Lets explore how to use one appliance in a myriad of ways.
Building culture on a budget usually comes down to versatility. If you can use one tool in several different moments instead of buying something new for each one, you can be a victorious People & Culture manager without breaking your budget. The waffle maker might be one of the most underrated culture tools in the building.
Let's Get Down to It: How to Use a Waffle Maker
1. Let's Start With the Obvious Answer: Waffles
If you don't already have waffles on your appreciation breakfast bar, add them.
Keep it simple with butter and syrup. Or add something to the batter, like cinnamon sugar or chocolate chips.
You can also go all the way and create a waffle bar.
2. Classic Waffle Bar
Let's spruce up these waffles. The topping possibilities can go on forever, so customize them based on what your team actually likes. Add whipped cream and flavored syrups. Put out some fresh fruit or warm maple syrup.
People get excited about the DIY aspect of it. Let them customize their waffles
3. McGriddle Inspired Sandwich
You can make waffle sandwiches right in the waffle iron.
If your waffle maker has four sections, use two for your sandwich filling and two for your waffle "buns." I would suggest adding something to the batter. Maybe some maple syrup.
For the egg sections, whisk your eggs before pouring them in. Add some cheese or breakfast meat. You can also let the team select their own additions to the filling. That little bit of personalization quickly upgrades the dish. Once it's all done, fold it together. Two quarters become the filling and two become the bread.
You just made a full breakfast sandwich in one waffle iron.
Insider tip: I like to add a little crumbled cooked bacon into the batter. Amazing!
4. Waffle Maker Omelets
Take your eggs and quickly mix them up. You can also use egg whites.
Add your favorite seasonings and a couple of mix ins. Spinach and cheese are easy options. You could also add chopped cooked breakfast meat. Let everything cook into one beautiful omelet right in the waffle iron. Pick it up and it wows everyone.
For garnish, sprinkle a few freshly chopped herbs on top.
Don't forget the toppings for your omelet station. Salsa and hot sauce are easy options. People put all kinds of things on their eggs, so give them a few choices.
Insider Tip: use egg whites or scrambled eggs that come in a carton. You don't actually have to scramble the eggs yourself. It skips a step when you're in a time crunch.
5. Cinnamon Rolls in the Waffle Iron
Pull out a tube of refrigerated cinnamon rolls from the grocery store. Pop that roll open and put the cinnamon rolls right into the waffle maker. Once they're done, take the frosting and drizzle it right on top.
Done! It's an amazing little morning breakfast treat or midday snack.
6. Crescent Roll Dough Dessert
You can also take refrigerated crescent roll dough and put it into the waffle maker. Add a little butter and sprinkle some sugar on top. Let it cook until everything gets golden and caramelized. Pull it out and add a topping or two. Chocolate syrup works. Nutella would be another great addition.
Now you have another little breakfast treat or midday snack without buying another appliance.
7. Savory Sandwiches
You can also take the waffle maker in a more savory direction. If you're using waffle batter, add some fresh herbs or dry spices. Maybe add a little garlic. You can add some shredded chicken or another cooked filling and turn it into something more substantial. Play around with it.
This doesn't always have to be a breakfast appliance.
The Actual Point
The waffle iron is versatile, and it's just a lot of fun.
Throw it on your cart and create a snack cart.
Put it on your appreciation breakfast bar.
Set up a little pop up snack somewhere in the office.
One waffle maker. Lots of possibilities.
And if you try any of these, please send me pictures. I would love to see what you come up with and share your experiences!