13 Waffle Breakfast Ideas for Crispy Brunch Fun at Home

There's something about the sound of a waffle iron clicking shut that signals the start of a great morning. When you're hosting brunch at home, crispy waffles become the canvas for all kinds of delicious toppings and mix-ins.

Whether you're feeding a crowd or just treating yourself, these 13 waffle breakfast ideas turn an ordinary morning into a celebration. From savory stacks to sweet indulgences, each recipe brings its own personality to the table.

So preheat that iron, gather your ingredients, and get ready to flip some golden, party-ready waffles.

1. Classic Buttermilk Waffles with Berry Compote

Picture this: a golden, crisp waffle with a tender, airy crumb, topped with a vibrant compote that bursts with tart and sweet berries. These buttermilk waffles are the ultimate party-friendly brunch star. The tangy buttermilk creates a light texture, while the compote adds a bright, fruity punch that cuts through the richness.

They're simple enough for a relaxed weekend but impressive enough to wow guests.

Ingredients

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
• 1 tablespoon baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 2 cups buttermilk
• 2 large eggs
• 1/3 cup unsalted butter, melted
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• For the compote: 2 cups mixed berries (fresh or frozen)
• For the compote: 1/4 cup granulated sugar
• For the compote: 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• For the compote: 1 teaspoon cornstarch mixed with 1 tablespoon water

Instructions

1. Preheat your waffle iron according to manufacturer's instructions. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
2. In a separate bowl, whisk buttermilk, eggs, melted butter, and vanilla until smooth. Pour the wet ingredients into the dry and stir until just combined (a few lumps are okay).
3. For the compote: In a saucepan over medium heat, combine berries, sugar, and lemon juice. Cook, stirring occasionally, until berries release their juices and mixture begins to simmer, about 5 minutes. Stir in the cornstarch slurry and cook for 1-2 minutes until thickened. Remove from heat.
4. Ladle about 1/2 cup of batter onto the hot waffle iron and cook until golden and crisp. Repeat with remaining batter.
5. Serve waffles immediately, topped with warm berry compote and a dollop of whipped cream if desired.

Serving Tip

Set up a waffle bar with the compote, whipped cream, and extra fresh berries so guests can customize their own plates. Keep waffles warm on a baking sheet in a low oven (200°F) until ready to serve.

2. Cheddar and Chive Savory Waffles

Golden, crisp waffles get a savory makeover with sharp cheddar and fresh chives. These are the party-friendly breakfast hero you didn't know you needed—easy to make in batches, endlessly customizable, and guaranteed to disappear fast from any brunch table. The cheese melts into every nook and cranny, while the chives add a fresh, oniony pop that keeps each bite interesting.

Serve them straight from the waffle iron with a cool dollop of sour cream, and watch your guests go back for seconds (and thirds).

Ingredients

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 2 tablespoons sugar
• 1 tablespoon baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 2 large eggs
• 1 3/4 cups whole milk
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
• 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
• 1/4 cup finely chopped fresh chives
• Sour cream, for serving

Instructions

1. Preheat your waffle iron according to manufacturer's instructions. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, salt, and black pepper.
2. In a separate bowl, beat the eggs, then whisk in milk and melted butter until combined. Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and stir until just moistened—lumps are fine.
3. Fold in the shredded cheddar and chives until evenly distributed. Do not overmix.
4. Lightly grease the waffle iron with nonstick spray or a brush of melted butter. Pour about 1/2 cup of batter onto the center of the iron (or amount recommended for your model) and spread slightly. Close the lid and cook until golden brown and crisp, about 3–5 minutes.
5. Transfer cooked waffles to a wire rack to keep them crisp, or hold them in a warm oven (200°F) while you finish the batch. Serve immediately with a generous dollop of sour cream and extra chives on top.

Serving Tip

For a party-friendly presentation, cut each waffle into quarters and arrange on a platter with small bowls of sour cream, crème fraîche, or even a tangy yogurt dip. Garnish with extra chives and a sprinkle of flaky sea salt just before serving.

3. Banana Nutella Stuffed Waffles

Imagine biting into a crisp, golden waffle only to discover a warm, molten core of Nutella and soft banana. These stuffed waffles are the ultimate party-friendly brunch showstopper—they look impressive but come together with minimal fuss. The secret is a simple batter that encases the filling, creating a delightful contrast of crunchy exterior and gooey center.

Perfect for when you want to wow guests without spending hours in the kitchen.

Ingredients

• 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
• 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
• 1 tablespoon baking powder
• ½ teaspoon salt
• 1 ¾ cups milk
• ⅓ cup vegetable oil
• 1 large egg
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• ½ cup Nutella
• 2 ripe bananas, sliced into ¼-inch rounds

Instructions

1. Preheat your waffle iron according to manufacturer's instructions. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt. In a separate bowl, whisk milk, oil, egg, and vanilla until smooth. Pour wet ingredients into dry and stir just until combined (lumps are okay).
2. Pour about ¼ cup of batter onto the center of the waffle iron. Quickly arrange 4-5 banana slices on the batter, then dollop 1 tablespoon of Nutella over the bananas. Top with another ¼ cup of batter, spreading gently to cover the filling. Close the lid and cook until golden and crisp, about 3-4 minutes. Repeat with remaining batter.

Serving Tip

Serve these waffles immediately while the Nutella is still warm and runny. For an extra party touch, dust with powdered sugar, drizzle with extra Nutella, and add a few fresh banana slices on top. A scoop of vanilla ice cream turns this into an over-the-top dessert-worthy brunch.

4. Lemon Ricotta Waffles with Blueberry Syrup

When you want a waffle that feels both elegant and effortless, this lemon ricotta version delivers. The ricotta adds a creamy tenderness that contrasts beautifully with the crisp golden exterior, while lemon zest brightens every bite. Paired with a quick homemade blueberry syrup that’s bursting with fruit, these waffles are a party-friendly showstopper that comes together in under 30 minutes.

Ingredients

• 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
• 2 teaspoons baking powder
• ½ teaspoon baking soda
• ¼ teaspoon salt
• 3 tablespoons granulated sugar
• 2 large eggs, separated
• 1 cup whole milk ricotta cheese
• ½ cup whole milk
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• Zest of 1 lemon
• For the blueberry syrup: 1 cup fresh or frozen blueberries, ¼ cup maple syrup, 1 tablespoon lemon juice

Instructions

1. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and sugar. In a separate bowl, mix egg yolks, ricotta, milk, melted butter, vanilla, and lemon zest until smooth. Pour wet ingredients into dry and stir until just combined.
2. In a clean bowl, beat egg whites with an electric mixer until stiff peaks form. Gently fold the egg whites into the batter until no white streaks remain.
3. Preheat your waffle iron and lightly grease it. Pour batter onto the hot iron (about ¾ cup for a standard round waffle) and cook until golden and crisp, about 4–5 minutes.
4. While waffles cook, make the syrup: combine blueberries, maple syrup, and lemon juice in a small saucepan. Bring to a simmer over medium heat, then cook for 5 minutes, mashing berries lightly. Serve warm over waffles.

Serving Tip

For a party, set up a waffle bar with these lemon ricotta waffles and let guests top their own with the blueberry syrup, a dollop of whipped cream, and a sprinkle of extra lemon zest. They also reheat beautifully—just pop them in a toaster for a quick crisp-up.

5. Bacon and Maple Waffle Sandwiches

Picture this: two crisp, golden waffles cradling smoky bacon and a glossy maple drizzle, all in one handheld bite. These sandwiches are the ultimate party-friendly brunch star—easy to assemble, messy in the best way, and guaranteed to disappear fast. The sweet-savory combo hits every craving, making them a hit with kids and adults alike.

Ingredients

• 4 frozen or homemade waffles, toasted
• 8 slices thick-cut bacon, cooked until crispy
• 4 tablespoons maple syrup, plus more for drizzling
• 2 tablespoons softened butter
• Optional: a pinch of flaky sea salt

Instructions

1. Spread a thin layer of softened butter on each waffle for richness and to help the syrup cling.
2. Place two slices of crispy bacon on one waffle, drizzle with 1 tablespoon maple syrup, and top with a second waffle. Repeat for remaining sandwiches.
3. Serve immediately, with extra maple syrup on the side for dipping or drizzling.

Serving Tip

For a party-friendly twist, cut each sandwich into quarters and secure with toothpicks. Arrange on a platter with a small bowl of extra maple syrup for dipping—guests can grab and go without a fork.

6. Coconut Mango Waffles with Lime Glaze

These waffles bring a taste of the tropics to your brunch table. Crisp coconut-infused waffles are studded with sweet mango chunks, then drizzled with a tangy lime glaze that cuts through the richness. They’re bright, refreshing, and just the thing to shake up a lazy weekend spread.

The combination of toasted coconut and zesty citrus makes every bite feel like a mini vacation.

Ingredients

• 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
• 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
• 1 tablespoon baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 cup shredded unsweetened coconut
• 1 large egg
• 1 1/4 cups coconut milk (canned or carton)
• 1/4 cup melted coconut oil or butter
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 cup diced ripe mango (fresh or thawed frozen)
• For the lime glaze: 1/2 cup powdered sugar, 2 tablespoons fresh lime juice, 1 teaspoon lime zest
• Optional garnish: toasted coconut flakes, extra mango slices, lime wedges

Instructions

1. Preheat your waffle iron and lightly grease with nonstick spray or oil.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, salt, and shredded coconut.
3. In a separate bowl, beat the egg, then add coconut milk, melted coconut oil, and vanilla. Whisk until smooth.
4. Pour the wet ingredients into the dry and stir just until combined—lumps are okay. Gently fold in the diced mango.
5. Pour the batter onto the hot waffle iron (about 1/2 to 3/4 cup depending on your iron) and cook until golden and crisp, about 4–5 minutes.
6. While waffles cook, make the glaze: in a small bowl, whisk together powdered sugar, lime juice, and lime zest until smooth.
7. Serve waffles immediately, drizzled with lime glaze and topped with toasted coconut and extra mango if desired.

Serving Tip

For a party-friendly brunch, set up a waffle bar with bowls of toasted coconut, diced mango, and lime wedges so guests can customize their own. These waffles also pair beautifully with a side of coconut yogurt or a dollop of whipped cream.

7. Smoked Salmon and Dill Waffle Bites

Picture a platter of golden mini waffles, each topped with a silken ribbon of smoked salmon, a dollop of dill-flecked cream cheese, and a pop of briny capers. These elegant bites are the ultimate party-friendly breakfast—easy to assemble, gorgeous to look at, and bursting with bright, savory flavor. They come together in minutes, making them ideal for brunch gatherings where you want to impress without spending hours in the kitchen.

Ingredients

• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 tablespoon sugar
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1 large egg
• 3/4 cup milk
• 2 tablespoons melted butter
• 4 ounces smoked salmon, thinly sliced
• 4 ounces cream cheese, softened
• 2 tablespoons fresh dill, chopped
• 1 tablespoon capers, drained
• Fresh lemon wedges for serving

Instructions

1. Preheat your mini waffle iron and lightly grease it. In a bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt. In another bowl, beat the egg, milk, and melted butter. Pour the wet ingredients into the dry and stir until just combined (a few lumps are fine).
2. Cook the waffle batter in the mini waffle iron according to the manufacturer's instructions until golden and crisp. Repeat with remaining batter to make about 12 mini waffles.
3. While waffles cool slightly, mix the softened cream cheese with chopped dill until smooth. Spread a thin layer of the dill cream cheese on each mini waffle.
4. Top each waffle with a small piece of smoked salmon, a few capers, and an extra sprinkle of dill. Serve with lemon wedges on the side for a bright squeeze.

Serving Tip

Arrange the waffle bites on a slate or wooden board for a stunning party platter. They're best served at room temperature, so you can assemble them ahead and let guests graze. For extra crunch, toast the waffles a bit longer before topping.

8. Pumpkin Spice Waffles with Cinnamon Cream

When the air turns crisp and the leaves start to fall, these pumpkin spice waffles bring all the cozy vibes to your brunch table. The batter is lightly spiced with cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger, creating a warm aroma that fills the kitchen. Topped with a billowy cinnamon cream that melts into every pocket, these waffles feel indulgent yet are simple enough for a lazy weekend morning.

They're a guaranteed crowd-pleaser at any party, especially when served with a drizzle of maple syrup and a sprinkle of pecans.

Ingredients

• 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
• 2 teaspoons baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 2 teaspoons pumpkin pie spice
• 1/2 cup canned pumpkin puree
• 1/4 cup packed brown sugar
• 2 large eggs
• 1 cup buttermilk
• 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• For the cinnamon cream: 1 cup heavy cream, 2 tablespoons powdered sugar, 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon, 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract

Instructions

1. In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and pumpkin pie spice. In another bowl, mix the pumpkin puree, brown sugar, eggs, buttermilk, melted butter, and vanilla until smooth.
2. Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and stir just until combined—lumps are okay. Preheat your waffle iron and lightly grease it. Cook the waffles according to your iron's instructions until golden and crisp.
3. While the waffles cook, make the cinnamon cream: In a chilled bowl, beat the heavy cream, powdered sugar, cinnamon, and vanilla with an electric mixer until soft peaks form. Serve the waffles hot with a generous dollop of cinnamon cream and a drizzle of maple syrup.

Serving Tip

For a party-friendly presentation, set up a waffle bar with toppings like chopped pecans, a dusting of cinnamon, and extra maple syrup. These waffles also reheat beautifully in a toaster, so you can make a big batch ahead of time.

9. Loaded Nacho Waffle Fries

Crispy waffle-cut potatoes become the ultimate party snack when piled high with melted cheese, spicy jalapeños, and zesty salsa. This shareable dish brings all the bold flavors of nachos but with a fun waffle twist that stays crunchy longer. Perfect for game day or a casual brunch with friends, these loaded fries are guaranteed to disappear fast.

Ingredients

• 4 large russet potatoes, scrubbed
• 3 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
• 1/2 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
• 1/4 cup pickled jalapeño slices
• 1/2 cup fresh salsa
• 1/4 cup sour cream
• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh cilantro
• 1/4 cup sliced black olives (optional)

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Using a mandoline or a sharp knife, cut the potatoes into 1/4-inch thick waffle slices (or use a waffle cutter if you have one). Pat them dry with a paper towel to remove excess starch.
3. In a large bowl, toss the potato slices with olive oil, salt, pepper, garlic powder, and smoked paprika until evenly coated.
4. Arrange the potato slices in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet. Bake for 20 minutes, flip each slice, and bake for another 15–20 minutes until golden brown and crispy.
5. Remove the baking sheet from the oven and sprinkle the shredded cheeses evenly over the hot waffle fries. Return to the oven for 2–3 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
6. Transfer the loaded fries to a serving platter. Top with pickled jalapeños, salsa, sour cream, cilantro, and black olives if using. Serve immediately.

Serving Tip

For extra crunch, serve these fries immediately after adding toppings. You can also set up a toppings bar so guests can customize their own loaded waffle fries—perfect for parties.

10. S'mores Waffle Stacks

Imagine the cozy crackle of a campfire, the gooey pull of melted marshmallow, and the crunch of graham crackers—all stacked between crisp, golden waffles. These S'mores Waffle Stacks turn that nostalgic dessert into a party-friendly breakfast that feels like a celebration. Perfect for brunch gatherings or a fun weekend treat, they're easy to assemble and guaranteed to impress.

Ingredients

• 4 frozen or homemade waffles, toasted
• 1/2 cup chocolate hazelnut spread or melted milk chocolate
• 1 cup mini marshmallows
• 1/2 cup crushed graham crackers
• 1 tablespoon butter, for skillet (optional)

Instructions

1. Toast the waffles until golden and crisp. Spread a generous layer of chocolate hazelnut spread on three of the waffles.
2. Place one chocolate-covered waffle on a serving plate. Top with a handful of mini marshmallows and a sprinkle of crushed graham crackers. Repeat with the second and third waffles, stacking them evenly.
3. For a campfire-style finish, heat a small nonstick skillet over medium heat. Add the butter, then place the entire waffle stack in the skillet. Cook for 1–2 minutes per side until the marshmallows are melted and slightly browned. Alternatively, use a kitchen torch to toast the marshmallows directly on the stack.
4. Top with the remaining plain waffle, a final drizzle of chocolate, and extra graham cracker crumbs. Serve immediately.

Serving Tip

For a party-friendly presentation, cut each stack into quarters and serve on a platter with skewers. Add a dollop of whipped cream and a cherry on top for extra flair.

11. Pesto and Mozzarella Waffle Melts

Imagine a crisp, golden waffle that doubles as a savory, melty sandwich. These Pesto and Mozzarella Waffle Melts are the ultimate party-friendly brunch hack: they come together in minutes, feel indulgent, and disappear from the plate almost instantly. The basil pesto adds a punch of herby brightness, while the mozzarella pulls into gooey, irresistible strands.

Whether you're hosting a casual get-together or just want to treat yourself, these waffle melts bring that cozy, crispy-cheesy magic that everyone craves.

Ingredients

• 4 frozen or homemade waffles
• 1/2 cup basil pesto (store-bought or homemade)
• 1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
• 2 tablespoons butter, softened
• Optional: fresh basil leaves for garnish

Instructions

1. Preheat your waffle iron to medium-high heat and lightly grease it with nonstick spray or a dab of butter.
2. Spread 1 tablespoon of pesto on each waffle, then top with a generous handful of shredded mozzarella.
3. Place a second waffle on top to form a sandwich, pressing gently.
4. Butter the outside of the top waffle, then place the sandwich butter-side down in the waffle iron. Close the lid and cook for 3–4 minutes, until the waffle is golden and the cheese is melted.
5. Carefully remove and repeat with remaining sandwiches. Let cool for a minute, then cut diagonally and garnish with fresh basil if desired.

Serving Tip

Serve these waffle melts with a side of marinara sauce for dipping—it adds a tangy contrast that makes every bite even more satisfying. They're also fantastic with a simple arugula salad dressed in lemon vinaigrette.

12. Apple Cinnamon Oat Waffles

When the air gets crisp and apples are at their peak, these hearty oat waffles bring all the cozy fall vibes to your brunch table. The batter comes together with rolled oats and chunks of fresh apple, giving each bite a tender, rustic texture. A generous dusting of cinnamon ties it all together, while warm maple syrup seeps into every nook and cranny.

They're wholesome enough for a weekday treat but special enough to impress a crowd at a party.

Ingredients

• 1 ½ cups rolled oats
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 2 teaspoons baking powder
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• ¼ teaspoon salt
• 1 ½ cups milk (any kind)
• 2 large eggs
• ¼ cup melted butter or coconut oil
• 2 tablespoons brown sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 large apple, peeled and finely diced

Instructions

1. In a blender or food processor, pulse the rolled oats until they resemble a coarse flour. Transfer to a large bowl and whisk in the flour, baking powder, cinnamon, and salt.
2. In a separate bowl, whisk together the milk, eggs, melted butter, brown sugar, and vanilla. Pour the wet ingredients into the dry and stir until just combined. Fold in the diced apple.
3. Preheat your waffle iron and lightly grease it. Pour enough batter to cover the grids (about ⅓ cup per waffle, depending on your iron) and cook until golden and crisp, about 4–5 minutes.
4. Serve immediately with warm maple syrup and a sprinkle of extra cinnamon if desired.

Serving Tip

For a party-friendly presentation, set up a waffle bar with bowls of chopped pecans, a dollop of Greek yogurt, and extra diced apples so guests can customize their stack.

13. Churro Waffles with Chocolate Dip

Close out your brunch with a bang: waffles that taste just like cinnamon-sugar churros, complete with a warm chocolate dipping sauce. The batter gets a dusting of cinnamon right in the mix, then each golden waffle is tossed in more cinnamon sugar while still hot, creating that signature crackly coating. It's a playful, party-ready finale that turns an ordinary waffle iron into a dessert machine.

Perfect for birthdays, sleepovers, or any morning that calls for something sweet and shareable.

Ingredients

• 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
• 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
• 1 tablespoon baking powder
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• ½ teaspoon salt
• 1 ¼ cups milk
• 1 large egg
• 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• For the cinnamon-sugar coating: ½ cup granulated sugar mixed with 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
• For the chocolate dip: ½ cup heavy cream, 4 oz semi-sweet chocolate chips, 1 tablespoon butter

Instructions

1. Preheat your waffle iron according to manufacturer's instructions. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, 2 tablespoons sugar, baking powder, 1 teaspoon cinnamon, and salt.
2. In a separate bowl, whisk milk, egg, melted butter, and vanilla. Pour wet ingredients into dry and stir until just combined (a few lumps are okay).
3. Lightly grease the waffle iron with nonstick spray or a little butter. Pour about ½ cup of batter onto the center of the iron and cook until golden and crisp, about 3–4 minutes.
4. As soon as each waffle comes out, toss it in the cinnamon-sugar mixture until evenly coated. Set on a wire rack to stay crisp.
5. For the chocolate dip: heat heavy cream in a small saucepan until steaming, then pour over chocolate chips and butter in a bowl. Let sit 1 minute, then stir until smooth. Serve warm alongside the waffles.

Serving Tip

Cut waffles into strips for easy dipping—it makes them feel even more like churros. Set out the chocolate dip in a small bowl and sprinkle a pinch of sea salt on top for a sweet-salty finish. These are best eaten right away while the sugar coating is still crunchy.

FAQ

Can I make waffle batter ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare waffle batter up to 24 hours in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Give it a gentle stir before using, as some separation may occur.

How do I keep waffles crispy for a party?

To keep waffles crispy, place them on a wire rack in a single layer in a 200°F oven. Avoid stacking, which traps steam and softens them.

Can I freeze leftover waffles?

Absolutely. Let waffles cool completely, then freeze in a single layer on a baking sheet. Transfer to a zip-top bag and reheat in a toaster or oven.

What's the best waffle iron for crispy waffles?

A Belgian waffle iron with deep pockets produces thicker, crispier waffles. Look for one with adjustable temperature control for best results.

How can I make waffles dairy-free or gluten-free?

Substitute milk with almond or oat milk, and use a gluten-free flour blend. Add a little extra oil or applesauce to maintain moisture.

Conclusion

Waffles are the ultimate brunch canvas, ready to take on any flavor you crave. Whether you lean savory or sweet, these 13 ideas prove that a crispy waffle can be the star of any gathering.

So invite your friends, preheat that iron, and let the waffle party begin. The best brunch memories are made one golden square at a time.