tasty ideas that you will love.
10 Gourmet Toppings for Waffles
First things first, to make great tasting waffles you'll need a solid recipe. We like this basic recipe for regular waffles, but this gluten-free recipe made with coconut flour works well too. For Belgian waffles you can try this recipe from The Hungry Belgian.
Flavored Butter
One of the easiest and most luxurious ways to elevate plain waffles is to serve them with a pat of flavored butter.
Known to chefs as compound butter, flavored butters are blended with different herbs, spices and seasonings to add oomph to your dishes. Here's a quick topping for waffles: softened butter + powdered cinnamon + sprinkle of sugar. Blend well, mold and refrigerate until ready to use.
Learn more flavored butter recipes here.
Exotic Fresh Fruit
Why stop at sliced bananas and fresh berries when it comes to toppings for waffles? For an exotic twist try adding slices of star fruit, mango, papaya, dragon fruit and even lychees to your waffles.
Nuts and Seeds
Nuts are a classic topping for waffles, but what matters here is having variety. Try a blend of chopped pecans, walnuts and macadamia. Or toss in some pan-roasted pumpkin seeds or sesame seeds for a bit of a nutrition boost.
You could also thin out some nut butter with water to make an easy syrup for dipping sauce.
Dulce de Leche
Creamy, sweet and sticky, this Latin American staple is good on everything, especially waffles. Learn how to make your own.
Dark Chocolate Syrup
Chocoholics this one is for you: place 200 g (7oz) dark chocolate, 75 g (4 tbsp) sugar, 125 ml (1/2 cup) cream and 4 tbsp water in a small pan and heat gently until smooth and thick. Stir well and serve over waffles.
Homemade Jam and Preserves
Fresh fruit is great on waffles, but when the weather doesn't allow it then homemade jams and preserves are second best. Not only are they sweet, but they offer a nice burst of colour.
Try our favorite homemade jam recipes.
Whipped Cream
Forget the canned stuff. If you really want to take your waffles to the next level only homemade whipped cream will do. Here's how to make it.
Ice Cream
A cross between breakfast and dessert, an ice cream-topped waffle is the ultimate decadent treat. Take your pick from these homemade ice cream recipes.
Fried Chicken
Some would say crispy fried chicken is the best topping for waffles. This dynamic duo has a cult following and if you prefer this savoury route you can kick things up another notch by making chorizo waffles.
Poached Eggs
Go all out and top your waffles with a perfectly poached egg. For a luxurious touch drizzle some homemade Hollandaise sauce and throw in some bacon or ham for an unconventional version of eggs Benedict.