Brownie Waffle

A protein-rich brownie mix doubles as the base for single-serve waffles that make a filling breakfast, snack, or dessert – in 3 minutes!

I regularly hear from readers who are looking for ways to satisfying a sweet tooth while keeping overall added sugars in check. At the same time, many of us are looking to expand our intake of quality protein sources. I also have kids who regularly use protein powders, especially after a workout, and I sometimes use them myself.

So, when Naked Nutrition asked me to create a recipe using their newest product, a protein brownie mix called Naked Brownie, I was intrigued. 

Recipe development work is something I have done many times over the years for a variety of national and regional food brands. My rule is that I only work with products that I would truly feed my family, and I will always be honest in my assessments.

Taste testers are always helpful when I create a recipe, and this time around, I had an exciting idea. How much fun would it be to have the kids in my weekly cooking class at the Boys & Girls Club of Lancaster be my helpers?

First, I worked through some initial testing at home. I made the brownies as directed on the package instructions, which was as easy as adding water to the protein mix and baking. The result was decent, albeit cakier than a traditional brownie and not the decadent treat we might expect. The tradeoff is a serving of dessert with only nine grams of added sugar and 15 grams of protein. 

My next line of thinking was how the mix could be used in recipes other than brownies. And what recipe would I want to make on repeat? Pancake batter, brownie baked oatmeal, a protein smoothie?   

One idea rose to the top and proved far more delicious than the original pan of brownies: single-serve waffles.

A mini waffle iron made the brownie-flavored waffles easy to prepare one at a time, or several in quick succession. It takes but a minute to mix the batter and about two minutes to cook the waffle. 

The chocolatey waffles are delicious plain, and I have enjoyed quite a few topped with peanut butter. Though they’re perfect for a quick breakfast, I most often enjoy them as an afternoon snack or dessert.

But what would the kids at the Boys & Girls Club think? 

My helpers at the Boys & Girls Club of Lancaster willingly lended their insight – and discerning tastebuds! – to the process. They also had a mini lesson on food marketing. 

For our next class, I loaded my bag with several mini waffle irons, the protein brownie mix, and a few other recipe testing items.

My favorite combinations to that point were waffles made simply with the brownie mix plus milk (instead of the package-directed water), as well as a version with mashed banana. 

The kids proved to be excellent helpers, and all gave double thumbs up to the waffles. Most drizzled the waffles with peanut butter and some added sliced banana to the top. They ate the waffles like toast and agreed they’d make a fun and filling breakfast and would be equally satisfying for dessert. I had brought syrup as a topping option, and though some added a drizzle, most agreed that it wasn’t necessary. 

As we cooked, we also talked about the business side of food, including how food brands test and market their products and how that marketing process has evolved from the days before social media to the present. 

For those who may be interested, Dash mini waffle irons are widely available. I linked to Amazon, which shows all the colors, prints, and special shapes (like heart, bunny, pumpkin, or skull-shaped waffles), and where they retail for $12.99. However, Target, Walmart, Kohl’s, and other stores often carry them for $9.99 (and sometimes less with a coupon or sale).

Pro tip: For a perfect peanut butter drizzle, scoop a spoonful or two into a small, microwave-safe bowl. Microwave on high for 20 seconds. Stir, and cook for 20 more seconds. Stir again and drizzle away.

I’ve eaten many of these waffle plain, sort of like a soft chocolate cookie. A drizzle of peanut butter, however, adds an extra something!

Brownie Waffle

Prep Time: 1 minute

Cook Time: 2 minutes

Total Time: 3 minutes

Yield: 1 waffle

These waffles are tasty as is and make a great snack or breakfast on the go. For a little extra oomph, I sometimes spread them with peanut butter, although you could add a drizzle of maple syrup and enjoy them as you would traditional waffles as well. For a dessert option, top with sliced strawberries and a dollop of whipped cream – or peanut butter and a sprinkle of chocolate chips.

Print

Ingredients

• 1 scoop (26g) Naked Brownie
• 1 tablespoon (15ml) milk of choice (plus another teaspoon or two as needed to make a thick batter)
• Optional add-in: 1 tablespoon mashed, overripe banana*
• Optional for serving: peanut butter, sliced banana, maple syrup, a sprinkle of granola

Instructions

Preheat a mini waffle maker and then lightly mist with cooking spray.

Pour the batter onto the waffle iron and close the lid. Cook for 2 to 3 minutes, checking after 2 minutes, or until the waffle is cooked through.

Notes

* The banana adds complementary flavor as well as added moisture, so a waffle made with this option has a softer texture. You may use up to 2 tablespoons banana, but the waffle will be a bit softer yet. All options are tasty, just a little different.

Pro tip: For a perfect peanut butter drizzle, scoop a spoonful or two into a small, microwave-safe bowl. Microwave on high for 20 seconds. Stir, and cook for 20 more seconds. Stir again and drizzle away.

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