A waffle is a pancake-style batter cooked in a patterned iron until crisp outside and soft inside. Cooked through, it is a safe pregnancy breakfast; the toppings matter more than the waffle.
Why it's good in pregnancy
The egg and milk in the batter give a waffle a few grams of protein and some calcium, and fortified flour adds B vitamins. Its grid is made for holding yogurt, berries and nut butter, which is where most of the nutrition on the plate comes from.
Key nutrients
ProteinEgg and milk in the batter contribute protein for your baby's growth.
CalciumMilk in the batter adds calcium, and a yogurt topping adds more.
B VitaminsFortified flour provides thiamine and folic acid.
Serving ideas
Wholemeal waffle with Greek yogurt and strawberries
Waffle topped with nut butter and sliced banana
Savoury waffle with a firm fried egg and avocado
Oat waffle with stewed plums
Toaster waffle with ricotta and honey
Safety
Cook until golden and crisp; the batter contains raw egg.Toaster waffles are safe once heated through.
Waffle irons run hot and cook the batter through in a few minutes, so a waffle that is golden and crisp is fully cooked; avoid tasting the raw batter, which has both raw egg and raw flour. Frozen toaster waffles are pre-cooked but should still be heated until hot. Shop-bought waffles and the sweet Belgian kind can hold a surprising amount of sugar, so check the label or make a less sweet batter at home. Keep syrup modest and lean on fruit and yogurt for toppings.
Common questions
Are waffles safe during pregnancy?Yes, cooked waffles are safe; the only caution is the raw batter, which contains uncooked egg and flour.
Can I eat frozen toaster waffles while pregnant?Yes, heat them until hot; they are pre-cooked and safe, though often lower in protein and higher in sugar than homemade.
Are waffles with whipped cream okay in pregnancy?Yes, as long as the cream is pasteurised, which almost all supermarket and café cream is.
Did you know?
Savoury waffles made with grated courgette or cheese are an easy way to add vegetables to breakfast.
A café Belgian waffle with syrup and cream can carry as much sugar as a can of cola.
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