Buckwheat Waffles (low-fat, vegan) | Healthy Valentine’s Brunch

I was doubtful. No egg, no oil or butter? Surely it would just taste like cardboard. But alas! These waffles are so good I’d make them for Valentine’s Day. Another win for plant-based cooking! Apple sauce replaces the oil and flaxseed replaces the egg. I’m proud to share this low sugar, fully plant based waffle recipe with you. For GF ones out there you can substitute whole wheat flour for gluten-free 1-to-1 flour.

Is it not the ultimate act of love to feed your lover a tasty AND healthy dish? So he or she can be around a long time and be ENERGIZED! I know food has an emotional place for us but lightening up the classics can help us make a transition into more plant-based eating easier. (Your heart and brain will thank you for lowering the saturated fat in your diet!)

Why Buckwheat?

Buckwheat has tons of fiber and more minerals than regular flour. It makes the batter look dark but as it cooks, it looks more normal. The flavor is slightly more nutty and earthy than regular flour. Buckwheat has been said to improve blood sugar control and heart health. So, why not try it!

Buckwheat is actually not a grain despite its name. So, it is gluten-free. I love making Buckwheat crepes for savory breakfasts. Recipe here: Buckwheat Crepes

Notes on the recipe:

Don’t open the waffle maker too soon because these waffles are more delicate. If the waffles comes apart when you start to open the waffle maker, close the waffle maker and let it cook a few minutes more
Because these waffles are low fat they tend to be dry the next day. It’s best to eat them the first day or to put some vegan butter on it once heated the next day

Cinnamon Buckwheat Waffles (Low-fat, Vegan)

Ingredients (makes about 10):

1 cup buckwheat flour
1 cup whole wheat flour or gluten free 1-to-1 flour
1 Tbsp. baking powder
1 tsp. baking soda
¼ tsp. salt
½ tsp. cinnamon
2 Tbsp. ground flax
⅓ cup water
1 tsp. vanilla
2 Tbsp. 100% maple syrup
1 ½ cup unsweetened plant milk (I use oat)
3 Tbsp. unsweetened applesauce

Berries and maple syrup for serving

Directions:

Heat waffle maker to high.
Make the “flax egg” by combining the flax and the water. Let sit while you prepare the other ingredients.
In a bowl, mix the dry ingredients and whisk. Then, add the remaining ingredients and the flax egg. The batter should be stiff but not dry. Add another tbsp. of milk if needed.
Cook about ¼ cup of batter in the waffle maker. Cook for about 4-5 minutes (don’t open too soon because they split) There is no need to grease the waffle maker.
When cooked, release waffle with a butter knife or skewer.
To serve, top with maple syrup, berries and granola or toasted nuts. Happy Valentine’s Day!