Ingredients
- Dry Ingredients:
- 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- 2 tablespoons sugar
- 2 ½ teaspoons active dry yeast (or instant yeast)
- ¾ teaspoon salt
- Wet Ingredients:
- 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)
- 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup (for extra sweetness)
Instructions
- 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.
- Prepare the Wet Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the milk, melted butter, vanilla extract, and eggs. If you’re adding a bit of honey or maple syrup for sweetness, whisk it in with the wet ingredients.
- 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.
- 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.
- Preheat the Waffle Maker: The next morning, preheat your waffle iron, preferably one with deep grooves for those signature Belgian waffle pockets.
- 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.
- Serve: Continue cooking the remaining waffles. Serve them warm with your favorite toppings, such as fresh berries, whipped cream, or syrup.
Notes
- Flavor Variations: For an extra flavor boost, add 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.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Breakfast
- Method: Waffle Iron
- Cuisine: Belgian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 8g
- Sodium: 210mg
- Fat: 16g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 6g
- Cholesterol: 55mg