Name: 5-Star Fluffy Spinach Waffles
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 cups white whole wheat flour; 1 tbsp baking powder; 1 tsp cinnamon; 1/4 tsp salt; 2 large eggs; 1 cup milk; 1/4 cup butter, melted (or olive oil, vegetable oil, or melted coconut oil); 1/4 cup unsweetened applesauce; 1/2 tsp vanilla extract; 1 cup packed spinach

Why Make This Recipe

These 5-Star Fluffy Spinach Waffles are a delightful way to sneak extra nutrients into your little ones’ diet. They are not only fluffy and delicious but also packed with healthy greens. Kids will love the soft texture, and parents will appreciate the healthy ingredients that can easily be incorporated into a balanced meal. Perfect for breakfast, lunch, or a snack, these waffles also make a fun addition to playdates or family meals.

🧰 Kitchen tools commonly used in similar recipes

Before starting, many home cooks like to have these basic tools ready:

How to Make 5-Star Fluffy Spinach Waffles

Ingredients

2 cups white whole wheat flour (see flour notes)
1 tbsp baking powder
1 tsp cinnamon
1/4 tsp salt
2 large eggs
1 cup milk
1/4 cup butter, melted (or mild olive oil, veggie oil, or melted coconut oil)
1/4 cup unsweetened applesauce
1/2 tsp vanilla extract
1 cup packed spinach

Directions

Preheat your waffle iron to medium heat.
In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, cinnamon, and salt.
In a blender, add the eggs, milk, oil, applesauce, vanilla extract, and spinach. Blend for 1 minute on medium speed or until the spinach is completely blended.
Pour the spinach mixture into the bowl with the flour mixture and stir until just combined.
Pour about 1/4 cup of the waffle mixture onto the waffle iron and bake according to your waffle maker’s instructions.
Serve warm or store in an airtight container in the fridge or freezer.

How to Serve 5-Star Fluffy Spinach Waffles

These spinach waffles can be served in various ways! You can simply serve them with a drizzle of maple syrup for a sweet touch. Alternatively, pair them with yogurt and fresh fruits for a balanced meal. Slide in some nut butter for added protein, or top them with cottage cheese and veggies for a savory option. The possibilities are endless!

How to Store 5-Star Fluffy Spinach Waffles

Store any leftover waffles in an airtight container. They can be kept in the fridge for up to 3 days. For longer storage, freeze the waffles in a single layer, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag. They can stay fresh in the freezer for up to 2 months. To reheat, simply pop them in the toaster or the oven until hot.

Tips to Make 5-Star Fluffy Spinach Waffles

Make sure to blend the spinach well so that the kids don’t see any green bits.
For extra fluffiness, ensure your baking powder is fresh.
You can customize the spices; try adding a pinch of nutmeg or even some garlic powder for a savory twist.

Variation

Feel free to mix in different ingredients! You can add shredded cheese for a cheesy flavor or even bits of cooked bacon for a savory bite. You can also swap spinach for other greens like kale or Swiss chard for different nutrient profiles.

FAQs

Can I make these waffles gluten-free?
Yes! You can substitute the white whole wheat flour with a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend.

Can I use frozen spinach?
Absolutely! Just make sure to thaw and drain the excess water from the spinach before blending.

How can I improve the sweetness of the waffles?
You can add a bit of honey or maple syrup to the batter or serve with a sweet topping. Just keep in mind that too much added sugar isn’t necessary for kids.