These Mini Banana Waffles for Toddlers have quickly become one of Hayes’ favorite snacks. And honestly, Bridger and I love them too. I adapted the recipe from the gluten-free Smash Cake I made for his first birthday, and ever since, these soft, golden waffles have been on repeat.

They’re gluten-free, dairy-free, and have no added sugar, making them a great option for baby-led weaning, toddler breakfasts, or a healthy on-the-go snack. I usually make a double batch and freeze the extras for quick toddler meals or snacks throughout the week—so convenient when hunger strikes!

Healthy Ingredients, No Added Sugar & Toddler-Approved

As a registered dietitian, it’s important to me that the meals I make for Hayes are not only delicious but also nutritionally supportive. That’s why I prioritize real, simple ingredients and choose to limit added sugar wherever I can. If you’re curious about the research behind this, check out my blog post: Why Limiting Added Sugar in Babies’ First 1,000 Days Matters.

The main takeaway? When it comes to added sugar, less is 100% more. So of course, these waffles are naturally sweetened with banana and (unsweetened) applesauce—no syrups, no sweeteners, just wholesome, baby-friendly fuel.

Why You’ll Love These Healthy Toddler Waffles

Not only are these waffles toddler-approved, but they’re also made with simple, nourishing ingredients like banana, unsweetened applesauce, and oat flour.

Bananas are rich in potassium and natural sweetness, making them a great base for no sugar waffles, while oat flour adds fiber and slow-digesting carbs for sustained energy.

I like to stir in a little collagen peptides for a boost of protein (totally optional, they dissolve right into the batter), but you can but you can also sub with more oat flour or a combo of oat flour and ground flaxseed.

Whether you’re searching for freezer-friendly toddler breakfasts, easy no sugar waffles, or gluten-free dairy-free snacks for kids, these mini waffles will definitely be a hit.

Mini Waffles for Your Mini

I make these in a mini waffle maker, because, I mean, how cute?! They turn out soft, golden, and just the right size for little hands. Hayes loves them on their own (I can’t get over his happy waffle dance), but you can also spread a little nut butter or mashed berries on top. I keep a full batch in the fridge for a quick grab-and-go sitch, but you can also freeze them for later.

These banana oat waffles for toddlers are one of my favorite ways to serve up real food that supports healthy habits early on. A true staple recipe in our house that I hope you and your minis love too. Tag me on IG when you make them!

INGREDIENTS YOU’LL NEED:

• Ripe banana
• Unsweetened applesauce
• Egg
• Full-fat coconut milk (or any milk)
• Vanilla extract
• Unflavored collagen peptides (substitute options: oat flour, or oat flour + ground flaxseed)
• Oat flour (I blended Bob’s Red Mill Organic Gluten-Free Protein Oats into flour)
• Baking Powder
• Cinnamon
• Sea salt
• Coconut oil or avocado oil (optional, helps with crispiness)

HOW TO MAKE MINI BANANA WAFFLES FOR TODDLERS

Whisk wet ingredients together in a bowl. Add collagen and mix until smooth.

Stir in dry ingredients and let batter rest for 5–10 minutes to thicken.

Preheat and lightly grease your mini waffle maker. Spoon in (I used a ¼ cup) about 3 tablespoons of batter per waffle and cook until golden brown (about 3–5 minutes each).

Let cool slightly before serving. Cut into strips for little hands and enjoy!

To Store: store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days, or in the freezer for up to 2 months. They make for great snacks or breakfasts any time!

RECIPE SUBSTITUTIONS & QUESTIONS

You can use any milk you have on hand in place of the full-fat coconut milk, and the collagen peptides are totally optional—feel free to sub with 2 tablespoons of oat flour, or a mix of 1 tablespoon oat flour + 1 tablespoon ground flaxseed.

I like using Bob’s Red Mill Organic Gluten-Free Protein Oats and blending them into oat flour, but store-bought oat flour works too. If you need an oat-free option, you can try almond flour, whole wheat flour, spelt flour, or even a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend—just note the texture may vary slightly.

The melted coconut oil (or avocado oil) is optional but helps crisp the waffles a bit more. Option to serve on their own, or spread a little nut butter or mashed berries on top. Whatever your little prefers!

For all my go-to kitchen and cooking essentials (& more!), shop my Amazon Storefront.

Are these banana waffles safe for baby-led weaning?

Yes! These waffles are soft, naturally sweetened with banana and applesauce, and made without added sugar. Which makes them a great option for baby-led weaning. They’re easy to hold, gentle on gums, and packed with simple, wholesome ingredients that support early food exploration. Just be sure to cut them into strips or small pieces for easy self-feeding.

How do you reheat frozen toddler waffles?

To reheat frozen mini waffles, simply pop them in the toaster for a few minutes until warmed through and slightly crisp. You can also reheat them in a microwave for about 20–30 seconds if you prefer a softer texture. No need to thaw ahead of time—just grab and go!

More Nutrition Tips & Mom Life Moments:

12 Things I Learned During My Baby’s First Year

What To Do When You Have High Lipase Breastmilk

Peanut Butter Chocolate Chip Lactation Bliss Balls    

9 Lessons I Learned from My 9-Month Breastfeeding Journey

6 Easy & Healthy Crockpot Recipes

Click here to watch the reel I made of this recipe 🙂