Belgian Waffles

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

These Belgian Waffles are the perfect balance of crispy on the outside and soft on the inside. The batter is light and fluffy, creating deep pockets that make them ideal for loading up with syrup, fresh fruit, whipped cream, or your favorite toppings. They are versatile enough to be served as a sweet breakfast, a brunch treat, or even as a dessert. This recipe is quick, easy, and sure to impress family and guests alike. The best part? You can customize your waffles with endless toppings and fillings to suit your taste.

Ingredients

• 2 cups all-purpose flour

• 2 tablespoons sugar

• 2 teaspoons baking powder

• 1/2 teaspoon salt

• 2 large eggs

• 1 3/4 cups milk

• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted

• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

• 1/4 teaspoon almond extract (optional)

• 1/2 cup whipped cream or whipped topping (optional, for serving)

• Fresh fruit (berries, bananas, or peaches) (optional, for topping)

• Maple syrup or chocolate sauce (for serving)

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Preheat the waffle iron: Preheat your Belgian waffle iron according to the manufacturer’s instructions. Lightly grease the plates with non-stick cooking spray or brush with melted butter to prevent sticking.

2. Mix the dry ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt until well combined.

3. Mix the wet ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, melted butter, vanilla extract, and almond extract (if using).

4. Combine the wet and dry ingredients: Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and stir gently until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; a few lumps are okay.

5. Cook the waffles: Ladle the batter into the preheated waffle iron, filling each section about two-thirds full. Close the lid and cook the waffles according to the waffle iron’s instructions, usually for 3-5 minutes, until golden brown and crispy on the outside.

6. Serve: Remove the waffles from the iron and place them on a wire rack to cool slightly (this helps keep them crispy). Serve immediately with whipped cream, fresh fruit, and syrup or your favorite toppings.

Servings and timing

This recipe makes about 4 Belgian waffles, depending on the size of your waffle iron, and takes about 10-15 minutes of prep time, plus the cooking time for each waffle.

Variations

• Chocolate Belgian Waffles: Add 1/4 cup of cocoa powder to the dry ingredients and fold in chocolate chips for a rich, chocolatey version.

• Lemon or Orange Zest: Add 1 tablespoon of lemon or orange zest to the batter for a fresh, citrusy flavor.

• Vegan Waffles: Use plant-based milk (such as almond or oat milk), non-dairy butter, and flax eggs (1 tablespoon flaxseed mixed with 3 tablespoons water for each egg) to make this recipe vegan-friendly.

• Savory Belgian Waffles: Add a pinch of black pepper, grated cheese, or cooked bacon to the batter for a savory twist on the traditional recipe.

• Spices: Add cinnamon, nutmeg, or a dash of pumpkin pie spice to the batter for a warm, spiced version, especially great for fall.

Storage/reheating

Belgian waffles are best served fresh, but you can store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, place the waffles in a toaster or oven to maintain their crispiness. You can also freeze leftover waffles by wrapping them in plastic wrap or foil and placing them in a freezer bag. They’ll last up to 2 months in the freezer. To reheat, pop them in the toaster or oven for a few minutes.

FAQs

Can I make these waffles without a waffle iron?

A waffle iron is the best tool for making Belgian waffles, but if you don’t have one, you can try making them in a pancake or griddle pan. You won’t get the signature waffle texture, but you can still make a delicious version of this recipe.

How do I make my Belgian waffles crispy?

To ensure crispy waffles, make sure your waffle iron is hot before adding the batter. Also, avoid overmixing the batter, as this can make the waffles dense. Finally, allow the waffles to cool slightly on a wire rack before serving to maintain their crispness.

Can I use a different type of flour for this recipe?

Yes, you can use whole wheat flour or gluten-free flour as a substitute for all-purpose flour. The texture may differ slightly, but it will still work well.

Can I make the batter ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the waffle batter the night before and refrigerate it in an airtight container. Make sure to give it a gentle stir before using it the next day.

Can I freeze the waffles?

Yes! To freeze waffles, allow them to cool completely and then store them in a single layer on a baking sheet in the freezer. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer bag for storage. To reheat, toast them or warm them in the oven.

How do I make waffles fluffier?

For fluffier waffles, be sure not to overmix the batter. Mix the wet and dry ingredients until just combined—overmixing can cause the waffles to be dense. Also, separating the egg whites from the yolks and whipping the egg whites until stiff peaks form before folding them into the batter can add extra fluffiness.

How can I make these waffles less sweet?

If you prefer less sweetness in your waffles, simply reduce the amount of sugar in the batter. The toppings, like syrup or fruit, can add sweetness as needed.

Can I make these waffles in a regular waffle iron?

Yes! You can use a regular waffle iron instead of a Belgian waffle iron. The difference is that Belgian waffles are typically thicker and have deeper pockets, while regular waffles are thinner with smaller pockets. You may need to adjust the cooking time slightly based on the type of waffle iron you use.

Conclusion

Belgian Waffles are a classic breakfast or dessert option that never goes out of style. With their crispy exterior and fluffy interior, they’re perfect for enjoying with a variety of toppings, from fresh fruit and whipped cream to syrup or chocolate sauce. This simple and easy recipe will bring the deliciousness of Belgian waffles right into your kitchen. Whether you’re serving them for a special occasion or just treating yourself to something indulgent, these waffles are sure to impress!

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