If you’ve been hunting for a waffles recipe gluten free that doesn’t taste like cardboard or fall apart in the iron, this is the one. I’ve tested dozens of gluten free batters and doughs, but none came close to the soft, chewy, golden crisp texture that this yeast dough delivers. I made a batch last weekend for brunch and no one at the table guessed it was gluten free and that’s the goal.
“The texture is unreal. Golden crust, tender center, and the chocolate glaze seals the deal. Best gluten free waffles I’ve ever made.” – @NoWheatJustWow
Why This Waffles Recipe Gluten Free Actually Works
Most gluten free waffles rely on quick batter recipes with baking powder, which often come out rubbery or dry. This one is different. It starts with a rich yeast dough much like brioche adapted for gluten free flours and still kneads beautifully. Holds filling, cooks cleanly in the waffle iron, and stays soft inside with that crisp outer shell we all crave.
- Yeast dough base: Results in better flavor and structure than standard batters
- Versatile: Works with custard, chocolate chips, or red bean filling
- Real rise: Gluten free doesn’t mean flat or dense with this method
- Freezer friendly: Make ahead and reheat like fresh
Reminds me of the same surprise I had making our gluten free lentil cheese bread proof that gluten free baking can hit every note.
Ingredients for This Waffles Recipe Gluten Free
For the Dough:
- 270g gluten free cake flour blend (make sure it includes starch and xanthan gum)
- 40g fine sugar
- 2g salt
- 60g beaten egg
- 83g milk (or dairy free substitute like almond or oat milk)
- 10g fresh yeast or 4.5g dry yeast
- 35g butter (or plant based alternative)
Optional Fillings:
- Chocolate chips
- Custard
- Red bean paste
Topping:
- 120g chocolate glaze (melted dark or milk chocolate)
I’ve used both store bought gluten free flour blends and custom ones. As long as you choose one that includes xanthan gum or guar gum, the dough will hold together beautifully. Much like the batter in our Japanese pancakes, the trick is in hydration and mixing time.
Step by Step: How to Make This Waffles Recipe Gluten Free
1: Mix and Knead the Dough
- In a large bowl, combine the flour, sugar, and salt.
- Add the beaten egg, milk, and yeast. Mix with a wooden spoon or dough hook until a sticky dough forms.
- Add the softened butter and knead until fully incorporated. Dough will be slightly tacky but should hold its shape.
- If the dough feels too dry, add a tablespoon of milk. If too wet, add 1 tablespoon flour at a time.
2: First Rise and Shape
- Cover the dough and let it rise in a warm place for about 60 minutes or until doubled in size.
- After rising, punch out the air and divide into six even portions.
- Flatten each piece and place your filling of choice in the center. Fold and seal to form a ball.
3: Cook in Waffle Maker
- Preheat your waffle maker to medium high.
- Place one ball in the center of the iron. Press down gently and cook for 2-3 minutes or until golden brown.
- Repeat with remaining dough. Let the waffles cool on a wire rack to maintain their crisp texture.
“I filled mine with custard and dipped the top in dark chocolate. It was like a cafe level dessert but no gluten in sight.” – @CrumbFreeKitchen
4: Add the Topping
- Melt chocolate until smooth and glossy. Dip the top of each waffle and let the excess drip off.
- Set on parchment paper to dry. You can also add sprinkles, crushed nuts, or shaved chocolate.
Make Ahead and Storage Tips
- Refrigerate dough: After the first kneading, you can refrigerate the dough overnight and cook in the morning.
- Freeze cooked waffles: Let them cool, then store in airtight bags. Reheat in a toaster or oven.
- Avoid glazing too early: Add chocolate just before serving to avoid soggy texture.
Want more no wheat versions that actually feel indulgent? Try our banana oat dessert another crowd pleaser with clean ingredients.
Follow my gluten free baking tests and kitchen wins on Facebook for more like this.
Why Yeast Works Wonders in a Waffles Recipe Gluten Free
Most people assume gluten free waffles need baking powder to rise quickly, but switching to yeast opens up a new world of texture. This waffles recipe gluten free proves that a slow rise builds not only height, but deep flavor and incredible softness inside.
- Chewier interior: Yeast gives a pillowy, bread like structure you cannot achieve with baking powder
- Less dryness: The longer hydration process gives a moist, tender crumb
- Better reheating: Yeast waffles stay soft longer and reheat like they were just made
I discovered this the same way I discovered the secret to my Easter bread give the dough time, and it rewards you tenfold.
Filling Ideas for This Waffles Recipe Gluten Free
Once you’ve made the dough and shaped your waffles, it’s time to make them shine from the inside. These are my favorite fillings that bake well and hold their texture without leaking or drying out.
1. Chocolate Chips
- Use semi sweet or dark chocolate for balance. Milk chocolate tends to melt out more easily.
- Chop a chocolate bar if you want varied textures inside.
2. Custard
- Use a thicker custard or pastry cream that holds shape when chilled.
- Freeze spoonfuls of custard before wrapping to avoid leaks while cooking.
3. Red Bean Paste
- This sweet filling gives a traditional feel and works beautifully with yeast dough.
- Make sure the paste is thick and not runny to prevent soft spots inside.
Like our filled donuts, what’s inside the waffle is just as important as the dough itself. You want balance, not overload.
Topping Variations
This waffles recipe gluten free works with almost any topping, but I always start with melted chocolate glaze. It adds shine, richness, and seals in moisture.
- Dark chocolate glaze: Pairs perfectly with sweet fillings
- White chocolate drizzle: Adds color contrast and creaminess
- Powdered sugar dusting: Great for a lighter finish
- Chopped nuts: Press them into the glaze before it sets
You can even top with fresh fruit if serving right away. It’s the same final wow factor I add to our mini pancakes a bit of topping turns breakfast into celebration.
How to Store and Reheat Waffles Properly
A great gluten free recipe should store just as well as a traditional one. This dough was developed with that in mind.
Storing the Dough
- After kneading, store in a lightly greased bowl covered with plastic wrap in the fridge overnight.
- In the morning, take it out and let it rest at room temperature for 20 minutes before shaping.
Storing Cooked Waffles
- Cool completely before storing to avoid sogginess.
- Keep in a sealed bag or container at room temperature for 1 day or in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Freezing Waffles
- Wrap each waffle in parchment paper and place in a freezer safe bag.
- Reheat in a toaster oven at 180°C for 5 to 7 minutes for best texture.
I use the same freeze and toast approach with our crescent donuts. It gives you bakery fresh texture with no work in the morning.
How to Make This Waffles Recipe Gluten Free Vegan
If you want to go both gluten free and dairy free or egg free, here’s how to adapt this dough with minimal change in taste or structure.
Egg Substitute
- Use 1 tablespoon ground flaxseed + 3 tablespoons warm water per egg
- Let it sit for 5 minutes before mixing
Milk Substitute
- Use unsweetened almond milk, oat milk, or soy milk
- Keep the ratio the same 83g in the dough
Butter Substitute
- Use plant based spread or refined coconut oil
- Make sure it’s softened, not melted, before kneading
These swaps have worked beautifully in other recipes like our baked donuts soft and indulgent, but without allergens.
Serving Ideas for This Waffles Recipe Gluten Free
Serve these waffles warm, glazed, and filled or go all out and plate them like a dessert. Here are some of my favorite presentations:
- As breakfast: Serve with fresh fruit, a drizzle of honey, and yogurt
- As dessert: Stack two, sandwich style, with whipped cream or custard in the middle
- Party platter: Cut into quarters, glaze lightly, and sprinkle with powdered sugar
FAQs
What flour should I use for waffles recipe gluten free?
Use a certified gluten free flour blend that contains xanthan gum or guar gum. These help mimic the elasticity of gluten for proper structure.
Can I make waffles recipe gluten free without yeast?
Yes, but you’ll lose the chewy texture and deeper flavor. For a quick version, replace the yeast with 2 teaspoons of baking powder and skip the rise.
Why are my gluten free waffles falling apart?
This happens if the dough lacks proper binding. Make sure your flour blend includes xanthan gum, and don’t skip the resting time before shaping.
How do I keep gluten free waffles from getting soggy?
Let them cool on a wire rack immediately after cooking. This prevents steam from softening the crust and helps them stay crisp.
Can I freeze gluten free waffles after cooking?
Absolutely. Let them cool completely, wrap individually, and freeze for up to one month. Reheat in the toaster oven or air fryer to crisp them again.