Cheesy Zucchini Waffles for Toddlers (Easy Hidden Veggie Recipe!)

5 from 1 vote

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Looking for a fun, kid-approved way to sneak in some veggies? These Cheesy Zucchini Waffles for toddlers are the answer! They’re savory, soft, cheesy, and perfectly sized for little hands. You only need one bowl and a mini waffle maker to make this healthy toddler snack or lunch.

Whether you’re packing daycare lunches or serving up a quick dinner, these zucchini waffles for toddlers are always a hit.

Cheesy zucchini waffles for toddlers

🧀 Why This Recipe Is Great for Toddlers and Families

  • Hidden veggie win – A great way to introduce zucchini without complaints
  • Savory option – A break from all the sweet toddler snacks
  • One bowl, easy clean-up – Every mom’s dream
  • Perfect texture for toddlers – Soft on the inside, slightly crispy on the outside
  • Freezer-friendly – Make ahead and reheat in minutes

🥒 Ingredients

  • 1 small zucchini, grated (about 1 cup)
  • 1 egg
  • 1/4 cup milk
  • 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1 tsp baking powder

👩‍🍳 How to Make Cheesy Zucchini Waffles for Toddlers

  1. Grate your zucchini using a fine grater. If it’s very watery, gently press or squeeze out a bit of the excess moisture using a clean towel or paper towels.
  2. In a bowl, combine grated zucchini, egg, milk, cheese, flour, and baking powder. Mix until well combined.
  3. Preheat your mini waffle maker.
  4. Spoon a few tablespoons of batter into the center of the waffle maker and close the lid.
  5. Cook for about 3–4 minutes or until golden and crisp on the outside.
  6. Remove carefully and repeat with remaining batter.
  7. Let cool slightly before serving to toddlers.

Substitutions

Flour: You can use oat flour in place of all-purpose flour. Start with a slightly heaping ½ cup, as oat flour tends to be lighter.

Milk: Any milk works here—dairy or non-dairy (like unsweetened almond or oat milk).

Cheese: Swap mozzarella with cheddar or a cheese blend for a stronger flavor.

Zucchini: No zucchini? Shredded carrot or even finely chopped spinach can work in a pinch, though texture and moisture may vary.


🧊 Storing Extra Zucchini Waffles for Toddlers

  • Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
  • Freezer: Freeze in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer to a zip-top bag. Store for up to 2 months.
  • Reheat: Pop in the toaster or toaster oven to bring back the crispness!

❓ Common Questions About Zucchini Waffles for Toddlers

Can I make these cheesy veggie waffles for kids gluten-free?

  • Yes! Just substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend or oat flour.

What can I serve these healthy toddler waffles with?

  • Serve with ketchup, marinara sauce, hummus, or a small side of fruit for a balanced toddler plate.

Do I need to peel the zucchini?

  • Nope! That is totally up to you. The skin softens when cooked and adds extra nutrients.

Can I make these easy zucchini cheese waffles without a waffle maker?

  • You can turn these into little pancakes using a skillet, though the texture will be slightly different.

Can I add more veggies?

  • Yes! Try adding a tablespoon of finely grated carrot or spinach for an extra veggie boost.

More Hidden Veggie Breakfasts for Kids

Spinach Waffle Pops – These fun, savory waffles are packed with spinach and served on sticks for easy toddler handling. They’re soft, flavorful, and perfect for little hands to hold and munch. Great as a quick lunch, snack, or even breakfast on the go, these waffle pops turn greens into something exciting.

Banana Avocado Pancakes – Made with just a few wholesome ingredients, these pancakes are soft, naturally sweet, and packed with healthy fats from avocado. They’re ideal for baby-led weaning and toddler breakfasts, and they reheat well for busy mornings.

Spinach Muffins – These muffins are bright green, naturally sweetened, and full of sneaky spinach. They’re a hit with toddlers and make a great snack or breakfast. Plus, they freeze beautifully for future meals.

Veggie Frittata – This oven-baked frittata is loaded with finely chopped veggies and soft, fluffy eggs. It’s easy to slice into toddler-sized pieces and works for any meal of the day. Serve warm or cold with fruit or toast.

Chocolate Veggie Muffins – These rich, moist muffins taste like a treat but sneak in veggies like spinach. Naturally sweetened and made without refined flour, they’re a great way to serve something sweet that still feels nourishing.


Did you and your little ones love these cheesy zucchini waffles for toddlers? I’d love to see your creations! Tag me on Instagram @reallittlemeals 🙂

5 from 1 vote

Cheesy Zucchini Waffles

These savory waffles are made with just a handful of simple ingredients, including shredded zucchini and melty mozzarella. They’re soft, cheesy, and easy for toddlers to pick up and enjoy. Serve them warm for lunch, snack time, or even a veggie-packed breakfast.
Prep: 5 minutes
Cook: 10 minutes
Servings: 4 Mini waffles

Ingredients 

  • 1 cup zucchini, grated
  • 1 egg
  • 1/4 cup milk
  • 1/2 cup mozzarella cheese, grated
  • 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1 tsp baking powder

Instructions 

  • Grate your zucchini using a fine grater. If it’s very watery, gently press or squeeze out a bit of the excess moisture using a clean towel or paper towels.
  • In a bowl, combine grated zucchini, egg, milk, cheese, flour, and baking powder. Mix until well combined.
  • Preheat your mini waffle maker.
  • Spoon a few tablespoons of batter into the center of the waffle maker and close the lid.
  • Cook for about 3–4 minutes or until golden and crisp on the outside.
  • Remove carefully and repeat with remaining batter.
  • Let cool slightly before serving.

Notes

Be sure to squeeze out the grated zucchini using a clean towel or paper towels to avoid soggy waffles.
This recipe makes about 3–4 mini waffles, depending on your waffle maker.
These waffles are soft and cheesy on the inside with lightly crisp edges—perfect for toddlers.
Serve plain, with a dip like marinara, or alongside fruit for a balanced meal.

Nutrition

Calories: 130kcal, Carbohydrates: 14g, Protein: 7g, Fat: 5g, Saturated Fat: 3g, Polyunsaturated Fat: 0.4g, Monounsaturated Fat: 1g, Trans Fat: 0.01g, Cholesterol: 54mg, Sodium: 218mg, Potassium: 147mg, Fiber: 1g, Sugar: 2g, Vitamin A: 241IU, Vitamin C: 6mg, Calcium: 162mg, Iron: 1mg

Nutrition information is automatically calculated, so should only be used as an approximation.

Additional Info

Course: Breakfast
Cuisine: American
Tried this recipe?Mention @reallittlemeals or tag #reallittlemeals!

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About Ashley

As a mom to two, I know how stressful feeding little ones can be. That’s why I love helping other parents provide simple, healthy meals that your toddler and whole family will love. From quick and easy snacks, to full meals, I’ve got your mealtimes covered.

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