These cake mix Chocolate Waffles are incredibly simple and fast to make. With one box of chocolate cake mix and a few pantry staples, you can whip up a quick breakfast or build a decadent dessert base that everyone will enjoy.
If you crave more chocolate, try Caramel Pretzel Chocolate Bark or Chocolate Parfait for additional dessert inspiration.
Why this Cake Mix Chocolate Waffle Recipe is a Keeper
These rich chocolate waffles are both indulgent and effortless. They come out fluffy inside with nicely crisp edges when made correctly.
- 20 Minute Meal: Make a batch of fluffy waffles in under 20 minutes.
- Simple Ingredients: One box of cake mix plus the ingredients called for on the package is all you need.
- Family Friendly: Kids love decorating these waffles, making them a hit at breakfast or brunch.
What Are the Best Waffle Toppings?
Top them with maple syrup, mini chocolate chips, chocolate sauce, a scoop of ice cream, or fresh berries. Mix and match to suit sweet or indulgent preferences.
Pro Tip for Crispy Waffles
Add a tablespoon of cornstarch to the batter for crisper edges. Cake mix waffles can be softer than traditional waffles, and cornstarch helps mimic that desirable crisp without changing the flavor.
Ingredient Notes to Make this Recipe
Most ingredients are pantry staples, and the primary component is a box of chocolate cake mix. Use the liquids and eggs the package calls for to create the right texture.
Get the full printable recipe with specific measurements and directions in the recipe card below.
- Cake Mix: Use a 13.25-ounce box of chocolate cake mix and prepare it according to the package directions. The mix replaces cocoa, flour, and leavening in a traditional waffle batter.
Variations and Substitutions to Make Chocolate Waffles
This base is flexible—try different swaps to fit diets or preferences.
- Egg Replacements: Substitute each egg with 1/4 cup applesauce or Greek yogurt for a moist, slightly denser waffle.
- Dairy‑Free Milk: Almond, oat, or soy milk work fine and won’t alter texture significantly.
- Gluten‑Free Cake Mix: Most GF cake mixes substitute well; the finished waffles may be a bit more delicate.
- Thicker Batter: Add an extra tablespoon of cake mix to thicken a runny batter.
- Thinner Batter: Add a splash of milk and a touch of vanilla for a looser batter and even spreading.
Special Equipment Needed for the Best Chocolate Waffles
A waffle iron is the easiest way to get classic waffle texture—crispy outside, tender inside. Make sure the iron is preheated before cooking for the best results.
- Waffle Maker: Any standard or Belgian waffle iron will work. Preheating ensures even browning and crisp edges.
How to Make Chocolate Cake Waffles
This recipe comes together in just a few easy steps. Follow the package directions for the cake mix and use your waffle iron to cook each waffle until crisp.
Get the full printable recipe with specific measurements and directions in the recipe card below.
- Make the Batter: In a large mixing bowl, prepare the cake mix according to the package directions. If you want crisper waffles, stir in 1 tablespoon cornstarch.
- Cook the Waffles: Preheat and lightly grease the waffle iron. Portion about 1/2 cup of batter per waffle (adjust for your iron size) and cook until the iron indicates doneness, about 4 minutes per waffle.
Prep Ahead Suggestions
Prepare the batter the night before and refrigerate it covered. When ready to serve, preheat the waffle iron and cook as directed. You can also fully cook waffles ahead and reheat before serving.
- Make the Batter Ahead: Mix the batter the night before, cover well, and store in the fridge.
Alternate Cooking Methods
If you don’t have a waffle iron, there are simple alternatives that still deliver a tasty result.
- Stovetop Pancakes: Cook the batter like pancakes in a lightly greased skillet for cake-like pancakes with lightly crisp edges.
- Oven Waffle Bars: Spread batter in a baking pan and bake at 350°F for 18–22 minutes until the top springs back; slice into bars and broil briefly for crisper edges.
- Silicone Waffle Molds: Fill silicone waffle molds about 3/4 full and bake at 425°F for 10–12 minutes; flip and crisp under the broiler if desired.
How to Store, Reheat and Use Leftovers
- Storing: Cool waffles completely and store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheating: Toasting brings back crisp edges—toast on medium until warmed through. For a batch, reheat in a 350°F oven for 5–7 minutes. The microwave can be used in a pinch (15–20 seconds) but will soften the exterior.
- Using Leftovers: Turn waffles into waffle sticks for dipping, use them as a dessert base topped with ice cream and sauce, layer cubes into mini trifles, or pair with savory items like eggs and bacon for a sweet-savory breakfast.
Frequently Asked Questions About This Recipe
If the batter is too thick, add a small splash of milk. If it’s too runny, add a bit more cake mix or a tablespoon of all-purpose flour until the texture is right.
These waffles have a cake-like flavor with waffle texture—crispy edges from the iron and a soft, slightly chewy interior.
Yes. Vanilla, red velvet, funfetti, or lemon cake mixes work well and offer different flavor profiles for waffles or pancakes.
Expert Tips to Love This Recipe
- Don’t Overmix: Combine ingredients until just blended to keep the waffles light and airy.
- Let Batter Rest 3–5 Minutes: Allow the dry ingredients to hydrate for more even cooking and to avoid gummy centers.
- Grease the Waffle Iron Lightly: Cake mix browns quickly and can stick, so a light spray prevents sticking.
- Cook Until Steam Slows: Steam is a good indicator of doneness—when it slows, the waffle is set and ready.
- Cool on a Wire Rack: Use a cooling rack to prevent trapped steam from softening the edges.
- Add Mix-Ins at the End: Gently fold in chocolate chips, berries, or sprinkles to keep them from sinking.
- Serve With: Pair with hash browns, fruit salsa, or your preferred breakfast sides for a complete meal.
More Recipes You Might Like
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Fruit Salad with Cool Whip
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Cake Mix Chocolate Waffles
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Equipment
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Mixing Bowls
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Measuring Cups
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Waffle Iron
Ingredients
- 13.25 ounces Chocolate Cake Mix, plus ingredients called for on the box
Instructions
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Preheat the waffle iron.
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Prepare the cake mix according to the package directions, adding a tablespoon of cornstarch if you prefer crisper edges.
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Spray the preheated iron with cooking spray and portion about 1/2 cup of batter per waffle, or the amount recommended for your iron.
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Cook until the waffle iron indicates doneness, about 4 minutes, or until steam slows and the waffle is crisp.
Christina’s Notes
- Red Velvet Waffles: Use red velvet cake mix for a different flavor and color.
- Birthday Waffles: Use funfetti cake mix or add sprinkles to vanilla batter for a festive breakfast.
- Waffle Bar: Offer a selection of toppings—syrups, whipped cream, chocolate chips, fresh fruit, sauces, and more—for an easy brunch station.
- Mini Waffles: A mini waffle iron makes about 18–20 mini waffles and is perfect for kids.
- Scale the recipe: Adjust servings in the recipe card to update ingredient amounts.
- Use unsalted butter: This lets you control the salt level in your cooking and baking.
- Preheat equipment: Always preheat waffle irons and ovens for best texture and even cooking.
For more details on substitutions and tips, refer to the blog content above.