Gluten-Free Banana Waffles

Chef Tested by: Jami Bassman Pitkow

Dietitian Reviewed by: Christina Wright, RD, LDN

Recipe Developed for Health eCooks

Photographed by: Adam Fisher

These Gluten-Free Banana Waffles bring big flavor to the breakfast table. Mashed ripe bananas and a blend of warm spices, including cinnamon, cardamom, and nutmeg, add rich flavor, while a pop of orange zest lifts brings life to every bite. Crispy on the outside and fluffy on the inside, this healthy breakfast recipe is how you do waffles right! Stack them high and serve them with warm maple syrup, ripe banana slices, or fresh berries. And if you are feeling really naughty, top off these banana waffles with a dollop of fresh whipped cream!

FAQs About Gluten-Free Banana Waffles

Can I use overripe bananas for banana waffles?

Absolutely! In fact, they are preferred. Overripe bananas, those soft, heavily speckled ones you might have forgotten throughout the week on your counter, are ideal for banana waffles. Their concentrated sweetness and soft texture blend seamlessly into the batter, adding moisture, rich flavor, and natural sugar. The riper the bananas that you use, the stronger the banana flavor.

How do I keep banana waffles crispy, not soggy?

The key to crispy banana waffles lies in both the cook and the cool. Cook them in the waffle iron until deep golden brown, not just lightly colored. By cooking them until they are golden brown, it ensures the exterior has time to crisp while the interior stays fluffy and tender. When they’re done, DO NOT stack them. Instead, place each waffle on a wire rack or a parchment-lined baking sheet in a low oven (200°F works perfectly) while you finish cooking the remaining waffle batter. This prevents steam buildup, which is the fast track to soggy-town.

Can banana waffle batter be made ahead of time?

Feel free to prep the batter a day ahead and store it covered in the refrigerator. However, be mindful that banana-based batters thicken over time. This is due to the starches in the flour and the fruit itself absorbing moisture. When you're ready to cook the waffles, give the batter a gentle stir and, if needed, thin it slightly with a splash of buttermilk or milk to return it to pourable consistency. Freshly mixed batter will always give you the lightest texture, but this method is a reliable plan-ahead option if you are entertaining a crowd or need to save time in the morning.

Can I freeze banana waffles?

Most definitely! These banana waffles freeze beautifully and reheat like a dream. Let them cool completely on a wire rack so they don’t steam in storage. Once cooled, arrange them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag or airtight container. By letting them freeze in a single layer, this prevents them from sticking together, while keeping them tasting fresh. When you are ready to enjoy them, simply pop them into a toaster or warm in the oven until crisped and heated through. It’s a quick and easy way to have homemade waffles any day of the week.

What toppings go best with banana waffles?

The beauty of these delicious and healthy banana waffles is that they are a versatile foundation for a variety of tasty toppings. Try sliced fresh fruit (fresh berries or more banana for a double hit), a drizzle of pure maple syrup, a spoonful of almond or peanut butter, or a dollop tangy, protein-rich Greek yogurt. Chopped toasted nuts, like pecans and walnuts, will add a satisfying crunch, while fruit preserves will bring a pop of jammy sweetness. And if you're feeling indulgent, try enjoying this banana recipe as a dessert with a scoop of your favorite ice and topped with fresh whipped cream and rainbow sprinkles!

What other gluten-free flours would work best for banana waffles if I don't have gluten-free all-purpose flour?

Don't sweat it! You have options! If you don’t have a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend on hand, a combination of almond flour, oat flour, and a touch of tapioca or arrowroot starch can work beautifully. Almond flour adds richness and tenderness, oat flour brings a mild sweetness and soft crumb, and starches help with binding and lightness. I have learned the hard way that gluten-free baking is all about balance. You want to recreate structure and elasticity, so avoid using just one flour (trust me, I tried just using almond flour and these waffles fell flat).

Can I make this waffle recipe with regular flour?

If you are not following a gluten-free diet, the gluten-free flour can easily be swapped out for regular flour in these banana waffles. Just add the same amount of all-purpose flour of whole wheat flour. Note that the texture will be slightly different, but just as delicious. Be sure to keep an eye on the batter's consistency, as regular flour may absorb moisture a bit differently. Adjust with a splash more buttermilk if needed to maintain a pourable batter.