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There’s just something special about hotel breakfast waffles — crisp edges, fluffy centers, and that familiar comforting flavor. These hotel-style waffles recreate that classic experience at home using simple pantry ingredients and an easy, reliable method. Whether you’re making breakfast for a crowd, planning a weekend brunch, or serving breakfast for dinner, this recipe is a family favorite that never disappoints.
Want an even smoother finish? Try topping with our Homemade Whipped Cream!
Why You’ll Love These Hotel Style Waffles
These waffles are crisp on the outside and light and fluffy on the inside, just like the ones you’d find at a hotel breakfast bar. The batter comes together quickly with everyday ingredients, making this an easy go-to recipe for busy mornings or relaxed weekends. They’re also versatile and pair beautifully with sweet toppings or savory sides.
Ingredients
- 3 cups all-purpose flour
- 1½ TBSP sugar
- 2 TBSP baking powder
- ½ tsp salt
- 3 large eggs
- 2½ cups milk
- ¾ cup vegetable oil
- ½ tsp cinnamon (optional)
- ¾–1 tsp vanilla extract (optional)
Optional add-ins: cinnamon, chocolate chips, blueberries
Equipment Needed
- Waffle iron – a reliable Belgian-style waffle maker makes all the difference for crisp, evenly cooked waffles. I use and recommend a flip-style waffle iron like this Cuisinart model for consistent results.
- Large mixing bowl
- Whisk or silicone spatula
- Measuring cups and spoons
How to Make Hotel-Style Waffles
Hotel-style waffles are all about texture — crisp exteriors with airy, tender interiors. The key lies in treating the batter gently: over-mixing develops gluten in the flour, which can make waffles dense rather than light. Whisk the dry ingredients together first, then add the wet ingredients, stirring just until moistened. A few small lumps are okay — they mean you haven’t overworked the batter.
It’s also important to let your waffle iron fully preheat. A hot iron creates steam on contact, which helps set the waffle’s exterior quickly and develop that signature crisp shell without drying out the inside. If you’re using mix-ins like blueberries or chocolate chips, fold them in gently just before cooking so they don’t weigh down the batter.
Once the iron is fully heated, cook the batter in batches until each waffle turns a deep golden brown. As I’m cooking, I keep finished waffles warm on a dinner plate under a clean kitchen towel. Served warm with butter, maple syrup, or fresh fruit, these waffles quickly become a weekend favorite.
This post may contain affiliate links. As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases.
PrintHotel Style Waffles
These hotel-style waffles are crispy on the outside, fluffy on the inside, and made with simple pantry ingredients. An easy, reliable waffle recipe perfect for family breakfasts or weekend mornings.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 8-10 waffles
- Category: Breakfast
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
- 3 cups all-purpose flour
- 1½ TBSP sugar
- 2 TBSP baking powder
- ½ tsp salt
- 3 large eggs
- 2½ cups milk
- ¾ cup vegetable oil
- ¾-1 tsp vanilla extract
Instructions
- Preheat waffle iron to high heat.
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt & cinnamon (if using).
- In a larger bowl, mix the eggs, milk, vegetable oil, and vanilla extract.
- Mix your dry ingredients into your wet ingredients. (This helps reduce clumping)
- Whisk just until combined. Do not overmix.
- If using additional mix-ins, fold those in now.
- Lightly grease waffle iron if needed.
- Pour batter into waffle iron and cook until golden brown and crisp.
- Serve warm with butter, peanut butter, honey, syrup, or other desired toppings.
Notes
A few small lumps in the batter are okay.
Overmixing will result in dense waffles.
Batter can be stored covered in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours.
Optional add ins:
- Chocolate chips
- Blueberries
- Cut up Strawberries
- Cinnamon
- Mini chocolate chips
Notes
- A few small lumps in the batter are okay — they help keep the waffles tender.
- Avoid overmixing, which can lead to dense waffles.
- Batter can be stored covered in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours.
Optional Add-Ins
- Chocolate chips
- Blueberries
- Cinnamon
What else do I serve with Hotel Style Waffles?
Serve with fresh fruit, bacon, sausage, scrambled eggs, or whipped cream for a complete breakfast that feels like a hotel-served treat.
Check out more EASY BREAKFAST RECIPES here!
Tips for Crispy, Fluffy Waffles
Make sure your waffle iron is fully heated before adding batter — this helps steam develop rapidly, setting the exterior crisp while keeping the inside light. Avoid overmixing the batter, which develops gluten and makes waffles tougher. Aim for deep golden brown for the classic hotel texture you’re after.
Storage and Make-Ahead Tips
Leftover waffles can be cooled completely and stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. For longer storage, freeze waffles in a single layer, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag. Reheat in a toaster or oven until warmed through and crisp.
Looking for a different twist on breakfast for dinner? Check out our Cinnamon Sugar French Toast Sticks recipe!
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make the batter ahead of time?
Yes — you can prepare the batter and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before cooking. A rest in the fridge can even help hydrate the flour more fully.
Will this recipe work in a Belgian waffle maker?
Yes — your classic batter will work in most waffle irons. A Belgian iron will yield a thicker, deeper-pocket waffle that’s great for holding additional toppings.
How do I keep waffles warm while cooking multiple batches?
Place finished waffles on a rack in a warm oven (about 200°F) so they stay crisp while you cook the rest.
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