Breakfast boards are having a major moment for foodies, recipe bloggers, and the social media savvy. With National Waffle Day coming up on August 24, here at LorAnn, we are up to the challenge in building a board that goes outside your cheese and crackers norm. Whether you are hosting a small, socially-distanced brunch with close friends or just want to surprise the family on a weekend morning, we’re here to help you upgrade your brunch game with an EASY step-by-step tutorial on building your own IG worthy waffle board that will satisfy everyone. Read on to find out!
STEP 1: Prep the Mains
Start off by mixing up a batch of waffles, pancakes, or French toast. Upgrade your brunch game by adding 1-2 teaspoons of your favorite LorAnn Bakery Emulsion flavor to your waffle mix (approximately 2-cup mix). We offer over 20 gluten-free, nut-free, low-carb flavors, including Almond! Our bakery emulsions are used in the same way you would use an extract. One of our fall favorites right now is our NEW Caramel Bakery Bakery Emulsion. For a buttery, nutty mix we recommend this Pecan Belgian Waffles recipe from food blogger, Elle of Family Around the Table. Other mains to complete your epic board can be crisp bacon, sausage links, artisan cheeses, scones, or other breakfast items to add protein and filling options made for everyone joining the table.
STEP 2: Add the Toppings
The options are endless when choosing toppings for your board! Some essential toppings we recommend for your board include:
- Fresh whipped cream
- Greek yogurt
- Fruity jams like strawberry, blueberry, or cherry.
- Candied nuts or pecans
- Sliced fruits like bananas, strawberries, blueberries
- Flavored syrups – Pro-Tip: Try adding a few drops of one of our Super Strength flavors to your regular maple syrup to create a topping that is extra delicious and custom to you! Our Chai tea, toffee, or vanilla butternut were made for this!
- Chocolate or caramel sauces
- Sprinkles or Chocolate chips
- Peanut butter or Nutella spreads
Once you have nailed down your toppings, place them in small, clear bowls and set on top of your board so guests or family members can easily build their plate when grazing. While store-bought toppings and sauces are an easy route, you may find you have interest in taking on a quick and easy homemade spin! Our sweet, 5-minute caramel sauce is smooth, and the perfect fit if you are on a time crunch when preparing an inspiring board before the guests arrive or the family awakens! Grab the recipe here.
STEP 3: Arrange the Board like a Pro
Arrange your board to give it that “glow-up,” by combining different colors, textures, shapes, sizes. The “river effect” is a charcuterie enthusiast’s go-to when it comes to arranging salami and other cold cuts on a typical cheese board, and this method can also work for waffles or other breakfast goods. Layer your waffles diagonally down the board in any sort of loops or turns, embodying a river. You guessed it, that’s why it’s called the “river effect!”
Do not stress on the look or feel too much, just have fun when creating, and watch your masterpiece come to life!
STEP 4: Cheers to the Fun!
We all know a brunch is not complete without a themed beverage in hand. Finish off your board with a refreshing (mocktail) mimosa using our sparkling wine super-strength flavor. Just add a drop or two to your glass of OJ, top with a splash of club soda to add fizz and garnish with strawberries or blueberries to make an effortless beverage look like a fancy drink from your coveted brunch spot.
