Hidden Veggie Zucchini Waffles

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We’re knee-deep in a picky eating phase with my toddler over here, which has led me to get a little more creative in the kitchen lately. These zucchini waffles have been one of my favorite cooking creations recently — they’re warm, fluffy, sweet, and secretly harboring a healthy hidden ingredient: zucchini!

While I originally made these for my son, they’ve been a hit for the whole family. Slather on some peanut butter, top with a little fresh fruit, or drizzle on the maple syrup and you have a delicious breakfast ready to enjoy.

Best of all, this recipe is perfect for meal prep. Store leftover waffles in an airtight bag in the freezer and then simply pop one in the toaster on busy mornings or whenever you’re craving a quick snack. Bon appétit!

Why you’ll love this recipe


  • Easy way to sneak in extra veggies
  • Lightly sweet and ready for your favorite toppings
  • Quick and fuss-free for busy mornings
  • Fluffy and fun to eat, even for picky eaters
  • Perfect for batch cooking

What you’ll need

  • Zucchini – Adds moisture, subtle sweetness, and a sneaky veggie boost
  • Flour – Provides structure to keep waffles light and tender
  • Sugar – Gently sweetens the batter
  • Nutmeg – Adds warm, cozy flavor; swap in cinnamon if you prefer
  • Baking powder – Helps the waffles rise and stay fluffy
  • Eggs – Bind together the ingredients
  • Whole milk – Adds richness and moisture; skim or plant-based milks also work
  • Vanilla extract – Enhances the natural sweetness

Recipe tips

  • Squeeze out the zucchini thoroughly to prevent soggy waffles and helps them crisp up better.
  • Preheat and spray your waffle maker to ensure even cooking.
  • Make ahead and store — refrigerate for 2–3 days or freeze for up to a month for quick breakfasts.

How to make this recipe


  1. Finely grate the zucchini using a box grater. Place the shreds in a cheesecloth or paper towel and squeeze out any excess moisture. Set aside.
  2. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, cinnamon, and baking powder.
  3. Add the zucchini, eggs, milk, and vanilla extract to the dry ingredients. Stir until combined.
  4. Preheat your mini waffle maker. Lightly spray with cooking spray.
  5. Spoon 2-3 tablespoons of batter into the waffle maker and cook until golden.
  6. Serve warm with your choice of toppings: butter, syrup, fresh fruit, nut butter, or jam.

FAQ

Yes! You can mix the batter and store it in the fridge for up to 24 hours, but remember to give it a quick stir before cooking.

Absolutely! Almond, oat, or any other milk can be used, though the texture may be slightly different.

No. Leaving the skin on adds extra fiber and nutrients, plus it softens during cooking.

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Hidden Veggie Zucchini Waffles

Light, fluffy, and subtly sweet, these zucchini waffles are a versatile breakfast treat and an easy way to sneak in some extra veggies.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Servings 16 mini waffles

Ingredients

  • 1 medium zucchini ends trimmed
  • 1 1/2 cup flour
  • 1/3 cup sugar
  • 1/2 tsp nutmeg or sub cinnamon
  • 1 tbsp baking powder
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1 1/4 cup whole milk
  • splash of vanilla extract

Instructions

  • Finely grate the zucchini using a box grater. Place the shreds in a cheesecloth or paper towel and squeeze out any excess moisture. Set aside.
  • In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, cinnamon, and baking powder.
  • Add the zucchini, eggs, milk, and vanilla extract to the dry ingredients. Stir until combined.
  • Preheat your mini waffle maker. Lightly spray with cooking spray.
  • Spoon 2-3 tablespoons of batter into the waffle maker and cook until golden.
  • Serve warm with your choice of toppings: butter, syrup, fresh fruit, nut butter, or jam.

Did you try it?

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