Banana (w/ or w/o Walnut) Waffles

There is a monkey in our family who thinks bananas are like water - you need to eat 8 a day to live!  Because of this, rarely do I have the banana stash that is forgotten on the counter until it needs to be turned into a baked good - BUT - sometimes, if I buy a ton and hide some, I can make a banana-baked-beauty.  These waffles are at the top of the list of things to do with "leftover" bananas...

4 cups unbleached all-purpose flour

1/4 cup granulated sugar

2 tablespoons baking powder

1 teaspoon salt

4 large eggs lightly beaten

3/4 cups vegetable oil

2 cups vanilla yogurt

1 1/2 cups milk

2 cups mashed banana

(optional) 1 cup chopped walnuts ( I have also substituted pecans, which give them more of a rich woodsy flavor - deluxe!!!

Combine the dry ingredients (flour, sugar, baking soda, and salt) in a large mixing bowl. Whisk to combine. Add the eggs and oil and whisk until blended.  Stir in the yogurt and milk-mix until smooth.  Stir in the bananas and nuts, if using, stir until they are incorporated. 

After you are done making the waffle mix, plug in your waffle iron and let your batter rest (for about 5 minutes). Bake according to your waffle iron directions. 

These are banana-licious!  Even my monkey is impressed with this application of her favorite food.  I love my homemade maple syrup poured over these (make SURE you get it in every waffle square!!) and then sliced bananas (add whipped cream if you are feeling celebratory) with a freezing cold glass of milk.  ...think of the potassium you are getting!!!