Crispy Cinnamon Roll Waffles

Prep time: 10 mins | Cook time: 15 mins | Yields: 4 large waffles

Ingredients

For the Waffle Batter:

• 2 cups all-purpose flour

• 2 tbsp granulated sugar

• 1 tbsp baking powder

• 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon

• 1/2 tsp salt

• 2 large eggs, separated

• 1 1/2 cups whole milk (or buttermilk), warm

• 1/3 cup unsalted butter, melted and cooled slightly

• 1 tsp vanilla extract

For the Cinnamon Swirl:

• 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted

• 1/3 cup packed light brown sugar

• 1 tbsp ground cinnamon

For the Cream Cheese Glaze:

• 60g (2 oz) cream cheese, softened

• 1/2 cup powdered sugar

• 2–3 tbsp warm milk

• 1/2 tsp vanilla extract

Instructions

1. Preheat & Prep: Preheat your waffle iron according to manufacturer instructions. If your waffle iron has a temperature dial, set it to medium-high for maximum crispiness.

2. Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, granulated sugar, baking powder, 1/2 tsp cinnamon, and salt.

3. Combine Wetted Ingredients: In a separate medium bowl, whisk the egg yolks, milk, melted butter, and vanilla extract until well combined.

4. Whip the Egg Whites: In a clean bowl, beat the egg whites using a hand mixer (or whisk vigorously) until stiff peaks form.

5. Combine Batter: Pour the liquid egg yolk mixture into the dry ingredients and stir gently just until combined (do not overmix; small lumps are fine). Gently fold in the whipped egg whites using a spatula until fully incorporated.

6. Make Cinnamon Swirl: In a small bowl, mix the melted butter, brown sugar, and ground cinnamon until smooth.

7. Bake: Lightly grease your waffle iron with non-stick cooking spray or melted butter. Ladle batter onto the center of the iron. Drizzle 1 to 2 tablespoons of the cinnamon swirl mixture over the batter in a circular motion. Close the iron and cook until golden brown and crisp (about 3–5 minutes depending on your waffle maker).

8. Drizzle & Serve: While the waffles cook, whisk together the cream cheese, powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract until smooth and pourable. Plate the warm waffles and generously drizzle with cream cheese glaze. Serve immediately!