My Go-To Morning Magic: Thick & Fluffy Kodiak Cakes Waffles (And How We Make Them a Family Affair!)

Okay, you guys know I'm all about keeping things real and easy, especially in the mornings with three little girls running around. But I still can't believe how much I love these Kodiak Cakes waffles, they're seriously a game changer for our busy family breakfasts! Like, I just knew they'd be good, but this good?! :,)

I'm freakin out, in the best way possible, about how much we've fallen in love with these Kodiak Cakes. I mean, I'm pretty sure I've talked about them before, but today I just had to share more bc they've become such a staple in our home. Mornings are, let's be real, a little chaotic. With Stella, Ozzy, and baby Cherry, it's a constant juggle of getting everyone fed, dressed, and ready for whatever the day holds. And honestly, sometimes I just want to throw my hands up and say 'idc, everyone eat cereal!' hahah. But then I remember how much better everyone's day goes when we start with something a little more substantial, something that actually keeps us full and happy for longer than 20 minutes.

That's where these thick and fluffy Kodiak Cakes waffles come in. Ngl, I used to think making waffles was a whole production, like a weekend-only kind of thing. But these? They're so freakin easy, it's almost criminal. And the best part? They're packed with protein, which means fewer meltdowns before lunch, for both the kids and me! I'm not even kidding, it's like magic. Tanner even asks for them now, and he's usually a pretty simple eggs-and-toast kinda guy. When he's on board, you know it's good.

The Morning Hustle & Our Waffle Ritual

So, what does a typical waffle morning look like over here? Well, it usually starts with me dragging myself out of bed, still half asleep, and Stella or Ozzy already asking 'what's for breakfast?!' before my eyes are even fully open. I love that about them, their excitement for food is so pure. I used to dread that question sometimes, bc my brain would just go blank. But now, it's almost always 'waffles!' and everyone cheers. It's the little things, right?

I pull out the Kodiak Cakes mix – we usually go for the buttermilk or the chocolate chip, depending on the mood – and it's literally just adding water. That's it. No eggs, no milk, no oil, unless you want to get fancy, which, let's be real, I rarely do on a Tuesday morning. I just mix it up, pour it into our waffle maker, and boom. In a few minutes, we have these beautiful, golden, thick waffles. The smell alone is enough to get everyone out of bed, even Tanner sometimes! Hahah.

It's become this little ritual. While the waffles are cooking, the girls will usually be setting the table – or at least attempting to. Stella is really good at getting the plates out, and Ozzy loves to bring the syrup, though sometimes she gets a little too excited and it ends up everywhere. But idc, it's part of the fun. We put on some music, maybe a little Disney playlist, and it just sets such a happy tone for the day. I love this so much, these small moments of connection before the craziness of school and work begins.

Why Kodiak Cakes Just *Get* It

Okay, but seriously, why these waffles? It's not just the ease, although that's a huge part of it. It's the feeling. They're hearty. They're wholesome. And they taste amazing. I feel good giving them to my girls bc I know they're getting good stuff – whole grains and protein. As a mom, that's huge. I'm not just filling them up with empty calories; I'm giving them fuel for their busy little bodies and brains.

I remember when I was growing up, my mom worked so hard to make sure we had good meals, even though she was a single mom and always on the go. She taught me the importance of a good breakfast, even if it was just oatmeal or toast. So, being able to provide something that's both quick AND nutritious, it just feels like I'm carrying on that legacy in my own way. And honestly, it makes me feel like a super mom, even on days when I'm running on two hours of sleep and haven't brushed my hair yet. Hahah.

We've tried other mixes, but nothing compares to the thickness and fluffiness of Kodiak Cakes. They hold up to all the syrup and fruit we pile on top without getting soggy. And they have that slightly sweet, slightly savory balance that just hits different. I swear, sometimes I just stand over the waffle maker, inhaling the smell, and it just makes me so happy. It's the little things, you know?

Making Waffles a Family Affair: Toppings & Traditions

Here's where the real fun begins: the toppings bar! This is where we get to be creative and make each waffle our own. It's a great way to let the girls have some autonomy and make their breakfast exactly how they want it. Plus, it adds a little extra excitement to the meal.

• Fresh Fruit Galore: We always have a selection of berries – strawberries, blueberries, raspberries. Sometimes sliced bananas or peaches too. Stella loves to make little patterns with her fruit, and Ozzy just piles it on.
• Maple Syrup (the good stuff!): We're pretty particular about our maple syrup. It has to be real maple syrup, none of that corn syrup stuff. Tanner is usually in charge of pouring this, bc if I let the girls do it, we'd go through a bottle a day. Hahah.
• Whipped Cream: A little dollop of whipped cream is always a hit. It makes it feel extra special, like we're having dessert for breakfast.
• Chocolate Chips: Sometimes, if we're feeling extra indulgent, we'll add a sprinkle of chocolate chips. Or if I'm making a chocolate chip batch, they're already in there!
• Nut Butter: For a little extra protein and healthy fats, sometimes we'll add a swirl of peanut butter or almond butter.
• Sprinkles (shhh, don't tell Tanner!): On special occasions, like a birthday or if someone had a really good day at school, I might sneak out the sprinkles. Against Tanner's will, but idc, it makes them so happy!

It’s not just about what we put on them, it’s about the conversations we have around the table. We talk about our dreams for the day, what we’re excited about, or sometimes just silly things that make us all laugh. These are the moments I’m going to look back on and cherish. The simple, everyday moments that feel like nothing and everything all at once. It’s not just breakfast; it’s building memories, one thick and fluffy waffle at a time.

Beyond Breakfast: Waffles for Dinner?!

Okay, so I know this is a breakfast post, but ngl, sometimes we have waffles for dinner. Yes, you heard that right! When life gets crazy and I just can't fathom cooking a whole meal, a waffle dinner is our go-to. It's quick, it's easy, and everyone loves it. We'll usually add some scrambled eggs or bacon on the side to make it a little more substantial, but honestly, the waffles themselves are pretty filling.

It's all about giving myself grace and finding those shortcuts that make life a little easier, especially with three little ones. And if that means waffles for dinner once in a while, then so be it! I'm not here to be perfect; I'm here to be present and happy, and these waffles definitely help with that. They're just so versatile, you can make them sweet or savory, and they always hit the spot.

So, if you're looking for a quick, easy, and delicious breakfast (or dinner!) option that your whole family will love, you seriously have to try Kodiak Cakes waffles. I'm telling you, they're a game changer. I still can't believe it :,) They've brought so much joy and ease to our mornings, and I couldn't imagine our routine without them now. Go get some, you won't regret it! And tell me what your favorite toppings are, I'm always looking for new ideas! ily guys!