The Best Waffle Recipe without Milk – No Dairy

I still remember the first time I tried Belgian Liege Waffles. I was wandering through a street fair in Brussels, the sweet smell of caramelized sugar and buttery dough hanging in the air. I took one bite and was hooked. Ever since then, I’ve been on a mission to recreate that magic at home. The twist? I needed a waffle recipe without milk; one that didn’t sacrifice the rich flavor or the chewy, crispy texture that makes Liege waffles so special.

I found this waffle recipe and is now my go-to for weekend breakfasts, special brunches, or just when I need a sweet pick-me-up. I replaced the regular milk and butter for a dairy-free version. Whether you’re following a dairy-free diet, are lactose intolerant, or simply looking for a new spin on a classic favorite, these Belgian Liege Waffles are a great option. Made with simple ingredients and no dairy at all, they’re surprisingly easy to pull together; and irresistibly delicious.

Reasons why you’ll love this waffle recipe without milk♡

• It tastes like the real deal. You get that signature caramelized crunch from the pearl sugar and the fluffy texture inside; without a drop of milk.
• It’s perfect for all kinds of diets. Whether you’re using oat milk, coconut milk, or soy milk, this recipe works beautifully with most non-dairy milk options.
• It’s freezer-friendly. Leftover waffles can be stored in an airtight container and popped in the toaster oven for crispy waffles on busy mornings.

Belgian Liege Waffles – Waffle Recipe without Milk

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Cool Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 2 hours 50 minutes

Servings: 10/12 depending on iron size

Ingredients you’ll need for this recipe

Waffles:

Chocolate Sauce (Optional):

Equipment:

Waffle Iron

Step by Step Guide

1. Activate the yeast: Pour the warm non-dairy milk into a small bowl. Sprinkle in the yeast and a teaspoon of sugar. Let it sit for 10–15 minutes until bubbly.

2. Make the dough: In a large mixing bowl, combine the dry ingredients: flour, sugar, salt, and vanilla extract. Add the yeast mixture and the eggs. Stir together and knead until the mixture becomes smooth.

3. Add the fat: Slowly incorporate the softened vegan butter, olive oil, or neutral oil of your choice. Continue kneading until the dough turns elastic. It might be sticky, just keep working it until it comes together.

4. First rise: Cover the bowl and let the dough rest in a warm spot for 1.5 to 2 hours, or until it’s doubled in size.

5. Mix in the pearl sugar: Gently fold in the pearl sugar to distribute it evenly.

6. Portion and rest: Divide the dough into equal balls. Let them rest for 15 minutes while your waffle iron preheats.

7. Cook the waffles: Lightly grease your Belgian waffle maker with cooking spray. Place a portion of dough onto the hot waffle iron. Close the lid and cook for 3–5 minutes, until golden brown and crispy.

8. Make the chocolate sauce: In a saucepan over medium heat, mix the cocoa powder, sugar, and non-dairy milk. Stir in the melted coconut oil or vegan butter. Heat until it bubbles and turns smooth.

9. Serve: These delicious waffles are perfect with maple syrup, chocolate sauce, or topped with fresh berries and a scoop of vegan ice cream. The best part? They’re every bit as indulgent as regular waffles.

Storage Tip: Store leftover waffles in an airtight container. Reheat in a toaster oven for the best results.

Delicious Topping Ideas & Waffle Variations

One of the best parts of making waffles at home is customizing them! Here are some creative and mouthwatering toppings and variations to try with your dairy-free Liege waffles:

• Drizzle maple syrup over your golden brown waffles and add a dollop of whipped coconut cream. A sprinkle of powdered sugar adds a pretty touch.
• Top with fresh berries, sliced bananas, or grilled peaches. Add a spoonful of dairy-free yogurt for a breakfast twist.
• Add a scoop of dairy-free ice cream, a swirl of chocolate sauce, and chopped nuts for an indulgent dessert.
• Spread peanut butter or almond butter and top with sliced bananas or strawberries for a protein-rich snack.
• Mix in dairy-free chocolate chips to the waffle batter for melty bursts of chocolate in every bite.
• For a brunch twist, skip the chocolate sauce and serve with avocado slices, cherry tomatoes, and a drizzle of olive oil.
• Add crushed nuts, granola, or blue corn chips for a textured topping.
• Add a pinch of cinnamon, nutmeg, or pumpkin spice to the waffle mix for cozy seasonal vibes. You can also try these Vegan Pumpkin Waffles made with pumpkin puree!

These variations offer a fun way to enjoy your waffles in different ways throughout the week. Whether you use a Belgian waffle iron or a mini waffle maker, the results are always crowd-pleasing.

Recipe FAQ

Q: Can I use gluten-free flour instead of all-purpose flour?
A: Yes! For gluten-free waffles, swap in a gluten-free waffle mix or a blend with xanthan gum.

Q: What’s the best dairy-free milk for this recipe?
A: Oat milk, soy milk, and unsweetened almond milk all work well. Cashew milk or rice milk are also good options.

Q: Can I freeze the waffles?
A: Absolutely. Once cooled, store them in a freezer-safe airtight container. Reheat in a toaster oven.

Q: Can I make the batter ahead of time?
A: You can prep the dough ahead and refrigerate it overnight for extra flavor.

Q: Is it okay to use white sugar instead of coconut sugar?
A: Yes, either works! Use what you have.

Q: What if I want to make the original recipe with dairy and not the waffle recipe without milk?
A: To make a traditional version, simply swap the plant-based milk with regular cow’s milk, use unsalted butter instead of vegan butter or coconut oil, and keep the rest of the ingredients the same. You’ll get that rich, caramelized flavor Liege waffles are famous for!

Q: How do I know when the waffles are done?
A: They should be golden brown with caramelized sugar edges.

Q: Can I use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour?
A: Yes, but expect a denser texture. You can use half whole wheat and half all-purpose for balance.

Q: What’s the best way to grease the waffle iron?
A: Use a cooking spray or brush it with neutral oil like avocado oil or canola oil.

Q: Do I need to separate the egg yolks and egg whites?
A: Not for this recipe, but beating the egg whites separately can add a fluffier texture if you like.

Q: Can I add chocolate chips to the dough?
A: Definitely! Just fold them in with the pearl sugar for a fun twist.

Q: Can I use peanut butter or other spreads on top?
A: Yes! Peanut butter, almond butter, or even vegan Nutella are amazing toppings.

Q: What’s the difference between regular waffles and Liege waffles?
A: Liege waffles use a brioche-like dough with pearl sugar, while regular waffles typically use a pourable batter.

Q: Do I need a Belgian waffle iron?
A: It’s recommended for the thick texture of Liege waffles, but a regular waffle maker or mini waffle maker can work in a pinch.

Q: Can I use melted butter in place of vegan butter?
A: Only if you’re not strictly dairy-free. Otherwise, stick to plant-based fats like coconut oil.

Q: How much batter should I use per waffle?
A: Use about 1/2 to 3/4 cup of batter or one dough portion per waffle.

Q: What are some other topping ideas?
A: Try maple syrup, fresh fruit, ice cream, chocolate sauce, or whipped coconut cream.

Q: Can I make this without pearl sugar?
A: Pearl sugar gives these waffles their signature crunch, but you can try coarse sugar as a substitute.

Q: What if I don’t have a measuring cup?
A: Use standard volume measures or kitchen scales for best accuracy. A mug can substitute roughly for a cup.

Whether it’s your first time making vegan waffles or you’re just looking for a fun way to enjoy crispy dairy-free waffles, this easy waffle recipe is for you. It uses simple ingredients and works in different ways depending on what you have in your pantry. Try it with unrefined coconut milk for a hint of tropical flavor (refined tastes less like coconut) or go classic with soy milk. No matter how you make them, these are some of the best waffles you’ll ever have; dairy or not.

Don’t forget to save this recipe card, share it with friends, and leave a star rating if you love it. Waffles without milk never tasted so good!