Best Ever Banana Nutella Waffle Recipe (The Ultimate Comfort Brunch!)
There are some weekends when only pure, unadulterated comfort food will do. This Banana Nutella Waffle Recipe was born on one such dreary Saturday afternoon when the kids were bored and I needed a quick, high-impact treat.
I remember trying to make standard pancakes, but my youngest whispered, “Can we make them special?” That’s when the lightbulb went off: Waffles, bananas, and a generous jar of hazelnut spread. It instantly became a family tradition and our absolute favorite easy dinner option.
Trust me, this tested recipe produces the perfect fluffy interior and crispy exterior, transforming simple ingredients into a decadent masterpiece. Get ready to elevate your brunch game now with this amazing comfort food!
❤️ Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick Batter: The simple, scratch-made batter comes together in less than 15 minutes.
- Perfect Texture: We guarantee a waffle that is crispy on the outside and wonderfully fluffy inside.
- Ultimate Decadence: The combination of warm, gooey Nutella and soft caramelized banana slices is unbeatable.
- Freezer Friendly: Make a big batch and freeze the extras for speedy weekday breakfasts!
- Customizable Toppings: Easily adjust toppings for everyone in the family (though Nutella is highly encouraged!).
What You Need
You only need a few simple pantry staples for this recipe! We use basic flour, eggs, and milk, elevated with fresh bananas and, of course, that luscious hazelnut spread.
Check the full printable recipe card below for detailed measurements and optional add-ins like cinnamon or chocolate chips.
💡 Expert Tips for Perfect Waffles
- Do Not Overmix: Mix the wet and dry ingredients only until just combined. Lumps are okay! Overmixing develops gluten, leading to tough, chewy waffles.
- Use Hot Waffle Iron: Preheat your iron completely before adding the batter. A hot iron is essential for achieving that desirable crispy crust.
- Warm the Nutella: For an incredible, drizzle-able finish, scoop the required Nutella into a microwave-safe bowl and heat for 15-20 seconds. It makes the spread silky smooth!
- Batter Thickness: If your batter seems too thick, add a tablespoon of milk at a time until it pours easily but still holds its shape slightly.
- Crispy Finish: If you are serving a crowd, place cooked waffles directly onto a wire rack in a 200°F oven. This prevents them from steaming and keeps them crisp while you finish the batch.
Variations & Substitutions
While the classic Banana Nutella combination is perfection, you can easily adapt this recipe to dietary needs or flavor preferences:
- Gluten-Free: Swap the all-purpose flour for a 1:1 gluten-free baking blend (like Bob’s Red Mill).
- Dairy-Free/Vegan: Use plant-based milk (almond or oat work great) and use melted vegan butter or oil instead of dairy butter. Ensure your Nutella substitute is vegan (many brands exist!).
- Protein Boost: Stir in a scoop of vanilla or unflavored protein powder with the dry ingredients. You might need an extra splash of milk.
- Add Crunch: Fold in 1/2 cup of chopped walnuts or pecans into the batter for an added nuttiness.
Storage & Freezing
Waffles are fantastic for meal prepping! Follow these simple steps to enjoy them throughout the week:
- Storage: Allow waffles to cool completely to room temperature before storing them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Freezing: Once completely cool, flash freeze the waffles by placing them in a single layer on a baking sheet for 30 minutes. Transfer them to a freezer-safe bag with parchment paper between each waffle to prevent sticking.
- Reheating: Reheat frozen waffles directly in a toaster, toaster oven, or air fryer (our favorite!) until crispy and warmed through. Do not microwave if you want to retain crispiness.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use pancake mix instead of making batter from scratch?
Yes, absolutely! Use 2 cups of your favorite pancake mix and follow the package instructions for the wet ingredients, then fold in sliced or mashed bananas before cooking. It makes this recipe even faster!
What is the best way to slice the bananas for topping?
Slice them into thin, consistent rounds (about 1/4 inch thick). They look beautiful, and thinner slices ensure you get a bit of banana in every bite without overwhelming the waffle.
How do I prevent the waffles from sticking?
Make sure your waffle iron is properly preheated and lightly coated with non-stick spray or a little melted butter before each new waffle. Never use abrasive cleaners on the iron plates, as this can damage the non-stick coating.
Enjoy This Sweet Treat!
Whether you’re making these Banana Nutella Waffles for a slow Sunday brunch or a fast, fun weeknight dessert, they are guaranteed to bring smiles.
If you try this recipe, please let me know in the comments below! And don’t forget to Pin this decadent recipe for later so you always have the best comfort food ready to go.
