Craving something sweet, satisfying, and still healthy for breakfast? Say hello to Salted Caramel Protein Waffles — the perfect fusion of indulgence and nutrition. These waffles are golden, fluffy, and infused with the rich flavor of salted caramel, while packing in a serious protein punch. Whether you’re fueling up post-workout, looking for a macro-friendly treat, or just want to spice up your morning routine, this recipe hits all the right notes. Plus, it’s quick to whip up, uses wholesome ingredients, and can be easily customized. Ready to make waffles that taste like dessert but perform like breakfast? Let’s get into it.
Salted Caramel Protein Waffle | Easy High-Protein Breakfast
- Total Time: 10 mins
- Yield: 2 waffles
Description
A deliciously sweet and protein-packed salted caramel waffle that makes a perfect post-workout meal or indulgent breakfast while keeping nutrition in check.
Ingredients
- 1 scoop salted caramel protein powder
- 1/2 cup rolled oats (blended into flour)
- 1/2 tsp baking powder
- 1/4 tsp cinnamon
- 1/4 cup unsweetened almond milk (or milk of choice)
- 1 large egg
- 1 tbsp Greek yogurt (or cottage cheese)
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 tsp coconut oil (melted)
- Optional: pinch of sea salt for extra salted caramel flavor
Instructions
- Preheat your waffle iron and lightly grease with cooking spray or oil.
- In a blender or mixing bowl, combine oats, protein powder, baking powder, and cinnamon.
- Add almond milk, egg, Greek yogurt, vanilla extract, and coconut oil. Blend or whisk until smooth.
- Pour the batter into the preheated waffle iron and cook until golden and crisp.
- Remove carefully and serve warm with your favorite toppings such as caramel drizzle, banana slices, or nut butter.
Notes
- You can substitute the salted caramel protein powder with vanilla or chocolate if needed.
- For extra sweetness, add a teaspoon of maple syrup or honey to the batter.
- Make it dairy-free by using plant-based yogurt and milk.
- Prep Time: 5 mins
- Cook Time: 5 mins
- Category: Breakfast
- Method: Waffle Iron
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients for Salted Caramel Protein Waffle
To create the perfect salted caramel protein waffle, you’ll need a mix of pantry staples and a few health-forward additions. These ingredients ensure each bite is flavorful, fluffy, and rich in protein.
🥣 Basic Dry Ingredients
- 1 scoop salted caramel protein powder (whey or plant-based)
- ½ cup oat flour or almond flour
- 1 tsp baking powder
- ½ tsp cinnamon (optional)
- Pinch of sea salt
🥛 Wet Ingredients
- 1 large egg
- ⅓ cup unsweetened almond milk (or milk of choice)
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 tbsp Greek yogurt (adds moisture and protein)
- 1 tbsp maple syrup or sugar-free syrup (for a touch of sweetness)
🧈 Optional Add-ins & Toppings
- 1 tbsp mini dark chocolate chips
- Drizzle of sugar-free salted caramel sauce
- Sliced banana or berries
- Crushed nuts for extra crunch
How to Make Salted Caramel Protein Waffle – Step-by-Step
Creating the perfect protein-packed waffle is easier than you think! Follow these steps for a delicious, fluffy, and salted caramel-infused breakfast treat.
🥄 Step 1: Preheat Your Waffle Maker
Before you begin mixing, plug in your waffle maker and set it to medium-high heat. This ensures even cooking and those beautiful crispy edges.
🥣 Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients
In a medium-sized mixing bowl, whisk together:
- 1 scoop salted caramel protein powder
- ½ cup oat or almond flour
- 1 tsp baking powder
- ½ tsp cinnamon (optional)
- A pinch of sea salt
Mix well to combine and remove any lumps.
🥛 Step 3: Whisk the Wet Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk:
- 1 egg
- ⅓ cup unsweetened almond milk
- 1 tbsp Greek yogurt
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 tbsp maple syrup or sugar-free syrup
Whisk until smooth and creamy.
🧁 Step 4: Combine Wet and Dry
Pour the wet mixture into the dry ingredients bowl. Stir gently until a thick, smooth batter forms. If it’s too thick, add a splash of almond milk to loosen.
🍫 Step 5: Optional Add-ins
Fold in extras like:
- Mini chocolate chips
- Crushed nuts
- Chia or flax seeds
This is your chance to customize the texture and flavor!
🧇 Step 6: Cook the Waffle
Lightly grease the preheated waffle iron with non-stick spray or coconut oil. Pour the batter into the center, spreading slightly (don’t overfill).
Close the lid and cook for 3–5 minutes, or until golden brown and crispy.
🥄 Step 7: Top & Serve
Carefully remove the waffle and plate it. Top with:
- A drizzle of salted caramel sauce
- Fresh fruit or banana slices
- A sprinkle of sea salt or cinnamon
Tools You’ll Need to Make Salted Caramel Protein Waffle
Before diving into the mixing and flipping, make sure you’ve got the right kitchen tools on hand. Having everything prepped makes the process quicker, smoother, and far more enjoyable.
🧇 Waffle Maker
An essential item! Whether it’s a classic round waffle iron or a trendy Belgian-style waffle maker, make sure it’s non-stick and heats evenly for golden-brown, crispy waffles.
🥣 Mixing Bowls
You’ll need at least two — one for dry ingredients and one for wet ingredients. Medium-sized bowls are perfect.
🥄 Whisk or Electric Hand Mixer
A whisk works just fine to blend your protein waffle batter, but if you want a super smooth mixture, an electric hand mixer is handy.
🥄 Measuring Cups & Spoons
Accuracy is key! Use a full set of measuring tools for flour, protein powder, liquid, and spices.
🥄 Silicone Spatula or Wooden Spoon
To gently fold ingredients and scrape the sides of the bowl without wasting any batter.
🧴 Non-Stick Spray or Oil Brush
Keep your waffle maker non-stick ready with a light coating of spray or a quick swipe of oil.
🍽️ Tongs or Fork
For safely lifting your hot, cooked waffle off the iron without burning your fingers.
🍽️ Serving Plate
Presentation counts! A nice plate for serving your golden, crispy salted caramel waffle.
Equipment needed
Must-Have Tools to Get Rolling
Here’s what you’ll want to have on hand:
Silicone Spatula – Durable, heat-resistant silicone spatula perfect for mixing, scraping, and spreading. Gentle on non-stick cookware and easy to clean.
Large pot – You’ll need this to boil the whole cabbage head and soften the leaves.
large bowl –Spacious, durable large bowl ideal for mixing, serving, or food preparation. Made from sturdy material and easy to clean.
Sharp knife – For coring the cabbage and slicing out the thick stem in each leaf. A paring knife works best.
Mixing bowl – A big bowl makes it easier to combine your meat and rice filling evenly.
Cutting board – For prepping cabbage leaves and rolling them like a pro.
Full-Size Blender – is a powerful kitchen appliance for making smoothies, soups, and sauces in large batches.
3-in-1 Air Fryer – This versatile 3-in-1 air fryer offers Air Fry for healthier meals with less oil, Bake for bakery-quality desserts and treats, and Reheat to bring leftovers back to life with crispy, flavorful results
Frequently Asked Questions About Salted Caramel Protein Waffle
🥞 What makes protein waffles different from regular waffles?
Protein waffles are typically made with protein powder and other high-protein ingredients like Greek yogurt or eggs, making them a great option for a post-workout meal or a nutritious breakfast. Unlike regular waffles, they’re lower in refined carbs and often more filling.
🧂 Can I make salted caramel protein waffles without a waffle maker?
Yes! You can pour the protein waffle batter into a hot non-stick skillet and cook it like pancakes. While you won’t get the signature waffle grid pattern, you’ll still enjoy that rich salted caramel flavor and fluffy texture.
💪 Are salted caramel protein waffles good for weight loss?
They can be! When made with wholesome ingredients and no added sugar, salted caramel protein waffles are high in protein and fiber, which helps keep you full longer. Always keep portion sizes and toppings in check.
🧁 What kind of protein powder works best in this recipe?
A vanilla or salted caramel flavored whey protein blends well. However, plant-based protein powders like pea or brown rice protein can also be used. Just note that texture and taste may vary slightly based on the brand.