Crispy Southern Waffles with a Light and Fluffy Center
Golden, crisp, and full of rich homemade flavor, these buttermilk waffles are the perfect way to start the morning. With their fluffy texture and buttery taste, they pair beautifully with syrup, fresh fruit, fried chicken, or a simple pat of butter. Whether served for breakfast or brunch, waffles like these bring comforting Southern flavor to the table.
This recipe from Big Mama’s Old Black Pot Recipes by Ethel Rayson Dixon reflects the tradition of hearty homemade breakfasts shared in many Black Southern homes. Made with buttermilk and whipped egg whites for extra lightness, these waffles are both simple and satisfying — the kind of recipe passed down through generations.
Ingredients
- 3 cups flour
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 2 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
- 1 teaspoon soda
- 4 eggs (separated)
- 2 1/2 cups buttermilk
- 7 tablespoons shortening (melted)
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Separate the egg whites from the yolks, then beat the egg whites until stiff peaks form. Set aside.
2. In a large bowl, sift together the flour, salt, baking powder, and baking soda until evenly combined.
3. In another bowl, beat the egg yolks and stir in the buttermilk and melted shortening.
4. Gradually add the dry ingredients into the buttermilk mixture, stirring until the batter becomes smooth and creamy.
5. Gently fold the beaten egg whites into the batter to keep the waffles light and fluffy.
6. Preheat and lightly grease a waffle iron according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
7. Pour the batter into the hot waffle iron and cook until the waffles are golden brown and crisp.
8. Carefully remove the waffles and serve hot with syrup, butter, fruit, or your favorite breakfast sides.
Closing Summary / Pro Tips
- Buttermilk waffles are crispy on the outside and fluffy on the inside.
- Serve them with syrup, butter, fruit, whipped cream, or fried chicken.
- Whipped egg whites help create a lighter and airier waffle texture.
- These waffles are perfect for breakfast, brunch, or weekend gatherings.
💡 Pro Tip: Avoid opening the waffle iron too early to help the waffles cook evenly and stay crisp.
About the Creator
Ethel Rayson Dixon, a Louisiana native, shares recipes inspired by her roots and life experiences. Known for her love of simple, flavorful cooking, she highlights dishes that reflect tradition and cultural pride. Her cookbook preserves stories and recipes that celebrate Southern Black culinary heritage.
Ethel Rayson Dixon | Big Mama’s Old Black Pot Recipes
Where to Find This Recipe
This recipe is adapted from Big Mama’s Old Black Pot Recipes by Ethel Rayson Dixon.
Find more amazing recipes like this in the book, available through local booksellers and online retailers.
