How to Make Chaffles: The Ultimate Cheese Waffle Breakfast Recipe

This versatile batter turns eggs and cheese into endless meal possibilities.

By Medha deb

Created on Sep 17, 2025

This versatile batter turns eggs and cheese into endless meal possibilities.

Chaffles have burst onto the breakfast scene as a fun, fast, and keto-friendly alternative to traditional waffles. With just two core ingredients: eggs and cheese, chaffles are incredibly easy to make, versatile in their use, and endlessly customizable.
Whether you’re following a low-carb diet or simply looking for quick breakfast inspiration, this trending recipe is poised to become a household staple.

What Are Chaffles?

A chaffle is a waffle made primarily from cheese and eggs—hence the name: cheese + waffle = chaffle. This unique batter creates a waffle that’s crispy on the outside, fluffy on the inside, and packed with flavor. Unlike regular waffles, chaffles contain no flour, baking powder, milk, or buttermilk, making them naturally gluten-free and suitable for keto diets.

Main ingredients: Cheese and eggs
Prep time: Less than 10 minutes
Carb content: Very low; ideal for keto lifestyles
Uses: Breakfast, sandwich bread replacement, tostada base, or topped with savory extras

Why Chaffles Are So Popular

The rise of chaffles can largely be credited to social media, particularly TikTok and food blogs, where users share their quick breakfast hacks and keto-friendly creations. The simplicity and adaptability of chaffles have made them a viral sensation.
Food personality Ree Drummond was so convinced of their potential that she purchased a mini waffle iron just to make chaffles.

Nutritional and Health Benefits of Chaffles

Chaffles are low in carbohydrates, high in protein, and gluten-free. For those tracking their macros or seeking a guilt-free comfort breakfast, chaffles are an excellent choice. Moreover, because the recipe uses only two basic ingredients, you can be confident there are no hidden additives or preservatives.

Despite their healthy profile, moderation is advised, as eating excessive cheese can raise sodium and saturated fat intake. Customize your toppings and mix-ins to balance nutrition and keep the meal fresh.

Essential Tools for Making Chaffles

Mini waffle iron (such as the Dash Mini): Delivers ideal chaffle size and crispness
Standard waffle irons or Belgian-style irons can also be used—expect varied cook times and crisp edges depending on size
Non-stick spray: Ensure easy release, especially if your waffle iron does not have non-stick plates

Basic Chaffle Recipe: Original Version

This simple version is where most people start their chaffle journey. Top them like waffles with a drizzle of syrup, or use them in sandwiches and other applications.

Ingredients

2 eggs
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese

Directions

Preheat your mini waffle iron.
In a medium bowl, whisk together the eggs. Stir in the mozzarella cheese.
Scoop the batter into the waffle iron (use the quantity your iron recommends). Close the lid and cook until the light turns green or for about 3–4 minutes.
Transfer chaffles to a cooling rack. Serve immediately, or cool to room temperature and refrigerate for up to 3 days.

Bacon Cheddar Chive Chaffles: Savory Variation

For those who crave something extra, the bacon, cheddar, and chive chaffle is a savory upgrade—perfect as a breakfast sandwich base or a hearty snack.

Ingredients

2 eggs
1 cup shredded cheddar jack cheese
2 slices cooked bacon, finely chopped
1 Tbsp. finely chopped chives
Extra shredded cheddar jack cheese, chopped bacon, and chives, for serving

Directions

Preheat the mini waffle iron.
Whisk eggs in a bowl and blend in cheddar jack cheese, chopped bacon, and chives.
Scoop batter into the waffle iron and cook as in the original version: about 3–4 minutes or until golden and crispy.
Top cooked chaffles with additional cheese, bacon, and chives as desired.

Tips and Tricks for Perfect Chaffles

Spray your waffle iron with non-stick spray if it is not non-stick.
Customize your chaffle: Add vanilla extract, cinnamon, or everything bagel seasoning for flavor changes.
Let chaffles cool briefly after cooking for maximum crispiness.
Store leftover chaffles in the refrigerator in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Re-crisp chaffles in the toaster if needed for best texture.

Creative Ways to Use Chaffles

Chaffles are much more than breakfast food. Their structure allows them to take the place of bread in many applications and serve as a base for savory dishes:

As a gluten-free bread replacement for sandwiches and burgers
Base for tostadas or nachos
Topped with sausage gravy instead of biscuits
Sweetened with vanilla and cinnamon, then used as dessert waffles
Paired with fresh fruit and whipped cream for brunch

Chaffle Recipe Modifications: Gluten-Free and Keto-Friendly

While some variations of chaffles use almond flour or baking powder for a slightly different texture, the core recipe remains flourless and suitable for gluten-free, keto, and low-carb diets.

Variation	Additional Ingredients	Notes
Classic	Mozzarella, eggs	Light, fluffy, and basic
Bacon Cheddar Chive	Cheddar jack, bacon, chives, eggs	Savory and hearty
Almond Flour	Almond flour, baking powder	Denser, more bread-like
Sweet	Vanilla, cinnamon, low-carb sweetener	Satisfies dessert cravings

Using Different Waffle Irons

Mini waffle irons make small, snackable chaffles with crisp edges.
Standard or Belgian waffle irons can be used, but note that cook times will increase, and the crispiness might differ. Monitor the cooking process for best results.

Frequently Asked Questions about Chaffles

What cheese works best for chaffles?

Mozzarella offers a mild flavor and helps create a fluffy texture, while cheddar jack or cheddar yield a sharper, richer taste and crispier exterior.

Can I freeze chaffles?

Yes, chaffles can be frozen. Allow them to cool fully, stack with parchment between layers, and freeze. Toast or reheat directly from frozen.

Are chaffles suitable for meal prep?

Absolutely. Prepare a batch ahead and keep in the fridge for easy breakfasts or quick sandwich bread throughout the week.

Can I make vegetarian chaffles?

Of course—simply omit the bacon in savory versions and stick to cheese and eggs or incorporate plant-based cheese alternatives.

How do I prevent sticking?

Always use non-stick spray or brush your iron with oil if it’s not non-stick, and wait for full preheating before adding batter.

Are chaffles kid-friendly?

Children may enjoy mild-flavored versions or sweet chaffles with a touch of low-carb sweetener and vanilla. Chaffles are easy to customize for picky eaters.

Related Breakfast Recipes and Ideas

Pumpkin Spice Treats: Perfect for fall mornings
Muffin Tin Recipes: Creative breakfasts for busy days
Make-Ahead Sausage Breakfast Casserole: Easy meal prep for families
Cinnamon Roll Peach Cobbler: A fusion breakfast-dessert
Fruit Salad Recipes: Brighten your breakfast table
Peach Smoothies: Quick, healthy, and kid-approved
Fig Recipes: Showcase jammy flavors of seasonal figs
How to Use Extra Egg Yolks: Reduce kitchen waste with inventive recipes
French Toast Recipes: Classic comfort for sweet mornings
Halloween Breakfast Ideas: Add festive flair to the start of your day
Fall-Themed Breakfasts: Warm and cozy options for chilly mornings

Conclusion: Why You Should Try Chaffles Today

Chaffles are a revolutionary twist on breakfast. Their quick preparation, minimal ingredients, and endless customization make them a perfect addition to any kitchen.
Whether you’re following a keto diet, seeking a gluten-free alternative, or just want to spice up your morning routine, chaffles are the single most versatile upgrade to the classic waffle.
Serve them as breakfast, use as sandwich bread, make them sweet or savory—the possibilities are limitless.
Try the original recipe or experiment with your own mix-ins. Chaffles are proof that sometimes, the simplest ideas are the most delicious.

References

Author

medha deb

Medha Deb is an editor with a master's degree in Applied Linguistics from the University of Hyderabad. She believes that her qualification has helped her develop a deep understanding of language and its application in various contexts.

Read full bio of medha deb