Southern-Style Grilled Buttermilk Waffles with Maple Syrup and Toasted Pecans
These Southern-inspired buttermilk waffles are grilled to perfection, giving them a crispy exterior with tender interiors. Topped with warm maple syrup and crunchy toasted pecans, they're a delightful breakfast treat that's easy to prepare.

Ingredients
Check ingredients as you go.
- Waffle Batter
- Toppings
Let’s make it
Waffle Batter
In a large bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and granulated sugar until well combined.
Waffle Batter
In a separate bowl, beat the eggs then whisk in the cold buttermilk, melted butter, and vanilla extract if using.
Waffle Batter
Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and gently mix until just combined. Do not overmix; a few lumps are fine. Let the batter rest for 5 minutes to thicken.
Grilling
Preheat the grill to medium heat and grease the grill grates lightly with melted butter to prevent sticking.
Grilling
Using a ladle or measuring cup, pour about 1/3 cup of batter onto each section of a grill-safe waffle iron or use a cast iron waffle pan placed on the grill. Close the lid or cover with a lid or foil to trap heat.
Grilling
Grill the waffles for about 4 to 6 minutes on each side or until golden brown and crisp. Flip carefully halfway through grilling for even coloring. Waffles should release easily when done.
Toppings
Meanwhile, toast pecans in a dry skillet over medium heat, stirring frequently, until fragrant and lightly browned, about 3 minutes. Remove from heat and set aside.
Serving
Serve the grilled buttermilk waffles warm, drizzled generously with maple syrup and sprinkled with toasted pecans. Enjoy immediately for best texture.
Tips & notes
Do not overmix the batter to keep waffles tender. Resting the batter before cooking helps create a light texture. Use a grill-safe waffle iron or cast iron pan for best results. Grease grill grates well to prevent sticking. Enjoy waffles immediately for crispness, or reheat briefly on the grill.
Saving it for later
Store leftover waffles in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For longer storage, freeze waffles between layers of parchment paper in a zip-top bag for up to 1 month.
Reheating
Reheat waffles on a hot grill or in a toaster oven until warmed through and crisp, about 3 to 5 minutes. Avoid microwaving as it softens the texture.




