Delightful Yogurt and Oat Waffles with Silky White Chocolate Sauce: The Perfect Brunch Recipe
Start your day with a smile and a stack of these wholesome yogurt and oat waffles. Packed with nutritious ingredients, they offer a deliciously satisfying way to fuel your morning. But don’t let their healthy foundation fool you—a generous drizzle of homemade white chocolate sauce instantly elevates them into a luxurious, dessert-worthy treat perfect for special brunches or a decadent breakfast anytime.
This post contains affiliate links. Full disclosure is at the bottom of the article.
Pin Recipe
Yogurt and Oat Waffles with White Chocolate Sauce
Ingredients
For the yogurt and oat waffles
- 3 tbsp unsalted butter
- 1 ¼ cups all-purpose flour
- ½ cup whole wheat flour
- ½ cup rolled oats
- 2 tsp baking powder
- ¼ tsp baking soda
- ¼ tsp ground allspice
- 1 ¼ cups milk
- ¾ cup plain Greek yogurt
- ⅓ cup honey
- 2 large eggs
- 1 tsp pure vanilla extract
For the white chocolate sauce
- 4 oz best-quality white chocolate
- ⅓ cup heavy cream
- 1 tsp Grand-Marnier or Cointreau (optional)
To serve
- Fresh cherries, pitted, or other berries of your choice
- Toasted sliced almonds (optional)
Instructions
For the yogurt and oat waffles
-
Melt the butter and set it aside to cool slightly. In a large mixing bowl, thoroughly whisk together the all-purpose flour, whole wheat flour, rolled oats, baking powder, baking soda, and ground allspice until well combined. In a separate bowl, whisk together the milk, plain Greek yogurt, honey, large eggs, and pure vanilla extract until the mixture is smooth and evenly blended. Pour the wet ingredients over the dry ingredients and gently whisk until they are just combined. Be careful not to overmix; a few lumps are fine. Finally, gently fold in the melted butter until it’s incorporated. Let the waffle batter rest for at least 10 minutes; this allows the oats to hydrate and the flours to absorb moisture, resulting in a tender waffle.
-
While the batter rests, preheat your oven to 200°F (100°C). Place a wire cooling rack over a baking sheet and set it in the preheated oven. This setup will keep your cooked waffles warm and crisp while you finish making the batch. Preheat your waffle iron to its desired setting and lightly grease it according to the manufacturer’s instructions. Once the waffle iron is hot, pour the batter into the wells (fill as per your waffle iron’s guidelines). Close the lid and cook until the waffle is golden brown and firm, typically 3-5 minutes depending on your iron. Carefully remove the cooked waffle from the iron and transfer it to the prepared rack in the warm oven to keep it crisp as you cook the remaining waffles.
For the white chocolate sauce
-
Finely chop the best-quality white chocolate and place it in a microwave-safe measuring cup or bowl. Pour the heavy cream over the chopped chocolate. Microwave on medium-low heat for 2 minutes, stopping every 30 seconds to stir thoroughly. This gradual melting and stirring prevent the white chocolate from seizing or burning, as it’s quite sensitive to high heat. Continue until the chocolate is fully melted and smoothly incorporated into the cream, creating a luscious sauce. If desired, stir in the Grand Marnier or Cointreau for an added depth of flavor.
-
SERVING: Serve the warm, crisp waffles immediately. Garnish them with a generous amount of fresh pitted cherries (or your choice of berries), a lavish drizzle of the silky white chocolate sauce, and a sprinkle of toasted sliced almonds for an extra crunch and flavor.
-
MAKE-AHEAD & FREEZING TIPS: To enjoy these delicious waffles at a later time, cook them all as directed. Once cooked, let them cool completely on a wire rack to prevent sogginess. After they are fully cooled, spread them in a single layer on a baking sheet and place them in the freezer until solid (this flash-freezing prevents them from sticking together). Once the waffles are completely frozen, transfer them to a heavy-duty freezer bag or airtight container. These waffles will keep beautifully in the freezer for up to 1 month.
To warm up frozen waffles in a toaster: For the best crispness, allow frozen waffles to come to room temperature for about 15 minutes before toasting. Then, slide them directly into a toaster and toast until they are just warm and gloriously crisp. Many modern toasters feature a “frozen” option, which uses a lower heat setting to gently thaw before toasting, allowing you to skip the initial thawing step entirely.
You can also warm up frozen waffles in the oven: Preheat your oven to 300°F (150°C). Arrange the frozen waffles side-by-side in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Transfer the baking sheet to the preheated oven and bake for approximately 10 minutes, or until the waffles are thoroughly heated through and crisp to your liking. Serve immediately.
-
Waffle Recipe Credit: Adapted from Two Peas & Their Pod.
Did you make this?
Tell me how you liked it! Leave a comment or take a picture and tag it with @foodnouveau on Instagram.
Why You’ll Love This Yogurt and Oat Waffle Recipe
There’s a reason these Yogurt and Oat Waffles have become a beloved staple for breakfast and brunch enthusiasts. Beyond their undeniably delicious taste, they offer a host of benefits that make them a perfect choice for any occasion:
- Nutrient-Rich Start: Incorporating both yogurt and oats, these waffles are a powerhouse of nutrition. Yogurt adds probiotics and protein, while oats bring fiber and sustained energy, making them far more satisfying than traditional waffles.
- Perfectly Balanced Flavor: The subtle tang of Greek yogurt beautifully complements the nutty flavor of the oats, creating a sophisticated yet comforting base. The hint of allspice adds a warm, inviting aroma that makes these waffles truly special.
- Light & Fluffy Texture: Thanks to the yogurt, these waffles boast an incredibly tender interior while maintaining that desirable crisp exterior we all crave.
- Versatile Delight: While the white chocolate sauce transforms them into a decadent dessert, the base waffle is incredibly versatile. Enjoy them plain with fresh fruit, a dollop of whipped cream, or a drizzle of maple syrup for a more classic breakfast.
- Easy to Make Ahead: With excellent freezing and reheating instructions, these waffles are perfect for meal prepping. Whip up a large batch on the weekend and enjoy quick, delicious breakfasts throughout the week.
- Family Favorite: Both adults and children will adore these waffles. They’re hearty enough to keep everyone full and satisfied, and the option of a sweet white chocolate topping makes them an instant hit.
Key Ingredients Spotlight & Smart Substitutions
Crafting the perfect waffle starts with understanding your ingredients. Here’s a closer look at what makes these yogurt and oat waffles shine, along with some helpful substitution tips:
- Unsalted Butter: Melting the butter and folding it in gently ensures an even distribution of richness. If you only have salted butter, reduce the amount of added salt in the recipe (though this recipe doesn’t call for extra salt, so just be aware). For a dairy-free option, use melted coconut oil or a plant-based butter alternative.
- All-Purpose Flour & Whole Wheat Flour: The combination of these flours creates a delightful balance. All-purpose flour provides structure and lightness, while whole wheat flour adds a nutty flavor, extra fiber, and a more wholesome texture. You can adjust the ratio slightly; for a lighter waffle, use more all-purpose flour, or for a heartier texture, increase the whole wheat flour. Gluten-free 1:1 baking blend can be substituted for a gluten-free version.
- Rolled Oats: These provide body, chewiness, and a fantastic nutritional boost. Quick oats can be used in a pinch, but rolled oats offer a better texture. Do not use instant oats.
- Baking Powder & Baking Soda: These leavening agents work together to give the waffles their beautiful lift and airy texture. Ensure they are fresh for optimal results.
- Ground Allspice: This spice adds a warm, aromatic depth that perfectly complements the oats and yogurt. If you don’t have allspice, a pinch of cinnamon, nutmeg, or a pumpkin pie spice blend can be used.
- Milk: Any type of milk (dairy or non-dairy like almond or oat milk) will work here.
- Plain Greek Yogurt: This is the star ingredient! Greek yogurt adds a wonderful tang, moisture, and extra protein, contributing to the waffles’ tender crumb. Full-fat or low-fat Greek yogurt works equally well. Regular plain yogurt can be used, but the batter might be slightly thinner, and the waffles a bit less tender.
- Honey: Our natural sweetener, honey, adds subtle sweetness and helps with browning. Maple syrup or agave nectar can be used as a direct substitute.
- Large Eggs: Eggs bind the ingredients together and contribute to the structure.
- Pure Vanilla Extract: Enhances all the other flavors.
- Best-Quality White Chocolate: For the sauce, the quality of your white chocolate truly matters. Higher quality chocolate melts more smoothly and has a superior flavor. Look for white chocolate baking bars or chips with at least 20% cocoa butter.
- Heavy Cream: Essential for a rich, smooth, and pourable white chocolate sauce.
- Grand-Marnier or Cointreau (Optional): A splash of orange liqueur adds a sophisticated layer of flavor to the white chocolate sauce, creating a white chocolate ganache. You can omit it or substitute with another liqueur like rum or a touch of orange zest or orange extract.
Tips for Perfect Waffles Every Time
Achieving golden, crisp, and fluffy waffles is easier than you think. Follow these essential tips for success:
- Don’t Overmix the Batter: Overmixing develops the gluten in the flour, leading to tough waffles. Mix just until the dry and wet ingredients are combined. A few lumps are perfectly normal and actually desirable.
- Rest the Batter: This crucial step allows the flours to fully hydrate and the oats to soften, resulting in a more tender and evenly cooked waffle. The baking powder and soda also have time to start working, which contributes to a lighter texture.
- Preheat Your Waffle Iron Properly: A hot waffle iron is key to achieving that perfectly crisp exterior. Make sure it’s fully preheated before adding any batter. Most irons have an indicator light.
- Grease the Iron (Even Non-Stick): Even if your waffle iron boasts a non-stick surface, a light coat of cooking spray or melted butter can prevent sticking, ensure easy release, and contribute to a golden crust.
- Don’t Overfill: Follow your waffle iron’s manufacturer instructions for how much batter to use. Overfilling can lead to overflow and messy cooking.
- Keep Waffles Warm and Crisp: As you cook multiple batches, place finished waffles on a wire rack set over a baking sheet in a preheated oven (200°F / 100°C). This keeps them warm without steaming, preserving their crispness.
- Serve Immediately: Waffles are best enjoyed fresh off the iron, especially when accompanied by the warm white chocolate sauce and fresh toppings.
Creative Serving Suggestions
While fresh cherries and white chocolate sauce are a match made in heaven, don’t limit yourself! These versatile yogurt and oat waffles can be paired with a variety of toppings to suit any preference:
- Classic Fruit Pairings: Beyond cherries, consider fresh blueberries, raspberries, sliced strawberries, banana slices, or even warm apple compote.
- Alternative Sauces: If white chocolate isn’t your only craving, try warm maple syrup, berry compote, chocolate ganache, or even a dollop of lemon curd.
- Creamy Delights: A generous scoop of whipped cream, a dollop of Greek yogurt (plain or vanilla), or even a scoop of vanilla ice cream can add a delightful creamy texture.
- Nutty Crunch: In addition to toasted sliced almonds, consider chopped walnuts, pecans, or a sprinkle of granola for added texture and flavor.
- Spiced Up: A dusting of cinnamon or a light grating of nutmeg can elevate the aromatic experience.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Here are some common questions about making these delicious yogurt and oat waffles:
Can I make the waffle batter ahead of time?
Yes, you can! The batter can be made the night before and stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. Give it a gentle stir before cooking, and if it seems too thick, you can add a tablespoon or two of milk to reach the desired consistency.
Are these waffles healthy?
Compared to many traditional waffle recipes, these yogurt and oat waffles are a healthier option due to the inclusion of whole wheat flour, oats (for fiber), and Greek yogurt (for protein and probiotics). While the white chocolate sauce adds a decadent touch, you can adjust the portion size or opt for healthier toppings for an even more wholesome meal.
What type of waffle iron is best for these waffles?
Any standard waffle iron will work well. Whether you have a classic Belgian waffle maker that produces deep pockets or a traditional American waffle maker for thinner, crisper waffles, the recipe will adapt beautifully. Just follow your specific machine’s instructions for cooking times and batter volume.
How do I prevent my waffles from sticking to the iron?
Always preheat your waffle iron thoroughly and lightly grease it before adding the batter, even if it has a non-stick coating. A cooking spray or a brush of melted butter works well. Ensure the iron is at the correct temperature before each waffle. If waffles are consistently sticking, your iron might need a deeper clean or re-seasoning.
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
You can experiment with gluten-free 1:1 baking flour blends as a substitute for the all-purpose and whole wheat flours. Ensure your oats are certified gluten-free if strict dietary requirements are needed. The texture might vary slightly, but it should still produce a delicious waffle.
This site is a participant in the Amazon Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for the site to earn fees by linking to Amazon and affiliated sites.
If you click on an affiliate link, I may earn advertising or referral fees if you make a purchase through such links, at no extra cost to you. This helps me creating new content for the blog–so thank you! Learn more about advertising on this site by reading my Disclosure Policy.