14 Waffle Toppings For Breakfast, Lunch, Or Dinner

Updated by Louise Cutler on August 19, 2025

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Rethinking traditional waffle toppings is a game-changer for anyone who wants to mix things up on weekends. Instead of relying solely on syrup, why not try these tasty alternatives? Our family has a special tradition when it comes to waffles – we save them for special occasions and always top them with a dollop of buttermilk syrup, some crunchy pecans, and a generous helping of whipped cream. The versatility of waffles is one reason they’re a favorite in our household.

Whether you enjoy them as a breakfast food or not, the truth is that there are countless ways to enjoy them beyond the classic maple syrup and butter combination. Whether you’re craving something sweet or savory, here are 14 of the most mouth-watering waffle topping ideas to try next time you fire up the iron.

Whipped Cream and Chocolate Syrup

You’ve probably tried traditional waffles with syrup and butter, but what about taking it to the next level with whipped cream and chocolate syrup? The addition of chopped nuts or cacao nibs adds a delightful textural element and a boost of flavor. This indulgent treat may not be the healthiest option, but it’s certainly one of the most mouthwatering alternatives!

Peaches and Honey

Looking for a healthier dessert option that still satisfies your sweet tooth? Look no further! Layering peach slices on top of a waffle and drizzling with pure honey creates a delightful combination of flavors. The tangy sweetness of the peaches perfectly complements the smooth, velvety texture of the honey. Don’t be afraid to experiment by mixing in other fruits like strawberries or bananas – after all, let your taste buds be the guide in creating the perfect sweet treat!

Ice Cream and Chopped Nuts

Zeroing in on the perfect dessert combination, many of us would agree that pairing ice cream with a crunchy topping is the way to go. Whether you’re looking for a sweet treat after dinner or just need a pick-me-up during the day, adding a scoop of your favorite flavor to a waffle is an easy and delicious solution.

Blueberries and Yogurt

Generally, if you’re not in the mood for ice cream, yogurt can be a fantastic alternative. This antioxidant-rich topping is guaranteed to give you the energy boost you need to tackle the day ahead. Pair it with some fresh blueberries and a steaming cup of coffee, and you’ll have an outstanding breakfast combination.

S’mores

Looking for a creative twist on traditional waffles? Why not try incorporating one of America’s favorite campfire treats into your morning meal? Simply spread some marshmallow fluff on top of your waffle, followed by crushed graham crackers and a layer of chocolate. If you prefer a smoother chocolate experience, melted chocolate is a great option – or, if you’re feeling adventurous, you can try using dark chocolate chips for a deeper flavor profile.

Whichever combination you choose, this unique dessert-turned-breakfast treat is sure to be a hit on the breakfast table!

Peanut Butter and Jelly

You won’t find many people who can resist the allure of a peanut butter and jelly sandwich. But take that same classic combination and turn it into a waffle, and you’ve got an irresistible treat on your hands! The beauty of making a peanut butter and jelly waffle is that you can use whatever type of peanut butter suits your taste buds best – whether it’s creamy, crunchy, sweet, or salty.

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As for the jelly, I’m particularly fond of fig or guava jelly, but feel free to experiment with other flavors at home. Making your own jam from scratch can be a fun and rewarding experience, allowing you to try out different combinations and find the perfect pairing for your peanut butter waffle.

Lemon Curd

Taking a closer look at this ingredient, it’s one that stands out from the rest, and one that you may not have considered before, but bear with me! Not only can you find it pre-made in a jar on your local grocery store shelves, but you also have the option to create it yourself. The process of making it is remarkably quick and effortless, requiring just 20 minutes of your time and utilizing a mere four ingredients.

Buttermilk Syrup

Keen to take your breakfast game to the next level? You can easily make buttermilk syrup at home, and I’m still wondering why it’s not more popular! It’s ridiculously delicious, and once you try it, you’ll be hooked.To get started, all you need is a few simple ingredients: some melted butter, granulated sugar, a hint of vanilla extract, and, of course, buttermilk. The best part? It only takes 10 minutes to whip up, making it a quick and easy addition to your morning routine.

Strawberry Syrup

Sweet treats often have a way of bringing people together, and waffles are no exception. Whether it’s a classic combination or something entirely new, there’s a world of possibilities when it comes to toppings and syrups. For instance, I’m particularly fond of pairing strawberry syrup with freshly sliced strawberries, crunchy pecans, and a dollop of whipped cream.

But the options don’t stop there – you can also try chocolate syrup, caramel syrup, blueberry syrup, or even an orange-maple syrup, each one offering its own unique twist on a traditional treat.

Cinnamon Sugar

Adding an extra layer of flavor to your waffles can be as simple as sprinkling a pinch of cinnamon sugar on top. This classic combination is a timeless favorite for many, and it’s easy to see why – the warmth of the cinnamon perfectly complements the sweetness of the sugar. For best results, sprinkle it over your freshly cooked and still warm waffle, allowing the flavors to meld together in perfect harmony.

Ham and Cheese

Delicious options abound when it comes to topping your waffles with something savory. In my experience, I tend to favor ham and cheese combinations over sweet toppings. The simplicity of this pairing is part of its enduring appeal – it’s easy to make and universally enjoyed. One of the benefits of using ham and cheese as a topping is that you can easily turn your waffle into a satisfying sandwich by adding other ingredients, such as meats or vegetables.

Eggs Benedict

Unlock your inner chef by elevating the classic Eggs Benedict to new heights with a decadent waffle twist. This indulgent breakfast dish will require a bit more effort, as you’ll need to poach eggs and prepare a rich hollandaise sauce from scratch. However, the end result is well worth the extra time and trouble, as the combination of crispy waffles, creamy sauce, and runny eggs is nothing short of culinary perfection.

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Chili Con Carne

Redefining the classic waffle recipe with a bold, Mexican-inspired twist, Chili con Carne takes center stage. Rich in flavor and texture, a generous helping of homemade chili on top of crispy waffles is an unbeatable combination. Whether you’re craving a satisfying breakfast, a mid-day pick-me-up, or a comforting dinner, this filling dish delivers on every level.

Tuna Salad

Generally speaking, a healthy savory topping option that’s both delicious and customizable is tuna salad. You can start by placing some crisp lettuce leaves on your waffle, then top it off with your own homemade tuna salad and a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese for added depth of flavor. When it comes to making your own tuna salad, I prefer using Japanese mayo as the base, which adds a rich and creamy texture, along with some finely chopped onions and celery for extra flavor and crunch.

Of course, feel free to get creative and customize your own version to suit your taste preferences. The best part is that this topping option can be enjoyed at any time of day, making it a great addition to your breakfast, lunch, or dinner repertoire.

DIY Waffle Bar

Consider hosting a waffle bar for your next gathering or get-together, where guests can create their own customized waffles. This concept is not only fun but also engaging for all ages, especially the kids who will enjoy building their own waffles. To ensure a successful DIY waffle bar experience, follow these expert tips.