Meal type: Appetizer / Brunch / Creative Snack
Prep time: 20 minutes
Cook time: 20 minutes
Total time: 40 minutes
Serves: 4

Overview

Think of this as a playful twist on a dessert classic — but instead of sweet waffles and ice cream, this version swaps in crispy Parmesan waffles filled with a savory whipped ricotta “ice cream.”
It’s creamy, cheesy, and indulgent — a perfect small-plate or brunch dish that blurs the line between sweet and savory.

Ingredients

For the Parmesan Waffles

• 1 cup all-purpose flour

• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese (freshly grated)

• 1 tsp baking powder

• ½ tsp baking soda

• ½ tsp salt

• ½ tsp black pepper

• 1 cup buttermilk

• 1 large egg

• 2 tbsp unsalted butter, melted

• Optional: ½ tsp garlic powder or herbs (rosemary, thyme, or chives) for extra flavor

For the Savory “Ice Cream” Filling

• 1 cup whole-milk ricotta cheese

• ½ cup cream cheese, softened

• 2 tbsp heavy cream (or Greek yogurt)

• ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese

• ½ tsp lemon zest

• Salt and pepper to taste

• Optional: 1 tsp honey or truffle oil for a gourmet twist

For Assembly and Garnish

• Fresh arugula leaves or basil

• Drizzle of balsamic glaze or hot honey (optional)

• Extra Parmesan shavings for topping

Instructions

Step 1. Make the Waffle Batter

1. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, pepper, and Parmesan cheese.

2. In another bowl, whisk buttermilk, egg, and melted butter.

3. Pour the wet mixture into the dry ingredients and stir until just combined (don’t overmix).

4. Let the batter rest for 5 minutes while preheating your waffle iron.

Step 2. Cook the Parmesan Waffles

1. Lightly grease the waffle iron with butter or cooking spray.

2. Pour about ½ cup of batter into the center and spread slightly.

3. Close the lid and cook until golden and crisp — about 3–5 minutes, depending on your waffle maker.

4. Transfer waffles to a wire rack and let them cool completely (they’ll crisp up as they cool).

5. Once cool, cut each waffle into equal squares or circles using a biscuit cutter — these will form your “sandwich” halves.

Step 3. Prepare the Savory “Ice Cream” Filling

1. In a food processor, blend ricotta, cream cheese, heavy cream, Parmesan, and lemon zest until smooth and airy.

2. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

3. Chill in the refrigerator for 20–30 minutes to firm up the texture.

   • For a fun presentation, scoop with an ice-cream scoop just before assembling.

Step 4. Assemble the Sandwiches

1. Take one waffle piece and place a scoop of the chilled ricotta mixture in the center.

2. Top with another waffle piece and press gently to form a sandwich.

3. Optional: Add a few arugula leaves or a drizzle of balsamic glaze for a restaurant-style finish.

Serving Ideas

• Serve slightly chilled as an appetizer or brunch centerpiece.

• For extra contrast, serve with a side of tomato jam, roasted red pepper puree, or honey-chili drizzle.

• You can even turn it into a mini slider for parties - use smaller waffle pieces and pipe the filling in with a pastry bag.

Tips & Variations

• Make it herby: Mix fresh basil, parsley, or thyme into the waffle batter.

• Cheese swap: Try pecorino, Asiago, or Gruyère for different flavor notes.

• Add crunch: Sprinkle crushed pistachios or toasted breadcrumbs on the edges of the filling.

• Sweet-savory option: Add a light swirl of fig jam to the ricotta filling.

Nutrition (per serving)

(approximate values)

• Calories: 310 kcal

• Protein: 14 g

• Fat: 22 g

• Carbohydrates: 16 g

Chef’s Note

This Savory Parmesan Waffle “Ice Cream” Sandwich is a clever, elegant appetizer that surprises your guests.
The crispy, salty Parmesan waffle perfectly complements the cool, creamy ricotta filling — proving that even comfort food can wear a fine-dining disguise.

It’s creative, comforting, and just the right amount of playful.