I recently woke up in the middle of the night to the realization that Isabella doesn’t eat many “green” foods, which is often typical of toddlers. I started thinking about how I can get more greens into her diet. I always give her continuous exposure, meaning that there is a piece of broccoli or other green vegetables on her plate for her to try. She occasionally licks it, but rarely tries eating them. Research says that it can take 10 to 15+ times of exposure before some people even attempt trying a new food. So I continue to expose her (while also sneaking it into smoothies, haha).
The other morning I thought, why not put it into waffles? Waffles are a special breakfast for her, and I love them too. So I created a Spinach Waffle recipe which is also perfect for St. Patricks Day!
This waffle is not savory nor is it very sweet. It is packed with spinach and spirulina powder. Spirulina is a blue-green algae that is full of dense nutrients. It is high in protein, vitamin B1 (thiamine), B2 (riboflavin), vitamin C, vitamin D, vitamin A, magnesium, iron, calcium, antioxidants, and more. Spirulina powder is also how these waffles get so green without using dyes.
The first time around, the recipe tasted a little “earthy” so I added some maple syrup into the batter to sweeten it a bit. They are delicious and Izzy ate a bunch! I’ve made them 3 weeks in a row now. Bonus, you can double the recipe and store a batch in the freezer for an easy grab and heat breakfast.
A couple great social media moms to follow in regards to kids nutrition and picky eaters:
Green Waffles
Makes 7
255 grams (2 cups) organic all purpose flour 1 tablespoon organic coconut flour 1 teaspoon organic cinnamon 1/2 teaspoon fine sea salt 1 tablespoon organic cornstarch 1 tablespoon organic cane sugar 1 teaspoon spirulina powder 2 organic large eggs 1/2 cup organic unsweetened vanilla coconut milk 57 grams (1/4 cup) organic coconut oil, melted 57 grams (1/4 cup) organic applesauce 1/2 teaspoon organic vanilla extract 1 1/2 cups packed organic spinach 22 grams (1 tablespoon) organic maple syrup
For Serving
organic maple syrup
organic bananas
organic powdered sugar
Method
In the bowl of a stand mixer fitted with the paddle attachment, add the flour, coconut flour, cinnamon, sea salt, cornstarch, cane sugar, and spirulina powder and mix on low until combined.
Using a blender add the eggs, coconut milk, melted coconut oil, applesauce, vanilla extract, spinach, and maple syrup and blend until thoroughly mixed and smooth. Slowly pour the mixture into the mixing bowl with dry ingredients, while mixing on low, and mix on low until a smooth batter forms..
Preheat a waffle iron. Using a 1/4 cup, scoop batter and spread evenly into waffle iron. Cook waffles for 2 to 4 minutes, until done, or follow instructions on your waffle iron.
Top with bananas, or fruit of choice, powdered sugar, and syrup.
Gluten Free - Replace the flour with 226 grams (scant 1 1/2 cups) organic gluten free flour blend.
High Altitude - Follow the recipe as noted.
Did you make this recipe? Make sure to tag @dessertdorganic on Instagram!