Mother’s Day falls on a Sunday this year, so we have the whole day to spend however Mom would like. Some prefer to stay in, chill and take a much-needed break from everyday hustle and bustle. Other moms like to head out on the town and get up to a fun family activity. Still other moms kiss the kids goodbye, leave Dad in charge, and head straight to the spa. No matter what turn the day takes, start it off with a delicious, healthy breakfast (maybe breakfast in bed!) like these gluten-free vegan matcha coconut waffles.
These delicious waffles are nutrient-dense, flavorful and beautifully green, and the topping possibilities are endless. Bonus: The caffeinated kick from the matcha might save Mom from having to reach for that third cup of coffee before noon. (OK … to be honest, there really isn’t that much caffeine in this recipe, but the placebo effect is real!)
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Why waffles?
I’m a huge fan of waffles on Mother’s Day morning for a few reasons:
- Waffles are relatively foolproof. The batter is easy to mix, and the waffle iron does the cooking for you. Dad and the kids can take the reins in the kitchen while Mom gets some much-deserved rest and relaxation.
- Waffles are an invitingly blank canvas on a breakfast plate. Waffles can be topped with just about anything, from sweet to savory. I chose fresh fruit, powdered sugar and maple syrup for this recipe, but the world is your oyster. (Psst: I recommend fried chicken. Seriously.)
- You can make waffle batter one to three days in advance. If you’re planning to surprise Mom with breakfast in bed but find it tough to get up early, this is the recipe for you.
Why matcha?
Matcha, a finely ground powder of specially grown and processed green tea leaves, isn’t the new it beverage in the barista world alone: It dates back nearly a thousand years to a time when dynasties ruled China and Shogun clans ruled Japan. Here in modern-day America, it’s having a serious moment, and I gotta say: I’m loving it.
Matcha tea is ground from the whole leaf, which delivers lots of healthful benefits:
- Antioxidants: Matcha is an antioxidant powerhouse, containing higher quantities of antioxidants than blueberries, pomegranates and dark chocolate. They protect against many kinds of cancer, help prevent heart disease, reduce cholesterol, and even help slow the process of aging.
- Amino acids: Combined with caffeine, they help provide sustained energy and focus throughout the day. Unlike many caffeinated beverages that cause a spike and then a crash, matcha can help lower blood pressure, enhance mood and promote a sense of calmness while still keeping you alert and attentive.
- Cleansing and detoxifying properties: Matcha’s high levels of chlorophyll can foster clear skin, protect the blood and heart, and prevent joint inflammation.
MORE: Move over, mimosa: There’s a new Old-Fashioned Mother’s Day cocktail in town
Regardless of matcha’s healthy profile, Mom should feel free to indulge to her heart’s content. If you make these matcha coconut waffles and she happens to question why you’re overloading her with sugar for breakfast, give her the lowdown on all the health benefits of matcha. If she’s watching her sugar intake, skip the maple syrup for a somewhat less sweet option. But hey, it’s Mother’s Day, and she deserves a splurge. We recommend you deliver these waffles to Mom on Mother’s Day morning with a big smile on your face. Tell her you love her “berry matcha.”
Gluten-free vegan matcha coconut waffles
Ingredients
- 1 cup unsweetened coconut milk
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
- 2 cups gluten free all-purpose flour
- 1/4 cup coconut sugar
- 1/4 cup unsweetened shredded coconut
- 2 teaspoons baking powder
- 1 1/2 tablespoon matcha green tea powder
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt
- 1/4 cup applesauce
- 1/2 cup sparkling water (I used Topo Chico because it is extra-bubbly, but any brand will work)
- Fruit, powdered sugar, maple syrup or other toppings as desired
Instructions
- In bowl, combine coconut milk and vinegar and set aside.
- Preheat waffle iron.
- In large bowl or bowl with standing mixer, combine all dry ingredients. Whisk in coconut milk mixture, applesauce and sparkling water. Beat until batter is smooth.
- Spray waffle iron with coconut oil spray and spoon batter into hot waffle iron. Cook until golden brown, about 3 minutes. Don't overfill the waffle iron!
- Transfer to plate and serve hot with toppings.