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Crispy Waffles
Laura

Best Crispy Waffles

Golden, crunchy waffles with light and fluffy insides made with cornstarch and whipped egg whites for maximum crispness.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 35 minutes
Servings: 4 waffles
Course: Breakfast
Cuisine: American
Calories: 425
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1/2 cup cornstarch
  • 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
  • 2 teaspoons baking powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
  • 1/2 teaspoon fine salt
  • 2 large eggs separated, room temperature
  • 1 3/4 cups buttermilk room temperature
  • 1/3 cup unsalted butter melted and cooled
  • 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
  • Cooking spray or butter for the waffle iron

Equipment

  • Waffle iron
  • Mixing bowls
  • Whisk
  • Spatula
  • Wire rack

Method
 

  1. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, cornstarch, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt until well combined.
  2. Make a well in the center of dry ingredients. Add egg yolks, buttermilk, melted butter, and vanilla. Mix until just combined—some small lumps are fine.
  3. In a separate bowl, beat egg whites until stiff peaks form. This creates the signature crispy outside and fluffy inside texture.
  4. Gently fold whipped egg whites into the batter using a spatula. Be careful not to deflate the air bubbles.
  5. Preheat your waffle iron to medium-high heat according to manufacturer instructions. Lightly grease with cooking spray or butter.
  6. Pour enough batter to cover about two-thirds of the waffle iron surface. Close the lid and cook for 4-6 minutes until deeply golden and steam has mostly stopped.
  7. Transfer waffles immediately to a wire rack. For extra crispness, keep finished waffles in a 200°F oven on a wire rack while cooking remaining batches.
  8. Serve hot with maple syrup, butter, fresh berries, or your favorite toppings. Enjoy immediately for best texture.

Notes

  • Let batter rest for 5-30 minutes before cooking for lighter, crispier waffles
  • Keep finished waffles on a wire rack in a single layer to prevent sogginess
  • For extra crunch, place cooked waffles in a 200°F oven on a wire rack while finishing remaining batches
  • Don't overmix the batter—small lumps are desirable and create tender waffles