How to turn sweet potatoes into delicious homemade waffles
By William Muthama, May 17, 2026Sweet potatoes are one of the most versatile foods found in many Kenyan homes, but most people only boil, fry, or roast them. What many do not realise is that sweet potatoes can also be turned into soft, crispy, and naturally sweet homemade waffles perfect for breakfast or a weekend brunch.
Unlike ordinary waffles, sweet potato waffles have a richer texture and a slightly earthy sweetness that pairs perfectly with honey, fruit, or groundnut butter.
They are also filling, affordable, and a creative way to upgrade a simple kitchen staple into something that feels special.
Ingredients you will need
To make sweet potato waffles at home, you will need two medium sweet potatoes, one cup of flour, one egg, half a cup of milk, one teaspoon of baking powder, one tablespoon of honey or sugar, a pinch of salt, and a little butter or oil for cooking.
For extra flavour, you can also add cinnamon, vanilla essence, or nutmeg, depending on your preference.
Preparing the waffles
Start by boiling the sweet potatoes until they are soft enough to mash smoothly. Once cooked, peel and mash them into a soft puree with no large lumps.
In a bowl, mix the mashed sweet potatoes with the egg, milk, and honey. Stir until the mixture becomes smooth. Add the flour, baking powder, and salt, then mix into a thick batter. If the batter feels too heavy, add a small amount of milk to loosen it slightly.
Heat and lightly grease your waffle maker before pouring in the batter. Cook the waffles until they become golden brown on the outside while remaining soft inside.
The natural sugars in the sweet potatoes help create a beautiful colour and slightly crisp texture.
If you do not have a waffle maker, heat a lightly greased non-stick pan over medium heat and pour small portions of the batter like pancakes.
Cook each side for a few minutes until golden brown and slightly crispy on the edges while remaining soft inside.
Serving ideas
Sweet potato waffles can be served in many different ways. Drizzle honey over the top for sweetness, spread groundnut butter for richness, or add sliced bananas and fresh fruit for a healthier breakfast option.
They also work well with tea, coffee, or fresh juice, making them ideal for slow weekend mornings or family breakfasts.
With a few simple ingredients, sweet potatoes can easily become a comforting homemade treat that feels both modern and familiar at the same time.