The Ultimate Holiday Tip: 3 Waffle Recipes

The holiday season is often filled with a mix of indulgence, social gatherings, and non-stop festivities. Whether it’s office parties, family dinners, or last-minute shopping sprees, sticking to your wellness goals can feel like a challenge. Fortunately, there’s a simple hack that can help you stay on track—prioritizing protein! Protein is your holiday ally when it comes to controlling hunger, supporting your immune system, and staying energized throughout the season. And the best part? You don’t have to give up your favorite holiday treats. By adding a protein boost to your classic dishes, like waffles, you can enjoy a festive meal that’s as nutritious as it is delicious.

Why Protein Should Be a Priority During the Holidays

We all know that protein is essential for muscle repair, immune function, and keeping energy levels steady. This is particularly important when your calendar is packed with holiday activities, family gatherings, and endless temptations of sweet treats. Including protein in your meals can help you feel full longer, making it easier to avoid overeating on less nutritious options.

One of the easiest ways to increase your protein intake without completely overhauling your meals is by adding protein powder. A versatile and popular choice, such as HUM’s Core Strength vanilla protein powder, makes boosting your protein simple. It’s easy to incorporate into both sweet and savory dishes, and its smooth, vanilla flavor blends well with everything from smoothies to baked goods. Plus, it’s digestion-friendly, so you won’t experience any post-protein bloating.

This holiday season, why not swap out your regular waffles for a protein-packed version? With just a scoop of protein powder, you can turn your favorite seasonal treats into a meal that fuels your day without sacrificing taste or tradition. Below, we’ve rounded up three festive protein waffle recipes to help you stay full, satisfied, and healthy—without missing out on the holiday fun.

1. Apple Cinnamon Protein Waffles

This cozy, autumn-inspired waffle recipe will fill your kitchen with the smells of cinnamon and apples, making it a perfect breakfast or brunch option for chilly mornings.

Ingredients:

• 1 scoop HUM’s Core Strength vanilla protein powder
• 1/2 cup rolled oats (blended into flour)
• 1 tbsp ground flaxseed
• 1 tsp baking powder
• 1/2 tsp cinnamon
• 1/2 cup unsweetened applesauce
• 1/2 cup milk of choice (unsweetened plant-based milk works too)
• 1 large egg
• 1 tsp vanilla extract

Instructions:

1. Preheat your waffle iron according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
2. In a medium-sized bowl, combine the protein powder, oat flour, flaxseed, baking powder, and cinnamon.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together the applesauce, milk, egg, and vanilla extract.
4. Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and mix until fully combined.
5. Cook the waffle batter in the preheated waffle iron until crispy.
6. Serve with sliced apples, a sprinkle of cinnamon, and a drizzle of maple syrup for a festive touch.

2. Peppermint Mocha Protein Waffles

These peppermint mocha protein waffles are a delicious, seasonal treat that brings together the flavors of coffee, chocolate, and peppermint. Perfect for those who love to indulge in festive coffeehouse flavors.

Ingredients:

• 1 scoop HUM’s Core Strength vanilla protein powder
• 1/2 cup whole wheat flour
• 1 tbsp chia seeds
• 1 tsp baking powder
• 1 tbsp cocoa powder
• 1 tsp instant coffee granules
• 1/2 cup milk of choice (unsweetened if using plant-based milk)
• 1 large egg
• 1/2 tsp peppermint extract
• 1 tbsp maple syrup (optional)

Instructions:

1. Preheat your waffle iron.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together the protein powder, whole wheat flour, chia seeds, baking powder, cocoa powder, and instant coffee granules.
3. In a separate bowl, mix the milk, egg, peppermint extract, and maple syrup.
4. Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and stir until smooth.
5. Cook the waffle batter in the preheated waffle iron until crispy and golden.
6. Top with a dollop of Greek yogurt, crushed peppermint candy, and a few chocolate chips for a festive, indulgent finish.

3. Gingerbread Protein Waffles

Gingerbread is a classic holiday flavor, and these gingerbread protein waffles will quickly become a holiday favorite. Spiced with ginger, cinnamon, and nutmeg, they’ll warm you up from the inside out.

Ingredients:

• 1 scoop HUM’s Core Strength vanilla protein powder
• 1/2 cup oat flour
• 1 tbsp ground flaxseed
• 1 tsp baking powder
• 1/2 tsp ground ginger
• 1/2 tsp cinnamon
• 1/4 tsp nutmeg
• Pinch of salt
• 1/2 cup milk of choice (unsweetened if using plant-based milk)
• 1 large egg (or flax egg for vegan)
• 1 tbsp molasses
• 1 tsp vanilla extract

Instructions:

1. Preheat your waffle iron.
2. In a large bowl, mix the protein powder, oat flour, flaxseed, baking powder, ginger, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together the milk, egg, molasses, and vanilla extract.
4. Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and stir until smooth.
5. Cook the batter in your waffle iron according to manufacturer instructions.
6. Serve topped with Greek yogurt, granola, and a drizzle of maple syrup for a sweet, festive twist.

Why Protein is the Key to Staying on Track

During the holiday season, it’s easy to get caught up in rich, sugar-laden foods. However, by prioritizing protein, you can maintain balanced blood sugar levels, stay fuller longer, and avoid overeating on sweets. Protein is also essential for keeping your muscles strong and your immune system supported, both of which are crucial during the busy and often stressful holiday season.

By adding protein powder to your waffles (or other holiday recipes), you can boost your protein intake without sacrificing flavor or the joy of indulging in holiday traditions. Plus, it’s an easy way to turn your favorite comfort foods into a healthier, more satisfying option that helps you feel your best.

The Bottom Line

This holiday season, don’t let indulgent foods derail your wellness goals. Instead, embrace the power of protein! With simple tweaks like adding a scoop of protein powder to your waffles, you can stay on track with your nutrition while still enjoying all the flavors of the season. Try these festive protein waffle recipes, and you’ll be able to fuel your day with the energy and nutrients you need to make it through the holiday hustle.