Easy Coconut Pandan Waffles Recipe - Sassy Chopsticks (2024)

What is a pandan waffle?

Pandan waffle is a type of waffle that incorporates pandan flavoring, which comes from the leaves of the pandan plant (a tropical plant). Pandan waffles typically have a green color derived from the juice extracted from pandan leaves. The pandan juice imparts a vibrant green hue to the waffle and infuses it with a distinctive fragrance and taste.

Pandan leaves are commonly used in Southeast Asian cuisine to add a unique flavor to various dishes and desserts. These special waffles are particularly popular in tropical Southeast Asia, where pandan leaves are widely used in cooking and baking. The pandan flavor adds a unique twist to the classic waffle, offering a delightful combination of aroma and taste that sets it apart from traditional waffles.

I made this recipe inspired by Vietnamese pandan waffles, which are a little bit different from American waffles. I got the opportunity to taste it from some food truck here in downtown Nashville over the weekend, and I almost fell in love instantly! Just like regular waffles, these waffles are cooked in a waffle iron or waffle maker, resulting in a crispy exterior and a soft and fluffy interior.

Major ingredients

The major ingredients for a pandan waffle recipe typically include:

All-Purpose Flour: It serves as the base ingredient for the waffle batter, providing structure and texture. You can substitute with glutinous rice flour if you prefer your waffle to the "mochi texture."

Coconut sugar: Adds sweetness to the waffles. The amount can be adjusted to suit personal taste preferences. You can also use granulated sugar.

Baking Powder, baking powder, and cornstarch: Helps the waffles rise and become light and fluffy.

Pinch of salt: It enhances the flavor of the waffles.

Egg: It Provides structure and helps bind the ingredients together.

Creamy coconut milk: Adds moisture and contributes to the texture of the waffles. It brings out an extra layer of coconut flavor to the waffle. You can use any milk, such as regular milk or almond milk.

Melted butter: I used it for brushing the waffle iron. It also adds richness and flavor to the waffles.

Pandan Extract/pandan paste: The star ingredient imparts a distinct pandan flavor and iconic green color to the waffles. You can get pandan extract in most Asian supermarkets or homemade by blending fresh pandan leaves with water.

Vanilla Extract (optional): Adding sweetness and aroma enhances the waffles' overall flavor.

These ingredients' exact measurements and ratios may vary depending on personal preferences. Please adjust ingredient amounts to make it your desired texture and flavor.

How to make pandan waffles: step-by-step instruction

Combine the all-purpose flour, coconut sugar, baking powder, baking soda, cornstarch, and a pinch of salt in a large mixing bowl. Whisk the dry ingredients together until well combined.

Pour the wet ingredients(egg, coconut milk, pandan extract) into the bowl with the dry ingredients. Stir gently with a spatula or whisk until you see a smooth batter and all the dry ingredients are fully incorporated. Be careful not to overmix the batter, leading to tough waffles.

Preheat your waffle iron according to its instructions. Once preheated, lightly grease the waffle iron with cooking spray or melted butter to prevent the waffles from sticking.

Spoon the batter onto the center of the waffle iron, spreading it evenly but leaving a little space for the batter to expand when cooking. Close the lid and cook the waffle according to the manufacturer's instructions, typically for about 3-5 minutes or until golden brown and crispy.

Carefully remove the waffle from the iron using a spatula and transfer it to a serving plate. Repeat the process with the remaining batter until all the waffles are cooked.

You can serve the pandan waffles hot and customize them with your choice of toppings. Such as powdered sugar, maple syrup, fresh fruits, sweetened condensed milk, chocolate sauce, or whipped cream to enhance the flavor and presentation.

Enjoy the pandan waffles immediately while they are still warm and crisp.

Note: If you prefer real pandan leaves over pandan extract, you can make your own by blending fresh or frozen pandan leaves with water and straining the mixture to extract the juice. Adjust the amount of pandan extract based on your preference for the intensity of the flavor and color.

With these simple steps, you can make delicious pandan waffles at home. Enjoy the delightful combination of crispy waffle texture and the fragrant essence of pandan!

Pro tips to make the perfect coconut pandan waffles

To make the best result pandan waffles, here are some pro tips to keep in mind:

• Use high-quality pandan extract: Opt for a good-quality pandan extract or make your own by blending fresh or frozen pandan leaves with water. The quality of the extract will significantly influence the flavor and aroma of the waffles.
• Adjust the sweetness: Taste the batter before cooking and adjust the amount of sugar according to your preference. If you prefer sweeter waffles, add a bit more sugar.
• Don't overfill the waffle iron: Pour just enough batter onto the waffle iron to cover the cooking surface without overflowing.
• Resist the urge to peek: Once the waffle iron is closed, avoid opening it to check on the waffles until the recommended cooking time is reached. Opening the iron prematurely can lead to uneven cooking and less crispy waffles.
• Maintain the crispness: Place the cooked waffles on a wire rack instead of stacking them on top of each other. This helps prevent steam from getting trapped, which can lead to a loss of crispness.
  

By following these pro tips, you can enhance your pandan waffles' flavor, texture, and presentation, resulting in perfect, fragrant treats that will impress you. Enjoy the delightful combination of pandan essence and the classic waffle experience!

Store and reheat pandan waffles

To store and reheat pandan waffles, follow these guidelines:

Storage: Allow the cooked pandan waffles to cool completely at room temperature before storing them. Stacking the waffles on top of each other while still warm can cause them to lose their crispness. Once cooled, place them in an airtight container or sealable plastic bag.

Refrigeration: If you plan to store the waffles for a short period, you can refrigerate them. Place the container or bag of waffles in the refrigerator, where they can be kept for 2-3 days.

Freezing: If you want to store the waffles longer, freezing is a good option. Individually wrap each waffle with plastic wrap or place parchment paper between them to prevent sticking. Then place the wrapped waffles in a freezer-safe bag or container. They can be stored in the freezer for 1-2 months.

Reheating: To reheat the pandan waffles, there are a few methods you can use:

• Oven or Toaster Oven: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the waffles on a baking sheet and heat them in the oven for about 5-7 minutes or until they are warm and crispy.
• Toaster: Place the waffles in a toaster and toast them on a low to medium setting until they are heated and crisp. Keep an eye on them to prevent burning.
• Microwave: If you want a quick reheating option, use the microwave. Place a waffle on a microwave-safe plate and heat it in 15-30 seconds intervals until warm. Be cautious not to overheat, as the waffle may become chewy instead of crispy.

Once reheated, please serve the pandan waffles immediately to enjoy them at their best.

Conclusion

Pandan waffles are a delightful and aromatic twist on the classic waffle, infusing the tropical flavor of pandan into a crispy and fluffy treat. With their vibrant green color, fragrant aroma, and unique taste, pandan waffles bring a touch of Southeast Asian flavor to your waffle experience.

Whether you're seeking a unique, delicious breakfast option, a special brunch addition, or a delightful dessert, pandan waffles are sure to impress with their vibrant appearance and excellent taste. So, gather the ingredients, and heat the waffle iron. Try this easy recipe, especially if you are a waffle lover. Let me know what you think by leaving a comment below. Happy cooking. 🙂

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