Step 1

Preheat and grease your waffle iron according to your manufacturer's directions.

Step 2

In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt until thoroughly combined.

Step 3

Put the egg whites in a mixing bowl and whisk or whip (I use a hand mixer) for a couple of minutes, or until soft peaks form. It's okay if they are stiff peaks, but try not to overbeat.

Step 4

In another mixing bowl, mix the egg yolks, oil, sugar, and vanilla (if using) until emulsified. Mix in the milk alternative (use 1⅔ cups in humid climates, 1¾ cups in dryer climates). Add the flour mixture and stir or mix just until combined. Do not overmix.

Step 5

Fold in the egg whites until mostly combined. You want as many of those bubbles to stay for fluffy results.

Step 6

Pour the batter onto your waffle, close, and cook according to the manufacturer's instructions. They typically take 3 to 5 minutes to turn golden, depending on your waffle iron.

Step 7

Leftover waffles can be flash frozen and reheated in your toaster (from frozen).