How To Celebrate National Oatmeal Nut Waffles Day

Sometimes, one breakfast food isn't enough. Eggs get paired with bacon. Grits meet cheese. And waffles ... meet oatmeal. That's right, oatmeal nut waffles are a thing, a way to enjoy everyone's favorite syrup-trap while feeling slightly better about yourself. This breakfast original has its moment this Wednesday, March 11, during National Oatmeal Nut Waffles Day.

Why Do THAT To Your Waffles?

The oatmeal nut waffle may represent a perfect marriage of nutrition and indulgence. The addition of oats provides sustained energy, fiber and a hearty texture, while nuts (typically walnuts or pecans) add healthy fats, protein and crunch.

Unlike lighter, fluffier waffles that often leave you hungry within an hour, oatmeal nut waffles deliver lasting satisfaction thanks to their fiber and protein content. They're essentially a bowl of oatmeal transformed into something special enough for weekend mornings.

Making Perfect Oatmeal Nut Waffles

The secret to exceptional oatmeal nut waffles lies in three key techniques:

1. Toast Your Oats First

Before mixing your batter, spread rolled oats on a baking sheet and toast them at 350°F for 8-10 minutes until fragrant and lightly golden. This extra step develops a nutty flavor that transforms ordinary oatmeal.

2. Use the "Soaking Method"

Combine your toasted oats with buttermilk and let them sit for 15-20 minutes before adding other ingredients. This allows the oats to soften slightly while maintaining their texture, preventing the finished waffles from being too dense.

3. Toast Your Nuts Separately

Toast chopped walnuts or pecans until just fragrant, then fold them in at the very end. This prevents them from becoming soggy while ensuring they're evenly distributed throughout the batter.

1 cup rolled oats, toasted

1½ cups buttermilk

1 cup all-purpose flour

2 tablespoons brown sugar

2 teaspoons baking powder

½ teaspoon salt

½ teaspoon cinnamon

2 large eggs

⅓ cup melted butter

¾ cup toasted walnuts, chopped

Soak the toasted oats in buttermilk for 20 minutes. Whisk together dry ingredients in a separate bowl. Beat eggs and melted butter into the oat mixture, then fold in dry ingredients until just combined. Gently fold in nuts. Cook in a preheated waffle iron until golden brown and crispy.

What's your favorite way to eat waffles? Let us know in the comments!