Bacon and waffles are a classic comfort food mashup that hits all the right notes: think crunchy texture, sweet and salty flavor and that irresistible aroma that fills your kitchen with warmth and happiness. Plus, it's a crave-worthy recipe that's easy enough to prepare on a busy morning and special enough to make any meal memorable.
Whether you're a seasoned home chef or just looking to wow your family with something new, we're walking through how to make delicious bacon waffles from scratch and tips for the best results every time.
A classic combo that never gets old: why bacon waffles work
Why do bacon waffles remain a breakfast favorite? It's all about the perfect balance of flavors and textures in every bite. The salty, savory crunch of crispy bacon pairs beautifully with the light, fluffy sweetness of golden waffles, creating a harmonious combination that satisfies both sweet and savory cravings. Texture makes a big difference, too — crisp bacon bits nestled in soft waffle pockets add layers of crunch and tenderness that keep each bite exciting.
Bacon waffle recipes are also incredibly versatile. Drizzle them with maple syrup for sweetness, top with fresh fruit for brightness or add a fried or poached egg for extra richness. This flexibility makes bacon waffles a winner for breakfast, brunch or even a casual dinner twist!
Step-by-step instructions to make bacon waffles at home
Serves: 4–6
Prep Time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Ingredients
- Hatfield® Pumpkin Spice Bacon.
- 2 cups all-purpose flour.
- 2 Tbsp. granulated sugar.
- 1 Tbsp. baking powder.
- ½ tsp. salt.
- 2 large eggs.
- 1 ¾ cups whole milk (or your preferred milk).
- ½ cup unsalted butter, melted and cooled.
- Shredded cheddar cheese, chopped scallions or a pinch of cinnamon (optional flavor add-ins).
Instructions
- Step 1: Cook the Hatfield bacon until crispy, either in a skillet or oven. Drain on paper towels and chop into bite-sized pieces.
- Step 2: In a large bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder and salt. In another bowl, beat the eggs, then stir in milk and melted butter.
- Step 3: Add the wet ingredients to the dry and stir until just combined — a few lumps are fine.
- Step 4: Fold in the chopped bacon, or sprinkle it directly onto the waffle iron for extra crispy bacon in each bite.
- Step 5: Preheat and lightly grease your waffle iron. Pour in the batter, close the iron and cook until golden brown, about 4–5 minutes.
- Step 6: Serve with your favorite toppings — maple syrup, honey butter, fresh berries or anything else you love.
If you're ready to dive in, you can head to your local grocery store to pick up your favorite Hatfield® pork products today!
Pro tips for perfect bacon waffles
Making waffles is easy, but a few tips can turn a good batch into a great one. Here are some insider secrets to consistently delicious bacon waffles:
- Choose thick-cut bacon: A thick option, like Hatfield® Maple Brown Sugar Bacon, holds up better during cooking, providing a satisfying bite and keeping your waffles from getting soggy.
- Don't overmix your batter: Stir just until combined. Overmixing develops gluten, making waffles chewy rather than tender.
- Drain your bacon well: Properly draining your cooked bacon removes excess fat, keeping your waffle mix light and crispy.
- Avoid overloading the waffle maker: Pour enough batter to cover the waffle grid, but don't overfill; too much batter leads to uneven cooking and soggy spots.
- Keep waffles crisp between batches: Place cooked waffles on a wire rack in a warm oven (around 200°F) to prevent steam buildup and sogginess while you finish cooking.
Bacon waffles FAQS
Discover answers to some of the most commonly asked questions for perfectly golden, flavorful waffles every time:
Can I cook bacon directly in the waffle iron?
It's best to cook bacon separately to ensure it crisps evenly and doesn't release excess grease into your waffles. Once cooked, chop the bacon and fold it into the batter, or sprinkle it on the waffle grid before closing for crispy, flavorful bites.
What type of waffle batter works best with bacon?
Classic buttermilk or all-purpose waffle batters work best. Light and fluffy batters allow the bacon's crisp texture and savory flavor to shine without being weighed down, while slightly sweet batters complement the salty bacon perfectly.
How do I prevent the bacon from making the waffles soggy?
Properly drain the cooked bacon before adding it to the batter to remove excess grease. Additionally, make sure waffles cook until golden brown and crisp, and avoid overfilling the waffle maker, which can trap steam and lead to sogginess.
What toppings and sides can I serve with bacon waffles?
Adjust toppings to match your mood. Sweet options include maple syrup, honey butter and fresh berries, while savory lovers might add fried or poached eggs, a dash of hot sauce or cheddar shavings. For entertaining, try mini waffle bites topped with cream cheese and scallions for a fun brunch spread.
What recipe variations can I try?
Mix shredded cheddar and chopped scallions into your batter for savory depth. For a sweeter spin, add brown sugar or cinnamon. For heat, toss in diced jalapeños. Or go classic with bacon and eggs right on the plate.
Can I prepare bacon waffles ahead of time for meal prep?
Yes! Cook waffles fully and let them cool on a wire rack to maintain crispness. Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days, or freeze for longer-term storage. Reheat in a toaster or oven for best results.
Can I use leftover bacon from other meals in this recipe?
Absolutely. Leftover bacon works wonderfully and can add even more depth of flavor to your waffles. Just make sure it's crisped again before adding it to the batter to maintain texture.
How do I safely store and reheat leftover bacon waffles?
Once cooled, store waffles in the fridge or freezer in an airtight container. To reheat, use a toaster or oven to restore crispiness. Avoid microwaving, as it can make the waffles soft and soggy rather than maintaining that perfect crunch.
Bring the comfort home with pumpkin spice bacon waffles
There's a reason homemade bacon waffles have remained a breakfast staple for generations — they're fresh, crispy, flavorful and just downright comforting. The perfect balance of savory and sweet makes this recipe a crowd-pleaser that can easily be customized to suit your family's tastes and schedule.
Now, thanks to Hatfield® Pumpkin Spice Bacon, you can elevate this timeless recipe with a seasonal twist that adds warmth and festive flavor. This limited-time premium bacon brings all the tenderness, smoky richness and bold flavor you expect from Hatfield® — plus a hint of cozy pumpkin spice that pairs beautifully with waffles.
Don't miss out on this exclusive flavor available just for a short time. Ready to delight your household with the ultimate bacon waffle experience? Head to your local grocery store to find your favorite Hatfield® products near you!
