Name: Whole Wheat Waffles with Wheat Germ Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 20 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 ½ cups (7 ½ oz/213g) whole wheat flour; 2 tablespoons sugar; 1 tablespoon baking powder; ½ teaspoon salt; 1 ½ cups (12 fl oz/360ml) milk; 2 large eggs; 6 tablespoons (3 oz/85g) butter, melted; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Why You’ll Love Whole Wheat Waffles with Wheat Germ Recipe

These waffles offer a healthier take on the classic thanks to the addition of whole wheat flour and wheat germ, which contribute extra fiber and a nutty depth of flavor. They come together quickly in about 25 minutes, are freezer-friendly, and make a great base for a wide variety of toppings — from fresh fruit to maple syrup. Whether you’re serving a crowd or meal-prepping for the week, these waffles deliver both flavor and function.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

1½ cups all-purpose flour
½ cup whole wheat flour
¼ cup wheat germ
3 tablespoons granulated sugar
2 teaspoons baking powder
1 teaspoon baking soda
½ teaspoon salt
2 large eggs, at room temperature
2 cups buttermilk, at room temperature
¼ cup butter, melted
Oil for the waffle maker
Butter, maple syrup and fresh fruit (for serving)

Directions

Preheat your waffle maker according to the manufacturer’s instructions. Preheat your oven to its lowest “warm” setting and place a baking sheet inside.
In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, whole wheat flour, wheat germ, sugar, baking powder, baking soda and salt.
In a separate bowl, whisk the eggs, buttermilk, and melted butter together. Fold the wet ingredients into the dry just until combined — a few small lumps are fine.
Brush some oil on the hot waffle iron. Pour about ½ cup of batter onto the iron and close the lid. Cook according to your waffle maker’s instructions until golden and cooked through.
Transfer each cooked waffle to the warm oven on the baking sheet to keep them hot while you cook the rest.
Serve warm with your favorite toppings like butter, syrup, or fresh fruit.

Servings and timing

Servings: 5 waffles
Prep time: about 10 minutes
Cook time: about 15 minutes
Total time: about 25 minutes

Variations

More whole wheat: Replace up to 1 cup of all-purpose flour with additional whole wheat flour for an even heartier texture.
Egg-free: Substitute the eggs with applesauce or an egg replacer for an egg-free version.
Flavor add-ins: Add cinnamon, vanilla extract, or a drizzle of honey to the batter for extra flavor.

Storage/Reheating

Refrigerator: Store cooled waffles in an airtight container for up to 2 days.
Freezer: Lay cooled waffles on a parchment-lined tray and freeze for 2 hours. Then transfer to a freezer-safe bag and store for up to 6 weeks.
To reheat: Toast directly from frozen in a toaster or oven until heated through and crisp.

FAQs

How do I make these waffles fluffier?

Avoid overmixing the batter and ensure your waffle iron is fully preheated to help the waffles rise and develop a crisp exterior.

Can I use milk instead of buttermilk?

Yes, but for similar results, add 1 teaspoon of lemon juice or vinegar per cup of milk to mimic buttermilk’s acidity.

Can I double the recipe?

Absolutely. Just double each ingredient and cook the batter in batches as needed.

Do I need a Belgian waffle maker?

No. A standard waffle maker works well. Just adjust the batter quantity based on the size and depth of your waffle plates.

Can I make the batter ahead of time?

Yes, combine the dry ingredients in advance. Add the wet ingredients just before cooking, or refrigerate the mixed batter for up to 24 hours.

What toppings work best with these waffles?

They pair beautifully with maple syrup, honey, berries, bananas, nut butters, or even a dollop of Greek yogurt.

How do I prevent waffles from getting soggy?

Place cooked waffles in a warm oven on a wire rack or baking sheet while you finish the batch to keep them crisp.

Can I freeze leftovers?

Yes. Cool waffles completely, then freeze in a single layer before transferring to a bag. Reheat in the toaster or oven.

Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Not directly. You’d need to substitute the flours with a gluten-free blend and adjust for texture.

What’s the best way to reheat leftover waffles?

Toast them in a toaster for a crisp finish, or warm in a 300°F oven until heated through.

Conclusion

Whole wheat waffles with wheat germ are a flavorful, nutritious, and satisfying option for any morning. Their nutty taste, fluffy texture, and quick prep time make them a go-to recipe for family breakfasts or weekend brunch. With easy storage and reheating, they’re also great for batch-cooking ahead — so you can enjoy warm, homemade waffles anytime.