10 Fun Ways to Top a Frozen Waffle

Kelli Foster
Kelli FosterCulinary Producer at The Kitchn
I'm a recipe developer, food writer, stylist, and video producer (and The Kitchn's Dinner Therapist), with more than 10 years professional experience. Since graduating from The French Culinary Institute, I've authored 3 cookbooks: Buddha Bowls, Plant-Based Buddha Bowls, and The Probiotic Kitchen.
published Sep 29, 2016
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(Image credit: Lauren Volo)

You’ve got to love a freezer waffle — they’re convenient when you want to switch from the toast or bagel routine, and are neutral enough in flavor to host a variety of toppings. Once you’ve found the right brand for your tastes, it’s time to explore all the ways to enjoy them beyond the standard swipe of butter and jam or drizzle of maple syrup.

These 10 ideas use frozen waffles as a blank canvas for breakfast (and beyond). They’re Kitchn tested, and we’d like to think

El would approve

Toppings to Upgrade Frozen Waffles

If you’re still trying to find a frozen waffle that’s right for you, head over to our taste test to see what’s on the market. All the toppings below are delightful with a basic plain waffle, but switch it up with whole wheat or even blueberry and you’d still be a happy camper.

(Image credit: Lauren Volo)

1. Caramelized Bananas

If you’re not quite sure you can part with maple syrup, sweet caramelized bananas might be the thing to persuade you. Sauté sliced banana in a frying pan with butter, sprinkle in brown sugar, and continue to cook for a few minutes until the banana becomes golden and saucy.

(Image credit: Lauren Volo)

2. Fried Egg + Sriracha + Cilantro

If toast and eggs are your regular morning meal, leave the bread behind for a while and try a toasted waffle in its place. The waffle’s subtle sweetness is a nice contrast to the savory egg and spicy Sriracha.

3. Avocado + Red Pepper Flakes

Up your avocado toast game this fall with a toasted waffle. All the must-have finishing touches are here — including red pepper flakes and a squeeze of fresh lemon juice.

(Image credit: Lauren Volo)

4. Peanut Butter + Sliced Apple + Honey

If you love dipping sliced apples into peanut butter, it’s time to layer this winning snack combo on top of a toasted waffle. Cashew, almond, and even sunflower seed butter are all delicious too — just don’t forget the drizzle of honey.

(Image credit: Lauren Volo)

5. Yogurt + Granola + Raspberries

Instead of a parfait, spread those toppings out on a toasted waffle. Spoon over your favorite yogurt and then add crunchy granola and fresh berries. Honey drizzle optional, but highly recommended.

(Image credit: Lauren Volo)

6. Nutella + Strawberries + Pistachios

With a thick spread of Nutella, sliced strawberries, and crunchy pistachios, this is the waffle combo you’ll want to keep in your back pockets for a sweet snack or dessert.

(Image credit: Lauren Volo)

7. Fairy Toast

For a whimsical breakfast or afternoon treat, transform your waffle into fairy toast. All it takes is a swipe of creamy butter topped with your favorite sprinkles.

(Image credit: Lauren Volo)

8. Cream Cheese + Sliced Red Onion + Lox

Bring this timeless bagel topping to your morning waffle. There’s an added sweetness that you don’t typically get, but it works surprisingly well.

(Image credit: Lauren Volo)

9. Tahini + Jam

Give your standard PB&J a twist with a swipe of tahini. Paired with a dollop of your favorite jam, the sesame seed paste makes a great alternative for peanut butter. Be sure to top your waffle when it’s straight out of the toaster to keep it creamy.

(Image credit: Lauren Volo)

10. Fresh Mozzarella + Sliced Tomato + Basil

Just because summer is in the rearview mirror doesn’t mean it’s time to leave the caprese behind. Bring it to the breakfast table by layering a toasted waffle with a thick slice of fresh mozzarella and tomato, then finish it off with a few basil leaves, a drizzle of olive oil, and a pinch of salt and pepper.