
If you’re craving a breakfast (or brunch!) that’s hearty, vibrant, and just a little bit unexpected, these Vegan Sweet Potato Waffles are guaranteed to delight. Crisp on the outside, tender on the inside, and brimming with earthy sweet potato flavor and savory spices—this is a plant-based waffle experience that’s genuinely craveable!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Unbelievably Flavorful: Sweet potato and spices make these waffles fragrant and satisfyingly savory with every bite.
- Naturally Dairy-Free & Egg-Free: Vegan Sweet Potato Waffles use only simple plant-based swaps—no specialty ingredients needed.
- Crispy Outside, Fluffy Inside: The combination of sweet potato and flour creates incredible texture—perfect for soaking up toppings.
- Meal Prep Friendly: Make ahead, freeze, or reheat leftovers for a fast, satisfying breakfast any day of the week.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These Vegan Sweet Potato Waffles require nothing fancy—just pantry staples that work together to create color, flavor, and the perfectly crisp-tender waffle bite. Every ingredient brings a little something special to the table!
- Sweet Potato Purée: The star ingredient for that gorgeous golden color and subtle sweetness; use freshly cooked or canned purée.
- Oat Milk (or any plant milk): Adds moisture and melds the batter together—use your favorite variety for flexibility.
- All Purpose Flour: Provides structure and keeps the waffles light, fluffy, and just crisp.
- Baking Powder: Essential for lift and pillowy texture—don’t skip this leavening agent!
- Nutritional Yeast: Infuses a subtle, cheesy umami depth that makes these waffles irresistibly savory.
- Onion Powder & Garlic Powder: Layer in big, aromatic savoriness to complement the sweet potato.
- Salt & Pepper: Brightens the flavor and accentuates every other ingredient.
- Dried Dill: Adds a pop of herby brightness that lifts the entire flavor profile; swap or skip if you wish.
- Oil (for cooking): Prevents sticking and crisps up the waffle edges—neutral oils work best.
- Green Onion and Vegan Butter (optional): For garnish and even more craveable flavor at serving time.
Variations
One of the best parts about Vegan Sweet Potato Waffles is how easily you can make it your own. Don’t be afraid to swap spices, use what’s on hand, or tailor the recipe for a brunch crowd or solo treat.
- Spicy Kick: Add smoked paprika, chipotle powder, or a pinch of cayenne for a bold, zesty bite.
- Herb-Lover’s Dream: Swap dried dill for rosemary, thyme, or Italian seasoning to change up the flavor profile.
- Gluten-Free: Use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend in place of regular flour—waffles will still be deliciously crispy and tender.
- Sweeter Side: Mix in a little cinnamon and a drizzle of maple syrup for a sweet-savory breakfast waffle twist.
How to Make Vegan Sweet Potato Waffles
Step 1: Cook and Purée the Sweet Potato
Start by peeling and chopping one medium sweet potato into medium pieces. Pop them into a pot of salted water, bring them to a boil, and cook until fork-tender—about 10-15 minutes. Once done, drain and blend the pieces into a completely smooth purée (a food processor works best for this). Measure out one cup for the waffles.
Step 2: Blend the Wet and Dry Ingredients
Add the sweet potato purée and your preferred plant milk to your food processor. Blend for about 10 seconds, ensuring the mixture is creamy, unified, and pourable.
Step 3: Add Flour, Spices, and Herbs
Toss in the flour, baking powder, nutritional yeast, onion and garlic powder, salt, pepper, and dill. Blend again until the batter is just smooth—don’t overmix, or the sweet potato can get gummy. Scrape down the sides as needed so everything combines evenly.
Step 4: Cook the Waffles
Preheat your waffle maker thoroughly—it’s the secret to that beautifully crisp exterior. Brush both sides with a little neutral oil, then spoon in 1/3 to 2/3 cup batter per waffle, spreading gently so it just covers the grid. Close the lid and cook for 3-5 minutes or until deeply golden brown and crispy at the ridges. Repeat until all batter is used.
Step 5: Serve Immediately (or Keep Warm)
Lift the finished waffles out carefully and serve piping hot with your favorite toppings. For a crowd, keep cooked waffles warm on a wire rack in a low oven while you finish the rest.
Pro Tips for Making Vegan Sweet Potato Waffles
- Super Smooth Purée: Take a minute to blend the sweet potato until absolutely velvety—lumps can keep your batter from cooking evenly.
- Preheat for Extra Crispiness: Let your waffle maker get fully hot before pouring in the batter—this prevents sticking and creates those dreamy golden edges.
- Don’t Overmix: Stop blending the batter as soon as everything comes together. Overmixing can make sweet potatoes starchy and the waffles chewy.
- Oil the Grids Generously: Be generous with brushing oil—even in a nonstick waffle maker—for easy release and that satisfying crunchy exterior.
How to Serve Vegan Sweet Potato Waffles
Garnishes
Nothing beats the magic of simple garnishes! Try a slab of vegan butter melting over the hot waffles, a scattering of thin-sliced green onions for freshness, or a sprinkle of extra dill. For more indulgence, add a dollop of vegan sour cream or a drizzle of hot sauce.
Side Dishes
Pair these Vegan Sweet Potato Waffles with a crisp green salad, sautéed greens, or smoky tempeh bacon for a meal-worthy breakfast or brunch plate. A bowl of seasonal fruit or a smoothie makes it feel extra special and balanced.
Creative Ways to Present
Try cutting the waffles into strips for dunking in vegan ranch, stack them tall and layer with roasted veggies for a savory twist, or build a bistro-style “waffle benedict” by topping with sautéed mushrooms and vegan hollandaise. They’re just as lovely served mini for appetizers or brunch buffets!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Allow any leftover Vegan Sweet Potato Waffles to cool completely, then store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They’ll stay fresh and tasty for up to three days, making weekday breakfasts a breeze!
Freezing
These waffles freeze beautifully! Place cooled waffles in single layers separated by parchment paper inside a freezer bag or container. They’ll stay delicious for up to two months—just grab, reheat, and enjoy whenever the craving strikes.
Reheating
For the crispiest results, pop leftover or frozen waffles in a toaster, toaster oven, or a hot oven until heated through and the edges are crisp again. The microwave works for convenience, but for “fresh-off-the-maker” texture, dry heat is best!
FAQs
-
Can I use canned sweet potato purée for Vegan Sweet Potato Waffles?
Absolutely! Canned sweet potato purée works perfectly if you’re short on time—just make sure it’s unsweetened and pure, without added spices or sugar. The waffles will taste just as delicious and it’ll shave precious minutes off your prep.
-
Are these waffles gluten-free?
By default, this recipe calls for all-purpose flour, but you can easily make them gluten-free by using a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend. The texture will still be fluffy and crisp—just check your blend contains xanthan gum for best results.
-
Can I make the batter ahead of time?
It’s best to make and cook the batter right away for the freshest results, as the baking powder activates soon after mixing. However, you can prep the sweet potato purée 1-2 days in advance to cut down on morning steps.
-
What should I do if my waffles are sticking?
If you find the waffles sticking, be sure your waffle maker is fully preheated and well-oiled on both grids. Let the waffles cook undisturbed until deeply golden before attempting to lift—patience equals crispier, cleaner release!
Final Thoughts
These Vegan Sweet Potato Waffles just have a way of brightening up any morning—easy, nourishing, deliciously unexpected, and endlessly versatile. I can’t wait for you to whip up a batch and experience this cozy, golden goodness for yourself!
PrintVegan Sweet Potato Waffles Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 8 waffles 1x
- Category: Breakfast
- Method: Waffle Maker
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegan
Description
Enjoy a delicious and nutritious breakfast with these Vegan Sweet Potato Waffles. Made with sweet potato puree and a blend of savory seasonings, these waffles are crispy on the outside and fluffy on the inside.
Ingredients
Sweet Potato Puree:
- 1 cup sweet potato puree or 1 medium sweet potato
- 2/3 cups oat milk or any plant milk
Waffle Batter:
- 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1 tablespoon nutritional yeast
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon dried dill
- Oil for cooking
- Green onion and vegan butter (optional, for serving)
Instructions
- Sweet potato puree: Peel and chop the sweet potato, boil until tender, then blend into a smooth puree.
- Sweet potato waffles: Blend sweet potato puree and milk, then add flour, baking powder, spices, and dill. Cook in a preheated waffle maker until crispy.
Notes
- Don’t overmix the batter or the sweet potato will get gummy.
- Preheat the waffle maker before using.
- Feel free to customize with your favorite herbs and spices.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 waffle
- Calories: 180
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 350mg
- Fat: 3g
- Saturated Fat: 0.5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 5g
- Cholesterol: 0mg