If you have a sweet tooth and a penchant for chocolatey breakfast treats, you are going to fall in love with this Dark Chocolate Waffles with Ganache and Strawberries Recipe. These waffles are rich, fluffy, and deeply chocolatey, with a luscious ganache that melts over every bite and fresh strawberries to brighten and balance the flavors. Every mouthwatering step of this recipe is designed to fill your kitchen with irresistible aromas and your plate with the perfect combination of texture and taste. Whether you’re aiming for a weekend brunch that impresses or an indulgent dessert, this recipe is sure to become one of your favorites.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering your ingredients is a breeze with this recipe’s simple but essential list. Each element contributes wonderfully — from the deep cocoa powder giving those waffles a stunning color to the lightly flavored olive oil keeping them tender without overpowering the chocolatey goodness.
- All-purpose flour: The base that provides structure and fluffiness for the waffles.
- Unsweetened cocoa powder: Adds rich chocolate flavor and a deep, alluring color.
- Brown sugar: Balances the cocoa with its caramel notes and keeps the waffles moist.
- Baking powder and baking soda: Together they help the waffles rise to a perfect lightness.
- Kosher salt: Enhances the sweetness and deepens all other flavors.
- Eggs: Separated to whip the whites for fluffy texture, while yolks add richness.
- Buttermilk: Brings tenderness and a subtle tang, balancing the sweetness.
- Olive oil: Keeps the waffles tender, and the light flavor won’t compete with chocolate.
- Vanilla extract: Brightens the flavor with warm, sweet notes.
- Bittersweet chocolate: Chopped finely to melt into the batter, creating pockets of molten goodness.
- Nonstick spray: Ensures waffles release effortlessly from the iron.
- Heavy cream: The base for the smooth, glossy ganache.
- Semi-sweet chocolate chips: Melted into the cream to form the ganache’s decadently smooth texture.
- Butter: Adds richness and sheen to the ganache.
- Pinch of salt: Balances sweetness and enhances chocolate depth in the ganache.
- Fresh strawberries: The perfect fresh, tangy contrast and bright pop of color.
How to Make Dark Chocolate Waffles with Ganache and Strawberries Recipe
Step 1: Mix the Dry Ingredients
Start by whisking together your all-purpose flour, unsweetened cocoa powder, brown sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and kosher salt in a large bowl. This combination is the foundation for those beautifully chocolatey waffles with just the right lift and sweetness.
Step 2: Separate the Eggs
Separate the egg whites from the yolks carefully, setting the whites aside in your stand mixer or another bowl for whipping. The eggs are key to achieving the light, airy waffle texture that makes this recipe so special.
Step 3: Combine Wet Ingredients and Dry Mixture
Create a well in the center of your dry ingredients, then whisk together the egg yolks, buttermilk, olive oil, and vanilla. Gradually add this to the flour mixture, mixing just until combined. It’s okay if a few flour streaks remain because over-mixing can make waffles tough.
Step 4: Whip the Egg Whites
Using your mixer, beat the egg whites until they form soft peaks—this aeration is what lifts the batter to fluffy heights. Gently fold in half of the whipped egg whites at first, being careful not to deflate them because this is the secret to light waffles.
Step 5: Add Chocolate and Finish Folding
Next, fold the finely chopped bittersweet chocolate into the batter. Then carefully fold in the remaining egg whites until just combined for an extra luscious texture studded with pockets of melted chocolate.
Step 6: Cook the Waffles
Heat your waffle iron and spray it generously with nonstick spray. Cook the batter as per your waffle iron’s instructions until the waffles are cooked through, crisp on the outside, and wonderfully rich in chocolate flavor.
Step 7: Keep Waffles Warm
Set your oven to the warm setting (around 170°F). Place a baking sheet with a cooling rack inside and transfer your finished waffles there. This trick keeps them crisp instead of soggy while you prepare the ganache.
Step 8: Prepare the Ganache
Warm the heavy cream in a microwave-safe bowl until bubbling at the edges, about 90 seconds. Immediately add the semi-sweet chocolate chips and let sit for one minute before whisking until smooth and creamy. Stir in the butter and pinch of salt for a rich shine and balanced flavor.
Step 9: Serve Warm Ganache Over Waffles
If your ganache thickens too much before serving, a quick zap in the microwave will loosen it back up. Pour it generously over your warm, chocolate waffles and get ready to dive into pure bliss.
How to Serve Dark Chocolate Waffles with Ganache and Strawberries Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh strawberries are the ultimate garnish here — their bright juiciness and slight tartness spotlight the deep chocolate in the waffles and ganache beautifully. Dust with powdered sugar or a sprig of mint for an elegant touch.
Side Dishes
Consider serving alongside a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream if you’re leaning into dessert vibes. For breakfast, a side of crispy bacon or a fresh fruit salad adds useful texture contrasts and complementary flavors.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve the waffles stacked tall with alternating layers of strawberries and ganache drizzle for a showstopping centerpiece. Or use mini waffle irons for bite-sized treats perfect for brunch parties where guests can customize their own toppings.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Place leftover waffles in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will keep nicely for 2 to 3 days without losing texture or flavor, making them a great option for breakfast on busy mornings.
Freezing
To freeze, let the waffles cool completely, then layer them between parchment paper and store in a freezer-safe bag or container. They can keep up to 1 month frozen and be ready to enjoy whenever the chocolate craving strikes.
Reheating
Reheat waffles in a toaster or oven at 350°F until crisp and warm. Avoid microwaving as much as possible to keep them from turning soggy. Gently warm the ganache separately and drizzle before serving.
FAQs
Can I use regular milk instead of buttermilk?
Yes, buttermilk adds a bit of tang and tenderness, so if you use regular milk, consider adding a teaspoon of lemon juice or vinegar to mimic that effect.
Is olive oil necessary? Can I use butter instead?
Olive oil keeps waffles moist without a heavy butter flavor, but melted butter can work too — just be mindful it could add richness but also weight.
Can I make the ganache ahead of time?
Absolutely! Ganache can be made a day ahead, kept covered in the fridge, and gently reheated before serving with waffles.
Why do we separate the eggs?
Separating eggs lets us whip the whites to incorporate air, making the waffles lighter and fluffier – an essential technique here.
What if my waffles get soggy quickly?
Keeping them warm on a cooling rack in the oven helps prevent sogginess by allowing steam to escape instead of pooling on the waffle surface.
Final Thoughts
There is nothing quite like waking up to or sharing the joy of Dark Chocolate Waffles with Ganache and Strawberries Recipe. Each bite is a celebration of rich chocolate, light fluffy texture, and fresh juicy fruit, making it perfect for any special occasion or just a delightful treat to brighten your day. Give this recipe a try—you’ll be so glad you did!
