Hi, I’m Adam Moretti. Saturday mornings at my house have always smelled like coffee, butter, and waffles. When my mom went gluten free, we spent months trying to make a waffle that didn’t taste like cardboard or collapse in the iron. After countless test batches (and a few smoke alarms), we found it—the perfect gluten free waffle recipe that’s crisp on the edges, tender in the center, and full of flavor.
Today, I’ll share exactly how to make it—plus the best gluten-free flours, substitutes, and expert tips so you’ll never miss the wheat again.
Table of Contents
New to gluten-free? Start with our main guide before you dive into this recipe:
Gluten Free Recipes: Simple American Meals, Snacks, and Desserts
Understanding Gluten Free Waffle recipe
Do waffles contain gluten?
Traditional waffles absolutely do—wheat flour is the backbone of most batter recipes. But going gluten free doesn’t mean giving up texture or taste. The trick is choosing a balanced gluten free flour blend that mimics the structure of wheat without the gluten network.
A combination of rice flour (for body), tapioca starch (for chew), and potato starch (for crispness) creates the magic. Most store-bought gluten free all-purpose blends, like King Arthur Measure for Measure or Bob’s Red Mill 1-to-1, already include xanthan gum to hold everything together.
Tip: The flour blend you use for waffles can also work beautifully for Gluten Free Wonton Wrappers or Gluten Free Egg Noodles. Versatility is key!
What Gluten Free Flour Is Best for Waffles?
Choosing the right blend
Here’s a quick guide to flours that deliver the best waffle texture:
| Flour | Texture Benefit | Best For |
|---|---|---|
| Brown Rice Flour | Light, mild, slightly nutty | Everyday waffles |
| Oat Flour (certified GF) | Soft, wholesome | Heartier breakfast flavor |
| Tapioca Starch | Crisp edges, elasticity | Crispy Belgian waffles |
| Almond Flour | Moisture and richness | Low-carb or high-protein versions |
| Sorghum Flour | Slight sweetness | Whole-grain balance |
For most bakers, a pre-mixed gluten free flour blend works best—no need to measure a dozen flours at 7 a.m.
The Best Gluten Free Waffle Recipe
This recipe makes golden, fluffy waffles that reheat beautifully in a toaster.
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Gluten Free Waffle Recipe (Crispy Outside, Fluffy Inside)
Crispy, fluffy gluten free waffles that taste just like classic diner waffles—simple ingredients, quick to make, and easy to customize.
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 waffles
Ingredients
1 ½ cups gluten free flour blend (with xanthan gum)
2 tbsp cornstarch or tapioca starch
2 tbsp sugar
1 tbsp baking powder
½ tsp salt
2 large eggs
1 ½ cups milk (or almond milk)
¼ cup melted butter or coconut oil
1 tsp vanilla extract
Instructions
1. Preheat waffle iron and grease lightly.
2. Mix dry ingredients in a large bowl.
3. Whisk eggs, milk, melted butter, and vanilla in another bowl.
4. Combine wet and dry ingredients; mix until smooth.
5. Pour batter into waffle iron and cook 4–5 minutes until golden.
6. Serve warm with fruit and maple syrup.
Notes
For dairy free, use coconut oil and almond milk.
To freeze, cool completely, then reheat in toaster.
Add 1 tsp cinnamon for flavor variation.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Breakfast
- Method: Waffle Iron
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Serving ideas
- Top with fresh berries, a drizzle of maple syrup, and whipped coconut cream.
- For a savory twist, add cheddar and chives to the batter.
If you like brunch pairings, follow it with a light dessert like Gluten and Dairy Free Desserts or sip an afternoon Cloud Coffee.
Can You Buy Gluten Free Waffles?
Absolutely. Many grocery stores now carry ready-made gluten free waffles in the freezer section. Top brands include:
- Van’s Foods — classic and blueberry varieties
- Nature’s Path — thick Belgian-style waffles
- Kroger Simple Truth — budget-friendly and certified gluten free
Still, nothing beats fresh. Homemade waffles stay crisp longer and avoid additives.
Substitutes & Variations
What is a good substitute for flour in waffles?
If you’re out of gluten free flour blend, try these alternatives:
- Oat flour: use 1 ½ cups; yields tender texture.
- Almond flour: mix 1 cup almond + ½ cup tapioca starch for structure.
- Buckwheat flour: hearty, nutty, and 100% gluten free.
Dairy-Free or Vegan?
Swap butter for coconut oil and milk for oat or almond milk. Replace eggs with 2 tbsp flaxseed meal + 6 tbsp water (let gel for 10 minutes).
Flavor Boosters
- Cinnamon + nutmeg for cozy mornings
- Lemon zest for freshness
- Cocoa powder for chocolate waffles
FAQs About Gluten Free Waffle recipe
What gluten free flour is best for waffles?
A blend of rice, tapioca, and potato starch gives the best texture. King Arthur and Bob’s Red Mill both perform beautifully.
Can you get gluten free waffles?
Yes, several brands sell frozen gluten free waffles, and you can easily make them at home using this recipe.
Does waffle contain gluten?
Traditional waffles do, but gluten free flour blends make them safe for celiac or gluten-sensitive diets.
What is a good substitute for flour in waffles?
Oat, almond, or buckwheat flour are excellent gluten free options.
Troubleshooting & Tips
| Problem | Cause | Fix |
|---|---|---|
| Too dense | Overmixed batter | Stir gently until just combined |
| Gummy texture | Not enough starch | Add 1–2 tbsp tapioca or cornstarch |
| Soggy waffles | Steam trapped in iron | Don’t stack—cool on wire rack |
| Dry edges | Too much flour | Spoon, don’t scoop, your flour |
Storing & Reheating
Let waffles cool completely, then:
- Refrigerate: up to 3 days in airtight container
- Freeze: stack with parchment, store 2 months
- Reheat: 350°F oven for 5 minutes or pop in toaster
They stay crisp even after freezing—perfect for busy mornings or healthy meal prep alongside Gluten Free Crock Pot Recipes.
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