Copycat Waffle House Golden Crispy Buttermilk Waffles

Prep: 10 min8 servingsmediumAmerican
Copycat Waffle House Golden Crispy Buttermilk Waffles

Fluffy buttermilk waffles with crispy golden edges that recreate the iconic diner experience at home. The secret cornstarch addition creates an extra-light interior while ensuring that signature crunch. Perfect for weekend breakfast or brunch when you want restaurant-quality waffles without leaving the house. The combination of whole milk and buttermilk provides rich flavor with just the right tang, while softened butter folded into the batter creates tender pockets throughout.

Ingredients

8 servings
  • 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
    gluten-free flour blend1:1gluten-freegluten-free

    may affect texture slightly

  • ¼ cup cornstarch
  • 1 tsp kosher salt
  • ½ tsp baking soda
  • ½ tsp baking powder
  • 1 large egg, lightly beaten
  • cup granulated sugar
  • 2 tbsp unsalted butter, softened
  • unsalted butter, for serving(optional)
  • ¾ tsp vanilla extract
  • 1 cup whole milk
    plant milk1:1vegandairy-free

    use unsweetened variety

    Full guide →
  • ½ cup buttermilk
    whole milk + lemon juice1/2 cup milk + 1/2 tbsp lemon juicedairy

    let sit 5 minutes before using

    Full guide →

Instructions

  1. 1

    Stir together flour, cornstarch, salt, baking soda, and baking powder in a large bowl and set aside

  2. 2

    Whisk together egg, sugar, butter, and vanilla in a separate bowl until well combined

  3. 3

    Stir in milk and buttermilk until combined and smooth

  4. 4

    Fold the flour mixture into the milk mixture until just combined

  5. 5

    Preheat waffle iron according to manufacturer's instructions

  6. 6

    Add butter to waffle iron and spoon batter into iron

  7. 7

    Cook until golden brown and crispy

  8. 8

    Serve immediately topped with berries and maple syrup

Tips

Tip 1

Don't overmix the batter - lumps are okay and will create fluffier waffles with better texture

Tip 2

Let the waffle iron fully preheat before cooking to ensure crispy exteriors and even browning

Tip 3

Serve waffles immediately for best texture, or keep warm in a 200F oven on a wire rack

Good to Know

Storage

Store leftover waffles in refrigerator for up to 3 days or freeze for up to 1 month

Make Ahead

Batter can be made up to 2 hours ahead and refrigerated

Serve With

Serve immediately with butter, maple syrup, fresh berries, or whipped cream

See pairing guide →

Common Mistakes

Watch

Don't overmix batter to avoid tough, dense waffles

Watch

Ensure waffle iron is fully preheated to avoid sticking and uneven cooking

Substitutions

Dairy-Free Swaps

buttermilk
whole milk + lemon juice1/2 cup milk + 1/2 tbsp lemon juicedairy

let sit 5 minutes before using

Full guide →
whole milk
plant milk1:1vegandairy-free

use unsweetened variety

Full guide →

Gluten-Free Swaps

all-purpose flour
gluten-free flour blend1:1gluten-freegluten-free

may affect texture slightly

Find more substitutions →

FAQ

Can I make the batter ahead of time?

Yes, you can make the batter up to 2 hours ahead and store it in the refrigerator. Give it a gentle stir before using.

What if I don't have buttermilk?

Mix 1/2 cup whole milk with 1/2 tablespoon lemon juice or white vinegar. Let it sit for 5 minutes before using.

How long do leftover waffles keep?

Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or freeze for up to 1 month. Reheat in toaster or oven.