I’ll never forget the first time I tried making waffles on a griddle pan. It felt like a whole new world opened up. No waffle maker. No batter splattering all over. Just a simple griddle, some ingredients, and a few tweaks. It was Jamie Oliver’s genius recipe that pulled me into the world of griddle pan waffles. At first, I was skeptical-could a griddle pan really replace that iconic waffle iron? But after the first bite, I was hooked. Crispy, golden waffles with that unmistakable waffle texture, all made without the need for any special appliances.
Since then, I’ve shared this recipe with friends and family. The reactions are always the same: surprise and delight. It’s so simple, yet so delicious. This griddle pan waffle recipe has become a staple in my kitchen, and I’m excited to share it with you.
Jamie Oliver’s Griddle Pan Waffles Recipe
Jamie Oliver’s approach to cooking is always down-to-earth and accessible. His griddle pan waffles are no different. They’re rich in flavor, quick to make, and have that perfect balance of crispiness and fluffiness. The recipe is straightforward, and I’ve found it to be incredibly adaptable, making it easy to tweak depending on what you’re in the mood for. Whether you’re in the mood for a sweet treat or something a little more savory, these waffles have got you covered.
Ingredients Needed
When I first started, I was surprised by how basic the ingredients were. You probably already have most of them in your pantry. Here’s what you’ll need:
- Flour: A staple that gives the waffles structure.
- Baking Powder: This gives the waffles a lift, making them light and airy.
- Sugar: For just the right amount of sweetness.
- Salt: To balance out the sweetness.
- Eggs: These help bind everything together and give the waffles their rich texture.
- Milk: For moisture, and it helps create that perfect batter consistency.
- Butter: Melted butter adds richness and flavor to the waffles.
- Vanilla Extract: This adds that lovely depth of flavor that takes the waffles from good to great.
These ingredients are super simple but work together in perfect harmony to create the best waffles.
How To Make Jamie Oliver’s Griddle Pan Waffles
Making these waffles is almost too easy. Here’s how you do it:
- Mix dry ingredients: In one bowl, combine the flour, baking powder, sugar, and salt.
- Whisk wet ingredients: In another bowl, whisk the eggs, milk, melted butter, and vanilla extract.
- Combine: Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients. Stir until just combined. Don’t overmix-the batter should be a little lumpy.
- Heat the griddle pan: Place the griddle pan over medium heat and lightly grease it with butter or oil.
- Cook the waffles: Pour about 1/4 cup of batter onto the griddle. Spread it out a little with the back of the spoon. Cook for 2-3 minutes on each side until golden brown and crispy.
- Serve and enjoy: Stack them up, add your favorite toppings, and dig in.
That’s it! Simple, quick, and totally delicious.
Ingredient Science Spotlight
When I first made these waffles, I wasn’t thinking too much about the science behind the ingredients. But once I started experimenting with different versions of the recipe, I became fascinated by how each ingredient contributes to the final result. Let’s break it down:
- Flour: The gluten in flour helps give the waffles structure. The more gluten you develop, the denser the waffles. But since we don’t overmix the batter, the waffles remain light and fluffy.
- Baking Powder: This is your magic leavening agent. It helps the waffles rise and gives them that airy texture. Without it, you’d get flat, dense waffles that would be a real letdown.
- Eggs: They play a crucial role in binding everything together and also help with the fluffiness. The protein in eggs adds structure, while the fat from the yolk gives richness.
- Butter: Fat = flavor. Butter brings in that rich, delicious taste and also helps achieve a crispy exterior when cooking on the griddle.
- Milk: Adds moisture and helps thin out the batter, making it easier to spread on the griddle.
Each ingredient works in tandem to give you the ultimate waffle experience-crisp on the outside, fluffy on the inside.
Expert Tips
After making these waffles a few times, I picked up some tips that can really elevate the final product:
- Don’t overmix the batter: A few lumps are fine. Overmixing can develop too much gluten, leading to dense waffles.
- Get the griddle temperature right: Too hot, and the waffles will burn. Too cool, and they’ll be soggy. Medium heat is your best bet.
- Let the batter rest: If you’ve got the time, let your batter rest for 5-10 minutes before cooking. This allows the flour to hydrate fully and makes for a better texture.
- Use a light hand with the butter: If you use too much, your waffles can end up greasy. A light coating is all you need for that crispy exterior.
- Make them in batches: If you’re making multiple waffles, keep the cooked ones warm in the oven at 200°F while you finish cooking the rest.
Recipe Variations
What I love about Jamie Oliver’s griddle pan waffles is how easily they can be adapted. Here are a few variations to try:
- Chocolate Chip Waffles: Add a handful of chocolate chips to the batter for a sweet twist.
- Cinnamon Waffles: Mix in a teaspoon of cinnamon to the dry ingredients for a warm, spiced flavor.
- Savory Waffles: Skip the sugar and vanilla and add a pinch of salt and your favorite herbs (rosemary or thyme work great). Top with eggs, avocado, or smoked salmon for a savory breakfast.
- Fruit-Infused Waffles: Stir in mashed bananas, blueberries, or raspberries for a fruity flavor and a burst of color.
Final Words
These griddle pan waffles have quickly become one of my favorite breakfast treats. They’re flexible, simple, and pack a ton of flavor into every bite. I love how easy it is to switch things up, whether I’m making them sweet, savory, or somewhere in between. And every time I share them with friends, the reaction is the same-pure delight.
FAQs
Can I Make Jamie Oliver’s Griddle Pan Waffles Without A Griddle Pan?
Yes, you can use a regular frying pan or a non-stick skillet instead.
How Do I Ensure The Waffles Turn Out Crispy On The Outside?
Make sure your griddle pan is hot before adding the batter. Also, cook the waffles in batches for even crisping.
Can I Freeze These Waffles For Later?
Definitely! Let them cool, then wrap them in plastic wrap and freeze. Just reheat in the toaster when ready.