Belgian Waffle

These homemade Belgian Waffles are golden, crisp on the outside, and light and fluffy on the inside. With just a bit of overnight rest, the yeast works its magic, creating a perfect batter for waffles with deep pockets ready to be filled with syrup, whipped cream, or any of your favorite toppings. The perfect breakfast or brunch treat, these waffles will impress your family or guests every time.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Belgian Waffle recipe creates waffles with the perfect balance of texture: crispy on the outside and light and airy on the inside. The overnight rest time allows the yeast to activate, creating a fluffier, airier batter. These waffles are the perfect base for all your favorite toppings, from fresh fruit to syrup, making them a treat for any occasion. Plus, the process is simple, with most of the work done overnight, so your morning is hassle-free.

Ingredients

• 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour

• 2 tablespoons sugar

• 2 ½ teaspoons active dry yeast (or instant yeast)

• ¾ teaspoon salt

• 2 cups whole milk (for richness)

• ½ cup butter, melted and slightly cooled

• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract

• 2 large eggs

• Optional: ¼ teaspoon cinnamon (for a warm spice note)

• Optional: 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup (for extra sweetness)

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

Directions

1. Prepare the Dry Ingredients:
   In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, yeast, and salt. If you’re adding cinnamon, include it at this step for an extra aromatic touch.

2. Prepare the Wet Ingredients:
   In a separate bowl, whisk together the milk, melted butter, vanilla extract, and eggs. If you’re adding honey or maple syrup for sweetness, whisk it in with the wet ingredients.

3. Combine the Wet and Dry Ingredients:
   Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients. Stir gently to combine – it’s fine if the batter isn’t completely smooth and has a few lumps.

4. Let It Rest Overnight:
   Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a loosely fitting lid (don’t make it airtight) and refrigerate overnight. This resting period allows the yeast to work its magic, making the waffles light and fluffy.

5. Preheat the Waffle Maker:
   The next morning, preheat your waffle iron, preferably one with deep grooves for those signature Belgian waffle pockets.

6. Cook the Waffles:
   Gently stir the batter a few times to recombine. Lightly butter your waffle iron or spray with nonstick cooking spray. Pour enough batter into the waffle iron to fill it about two-thirds full, leaving room for the batter to spread. Cook according to the waffle maker’s instructions, or until golden brown and crisp on the outside.

7. Serve:
   Continue cooking the remaining waffles. Serve them warm with your favorite toppings, such as fresh berries, whipped cream, or syrup.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4

• Prep Time: 10 minutes

• Cook Time: 20 minutes

• Overnight Rest: 8 hours

• Total Time: 8 hours 30 minutes

Tips & Variations

• Flavor Variations: For an extra flavor boost, add the zest of one lemon or a handful of chocolate chips to the batter.

• For a Crispy Texture: If you like your waffles extra crispy, cook them a little longer than usual in the waffle iron.

• Toppings: Top with sliced bananas, a drizzle of chocolate sauce, or a dusting of powdered sugar for a decadent breakfast or brunch treat.

• For Extra Fluffiness: If you prefer even fluffier waffles, try folding in beaten egg whites just before cooking.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.

• Reheating: Reheat waffles in a toaster or oven for a crispy texture, or in the microwave if you prefer them soft.

FAQs

1. Can I use instant yeast instead of active dry yeast?

Yes, instant yeast can be used in place of active dry yeast. There’s no need to activate instant yeast in warm water; simply mix it with the dry ingredients.

2. Can I make the batter in the morning instead of overnight?

The overnight resting period is key to achieving light and fluffy waffles. If you don’t have time to rest the batter overnight, you can let it rest for at least 1 hour before cooking.

3. Can I freeze the waffles?

Yes! These waffles freeze well. After cooking, allow them to cool completely, then store in a freezer-safe bag or container. To reheat, pop them in the toaster or oven.

4. Can I make these waffles without butter?

Yes, you can replace the butter with vegetable oil or a dairy-free butter substitute to make them dairy-free.

5. How do I know when the waffles are done?

Waffles are done when they are golden brown and crispy on the outside. Depending on your waffle iron, it may have a light indicator to let you know when they’re finished.

6. Can I make these waffles without milk?

You can substitute the milk with a dairy-free alternative like almond milk or oat milk. The waffles will still turn out delicious!

7. How do I keep the waffles warm while cooking the rest?

To keep waffles warm while you cook the others, place them in a low oven (around 200°F or 90°C) on a baking sheet. Cover with a clean kitchen towel to prevent them from drying out.

8. Can I make the waffles in a regular waffle iron?

Yes, if you don’t have a Belgian waffle iron, you can use a regular waffle iron. Just note that the waffles will have a different shape and texture, but they’ll still be delicious.

9. Can I make these waffles gluten-free?

Yes, you can use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend in place of regular flour. Just make sure the blend includes xanthan gum or add it separately to ensure the waffles hold together.

10. Can I add fruit to the batter?

Yes, you can fold in fresh berries or chopped fruit (like apples or bananas) into the batter before cooking for added flavor and texture.

Conclusion

These Belgian Waffles are the perfect breakfast or brunch treat, made with simple ingredients and a little patience for the overnight resting time. The result is a crisp, airy, and flavorful waffle that pairs wonderfully with any topping of your choice. Whether you like them classic with syrup, topped with fresh fruit, or drizzled with chocolate, this recipe is sure to become a family favorite.

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