Belgian Waffles

When I think of weekend breakfasts, the first thing that comes to mind is the joy of making Belgian Waffles. There’s just something magical about the way these golden, crispy waffles transform a lazy morning into a special occasion. I remember the first time I made them with my family; the smell of the batter cooking mixed with the sweet anticipation of enjoying them fresh off the waffle iron. We gathered around the table, toppings ready—fresh berries, whipped cream, and syrup—each bite a delightful combination of sweetness and warmth. It wasn’t just about the waffles; it was about the laughter and memories we created together. Now, every time I whip up a batch of Belgian Waffles, I’m reminded of those cherished mornings and the joy of sharing delicious food with loved ones.

What You’ll Need for Belgian Waffles

Gathering the right ingredients is crucial for the perfect Belgian Waffles. Each component plays a vital role in achieving that delightful texture and flavor. The key players here are the all-purpose flour for structure, eggs for richness, and milk that brings everything together with moisture. Let’s dive into what you’ll need!

• All-Purpose Flour – Provides the base for the waffles, contributing to their structure and texture.
• Granulated Sugar – Sweetens the batter, enhancing the overall flavor of the waffles.
• Baking Powder – Acts as a leavening agent, helping the waffles rise and become fluffy.
• Kosher Salt – Balances the sweetness and enhances the flavors of the other ingredients.
• Large Eggs – Contribute richness and help bind the ingredients together.
• Milk – Adds moisture to the batter, ensuring the waffles are tender.
• Unsalted Butter – Adds flavor richness and helps create a crispy exterior.
• Pure Vanilla Extract – Provides aromatic sweetness that elevates the overall taste.

Recipe Directions for Belgian Waffles

Making Belgian Waffles is simpler than you might think! Follow these detailed steps, and you’ll be enjoying fluffy, golden waffles in no time.

1. First, start by preheating your waffle maker according to the manufacturer’s instructions. This ensures that it reaches the ideal cooking temperature, giving you perfectly cooked waffles.

2. In a large mixing bowl, combine 2 cups of all-purpose flour, ¼ cup of granulated sugar, 1 tablespoon of baking powder, and ½ teaspoon of kosher salt. Whisk them together until they are well mixed; this helps distribute the leavening agent and sugar evenly throughout the flour.

3. Create a well in the center of your dry ingredients. This will be the space where you add the wet ingredients later; it helps incorporate everything smoothly.

4. In a separate bowl, mix together 2 large egg yolks, 1½ cups of milk, ½ cup of melted unsalted butter, and 2 teaspoons of pure vanilla extract. Whisk these together until fully combined; the mixture should be smooth and creamy.

5. Pour the wet mixture into the well of your dry ingredients. Using a whisk, gently combine the two mixtures until just incorporated. Be careful not to overmix; a few lumps are perfectly okay!

6. In another bowl, take the 2 large egg whites and whip them with a hand mixer or whisk until stiff peaks form. This step is crucial as it adds air to the batter, resulting in fluffy waffles.

7. Gently fold the whipped egg whites into the batter using a spatula. Remember to be gentle to maintain the airiness of the egg whites, which will help your waffles rise.

8. Once your batter is ready, it’s time to cook! Pour about ½ to ¾ cup of batter into the preheated waffle maker, depending on its size. Close the lid and cook until the waffles are golden brown and crisp, usually about 3 to 5 minutes. Keep an eye on them to avoid overcooking.

9. Carefully remove the waffles from the waffle maker and serve them hot. You can keep them warm in a preheated oven set to 200°F while you cook the rest of the batter.

Recipe Tips about Belgian Waffles

Here are some of my top tips for making the best Belgian Waffles ever! Whether you’re a novice or an experienced cook, these pointers will help you perfect your technique.

• Storage: Keep leftover waffles in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. You can reheat them in a toaster to restore their crispiness.
• Freezing: Waffles freeze beautifully! Place cooked and cooled waffles in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer them to a freezer bag once frozen. They can be stored for up to three months.
• Pairing: For a classic breakfast, serve Belgian Waffles with fresh berries, whipped cream, and maple syrup. Alternatively, try them with savory toppings like eggs or smoked salmon.
• Make-Ahead: You can prepare the batter the night before and store it in the fridge. Just give it a good whisk before using!
• Serving Size: Depending on your waffle maker, this recipe can yield up to five waffles. Adjust the batter quantity accordingly for your family or guests.

Pairing Suggestions for Belgian Waffles

When it comes to serving Belgian Waffles, the possibilities are endless. Here are some delightful pairings and serving suggestions that elevate the experience:

• Fresh Fruits: Top your waffles with a medley of fruits such as strawberries, blueberries, or bananas for a refreshing burst of flavor.
• Whipped Cream: A dollop of freshly whipped cream complements the waffles beautifully, adding a rich and creamy texture.
• Yogurt: For a healthier option, serve with a side of Greek yogurt, which can add a delightful tartness.
• Nuts: Consider adding chopped nuts, such as pecans or walnuts, for an added crunch and nutty flavor.
• Seasonal Spices: Sprinkle some cinnamon or nutmeg for a warm, cozy flavor, especially during the colder months.
• Special Occasions: Belgian Waffles make a fantastic treat for brunch gatherings, holidays, or simply a weekend breakfast. Their versatility fits any occasion!

FAQ

Conclusion

In summary, Belgian Waffles are the perfect blend of crispiness and fluffiness, making them a favorite for breakfast or brunch. Their versatility allows you to enjoy them with various toppings, making each serving a unique experience. I encourage you to try making these delightful waffles; they’re sure to bring warmth and joy to your table!

Belgian Waffles

The perfect breakfast treat, Belgian Waffles are golden, crispy outside and fluffy inside. Topped with fresh fruits, syrup, or whipped cream, they're sure to satisfy your cravings. Easy to make and delicious, these waffles will become a family favorite!

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 20 minutes mins

Cook Time 5 minutes mins

Total Time 25 minutes mins

Course Breakfast

Cuisine Belgian

Servings 4 servings

Calories 250 kcal

Equipment

• Kitchen Scale (optional)
• Belgian Waffle Iron
• Hand Mixer

Ingredients

  

• 2 cups All-Purpose Flour
• ¼ cup Granulated Sugar
• 1 tablespoon Baking Powder
• ½ teaspoon Kosher Salt
• 2 large Eggs room temperature and separated
• 1½ cups Milk room temperature
• ½ cup Unsalted Butter melted and slightly cooled (1 stick)
• 2 teaspoons Pure Vanilla Extract

Instructions

 

• 1. Preheat your waffle maker according to the manufacturer's instructions.
• 2. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together 2 cups of all-purpose flour, ¼ cup of granulated sugar, 1 tablespoon of baking powder, and ½ teaspoon of kosher salt. Create a well in the center and set aside.
• 3. In a separate bowl, mix together 2 large egg yolks, 1½ cups of milk, ½ cup of melted unsalted butter, and 2 teaspoons of pure vanilla extract. Whisk until smooth.
• 4. Pour the wet mixture into the well of the dry ingredients and gently whisk until just combined.
• 5. In another bowl, whip the 2 large egg whites until stiff peaks form, then gently fold them into the batter.
• 6. Pour ½ to ¾ cup of batter into the preheated waffle maker and cook until golden brown and crisp.
• 7. Remove the waffles and serve hot, keeping them warm in a preheated oven if desired.

Notes

• Easily double this recipe: You can easily double this recipe to feed up to 10 people!
• Room Temperature Ingredients: Use room temperature ingredients for the best results.
• Buttermilk Substitute: For tangier, richer waffles, replace the milk with buttermilk.
• Avoid Overmixing: Do not overmix the batter to prevent tough, chewy waffles.
• Keep Waffles Warm: Place them in a 200°F oven to keep them warm and crisp until ready to serve.

Keyword Belgian waffles recipe, crispy waffles, easy breakfast waffles, homemade waffles